Dependable, stable and calming are the characteristics of the Color of the Year for 2020. For the past 21 years, Pantone Color Institute has announced a “Color of the Year,” which the self-proclaimed authority on color says will be on trend during the year ahead. Local designers share how the color can be used in a home’s interior.

“Classic Blue is a beautiful and bold, yet soothing color reminiscent of the evening sky and the deep blue ocean,” said Keira St. Claire of Anthony Wilder Design/Build in Bethesda, Maryland. “Soft, rich and versatile, this color has the potential to inject creative confidence into your interiors.”

From an accent wall in a child’s bedroom, throw pillows or a kitchen backsplash, to a home’s front door, mailbox or shutters, Allie Mann, designer and senior interiors specialist at Case Design/Remodeling, suggests a variety of ways to use classic blue. “Perhaps as a ceiling color to draw your eye up or add interest,” she said. “As a powder room wall color or vanity, this bold color will work well in the tiniest of spaces, including the back of a bookcase or built-in, a reading nook, a laundry room or mudroom or as cubbies.”

Whether bold or subtle, St. Claire said the design options are plentiful. “Opt to incorporate this color in your home with decorative accents like throw blankets, pillows, rugs, and artwork and even kitchenware to add a pop of color without feeling over-saturated,” she said. “Repurpose old pieces [or furniture]. A fresh blue lacquered coat of paint would magically transform an old chair or dresser into a unique statement piece.”

For the courageous homeowner, St. Claire suggests a bolder approach. “Paint your walls or refinish your kitchen or bathroom cabinets in blue or upholster a large piece of furniture like a sofa or armchair in blue,” she said. “Introduce other complementary colors like olive greens, golds or magenta to really offset the color and make a statement. Classic blue doesn’t have to be the only pop of color.”

Adding the color gradually is what Amanda Mertins of Patina Polished Living in Alexandria, Virginia suggests. “Infuse it into your home and fashion design in bits and pieces,” added “Maybe you paint an accent wall classic blue and let that be the focus. The color blue is kind to many colors and therefore easy to use in a room as an accent color. You can also mix varying shades of blue.”

“Classic blue is just that, it's classic and timeless and can be weaved into many design schemes,” said Mann. “Do not be afraid of color.”