For the last 20 years Pantone, a cornerstone of design across industries, has announced a Color of the Year. To choose the color the company hosts representatives from various nations’ color standards groups for a two-day summit at a secret location in a European city.

For two days the color professionals present and debate. Then they choose a color, and the color has meaning and significance. For example, in 2011 the group chose Honeysuckle (Pantone 18-2120), stating “In times of stress, we need something to lift our spirits.” Their point of view was that the rosy pink hue would ward off the blues as the Great Recession began to ebb.

The Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, which may be the best job in the world besides ours, says she looks for colors with a back story, or colors that are being used in a broader context than before.

This year’s color is Classic Blue (Pantone 19-4052). When the group chose the color, they had no idea how appropriate their choice would be. “Instilling calm, confidence, and connection, this enduring blue hue highlights our desire for a dependable and stable foundation on which to build as we cross the threshold into a new era.”

“We are living in a time that requires trust and faith. It is this kind of constancy and confidence that is expressed by PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue, a solid and dependable blue hue we can always rely on. Imbued with a deep resonance, Classic Blue provides an anchoring foundation. A boundless blue evocative of the vast and infinite evening sky, Classic Blue encourages us to look beyond the obvious to expand our thinking; challenging us to think more deeply, increase our perspective, and open the flow of communication.” – Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute.

Designers love to debate the Color of the Year. When the color was announced some felt the choice was too safe. Little did we know that in just a few weeks safety and stability would be what we were craving. Classic Blue fits with traditional Lowcountry and Island interiors, and it can be complimented with so many other colors for a little more visual energy.

Classic Blue is a classic, it’s perfect for Charleston homes, and we love it.