Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2020 is Classic Blue, an elegant and simple hue that is as timeless and enduring as the night sky. This tranquil shade of restful blue creates a comforting and serene feeling in the home.

Blue dining room

Looking through images of past photo shoots we’ve created, I realized that I depend on this color a lot in any kind of setting. From entire walls to an accent lamp shade, classic blue is both restful and authoritative. Paired with orange—its natural complement—and mixed with color cousins green and aqua, it really stands out.

Blue bedroom with quilt

If deep, serene color isn’t your thing, try introducing Classic Blue or one of its more vibrant cousins in a smaller way. Textiles like a cut-out quilt in blue and white bring a lot of depth to a space in an affordable and less permanent fashion than paint or upholstery. Accents in yellow and gold add warmth to the cool blue tones of the room.

Bedroom with blue chevron dresser

Classic Blue brings a feeling of peace and tranquility to room, making it an ideal hue for bedrooms. A navy velvet headboard is balanced by a chevron-patterned nightstand covered in (of all things!) duct tape. Large and small elements in aqua and gray add variety to the palette without disturbing the soothing aura of the room.

Blue living room

This navy shade implies stability and protectiveness, which may be why it’s often used for uniforms and power suits. In the home it’s a staple in traditional designs, signaling taste and sophistication but also lends its gravitas to more bohemian styles.

Blue chair and chest

Classic blue plays well with most colors and casual styles. After all, what doesn’t look good with a pair of denim jeans?

Blue bench and accents

Blue is a pervasive favorite for the home. Creating a stable foundation on which to build, dark blue injects creative confidence into interiors, transforming a space through unique color combinations and tonal statements. Easily applied across so many different materials, textures, and finishes, Classic Blue is a dependable color that can take you in many different directions, expressing tradition and elegance, as well as unexpected boldness.

Ready to embrace Classic Blue in your home? Whether you want a small accent piece or a statement making furnishing, here are a few of our favorites:

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