Some might think that black is the absence of color, but when you look at this winning shade, you’ll notice the new black has deep indigo undertones.

PPG, a global supplier of paints, coatings and industrial materials, announced its 2018 Paint Color of the Year: Black Flame.

When PPG announces its Paint Color of the Year, you’re bound to see it everywhere — from tiles and apparel to the next NASA rocket. According to the 134-year-old company, they enlist “more than 20 color stylists from around the world, who specialize in industries such as consumer electronics, architectural, automotive and aerospace” to select the paint color.  And those 20 different color experts unanimously chose Black Flame.

Why Black Flame is the 2018 Color of the Year

Experts chose the deep ink shade of black because it’s modern, intimate and soothing. Dee Schlotter, PPG’s senior color marketing manager, explained how “black creates the silence we crave in an information-heavy world, while the indigo offers possibility and a deep hopefulness.”

Olympic Paint Announced Its Own Version of Black as the 2018 Color of the Year

Soon after Black Flame’s win, PPG’s Olympic paint brand announced Black Magic as its 2018 Color of the Year, reinforcing that black is back.

Olympic Paint’s black is less saturated and more neutral with a dark charcoal vibe when compared to the indigo undertones of PPG’s Black Flame.

How to Use the Latest Blacks in your Decor

Ready to enhance your home’s aesthetic? Here are some design ideas on how to use either of the two Paint Colors of the Year:

Serene in Black for Working

Paint a small nook or office space black to create a peaceful and distraction-free spot. Image: JLB Property Developments

Contemporary Shades of Black

Layer shades of ink, rich black and deep grays to create a dramatic, contemporary look. Image: Poliform

Mid-Century Modern in Black

Paint a single large wall in a matte black shade to create an open floor plan’s focal point. Image: Klopf Architecture

A Deep, Rich and Restful Bedroom Oasis

A bedroom with deep, rich walls creates a restful and modern sanctuary. Image: Darren Palmer

Black Bathroom with a View

Frame a lush, green exterior view by painting the wall surrounding a window. Image: Famosa Tile

Painted Black Contemporary Cabinets

Update your kitchen cabinets by painting them in the latest black shades. Image: Let’s Talk Kitchens

A Media Room with a Black Backdrop Wall

Use black as a stunning backdrop for your media wall to help reduce glare and enhance your television watching experience. Image: Launch AV Systems

Industrial-Chic Featuring Black Tiles

Glossy, black tiles reflect light and add a luxurious touch to any bathroom. Image: Aiden Miller Interiors