Pantone’s big announcement for Colour of the Year 2026 is Cloud Dancer — a soft, airy off-white that’s meant to evoke calm, clarity and a fresh start. It’s an interesting choice (in fact, it’s the first white-leaning shade Pantone has ever picked) and comes with a whole cultural backstory about space, serenity and visual simplicity. Pantone
Problem is… a white that’s literally. white? For most people’s everyday homes, that can feel a little flat. Some designers are even poking fun at it — calling it too subtle or too close to “no colour at all.” The Times
So let’s talk about a colour that feels like a real choice — one that’s rich, warm, and ready to shape a room with personality: Crown Paints’ Saison.
🎨 What Is Saison?
Saison (Y6222R) sits in the warm tan/orange family and has a lovely grounding quality. Its Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 22 gives it enough depth to feel cosy without making a room gloomy. Crown Paints Professional
It’s that kind of colour that feels like a hug — perfect for spaces where you want to linger: kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms, even home offices.
🆚 Cloud Dancer vs. Saison: A Real-World Colour Showdown
| Feature | Cloud Dancer | Saison |
|---|---|---|
| Mood | Calm, minimal, ethereal | Warm, welcoming, grounded |
| Interior vibe | Great as a backdrop, modern minimalist | Adds character and depth |
| Works especially well with | crisp neutrals, light spaces | earthy tones, texture-rich décor |
| Real-world impact | Can feel too plain alone | Makes rooms feel intentional |
🏡 How Saison Beats a “Non-Colour” in Interiors
1. Adds Comfort That Cloud Dancer Can’t Alone
Cloud Dancer is essentially an airy white — lovely, but it depends on other colours to make a room feel warm. Saison comes with warmth built in. It’s an instant mood-setter without needing a dozen accessories to pep it up.
2. Pairs Beautifully With Trend Colours
If you do want neutrals like Cloud Dancer in your palette, Saison acts as an amazing support — adding richness while letting lighter tones sing.
3. Works With So Many Styles
From classic, rustic and traditional to Scandi and mid-century modern, Saison feels right at home. It brings depth that a simple white rarely can.
4. Looks Good All Year Round
While Cloud Dancer might read bright in summer and flat in winter, Saison keeps spaces feeling intentional in any season.
🪄 Decorating Tips with Saison
Here’s how you can style Saison in a room:
✨ Try a Saison Feature Wall
In a living room, it instantly creates a focal point. Pair with textured linens, rattan or oak furniture for a naturally stylish space.
✨ Calm & Cosy Bedroom
Use Saison on three walls with a lighter neutral on the fourth — it feels cocoon-like but still light and breathable.
✨ Work From Home, But Make It Stylish
A Saison-painted home office boosts warmth without distracting, helping you focus and feel good at the same time.
🎯 Final Thought
Pantone’s Cloud Dancer is interesting and calm — it’ll definitely have its place in modern schemes. But if you actually live in your home — if you want warmth, personality, and timeless appeal — Saison is a colour that feels alive, real and ready to make a space feel like home.
At Nobletts, we’re all about colours that do more than exist. They enhance life.
If you want, I can add suggested wallpaper pairings or put together a colour palette that works with Saison — just say the word!
