Will copper-colored oranges continue to outpace spicy reds in home décor colors in 2005? Will warm neutrals replace a bevy of popular blue hues? According to trend watchers, the 2005 color forecast reveals subtle shifts, rather than extreme color palette changes.
Peggy Van Allen, Pratt & Lambert Paints Color Specialist, notes functional yet fabulous shades that exemplify strong worldly colors as well as relaxed, earthen tones will round out this year's palette. And a flash back to the 1950s retro scene is cool again, can you dig it?
'For 2005, fashion will be a leading influence in home décor,' says Van Allen. 'You'll see contrasting colors in combinations like chocolate and aqua, as well as botanical greens paired with subtle pinks. Consumers are embracing color in all shades and families; however we have also seen an emergence of neutral colors to balance the prominence of the bold colors.'
Van Allen points out that color is vital in a home and should be used to create a bridge between furnishings and accessories, while setting the overall mood of a room. Furthermore, it should make you feel comfortable, and make the space look finished and complete.
So what's on the horizon for wall colors? Pratt & Lambert has created four themes based on color marketing research to categorize the hot palettes for 2005. Within each theme are the colors that interior designers will be mixing and matching to form the 'in' look this year:
1. Comfort Zone
This theme revolves around a comfortable environment for those who want to relax around furnishings that are inviting and unfussy.
Buzzwords: Simplistic, uninhibited, cozy, serene.
Color Palette Description: Deep, earthy, yet natural tones, inspired by mineral and vegetable-dyed colors.
Colors: Burnt Almond, Lambs Wool, Browned Butter, Poppy, Rockingham Green, Chrysalis, Monumental, Loam.
2. The World Is Not Flat!
For those who want to experiment and explore how cultural influences from around the globe can add new texture and depth to their surroundings, this color category exemplifies the richness of various exotic heritages and traditions.
Buzzwords: Discover, cultured, vibrant, worldly.
Color Palette Description: The deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea, fine red wine and flavorful, tropical yellows.
Colors: British Brown, Bay Rum, Spanish Blue, Vintage Claret, Moselle, Black Orchid and Amber Green.
3. Simply Marvelous
By embracing a 'less is more' mentality, this palette encourages you to pare down, kick back, breathe, simplify and enjoy the sheer beauty of life.
Buzzwords: Luxurious, sophisticated, playful, carefree.
Color Palette Description: Simplified, rich colors with trendy mixes of blues and reds.
Colors: Blue Milano, Plum Mascari, Split Pea, Cranberry, Meerschaum, Faded Rose, Walnut Bark, Blueberry.
4. Retro-Fitted
This collection focuses on a renewal of attitudes from the past, particularly the romanticism and glamour of the 1950s, through hues with modern twists.
Buzzwords: Emotions, childhood memories, optimism, respect.
Color Palette Description: Nostalgic and vibrant greens, yellows, and pinks that are reminiscent of the past.
Colors: Golden Box, Kashmir Green, Taffy Lips, Eucalyptus Leaf, Haiku, Degas Pink, Pastry and Anchors Aweigh.
For more information, or to locate a Pratt & Lambert retailer, log on to www.prattandlambert.com.
