Valspar Names 2025 Color of the Year

Paint and coatings company Valspar has unveiled its 2025 color of the year: Encore 8002-45G. The deep shade of blue is described by the company as versatile and grounding, making it suitable for a range of applications.

Referred to by the company as “new-stalgic,” the 2025 color of the year combines classic and contemporary design elements, resulting in a space that feels fresh but familiar at the same time. Valspar's choice signals a broader shift in design trends toward incorporating traditional colors in new and creative ways, says the company. According to Valspar, Encore is unique in that it can adapt to different styles, making it a practical choice for homeowners and designers alike. 

"Encore is a color for any space or application. Its atmospheric deep blue tones emulate both the elusive luxury of Old World design and the futuristic blending of our physical and digital world, making it a color that feels familiar and unexpected at the same time," says Sue Kim, director of color marketing at Valspar. "This makes it an ideal backdrop to ground a room, leaving space for spirited pops of complementary colors. Encore’s versatility means it also can shine on its own through playful applications inside and out, such as on wood, decks, or concrete pavers."

In addition to its versatility, Encore was chosen as the color of the year for the sense of calm it brings to a space. The deep blue hue is reminiscent of both the sky and water, evoking a peaceful atmosphere that makes a home feel like a sanctuary.

“With everyday stress reaching a crescendo, we are often compelled to build peace and restoration into our routines, lifestyles and surroundings,” says Kim. “Encore allows us to reach for more as we reclaim our imaginations and embrace a more joyful version of adulthood. From form to function to color, our home is a place where we rejuvenate and find happiness with our family, friends, and community.”

Adding to its flexibility, a variety of interior, exterior, cabinet, furniture, metal, and concrete paint and stain formulas can be tinted in this hue.

Encore can be applied on its own or paired with other shades for a more colorful design approach. Valspar suggests a mix of similar cool-toned shades, such as Lavender Escape 4002-7B, Sprig of Sage 8004-28D, Gosling 8007-4F, and Graceful Gray 8006-2E.

ENCORE PAIRED WITH LAVENDER ESCAPE AND SPRIG OF SAGE | PHOTO COURTESY VALSPAR

However, if a user is looking to achieve a tonal look with Encore, Valspar recommends pairing it with other blue hues, such as Moroccan Resort 8002-45F, Peyton 8002-45E, Paradise Found 8002-45D, Moonglow 8002-45C, Blue Prism 8002-45B, and Blueberry Ice 8002-45A.