Clark+Kensington Selects Sky-Inspired Blue as 2027's Defining Shade
Clark+Kensington, Ace Hardware's paint brand, has announced Vantage Point (38B-4), a light blue hue modeled after a clear sky, as its 2027 Color of the Year. The selection was made in collaboration with trend forecaster Colour Hive and reflects a growing desire for uplifting, restorative interiors. The brand also introduced two complementary palettes, Drift and Mellow, to accompany the shade.
The announcement pairs Clark+Kensington with Colour Hive, a trend forecasting firm, marking a collaborative approach to color selection. The shade's warm undertones distinguish it from cooler blues, while the Drift palette captures morning light with shades like Catching Rays and Of the Wind, and Mellow draws from sunset tones including Charley's Horse and Adobe Hut.
This selection aligns with a broader industry shift observed in competitor Sherwin-Williams' choice of Celery, a green with yellow undertones. Both picks represent traditionally cool colors warmed by undertones, suggesting a movement away from the warm neutrals that have dominated recent design cycles toward nature-inspired palettes.
The choice of a sky-inspired blue could influence consumer paint purchases and interior design decisions heading into 2027, potentially shaping how homeowners approach renovation projects. The emphasis on restorative, uplifting spaces may resonate with those seeking calm environments, while the trend toward cool-toned hues could ripple through furniture, textile, and decor industries that follow paint color forecasts.