The sky is the limit for paint manufacturers this year. From demure to bouncy to shouting, those in the know are picking shades of blue to dominate in 2024. Perhaps with the looming election, they are hoping a soothing and peaceful color will lower temperatures. Regardless of the motivation, here’s a look at their predictions.
Sherwin Williams is looking Upward. This pale blue pairs well with both crisp whites and darker shades of gray and black. There’s no question that this color is easy to live with and neutral enough that it won’t say, “That’s so early 2020s” by 2026.
Benjamin Moore is moodier with Blue Nova, which leans a little purple. While I’m a huge Ben Moore fan, this hue could be challenging. I found myself humming, “I love you, you love me…” but I doubt Barney the dinosaur was the inspiration. I’m sure there’s a just right spot for this. Be sure and let me know if you have it.
Valspar selected Renew Blue as its 2024 color of the year. It’s close to a color I refer to as “smudgy turquoise,” and like that shade of blue, this one plays well with neutrals. It reminds me of old-house bathroom tile, or the color you’d see in a 1940s Paris pied-à-terre.
Graham & Brown’s color of the year, Viridis—which is an adjective meaning fresh and green—is a great neutral. Complex, yet soothing, this shade would work as well indoors or in the garden.
Farrow & Ball’s collection with fashion designer Christopher John Rogers is equally bold. Raw Tomatillo, Romesco, and Lobster (which is turquoise) may remind you of the 1970s, but Cardamom, Liquorice, Macadamia, and Sardine take the edge off.