The OLYMPIC Paints brand today announced its 2016 Color of the Year: loud, impactful Blue Cloud (D48-5). This daring, adventurous hue supports a larger-than-life persona yet adds the perfect pop to various styles and palettes.

Born from the evolving interest in 1970s bohemia, the vibrancy of millennial lifestyles and a post-recession return to elegance, this trending color is growing strong in interiors.

Blue Cloud is highly expressive and glamorous, according to Olympic Paints color expert Dee Schlotter. “Consumers who are drawn to this color thrive in the fast-paced world and challenge convention with their fashion and decor,” she said. “It encourages consumers who may typically opt for more traditional décor colors to step out of their comfort zone. Blue Cloud is not for shy walls.”

Schlotter recommended pairing the sapphire-like blue with velvet and shiny finishes. She also noted that it can be used brilliantly on an accent wall paired with softer Olympic Paints neutrals such as golden yellow, Curry Sauce (B12-5) or deep tan, Sautéed Mushroom (D21-4). Mixing the dazzling bright with softer, neutral tones is a great way to ground this blue, she added.

“The combination of bold, virtual-like colors with the neutral colors of nature show how the digital and real worlds are colliding and influencing our décor choices. Blue Cloud is a strong demonstration of this reality,” Schlotter said. 

Olympic Paints is a brand of PPG Architectural Coatings, a business of PPG Industries, the world’s leading coatings company. Olympic Paints can be found at LOWE’S stores locations across the U.S.