Our insights on Behr’s Hidden Gem continue to resonate! House Digest picked up our commentary from Southern Living to create their guide on pairing natural materials with this beautiful blue-green hue. This article focused specifically on which natural materials create the most timeless, wellness-focused combinations.
Publication: House Digest
Article Title: Best Natural Materials to Pair With Behr’s 2026 Color of the Year, Hidden Gem
Publication Date: January 16, 2026
Author: Selena Ivette Rodriguez
House Digest created a comprehensive materials guide for Behr’s Hidden Gem, featuring our insights on why natural textures and organic materials create the most successful pairings with this complex color. The article explores how to move beyond paint-only thinking to create complete, cohesive palettes.
Our Material Pairing Philosophy:
From our insights featured in House Digest:
“My favorite way to use Hidden Gem is on cabinetry or millwork, whether it’s built-ins in a library, a moody dining room, a pantry, or a primary bath. When paired with natural materials like oak, soapstone, or linen, the color shifts from trendy to timeless. These textures also help make the entire palette feel warm, grounded, and intentional.”
The Natural Materials That Work Best:
White Oak & Walnut
Why it works: Natural wood brings warmth that prevents Hidden Gem from reading too cool. The organic grain pattern adds movement and visual interest, while the warm undertones in oak and walnut balance the blue-green’s mineral quality.
Where to use it: Flooring, floating shelves, furniture pieces, ceiling beams, window frames
The effect: Grounded, biophilic, timeless
Soapstone & Natural Stone
Why it works: Soapstone’s soft, matte finish and natural gray-green veining echo Hidden Gem’s complexity. The stone’s subtle color variations create depth without competing for attention.
Where to use it: Countertops, fireplace surrounds, bathroom vanities, accent walls
The effect: Sophisticated, mineral-rich, cohesive
Linen & Natural Textiles
Why it works: Linen’s irregular weave and organic texture soften Hidden Gem’s intensity. Natural textiles add tactile warmth and create invitation in spaces that could otherwise feel too polished.
Where to use it: Window treatments, upholstered furniture, throw pillows, bed linens, table runners
The effect: Approachable, layered, lived-in
Complementary Natural Materials:
Brass & Bronze: Aged warm metals add depth without overwhelming the palette. Use on hardware, light fixtures, and accessories.
Ceramic & Pottery: Handmade pieces in cream, terracotta, or natural clay create beautiful textural contrast. Display on open shelving or as functional decor.
Rattan & Woven Fibers: Baskets, furniture, and light fixtures in natural woven materials lighten the overall feel while maintaining the organic aesthetic.
Natural Fiber Rugs: Jute, sisal, or wool rugs anchor the space and enhance the biophilic quality without introducing competing colors.
Creating Complete Material Stories:
The key to using Hidden Gem successfully isn’t just choosing one complementary material—it’s layering multiple natural textures to create depth and warmth. Here’s how:
Foundation (Floors & Large Surfaces): Start with warm wood flooring or natural stone tile as your base.
Architecture (Cabinetry & Millwork): Use Hidden Gem on built-ins, cabinetry, or architectural details.
Textiles (Softness & Warmth): Add linen curtains, wool throws, cotton upholstery to create tactile richness.
Accents (Metal & Ceramic): Finish with brass hardware, ceramic vessels, and natural accessories.
The Result: A space that feels collected, intentional, and deeply connected to nature—not just painted in a trendy color.
Why This Approach Matters:
At The Intentional Design Studio, we never think about paint color in isolation. Hidden Gem succeeds because it’s designed to work with natural materials, not against them. When you pair a nature-inspired color with materials fromnature, you create spaces that feel cohesive, timeless, and genuinely restorative.
This isn’t about following a formula—it’s about understanding that the best design honors the origins of its materials. Hidden Gem comes from the mineral world; it naturally harmonizes with wood, stone, and organic fibers that share that earthly quality.
We’re grateful to House Digest for featuring our material pairing approach!
Read the full article on House Digest →
For our complete analysis of Behr’s Hidden Gem, including color psychology and Southern-specific applications, read our original Southern Living feature.
Curious to see what else we’ve been featured in? Explore our full collection of press mentions and expert insights on our Press Page.
Ready to create a home that supports how you live and feel?
Our complimentary discovery call is the first step—no pressure, no decisions—just a chance to share more about your project and see if we’re the right fit. Click here to inquire and take the first step toward a beautifully intentional home.
📍 Proudly serving Athens, Georgia, Oconee County, and surrounding communities throughout Northeast Georgia and beyond
💌 Book a complimentary call with us to discuss your project!
