When the top architectural paint companies select their colors of the year, the mood of potential customers is first and foremost. In recent years, it is fair to say that people are looking for a sense of calmness, and Blank Canvas, Behr Paint Company’s 2023 Color of the Year, is perfect for today.

Blank Canvas can be described as a soft white hue with a warm undertone. It is versatile and can be used with virtually any color in any room. Erika Woelfel, VP of Color & Creative Services at Behr Paint Company, said it was the clear selection for this year.

“We looked at our top-selling colors at Behr to determine the Color of the Year, and white paint colors were on top of the list,” Woelfel said. “We were seeking a color that would inspire renewal, positivity, and a sense of calm. Blank Canvas is the most versatile shade of white, which made it an easy decision for us to select.”

Behr Paint conducted research that showed that nearly all U.S. homeowners want their home to be a space where they can completely unwind (92%) and believe that it’s important their home feels like an escape from everyday stress (90%). In addition, a large majority of homeowners agree that the color white makes them feel positive (77%) and even lowers their stress levels (71%).

Calmness remains an important trend; Breezeway, Behr’s 2022 Color of the Year, was a soothing shade of silvery green, a sense of nature. As the COVID-19 pandemic fades somewhat, Blank Canvas offers a sense of a fresh start.

“Versatility and comfort were at the forefront of our minds when we thought about lifestyle and design trends for our 2023 Color of the Year along with a sense of renewal after years of uncertainty,” Woelfel said. “Blank Canvas, Behr’s 2023 Color of the Year, provides limitless possibilities with its warmth and transformative power. When using the color in a space, there is a fresh start that is offered by the clean backdrop.”

Woelfel points to the versatility of Blank Canvas as a shade that allows other colors to stand out.

“As a hue that fulfills our increased desire to be present, find peace of mind, and embrace the future, white is the ultimate color of renewal and fresh starts,” she observed. “In any space – from healthcare to hospitality spaces, residential dwellings and workspaces—this versatile shade of white allows shapes, form, and other colors to stand in the forefront.

“Blank Canvas is a top white color choice that can be used for a bedroom refresh or to a complete kitchen remodel,” Woelfel added. “It can be used for monochromatic looks or paired with pops of color to add extra dimension to any space. This white easily harmonizes with a wide range of hues, including neutrals, earth tones and pastels for a charming and cozy appeal. While it can stand on its own, when paired with cool tones, the warmth of Blank Canvas is able to provide a sense of restfulness and balance within rooms.” 

Woelfel noted that the process of picking the Color of the Year pretty much starts the day after the previous year’s Color of the Year is released.

“The process of determining the upcoming year’s COTY starts 12 months in advance of the next year’s launch,” Woelfel said. “A wide variety of inspirational sources are reviewed from lifestyle to décor to travel and fashion. All of this information is distilled into a COTY selection that will bring us into the following year.” 

The 2023 Color of the Year is featured in the all-new BEHR Designer Collection palette of 30 best-selling neutral colors.

“Blank Canvas is included in BEHR’s Designer Collection, a palette of 30 tried and true colors that streamline the paint selection process. Crisp and clean, Blank Canvas—with its soft lime undertones—is a popular and highly adaptable white that shows beautifully on walls, trim, cabinets, and other millwork. Professionals become the artist with Blank Canvas,” Woelfel concluded.