Benjamin Moore has announced Blue Nova 825 as its Color of the Year 2024, and it’s already making waves in the world of home design. This captivating violet-blue shade balances depth and intrigue, making it a stunning choice for walls, cabinetry, and accents. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy ambiance or a bold statement, Blue Nova offers endless possibilities.
2. What is Blue Nova? Understanding Its Unique Hue
Blue Nova is a mid-tone blue with violet and gray undertones. It is a rich, moody shade that exudes sophistication and tranquility. Unlike traditional blues, this color carries a muted softness, making it highly versatile for various home styles.
3. The Inspiration Behind Blue Nova
According to Benjamin Moore, Blue Nova is inspired by the brilliance of a newly formed star. It reflects the beauty of the night sky just after sunset, bringing a sense of mystery, depth, and calmness to any space.
4. Undertones of Blue Nova – A Closer Look
The key to understanding Blue Nova is recognizing its undertones. This shade has violet-gray undertones, giving it a balanced mix of warmth and coolness. The violet adds a touch of richness, while the gray ensures it doesn’t appear overly vibrant.
5. Is Blue Nova Warm or Cool?
Blue Nova is both warm and cool, making it a true chameleon. Its violet hue provides a hint of warmth, while the gray undertone keeps it on the cooler side. Depending on surrounding colors and lighting, it can shift between warm and cool tones.
6. What is the LRV of Blue Nova and Why It Matters?
Blue Nova has an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 16.98, meaning it is a darker color that absorbs more light than it reflects. This makes it an excellent choice for creating moody and cozy environments, especially in rooms with plenty of natural light.
7. How Does Lighting Affect Blue Nova?
Lighting significantly impacts how Blue Nova appears.
- North-facing rooms: Will make the color appear deeper and cooler.
- South-facing rooms: Bring out its subtle warmth, making it feel cozier.
- Artificial lighting: Can enhance either its blue or violet undertones, depending on the bulb type.
8. Best Rooms to Use Benjamin Moore Blue Nova
Blue Nova works beautifully in living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and offices. It also makes a striking statement when used on cabinetry or as an accent wall.
9. Blue Nova for Walls – Creating a Cozy & Inviting Space
Painting your walls in Blue Nova creates a rich, serene atmosphere. It’s ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, and home offices where a calming environment is desired.
10. Blue Nova for Cabinets – A Bold Yet Timeless Choice
Blue Nova is an excellent cabinet color, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. It pairs well with gold, brass, or matte black hardware for a stylish, high-end look.
11. Pairing Blue Nova with Trim – Best White Paint Colors
For a crisp and clean contrast, pair Blue Nova with:
- Benjamin Moore Simply White (warm white)
- SW Pure White (neutral white)
- BM Chantilly Lace (cool white)
12. Coordinating Colors for Blue Nova
Blue Nova pairs well with a variety of shades, including:
- Warm whites (Simply White, Behr Blank Canvas)
- Earthy browns (SW Urbane Bronze)
- Charcoal blacks (Behr Cracked Pepper)
- Amber and caramel tones
13. What Flooring Works Best with Blue Nova?
This color pairs well with:
- White oak flooring
- Mid-toned brown floors
- Dark brown flooring
- Gray flooring
Avoid yellow or orange-toned floors, as they can clash with Blue Nova’s undertones.
14. Best Finishes and Materials to Pair with Blue Nova
To enhance Blue Nova, consider pairing it with:
- Mid-toned to dark woods
- Seagrass, rattan, and other natural materials
- Metallic finishes (nickel, brass, black hardware)
- Stone backsplashes and marble countertops
15. Blue Nova and Natural Elements – A Perfect Blend
This shade works well in coastal, nature-inspired, and contemporary homes, complementing wood, stone, and woven textures.
16. Using Blue Nova for a Moody, Sophisticated Look
For a dramatic effect, pair Blue Nova with charcoal black, deep brown, or rich jewel tones.
17. Blue Nova in Coastal, Cottage, and Lake House Homes
Blue Nova evokes a nautical and relaxing ambiance, making it a great choice for lake houses, beach homes, and cottages.
18. Blue Nova for Bathrooms – A Tranquil Retreat
This color enhances spa-like vibes in bathrooms, especially when combined with white marble, subway tiles, and warm brass fixtures.
19. Blue Nova for Bedrooms – Creating a Relaxing Atmosphere
A great color for bedrooms, Blue Nova fosters restful sleep and relaxation.
20. Blue Nova for Living Rooms – Elegant and Serene Spaces
This shade makes a stylish backdrop for contemporary and classic living rooms, working beautifully with neutral furnishings and gold or brass accents.
21. Blue Nova as a Statement Front Door Color
Painting your front door in Blue Nova adds instant curb appeal.
22. How to Test Blue Nova Before Painting?
The best way to test this shade is by using peel-and-stick samples to see how it looks under different lighting conditions.
23. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Blue Nova
- Pairing with clashing colors (like yellow-orange tones)
- Choosing the wrong finish for the space
- Ignoring how lighting affects the color
24. Expert Tips for Choosing the Right Paint Finish
- Matte – For walls in low-traffic areas
- Satin – Great for living rooms and bedrooms
- Semi-gloss – Perfect for cabinets and trim
25. Where to Buy Benjamin Moore Blue Nova and Sample It?
Blue Nova is available at Benjamin Moore retailers, and you can order peel-and-stick samples for easy testing.
