Sherwin-Williams' October Color of the Month is a perfectly balanced green-toned dark blue – as a color editor tired of bland shades, here's why I love it

Dark paint colors have taken center stage this year. From dark forest greens to the deepest shades of blue; rich burgundies to sumptuous chocolate browns, there's been so much love for moody paint colors, and I predict their popularity will endure well into 2025.

As H&G 's color editor, I've seen so many dark paint colors used throughout interior projects, but the latest to come to the fore is Sherwin-Williams ' October Color of the Month: Mount Etna. Described as an 'ashy blue' with undertones of green and gray, it's a perfectly balanced blue that feels calming and sophisticated.

If, like me, you love the dark paint trend and are on the hunt for a stylish shade to complete your fall color schemes , read on to find out why I see this as the perfect moody color for the cozy season.

Both dark blue and dark green paints have been popular this year, and Sherwin-Williams' Mount Etna seems to combine both of these color trends . I'm a big fan of these 'in-between' hues that don't fall distinctively into one camp. Dark blue paints , for example, can appear outdated if they fall too far into the navy blue category, a trend that had so much appeal a few years ago; while dark greens can really dominate rooms with highly warm tones.

Providing a combination of blue, green, and gray, this paint color will add interest to your interior schemes – a fresh alternative to classic navy blue.

Mount Etna, on the other hand, has an incredibly liveable quality that I would argue provides a more timeless finish than a classic dark blue or dark green would. Since it features a unique blend of undertones that means it can't be defined as a singular color, it's less likely to date or feel overly trend-led.

Another reason I love this paint color is that it boasts a natural quality. Blue, green, and gray all conjure images of the natural world, and the subtlety of each hue gives it a calming, restful feel.

While dark paint colors like Mount Etna can be daunting to decorate with, especially if you're used to decorating with neutrals , there are lots of ways to successfully embrace this hue. Sherwin-Williams recommends using it as an accent color , including on cabinetry or on a fireplace for a pop of rich color.

If you decide to use this color as an accent, it's important to pair it with the right paint colors. According to Sherwin-Williams, some of the most complementary are Extra White , a classic fresh white paint for a timeless look; Natural Choice , a creamy off-white for more of an organic, relaxed look; and Edgy Gold , a dark, rich yellow for a colorful scheme.

Alternatively, I envision this paint shade used for color-drenching ideas which is one of the most on-trend ways to embrace dark hues right now. Working especially well in small rooms such as bedrooms , homes offices , or even laundry rooms , take this color everywhere to include the ceiling, woodwork, and doors for a fully cohesive look. Complete the look with cozy textiles and you'll soon have a scheme ready for the winter months.

If you want to embrace the trend of decorating with dark paint colors while keeping the overall look timeless, colors like Mount Etna are a failsafe choice. Providing intrigue with its blend of undertones and a soothing quality with its natural world feel, use this color this fall for a cozy and stylish space.