Valspar’s Color of the Year Is a ‘Goes-With-Everything’ Calming Shade – But No, It’s Not a Neutral
Powder blues were big this year, but Valspar's Color of the Year suggests they'll be dominating color trends in 2027, too
Something shifts in mid-August.It happens every year. No matter how hot the weather still might be or how many vacations you still have planned, that feeling of change begins. In the interior world, it’s a time when new trends for the year ahead start to emerge, and something that really kicks off that change in mindset is when the Color of the Year announcements begin. And the first to lead the way is the iconic paint brand, Valspar.
Valspar's 2027 Color of the Year is Cottage Door 8004-38E, the perfect powdery blue that strikes a balance between warm and cool. Whisper-soft powder blues like Cottage Door were the most memorable color trends of 2026, so it makes sense that they're continuing to crop up in next year's lineup, too.
We spoke with Sue Kim, Director of Color Marketing at Valspar, to learn more about the brand's color selection and how to use it in 2027 and beyond.
A light-filled dining room painted in Valspar's Cottage Door.
Powder blue might have been an unexpected fall color trend last year, but it's been a top color trend for every season since. Vibrant yet subdued enough to feel soothing, powder blues are one of the most livable blue paints you can use in the home.
'Cottage Door celebrates the unique beauty inside us all,' said Sue Kim. 'This mid-tone neutral blue is reflective and warm, with timeless appeal that feels personal and grounding. Cottage Door captures blue’s natural sense of security and trust while serving as a colorful new neutral that layers effortlessly into the home. It creates spaces that feel balanced, comforting, and inviting.'
Tinged with subtle notes of gray, it bridges the gap between interesting and timeless, making it a suitable shade for almost any area of the home, from home offices to pantries.
Cottage Door brings a playful edge to this home office, matched by the pale pink mural.
Best paired with pale pinks, deep plums, and warm off-white paints, Cottage Door can be dressed up or down depending on the look you're trying to achieve.
Balance Cottage Door’s powder notes with the soft and joyful tones of Moon Shot 8005-2B, a stony gray that picks up on the blue's muted side. For something a little lighter, try Apricot Blush 8003-8A (pictured above), a pastel pink infused with cream that's perfect for creating contrast and a sense of playfulness in the home.
'Shades like Cottage Door are grounding and anchoring,' says Sue. 'They naturally convey authenticity, warmth, and trust, creating an inviting environment where you can truly settle in. Ultimately, their calming presence brings an organized, reliable energy to any space, making them perfectly timed colors that resonate deeply with our desire for comfort and peace.'
'In a world shaped by curated perfection and constant stimulation, there’s a growing desire for spaces that feel honest, grounded, and stable,' says Sue. 'Cottage Door reflects this shift toward emotionally resonant color – tones that feel timeless, personal, and connected. Color that brings a sense of balance and belonging feels more valuable than ever.'
Powder Blue Picks
Inspired to bring this powdery blue into your home? These decor picks will do so in an instant, no paint required.
Classic and sophisticated, this blue table lamp would make a stylish addition in transitional living rooms.
Perfect for adding coziness in the winter months, this throw blanket features various shades of on-trend blue.
Best styled in a living room or entryway, fill the Gracelyn Vase with delicate white stems.
Add this scalloped tissue box cover to your nightstand for a dose of charm that uplifts in the morning and evening.
Add a modern touch to your home with this blue scented candle that is made completely from wax.
Bring some vibrancy to your kitchen shelves with the powder blue iconic glass.
Valspar's Color of the Year is the perfect balance of trends and timelessness. A powder blue infused with gray tones, it's a livable yet exciting paint color that sets the tone for a year of on-trend hues.
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