CLEVELAND, Ohio — Cabot, an exterior wood care brand, has named Burnt Hickory as the company's 2025 Color of the Year. With its natural brown tones and charcoal undertones, Burnt Hickory helps create a space that feels inviting, the company says.

“Burnt Hickory is a statement of timeless design,” said Sue Kim, Cabot’s director of color marketing. “This deep, earthy hue enhances wood’s natural grain and texture, bringing an artisanal quality to any outdoor project. It also complements a variety of outdoor styles—from rustic to modern—and blends effortlessly with greenery and eclectic designs, creating a welcoming atmosphere.”

The color's earthy, grounded hues transform outdoor areas into inviting sanctuaries, perfect for everyday relaxation, personal rituals and special gatherings. Its neutral undertones deepen under low lighting, amplifying the warmth of firepits, string lights, and evening glow to create an intimate, peaceful escape.

Burnt Hickory is for homeowners looking to change their outdoor spaces with a modern yet timeless touch. DIYers and professionals can expect high-performance formulas from Cabot that ensure lasting beauty and protection against the elements while enhancing the natural beauty of wood. Cabot Exterior Wood Stain consistently provides a professional-quality finish on every project.

Cabot’s Burnt Hickory stain is available in solid, semi-solid and semi-transparent opacities as part of Cabot’s Exterior Wood Stain + Sealer line at retailers nationwide.