Forecasting Trends for Color and Design in 2006
By Vincent E. O'Connell
Predicting the trends for color in the furniture and design world is always a fascinating adventure. Design and fashion colors will continue to mirror each other, as previous trends have shown. Still, color for the homeowner today is more of a personal approach. Colors now are sought for a mood or feeling the clients want and what they want their homes to portray. The correct color scheme can lead a homeowner away from the hectic world outside, into a peaceful getaway called home. Color can also satisfy a need for motivation, inspiration or energy.
As design professionals, builders and architects, we are exposed to the constant flood of new products and color choices on the market. Beautiful exotic granites from Brazil or handmade tiles from Italy can begin a client's color scheme. Existing stone and tile in a home can prove problematic if we as professionals cannot show a client how to incorporate a new cabinet stain or flooring into a cohesive color scheme. Clients like to be updated with the current fashionable colors, but they also have needs for longevity of a theme. From a real estate standpoint, a client is also looking at the resale appeal their home can create with the right color scheme.
The current direction of colors for 2006, according to the buzz at Highpoint Markets, can be divided in five stylistic themes. The first theme, "Chinese Pop," is as the name suggests, deep rooted with the Asian influence of rich dark bamboo, textured and colored ceramics, black lacquer and clean tailored furniture. In color, that translates into bold pinks, coral, turquoise, along with gunmetal, robin's egg blue and lime greens.
The next theme can be called "Urban Luxe." This exciting theme pairs beautifully with contemporary and traditional homes. The 1930s glamour is redefined for the 21st century. It is showing in deep chocolate browns, from espresso to mochas. These tones, married with black, teal blues and lots of luxurious finishes on cabinets and floors, complete the look.
"Retro," pure 1950s and '60s, is here again for that client looking for a motivating color scheme. The chartreuse greens, yellows, bright reds and carrot orange can be an exciting jumping off point. These colors, when combined with bold graphic textiles, large dots, colorful bright stripes, a little "Jetson" ceramics and chrome lighting, can pull together a vibrant and exciting room.
The fourth stylistic theme that translates into color can be classified as "Swedish Country." This is replacing the shabby chic and traditional French country look with a sophisticated casual elegant feel. Colors may include ice blue, pale gray, grass green, periwinkle blue and lavender. These colors, paired with tinted cool whites, blond woods in floors, furniture and cabinetry, can create a restful and serene theme.
The fifth and final theme is the continued popular "Old World/Toscana," an updated rustic look combining Napa Valley, Tuscan and Mediterranean styles. Terracotta tiles and amber washes on white stucco walls with the blending of warm spice tones begin the feel of this gorgeous theme. Exotic rusty oranges, reds and mid- tone browns, with sage green, punches of saffron yellow, aubergine and indigo blue are colors to play with. Trending out are the muddy neutrals, peeling paint finishes and American folksy looks.
The adventure continues as many factors can influence the upcoming color trends. Forecast groups such as The Color Marketing Group look to the economy, demographics, consumerism and even culture to try and forecast the impacts these factors will have on color. So hang on, enjoy the ride and color your world and clients.
November 2005 Builder Architect Edition Issue
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