Exploring Blue Nova 825 & the Science & HIstory of Blue-violet

In a world filled with colors as diverse as stars in our universe, Benjamin Moore has once again taken the spotlight by announcing Blue Nova 825 as the Color of the Year for 2024. Described as an "intriguing blend of blue and violet that sparks adventure," Blue Nova 825 aims to elevate our surroundings and expand our horizons. As we embark on this chromatic journey, let's take a moment to delve into the history and psychology behind the enigmatic allure of this cosmic hue.

This Announcement is a Celestial Affair

Inspired by the brilliance of a new star formed in space, Blue Nova 825 beckons us to venture into the unknown, just like intrepid space explorers seeking new experiences beyond the atmosphere. This color would undoubtedly be a top contender for anyone interested in outer space-influenced hues…or just people who like blue-violet, in general. 

Andrea Magno, Color Marketing & Development Director at Benjamin Moore, describes it as an "alluring mid-tone" that balances depth and intrigue with classic appeal and reassurance. It's like the James Bond of colors—mysterious, sophisticated, and always ready for an adventure.

Image courtesy of Benjamin Moore

Benjamin Moore took the celestial theme to new heights by announcing Blue Nova 825 at Blue Origin's Orbital Launch Site in Cape Canaveral, FL. Partnering with Blue Origin and its nonprofit Club for the Future, Benjamin Moore aims to inspire future generations about STEM education and careers in the space industry. It's not just about painting walls; it's about painting a brighter future.

The Science & HISTORY of Blue-Violet Magic

Now, let's get nerdy for a moment and explore the science and psychology of the blue-violet spectrum. Studies suggest that blue hues are often associated with calmness, tranquility, and stability. Add a dash of violet into the mix, and you've got a color that not only calms the nerves but also sparks creativity and a sense of luxury. It's the kind of color you'd expect to find in the lair of a genius inventor or a secret agent's hideout (see Bond reference above).

Blue-violet hues have left an indelible mark on interiors, architecture, and art throughout history. In the realm of interiors, they have been employed to evoke a sense of sophistication, gracing surfaces with a timeless allure that transcends passing trends - from the regal tones adorning ancient palaces to the soothing shades in contemporary living spaces. In architecture, these hues have often played a pivotal role in defining structures, from majestic domes to avant-garde facades, infusing spaces with a captivating harmony of richness and modernity. 

Water Lillies by Money - awash in blue-violet hues - courtesy of The Art Institute of Chicago

And in art -  au mes étoiles - blue-violet pigments have been cherished by masters like Van Gogh and Monet, capturing the ethereal beauty of starry nights and reflective waters. This color spectrum, with its enduring versatility, continues to weave its narrative across diverse creative landscapes, transcending epochs and shaping the aesthetic language of our built environment.

The Color Trends 2024 Palette is Absolutely Atomic

Blue Nova 825, with its fusion of blue and violet, creates a symphony of sensations, inviting us to break away from the ordinary. The larger context of the 2024 color palette evokes bright hues that express optimism and diversity. Referencial to he popular atomic age colors of the American 1950s, hues such as Teacup Rose 2170-50 are simultaneously sweet and sophisticated, while Polar Sky 1674 (a favorite in our design studio) is a light blue that never strays into juvenile territory - perfect for a children’s room, or a more adult space.

Courtesy of Benjamin Moore

The selection of such multifaceted colors extends to the cheery and bright yellow, Honeybee CSP-950, and the regal yet grounded violet of Hazy Lilac 2116-40. More earthy tones that evoke the deserts of the American west also reside here: Topaz 070 is a punchy red-orange perfect for accent walls, while Antique Pewter 1560 is a rich green-gray that spans from Arts & Crafts into the 1970s vegetal vibe, and into today.

As we navigate through these color pairings, it's like taking a metaphorical journey through the galaxy of design possibilities. Am I hammering this metaphor a little too hard for this blog? Perhaps…

Let’s Wrap It Up - Ready to Launch!

Blue Nova 825 doesn't just paint walls; it creates a true presence in the home. Picture a living room bathed in the otherworldly glow of this enigmatic hue, where every moment feels like a scene from a sci-fi masterpiece. It's not just a color; it's an atmosphere. It has that balance of energy that just really engages at all times of day, in all lights, and just can’t look sad (like almost every gray) ever. Say yes to happy colors in 2024, people!

As we welcome Blue Nova 825 into our homes and design palettes, let's embrace the adventure it promises. Whether you're redecorating your living space or planning the interior of your rocket ship, let its captivating allure transport you to new horizons. What do you think? I am here for this vibe, and loving it.