Behr Paint recently announced its first-ever Color of the Year: In The Moment T18-15, touted by the company as a restorative blue-green hue honoring nature to create a soothing atmosphere.
 
The BEHR 2018 Color of the Year was introduced alongside the annual BEHR 2018 Color Trends palette, a spectrum of 20 hues forecasted to influence décor and design in the year ahead. According to Behr, the new palette captures the ever-evolving perception of “home,” which was showcased in New York City with an experiential BEHR Pop-Up Trend Home in Grand Central Terminal. 
 
Coatings World recently had the opportunity to interview Erika Woelfel, vice president of color and creative services at Behr.

1. Where do you get your inspiration from when choosing color trends for the upcoming year?
Each year, our team is inspired by what’s happening in the world around us and how color comes to life in new ways—in fashion, pop culture, travel, home décor and more. We spend months imagining a palette filled with colors that will reflect what’s to come. This year, we were specifically drawn to lifestyle trends of awareness, mindful living and the Danish concept of hygge—the feeling of cozy, comfortable conviviality and well-being. People are organizing and decluttering to prioritize experiences over material items. They are searching for balance amid their busy schedules, while trying to escape technological overload.
 
2. What is the overall theme of Behr’s 2018 Color Palette?
The 2018 Color Trends palette is all about the intentional use of color to enhance the energy of your most meaningful spaces. These 20 new colors work to create personal sanctuaries, inspiring us to relax, disconnect and simply be present. The hues encourage people to capitalize on the positive effects of color by using it sparingly or generously throughout their home. We often can’t wait to get home and just be—so it’s about choosing colors that allow us to do just that.
 
3.  This is the first time that Behr has selected its color of the year. What was the reason for this?
Throughout the process of researching and curating our BEHR 2018 Color Trends, cool, spruce blues popped up at every turn. From furniture to décor to fashion, stylists and designers across industries are finding new and beautiful ways to incorporate this usable blue-green. It’s so versatile, bringing a sense of sanctuary to almost any room—kitchens, bathrooms, dining rooms, you name it! We couldn’t resist giving In The Moment T18-15 the spotlight this year.
 
Additionally, while Behr Paint is well-known for its deep expertise in quality interior and exterior coatings, our color selection is equally as commendable—with thousands of hues to choose from at The Home Depot. With the first-ever Color of the Year, we’re helping spread the message that do-it-yourselfers and professionals alike can get superior quality and radiant color in the same can.
 
4.  Do you think the trend of drawing inspiration from nature will continue?
I do! We always encourage homeowners and designers to seek inspiration in the spaces that bring them the most joy. Oftentimes, that’s while exploring a beautiful landscape, traveling to an exotic destination, or just relaxing in the backyard. As our world becomes increasingly connected and technology invades every part of our day, color is a great way to help people disconnect and channel the tranquil, serene retreat you can find in nature. We forecast this connection will continue to deepen and evolve in the coming years.
 
5.  What is the reason for selecting a harmonious, nature-based palette as opposed for a more modern, sleek look?
More than ever, people desire a personal and meaningful connection to their homes and surroundings. In today’s always-on society, people are seeking a digital detox—they need to go on “airplane mode” to truly unwind and recharge. With In the Moment T18-15 and the 2018 Color Trends palette, Behr welcomes people to disconnect and practice mindfulness at home by strategically using color to enhance the energy of a space. We selected these 20 harmonious new hues to serve as a catalyst to rejuvenate the spirit, restore balance and stimulate an overall sense of well-being.
 
That said, many of the hues in this palette can be used in modern spaces to achieve a sleek, chic style as well. Constellation Blue T18-18, a stable royal hue, creates a beautiful contrast when paired with stark whites and gold or orange accents. Quiet Time T18-19 is an on-trend gray with a touch of green that displays an understated confidence—as a fresh take on the classic neutral.