Color can make a huge impact in a room. Whether it is the color of the walls, the color of the furniture or the color of accent pieces, they reflect the feeling of the room and the owner. Color trends are impacted by many things including the economy. As the global economy continues to struggle, people are trending toward safe colors: neutrals. This is especially true for big-ticket items, such as refrigerators and cars.
According to color trend professionals, brown is on the way out. We are already seeing lighter shades of browns (such as the browns found in spices). Many experts agree that brown, which has been the go-to neutral color for years, is being dethroned and has been replaced by grey. Grey is available in hundreds of shades and hues from a whisper grey to a dark hematite. With grey, you can achieve nearly any look you desire.
Sherwin-Williams, a long-time leader in house paint, says that “grey is the new black”. Grey, highlighting shadows and nuances will be mixed with vivid colors in decorating this year and beyond. This palette from Sherwin-Williams showcases the hot greys for the year.
Bright colors will continue to be popular; in fact the Pantone Color of the Year for 2014 is Radiant Orchid. Paired with grey, you will achieve a dramatic look in any room. Even using varying shades of grey alone, for a monochromatic look is a way to achieve drama without going over the top. Below, are elements from one of my bathrooms: The walls are a medium grey. The fixtures, white, and all of the accents are silver or grey.
Another growing trend is the use of vibrant colors with an international feel. Think market bazaar or deeply hued blankets from Marrakesh. We are truly becoming a global society and, with the use of social media, the world has gotten smaller. Designers everywhere are adding international elements including vintage lace and bohemian art.
Intricate designs and organic colors found in the nuances of nature are also trending this year. Plum, blue peacock and peony red are among the hottest colors in showrooms today. Organic textures and patterns are popping up everywhere, as well.
What colors are you seeing this year? What colors are you drawn to? Do you think the color experts have it right?
Until next time…
Sue
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