Sherwin-Williams Introduces 2022 Colormix Trend Forecast for Industrial Wood Markets

The Industrial Wood Coatings division of Sherwin-Williams, through its Global Color & Design Center, has released the annual Colormix trend forecast for 2022: MODE. Highlighting 24 trending wood finishes, MODE is an acronym for the four collections within the forecast – Method, Opus, Dreamland and Ephemera.

Curated to reflect both current and forthcoming times, the forecast presents wood finishes that promote growth and adaptability, guiding industry trends throughout the next three to seven years.

“More and more, we’re seeing consumers embrace individuality when it comes to the products they choose and the way they design their spaces,” says Lauren West, Global Color and Design Director, Sherwin-Williams Industrial Wood Coatings. “With a wide range of trending finishes in MODE, we aim to inspire manufacturers to develop wood products that align with these consumer preferences.” 

The finishes in MODE derive from the Sherwin-Williams architectural paint Colormix Forecast but are translated into wood finishes by the experts at the GCDC for use by wood product developers and manufacturers. Both forecasts are heavily influenced by nature, noting the ways organic elements can provide balance in interior and exterior design.

“The natural finishes in this forecast are a breath of fresh air,” says West. “The elegantly refined accents and soft, grounding bases found in MODE lend a combination of nature and nurture to wood product design that is extremely refreshing. As home and business owners refine their spaces, our team at the GCDC is excited to assist manufacturers of furniture, kitchen cabinets, flooring and building products in bringing these restorative palettes to life through beautiful wood stains.”

Industrial Wood 2022 Colormix Trend Forecast Collections


METHOD 
The Method collection — immersed in organic neutrals — brings soft tonal luxury to product designs. Grounded layers that whisper “barely there” finishes paired with refined woodgrain accents feel rooted in nature. Bleached tones are reminiscent of sunbaked driftwood, providing understated texture that is well-worn and familiar. This palette’s earthiness and rich warmth result in pieces that balance a polished look with rustic authenticity.

OPUS 
Dramatic depth reminds us of maximalist fundamentals – proving that more is more. In the Opus collection, dark foundations lead to eclectic, luxurious designs. Charred and distressed finishes and unexpected accents highlight pieces with a subtle and natural charm. The innate beauty of wood shines through these dark chocolaty browns and matte blacks, resulting in spaces where dark and natural elements complement each other.

DREAMLAND 
Sophisticated and jovial, the Dreamland collection nurtures renewal and wellness. Bleached styles lend a pearlescent shimmer to woodgrain, leaning into misty metallics that bring additional simplicity to Scandinavian-inspired finishes. Grounding in the natural beauty of wood, warmer blonde finishes join the trusted, soft grays to create ethereal finishes.

EPHEMERA 
Hailing from fondly remembered midcentury modern interiors, the rich finishes that define the Ephemera collection are playful yet contemplative. Undertones of orange, yellow and red step aside for nostalgic browns, to revive the historical essence of luxury found in wood pieces. Solid foundations pair with refined woodgrain to redefine past styles in timeless finishes.

Download the Industrial Wood 2022 Colormix Forecast brochure.


Press Contact
Jenna Simenic
jenna.m.simenic@sherwin.com