Every year the Pantone Color Institute will tell us what color will be trending in all things related to graphic design, paint, fabrics, plastics, and more. Pantone is the industry standard for color matching in all things design related.
Wondering what the color of the year is for 2018? It’s a lively, rich ultra violet. According to Pantone, this color was selected because its use implies originality and visionary thinking. Ultra violet has often been associated with spiritual activity and is used in spaces designed for meditation and reflection.
“We are living in a time that requires inventiveness and imagination. It is this kind of creative inspiration that is indigenous to PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet, a blue-based purple that takes our awareness and potential to a higher level. From exploring new technologies, to artistic expression and spiritual reflection, intuitive Ultra Violet lights the way of what is yet to come,” says Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of Pantone.
The Power of Color
Most people probably do not spend a lot of time thinking about color but they know when a space feels comfortable or not. Is the space exciting? Does the space create a feeling of serenity? It’s all about color choices.
Color is also a form of self-expression and interiors can take on individualistic choices in personal spaces. Designing commercial spaces, however, calls for a blend of traditional and fresh color choices based on suitability for the environment.
Bright and Strong Shades for 2018
Just like the Ultra Violet selected by Pantone, the leading colors for 2018 will be bold and beautiful. Dark turquoise and jade will be strong complements to the Ultra Violet applications. Shades of grey will continue in popularity, accented with hints of bright yellow, cobalt blue, and red.
Paint Company Color Choices for 2018
Paint companies also release their own versions of colors of the year which guide designers in popular choices for both residential and commercial application.
PPG Paints offers up a black hue tinted with hints of indigo called Black Flame. Tinted dark paint colors have been on trend for awhile and there’s no indication of this trend fading away. Instead of overwhelming a space, they provide depth, definition in accents, and help to anchor a room.
Benjamin Moore opts for a pop of color in its Caliente, a high-energy hue guaranteed to add vibrancy to any space. According to Ellen O’Neill at Benjamin Moore, “Caliente is the signature color of a modern architectural masterpiece; a lush carpet rolled out for a grand arrival; the assured backdrop for a book-lined library; a powerful first impression on a glossy front door.”
Sherwin-Williams cools things off with their beautiful and complex color, Oceanside. This fascinating blend of deep blue and green evokes the mysticism of mermaids or the depths of brilliant jewels.
Behr pulls back on the intensity and offers up a nostalgic blue called In the Moment. When using this color, the mood evoked is one of calm and serenity, almost as if the sea blended with the sky on a perfect day at the beach.
Color Trends in Construction Applications
Color choices in commercial applications are typically more universally accepted because the spaces must appeal to residents with diverse tastes. Sherwin-Williams has created 18 color schemes for 2018 for six segments of the construction industry: commercial, healthcare, new residential, education, multifamily and hospitality.
“Our goal is to provide professionals inspiring and practical resources — these palettes offer the best of the latest color trends combined with insights on the specific needs and attributes of each market segment,” said Michael Plank, Director of Color Marketing and Design at Sherwin-Williams. “We look forward to seeing how professionals incorporate the palettes in their designs to create even more transformative spaces.”
Color palettes for the multifamily market include Soft Minimalism, Global Adventure, and Virtual Pop. The palette was created for both interior and exterior use. The goal was to appeal to a variety of residents who would appreciate style and a contemporary look. The colors include minimalist neutrals for large areas, as well as vivid pops of color for accent walls and trims. The combination of the selected colors blends calming moods and more intense energy to reflect the trends in our digital society today.
Trending commercial color palettes this year include Native Species, Athletic Energy, and Crafted Calm. These palettes feature muted pastels, naturals, and bold splashes based on athletic performance profiles. Creating spaces with this variety of options will result in engaging environments with personality and style to reflect the nature of the business.
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In Summary
Color is fun, yet powerful, and can evoke many moods and feelings. Designers that are part of an integrated design-build firm are able to ensure consistency and keep the building owner’s perspective in mind through the entire build process. When translated authentically to interior designed spaces, color is a prominent tool in creating interesting and engaging spaces, especially when utilizing colors that evoke the persona for the year.
VIP Structures is an integrated design-build firm in Upstate New York. Enjoy reading this post and want to learn more from our team? Visit our design-build blog.