Why I'm Obsessing Over "Hidden Gem" (And You Probably Will Too)

Okay, I'll be honest—I wasn't looking for a new paint color. My Pinterest boards are already overflowing with "someday" inspiration, and my husband gives me that look whenever I mention another home project. But then I stumbled across Hidden Gem while scrolling late one night, and something about this smoky jade just stopped me in my tracks.

Maybe it was the way it looked different in every photo—sometimes more blue, sometimes more green, always completely gorgeous. Or maybe it's because I've been craving something that feels calm but not boring, sophisticated but not stuffy. Whatever it was, I knew I had to learn more about this color that was quietly taking over my Instagram feed.

What Makes Hidden Gem So Special?

I've been living with stark white walls for way too long (you know how it is—safe but soul-crushing), and this color feels like the perfect antidote. It's got enough personality to make a statement without being overwhelming, which is exactly what I need in a house where I'm trying to create calm, peaceful spaces for my family.

The paint experts are calling it "melancholic but sophisticated," which honestly sounds a bit dramatic, but I get what they mean. There's something quietly emotional about it—like it holds space for both beauty and depth.

Where I'm Planning to Use It (And Where You Should Too)

I've been walking around my house with paint swatches and I'm convinced there isn't a room where Hidden Gem wouldn't work. But here are the spots where I think it really shines:

In the kitchen: I'm seriously considering painting our lower cabinets in Hidden Gem and keeping the uppers white. With our marble counters and brass hardware, I think it would create this perfect balance of fresh and timeless. Plus, it's supposed to work beautifully with warm metallics, which is good because I'm not ready to give up my gold cabinet pulls.

The primary bedroom: One accent wall behind our bed in Hidden Gem would instantly make the room feel more intentional and restful. Right now it's just... beige. And boring. This would add so much character without making it feel dark or heavy.

Our powder room: This is probably where I'll actually start because it's small and low-risk. Hidden Gem in a powder room with white trim and maybe some brass fixtures? Yes, please.

The Colors That Play Nice with Hidden Gem

One thing I love about this color is how well it plays with others. I've been doing my research (okay, maybe obsessing), and it looks stunning with so many combinations:

Warm neutrals: Think creamy whites, soft beiges, and that perfect greige that's everywhere right now. These combinations feel fresh but never cold.

Earthy tones: Hidden Gem with terracotta or rust accents? Gorgeous. Add in some warm wood tones and you've got this beautiful, grounded palette that feels so inviting.

Other jewel tones: I've seen it paired with deep burgundy and amethyst, and the result is surprisingly elegant. Not sure I'm brave enough for that in my own house, but it's beautiful to look at.

Soft pastels: This is where it gets interesting—Hidden Gem actually looks amazing with pale yellows and soft pinks. The contrast creates this gentle, sophisticated vibe that doesn't feel too precious.

 

How I'm Planning to Test It Out

Before I commit to any major paint projects (because we all know how that goes), I'm planning to test Hidden Gem in a few small ways first:

I want to order a sample size from BEHR and painted some poster boards to move around the house at different times of day. This way I can see how it looks in various lighting situations before making any big decisions.

I'm also thinking about starting with something removable—maybe painting the back of a bookshelf or the inside of a closet. These hidden pops of color can be such a delightful surprise, and they're perfect for testing whether you really love a color.

And if I'm being completely honest, I'm probably going to start by bringing in some accessories in similar tones—maybe some throw pillows or a beautiful ceramic vase—just to see how the color feels in my space before I commit to paint.

I'm not saying you need to paint your entire house tomorrow (though honestly, the temptation is real). But if you're feeling ready for a change that's both beautiful and livable, this smoky jade might just be exactly what you've been looking for.

→ Shop our collection of home accessories in nature-inspired tones.