Spring is often the best opportunity to take on outdoor projects. Perhaps it is recoating a deck, painting a fence, pergola or shed, or creating a new look for outdoor furniture. There are many projects that can refresh your exterior space.

The choice of a stain is a key decision for homeowners to make. There is more than appearance to consider, though. Ease of application is important, as are the performance characteristics of the coatings. Also, the homeowner may wish for the stain to enhance the beauty of the wood.

This year, Cabot^® has chosen Acorn, a golden-brown hue, as its Color of the Year. Sue Kim, director of color marketing for Cabot, says that Cabot’s Color of the Year reflects emerging design trends and how homeowners are using their outdoor spaces.

“With Acorn, we saw a growing preference for warm, nature-inspired tones that feel grounded and timeless,” Kim observes. “Acorn reflects wood in its most natural state. It’s a color that enhances the natural character of wood while complementing a wide range of home styles and outdoor environments.”

Kim notes that Acorn is a warm, earthy brown with subtle golden undertones that highlight the natural beauty of wood.

“It’s a versatile exterior color that works especially well on decks, railings, fences and pergolas, where it adds richness while still letting the wood grain show through,” she says. “The tone blends beautifully with natural surroundings, helping to create welcoming outdoor spaces.”

Kim says that homeowners are looking for a combination of beauty, durability and protection when choosing a wood stain.

“They’re looking for colors that enhance the natural look of wood while also standing up to sun, moisture and everyday wear,” Kim notes. “Ease of maintenance is also important, so people can spend more time enjoying their outdoor spaces and less time maintaining them.

“Homeowners are longing for meaningful, lasting surroundings that give them a sense of nostalgia while also providing modern functionality,” Kim adds. “Acorn speaks to that desire for permanence—environments meant for gathering, sharing and making memories. In a fast-paced world, familiar tones and timeless materials help foster spaces of belonging, reflection and ease.”

Kim says she is seeing more interest in DIY projects for outside spaces in recent years.

“There’s been a noticeable increase in interest in DIY projects for outdoor living areas,” Kim adds. “Many homeowners are investing in their decks, fences and backyard spaces to create places to relax and entertain. Staining or refreshing wood surfaces is one of the most impactful projects because it can quickly update the look of a space while helping protect the wood. As outdoor spaces continue to become an extension of the home, homeowners are looking for simple ways to enhance both the beauty and longevity of those areas.”

Last year, Cabot selected Burnt Hickory as its 2025 Color of the Year. Kim feels that Acorn pairs nicely with Burnt Hickory.

“Acorn and Burnt Hickory work beautifully together,” Kim observes. “Burnt Hickory is a deeper, richer brown, while Acorn offers a warmer and slightly lighter tone. Using them together can create natural contrast and dimension in outdoor spaces. For example, pairing Burnt Hickory on railings or posts with Acorn on deck boards.”

Acorn continues the trends of recent years, as homeowners seek to enhance the natural feel of their outdoor living areas.

“Acorn continues a broader trend toward natural, grounded colors for outdoor spaces,” Kim concludes. “In recent years, we’ve seen homeowners gravitate toward warmer browns and wood-inspired tones that feel classic and connected to nature. Acorn reflects that shift while offering a versatile color that works across many home styles.”

Acorn is part of Cabot’s Exterior Wood Stain + Sealer line, and is available in solid, semi-solid and semi-transparent finishes nationwide.