Sherwin-Williams has recently announced its choice for the 2024 Color of the Year: Upward SW 6239, a gentle and calming shade of blue.
This is how SW describes it: “this denim blue with calm gray undertones will have you dreamily adrift in the stratosphere. Pair this light neutral with a cool pastel to complete the effect.”
Now, let’s get one thing straight – this color pick isn’t just a random swatch from the paint aisle. It’s part of a bigger trend. Sherwin-Williams is clairvoyant when it comes to color, and they’re predicting a tidal wave of lighter shades taking over our living spaces in the years to come. Sue Wadden, Sherwin-Williams’ Color Marketing Director, tells us, “We knew lighter tones were going to be important in 2024 and 2025, and we wanted to forecast the shift from earthy neutrals to lighter expressions. A light blue like Upward SW 6239 told that story very well.”
Embracing the Coastal Trend: Upward SW 6239 and the Resurgence of Lighter Hues
The appeal of lighter colors is closely tied to the resurgence of coastal chic design styles in interior spaces. Wadden explains that there has been an observed shift in preference from warm neutrals to white tones, and she notes that Upward SW 6239 pairs seamlessly with various white shades, positioning it as a quintessential choice for embracing the coastal trend.
She also highlights the versatility of Upward SW 6239, mentioning its compatibility with navy, pastel green, and warm brown tones, making it suitable for various interior design aesthetics.
What is Upward's LRV?
The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Upward, which is measured at 57, indicates how much light the color reflects. LRV values typically range from 0 (absolute black, absorbing all light) to 100 (pure white, reflecting all light).
With an LRV of 57, Upward is a moderately light color that reflects a substantial amount of light. This means it will brighten and illuminate a room to a moderate extent when used as a wall color. It can help create a sense of spaciousness and airiness, making it a suitable choice for spaces where you want to maintain a balanced level of light without being overly bright or too dark.
In summary, Upward’s LRV of 57 indicates that it strikes a middle ground in terms of light reflection, contributing to a comfortable and inviting ambiance without extreme lightness or darkness.
Bringing Upward to Your Home's Key Spaces
Wadden suggests practical applications, such as using the color for bathroom vanities, kitchen cabinets, or in spaces designed for relaxation like bedrooms and nurseries.
Personally, I believe this color works especially well in bedrooms. It’s like a comforting blanket for your walls, making it perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere and having sweet dreams. For this reason, I’ve created some 3D renderings of a bedroom to help you visualize how Upward SW 6239 can transform your space.
In a nutshell, Upward SW 6239, Sherwin-Williams’ 2024 Color of the Year, is not just some fancy paint that’ll leave you scratching your head wondering where on earth to put it. Unlike a few previous “Color of the Year” picks that felt like they belonged in a fancy art gallery more than your living room, Upward is refreshingly down-to-earth. So, as we look forward to the new year, consider incorporating Upward into your home’s interior design. It’s the perfect choice if you’re riding the wave of the new coastal trend. 🌊🏡
