Benjamin Moore 2017 Color of the Year
In 2017, Benjamin Moore named Lunar Blue its Color of the Year. This cool, adaptable blue-gray was designed to bring a sense of calm, clarity, and quiet sophistication to interiors. As a perennial favorite, Lunar Blue remains relevant for homeowners and designers seeking a timeless backdrop that pairs beautifully with natural light, neutral accents, and deeper contrast. This guide explains what Lunar Blue actually looks like, how Benjamin Moore selects its annual colors, and how this shade can be used thoughtfully in real spaces.
The concept behind annual paint colors
Many brands release “color of the year” predictions and selections, and Benjamin Moore follows a similar cadence. Their annual pick is intended to reflect broader design currents, cultural moods, and emerging preferences in residential paint. Unlike fast-moving fashion or automotive colors, paint shades must perform across different rooms, lighting conditions, and times of day. Benjamin Moore’s choices emphasize versatility, durability, and a coherent palette that homeowners can reference year after year.
Why Lunar Blue in 2017
Lunar Blue was selected to capture a sense of quiet optimism and grounded serenity. As a blue-gray with cool undertones, it reads as modern without being severe, and light enough to avoid feeling heavy in smaller rooms. The name itself evokes a soft, moonlit atmosphere that translates well into living rooms, bedrooms, and even trim or cabinetry when balanced with lighter neutrals.
Translating the color into real interiors
Benjamin Moore colors are formulated for accuracy and consistency, so Lunar Blue behaves predictably across applications. Designers often use it as a backdrop wall color, behind statement furniture, or on ceilings to create a subtle sense of depth. The key is to pair it with neutrals, warm woods, or metallic accents that complement its cool character without overwhelming a space.
Lighting and context matter
Because blue-gray shades shift with natural and artificial light, testing samples in the intended room is essential. In north-facing rooms, Lunar Blue can appear cooler and more subdued; in south-facing rooms with warm light, it gains subtle richness. Pairing it with creamy whites, soft beiges, or muted greens can help tailor the feel from tranquil to vibrant as needed.
Benjamin Moore’s selection process and reliability
Benjamin Moore’s color team evaluates trends, cultural signals, and historical palettes long before a public announcement. Their goal is to choose hues that remain usable and in harmony with existing popular colors. Because of this, colors like Lunar Blue continue to inform future collections and remain easy to integrate into ongoing design strategies, even years after the initial selection.
Practical guidance for using Lunar Blue today
If you’re considering Lunar Blue in 2025 or beyond, treat it as a flexible neutral with a distinct personality. Use it on feature walls, cabinetry, or trim to add depth without committing an entire room to a strong hue. Test multiple finishes—matte for a soft, lived-in feel, or satin for subtle sheen and easier cleaning—depending on the room’s function.
Recommended pairings and applications
- Complementary neutrals: soft greys, warm beiges, and off-whites.
- Natural materials: light oak, walnut, and matte-finish metals.
- Contrast accents: deep navy, charcoal, or muted terracotta in accessories.
- Ideal rooms: bedrooms for calm, studies for focus, and hallways for continuity.
Quick reference: Benjamin Moore 2017 Color of the Year at a glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Color name | Lunar Blue | Benjamin Moore official release |
| Year | 2017 | Benjamin Moore annual announcement |
| Color family | Blue-gray | Benjamin Moore color system |
| Possible Light Reflectance Value (LRV) | Approximately 62 (varies by batch/finish) | Benjamin Moore product data |
| Typical undertone | Cool blue-gray | Brand color description |
| Common uses | Feature walls, trim, cabinetry, bedrooms | Designer practice and product guidance |
Design trends then and now: context for 2017
2017 fell in a period when designers were moving toward calmer, more balanced interiors. There was a shift from high-saturation accent walls toward quieter backdrops that let texture, natural materials, and art stand out. Lunar Blue aligned with this movement by offering a sophisticated, low-impact base that supported layered styling and subtle contrast.
Common questions about Lunar Blue and annual colors
Homeowners often ask whether an annual color is necessary or whether older shades remain usable. Benjamin Moore’s annual selections are primarily symbolic and marketing-driven; any color from their portfolio can work if it fits your lighting, space, and aesthetic. Lunar Blue remains a strong option for those who value understated depth and a cooler, modern-neutral palette.
Closing perspective
The Benjamin Moore 2017 Color of the Year, Lunar Blue, continues to serve as a reference point for thoughtful, long-term interior decisions. Its blend of contemporary coolness and timeless flexibility makes it useful for a wide range of design approaches. By understanding how the shade behaves in real conditions and how it fits broader trends, you can use it confidently in current or future projects.