Choosing Exterior Colors That Complement Northern Michigan
Your home's exterior color does more than express personal style. In Northern Michigan, where homes sit among towering pines, birch forests, and lakefront landscapes, the right color palette creates harmony between your home and its natural surroundings. The 2026 color trends reflect a continued movement toward earth-inspired tones that feel grounded and timeless.
Top 5 Exterior Color Trends for 2026
1. Nature-Inspired Greens
Green continues its strong resurgence in 2026, particularly shades that echo the pines and maples of Northern Michigan. Deep forest greens, sage, and olive tones work beautifully on craftsman-style homes and lakefront properties. Sherwin-Williams "Pewter Green" and Benjamin Moore "Cushing Green" are two standout choices that pair well with white or cream trim.
2. Warm Neutrals and Greige
The blend of gray and beige, known as "greige," remains one of the most popular choices for Michigan homeowners. These warm neutrals provide a sophisticated, modern look without feeling cold against snowy winter backdrops. Consider Sherwin-Williams "Accessible Beige" or Benjamin Moore "Revere Pewter" for a versatile, timeless foundation.
3. Deep Navy and Charcoal
Bold, dark exteriors continue to gain popularity, especially on modern farmhouse and contemporary builds around Traverse City. Deep navy and charcoal create dramatic curb appeal and pair beautifully with natural wood accents, stone, and metallic fixtures. These colors also hide dirt and wear well in Michigan's varied weather.
4. Classic White with Contrasting Trim
A crisp white exterior never goes out of style, and in 2026, the trend leans toward pairing bright white siding with contrasting dark trim, shutters, and doors. This high-contrast approach gives homes a fresh, architectural look that stands out in any season. Benjamin Moore "Simply White" with "Wrought Iron" trim is a winning combination.
5. Earthy Reds and Terracotta
Warm, earthy reds and terracotta tones are emerging as a distinctive choice for homeowners who want to stand out while staying connected to the natural landscape. These colors work particularly well on log-style homes and rustic properties common in the Leelanau and Benzie County areas.
Tips for Choosing Your Color
Before committing to a color, always test it on your actual home. Paint a large sample swatch (at least 2x2 feet) on different sides of your house and observe it at various times of day. Northern Michigan light changes dramatically between seasons, and a color that looks perfect in summer may appear very different against a gray winter sky.
At E&A Coatings, we offer free color consultations as part of our exterior painting service. Our team can help you select colors that complement your home's architecture, landscaping, and the unique Northern Michigan environment. Call us at (231) 444-2261 to schedule your consultation.