House of Kolor: 70 Years of Defining Automotive Artistry

CLEVELAND, OH – April 02, 2026 – House of Kolor®, the iconic brand whose name is synonymous with the iridescent sheen of custom car culture, is launching a year-long celebration to mark its 70th anniversary. The company, a cornerstone of the automotive refinishing world, announced a slate of new products, community events, and industry collaborations designed to honor seven decades of vibrant creativity and craftsmanship.

Since its inception, House of Kolor has been more than just a paint supplier; it has been an essential tool for artists turning metal into masterpieces. This anniversary commemorates not only the brand's longevity but its profound impact on the automotive aesthetic, a legacy built on radical color and relentless innovation. The celebration will unfold throughout the year, featuring storytelling content, partnerships with influential builders, and the release of eight special anniversary kolors.

A Legacy Forged in Frustration

The story of House of Kolor begins not in a corporate boardroom, but in a garage, driven by the dissatisfaction of one young enthusiast. In 1956, founder Jon ‘Koz’ Kosmoski was a passionate car customizer frustrated with the limited and unreliable paints available for his 1940 Chevy Coupe. The nitrocellulose lacquers and alkyd enamels of the era were prone to fading in the sun and cracking in the cold, failing to deliver the durability and visual punch that the burgeoning 'kustom' scene demanded.

Determined to create something better, Kosmoski partnered with a polymer chemist to engineer entirely new formulas. His goal was to develop paints that could withstand the elements and the rigors of multi-layered custom applications while offering unparalleled vibrancy. This pursuit led to the industry's first organic-pigment formulations, which delivered a depth and clarity previously unseen.

"What started as a frustration with an uninspired paint job turned into a lifelong mission to give artists and builders something better: Colors that are vibrant, formulas that are reliable and a brand that would push creativity further for generations," said Jon 'Koz' Kosmoski. "It's incredibly rewarding to see how House of Kolor continues to evolve while staying true to the spirit that started it all."

From this foundation, iconic products like the legendary Kandy Kolors were born. These translucent layers, applied over a metallic base, created a brilliant, candy-like finish that became a signature of high-end custom builds. Kosmoski's Minneapolis-based operation quickly gained a national reputation, establishing itself as the original and definitive custom paint brand.

The Canvas of 'Kustom Kulture'

House of Kolor did not just serve the 'kustom kulture' movement; it helped define it. The brand's revolutionary palette gave builders and pinstripers the medium they needed to express their wildest ideas. Before 'Koz' began mixing his unique formulas, custom painting was a craft with a limited ceiling. Afterward, it became a legitimate art form. The availability of stable, brilliant, and seemingly bottomless colors transformed show cars, hot rods, and motorcycles into rolling sculptures.

Products like the color-shifting Kameleons®, which change hue depending on the viewing angle, further pushed the boundaries of what was possible. For painters, choosing House of Kolor became a statement—a commitment to quality and a declaration of artistic intent. The brand's consistent, reliable formulas allowed artists to perfect complex techniques involving multiple layers, intricate graphics, and flawless fades. This reliability built a fiercely loyal following, from garage hobbyists to world-renowned, award-winning builders like Gilby's Street Dept., who built their businesses on the brand's performance.

Over the decades, the brand's influence has become deeply embedded in the automotive world. Its colors are not just coatings; they are part of a lifestyle, representing a dedication to individuality and meticulous craftsmanship that continues to inspire customizers across the globe.

From Niche Pioneer to Corporate Powerhouse

While born from a singular vision, House of Kolor's journey also reflects a shrewd evolution in the business world. The brand's undeniable prestige and market dominance in the custom niche made it an attractive asset. In 1997, it was acquired by Valspar, integrating its specialized technology into a larger coatings portfolio. This chapter continued until Valspar itself was acquired by The Sherwin-Williams Company, placing the legendary custom brand under the umbrella of one of the world's largest paint and coatings manufacturers.

Today, House of Kolor operates as a key part of the Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes division. This strategic position has expanded its reach significantly, making its specialized products more accessible than ever through a vast network of distributors and Sherwin-Williams' own branch locations across North America. The integration provides the stability and resources of a global giant while allowing the brand to maintain its unique identity and focus on the custom market.

"For 70 years, House of Kolor has stood at the forefront of custom refinish," stated Tony D'Acquisto, Global Vice President of Marketing at Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes. "We're committed to honoring the artists and innovators who helped build its legacy while continuing to inspire and support future generations of custom creators."

Painting the Future: Community and Innovation

Looking ahead, House of Kolor is celebrating its 70th year by reinforcing its commitment to the community that built it and fostering the next generation of talent. The anniversary celebration is a forward-looking affair, packed with initiatives designed to engage and inspire. The brand plans a series of content drops featuring behind-the-scenes interviews with influential painters and builders, offering a platform to share iconic stories from its seven-decade history.

Central to the celebration is a direct connection with the community. House of Kolor will have a significant presence at car shows, races, and custom events throughout North America, bringing its legacy directly to enthusiasts. Perhaps most importantly, the company is investing in the future of the craft through a series of technical school visits aimed at connecting with and mentoring aspiring custom painters.

This focus on the future is also reflected in its product pipeline. In addition to the eight commemorative anniversary kolors, the brand has promised the launch of several much-anticipated product innovations. To cap off the year of celebration, House of Kolor will host an exclusive giveaway featuring a custom-painted item, a testament to the artistry the brand has championed for 70 years. By actively engaging its base and nurturing new talent, House of Kolor is ensuring its vibrant legacy will continue to be painted across the automotive landscape for decades to come.