Every fall, design aficionados look forward to the COTYs—aka Color of the Year announcements from leading paint companies. This year’s choices span the spectrum, from rich berries to creamy neutrals.
So, what shades will be gracing our walls in 2023? Here’s a rundown of pigments to watch in the months ahead.
Benjamin Moore Raspberry Blush
“Never a backdrop, Raspberry Blush is the definition of charismatic color,” according to Andrea Magno, director of color marketing and development. “This unapologetic shade of red-orange had us thinking: bold, bolder, boldest.”
Choosing a bright, lively hue is a departure for the company. The color experts’ decision to opt for an electric shade is on par with “our collective restlessness.”
Just how much to blush is a matter of personal taste—from a pop of color in the powder room to an entire living area. “The result is really fun and modern while bringing that dose of color to a room in an approachable way,” said Magno.
Sherwin Williams Redend Point
Best described as pink-meets-gray-meets beige, this subtle shade is part of the company’s 2023 Terra paint color launch. “We really dialed into the conversation about empathy and humanity, and how we wanted the Color of the Year to fall in line with this idea of being good to each other,” said color marketing director Sue Wadden.
Try a little (cozy reading area) or a lot (bedroom or living room) with equally soothing results. “Redend Point really broadcasts how color can be not only grounding but nurturing, reassuring, and familiar,” Wadden added.
Glidden Vining Ivy
This calming, nature-inspired blue-green blend complements all design styles. “Vining Ivy is energizing yet grounding, and it works in literally any space,” according to Ashley McCollum, Glidden’s color expert.
We can see this tempting teal on kitchen cabinetry or as a stylish accent wall. “Its versatility takes the guesswork out of design, leaving consumers with more time to indulge in the things that matter most to them.”
Behr’s Blank Canvas
This warm, creamy white goes with practically everything. “Blank Canvas effortlessly offers a clean and inviting blank slate that allows individuality and creativity to flow freely,” said Erika Woelfel, vice president of color and creative services.
Unlike stark whites, this rich hue is all about tranquility. As part of its COTY announcement, Behr also shared some findings to support their 2023 selection: According to a survey of more than 1,000 U.S. homeowners, 63% of people agree that the color white is mood-boosting, and 77% say it makes them feel positive.
“As we look to 2023, we understand that comfort will still be a driving force behind design decisions and style statements,” said Woelfel.
Backdrop Color of the Year
Adding a little humor to the annual COTY ritual, LA-based paint color company Backdrop actually named its pick—a vibrant yellow-orange—Color of the Year.
“Rather than being driven by trends, the brand is based around a spirit of self-expression and a belief that color is a very personal choice for each of us,” said Backdrop cofounder Natalie Ebel. “Why prescribe or dictate something like Color of the Year?”
The shade, a collaboration with cheeky New York gift emporium Coming Soon, serendipitously won top honors from the National Color Committee. “This yellow-orange color is inspired by Bottega Veneta boots and rubber bands. In a world where balls of rubber bands are disappearing, it’s time we start honoring them.” touts the Backdrop website.
Added Ebel: “We set out to create the best color in the whole wide world and we sure did.”
