In 2019 it was a rosy coral and in 2018 it was bright violet, but for 2020 Carlstadt, N.J.–based paint manufacturer Pantone has named deep Classic Blue as its Color of the Year.
Pantone’s Color Institute selected the “non-aggressive” hue for its “timeless and enduring qualities” that evoke emotions of peace and solidity, according to a Pantone press release. Pantone hopes that Classic Blue can help “[re-center] our thoughts” and “[foster] resilience” in an era when society is obsessed with technology and increasingly strapped for time.
This year, Pantone also explored the multisensory potential of Classic Blue, partnering with companies such as the New York–based audio branding agency Audio UX to develop a sound for the hue and the Zürich–based fragrance and flavor company Firmenich to render versions of its smell and taste.
Similarly, the Cleveland-based paint company Sherwin Williams selected Naval SW 6244, a deep navy, as its 2020 color of the year. According to Sherwin Williams, Naval SW 6244 evokes Art Deco influences while offering a “clean palette for self-nurturance.”
The Montvale, N.J.–based paint producer Benjamin Moore, however, announced a pastel pink dubbed First Light as its 2020 color of the year. Benjamin Moore selected its “refreshing” pink along with a palette of nine other colors “that combine optimism with understatement,” according to the website.
Behr, a Santa Ana, Calif.–based paint company, also chose a softer option for its 2020 color of the year, selecting a light green hue dubbed Back to Nature S340-4.
