Article:
Color trends reflect sophistication and green living
By Shelley Anderson
October 2008
Color direction for home decorating will have warmth and character in the forecasted color palettes for fall 2008 and spring 2009. Of course, the palettes run from warm and friendly to vivid and energized. The color collections that will be most widely accepted will be those inspired by nature, but then subdued by “graying” them down. These selections are sophisticated and worldly while representing current interest in “green” living.
Blues and greens will continue to hold their place in popularity. They are updated through softening or muting the color ever so slightly, resulting in comfortable, easy to live with colors. For soothing greens check out Benjamin Moore’s Aganthus Green #472, Hancock Green #HC-117 and Creekside Green #2141-40. For inspiring blues from nature check out Benjamin Moore’s Colorado Gray #2136-50, Mt. Rainier Gray #2129-60 and Wythe Blue #HC-143.
Gray will emerge as an important color for background and larger pieces of furniture. You will see cool gray punctuated by velvety red. Gray will be seen in traditional to post-modern decorating.
A color we have been seeing in the fashion area is purple or lavender. Expect to see this color as a lavender-gray in home designs. A good example of this is Sherwin- Williams’ Exclusive Plum #6263.
Gold is emerging once again as the metal finish of choice. Brassy gold to lustrous bronze to gleaming Venetian Gold will be accenting everything from furniture and frames to range hoods and cabinets. Gold tones will add “pop” to the trending color palette of grayed down hues.
We will see soft gold paired with camel and beige for a sophisticated, serene look. Brassy gold will be combined with gray and charcoal for an updated modern interior.
Of course, this doesn’t mean you have to send all of your furnishings and accessories to consignment. By selectively editing what you have, you can weave in touches of gold and the new colors. Change throw pillow covering, replace reupholster or slipcover that chair or sofa. Update your floral arrangement — they don’t last forever! And last but not least, paint is the most cost effective change you can make for the impact. Even if you only paint one wall in a trending shade, the difference will be astounding.
Shelley Anderson has been creating interiors in the greater Seattle area since 1990.You may contact her at (206) 719-6814 or email her at
shelley.anderson@shelleyandersoninteriors.com.