We all learned a lot about ourselves in 2020. Collectively,
we spent the last nine months surrounded almost exclusively by the people in
our immediate lives and the four walls of our homes. And that has led to a lot
of redecorating and reimagining our spaces. People discovered what inspired and
soothed them, from building the ideal home office to creating a more calming
living room or bedroom. As we leave the year behind (good riddance!), let’s
consider what we can expect for décor and interior design in the new year.
Uplifting and Steady: The Pantone Colors of 2021
Let’s start by looking at the two colors Pantone Color
Institute has chosen to reflect 2021: Ultimate Gray and Illuminating, a bright
yellow. Fun fact: This year is only the second time Pantone has selected more
than one color – but rather than thinking of them independently, the institute
urges people to consider the two as a unified pair.
In explaining the reason for choosing the colors, Pantone VP Laurie Pressman says, “Two extremely independent
colors highlight how different elements come together to express this message
of strength and hopefulness.”
Stability and optimism: That’s what Pantone predicts the
coming year will bring.
So, what does that mean for designers?
A Return to Nature
People hiked, biked, and walked more than they likely ever
had in 2020. This rediscovery of the outdoors will probably inspire a “return
to nature” indoors as well. Experts predict a rise in soft greens, light blues,
muted oranges, and other Earth tones or floral patterns. These calming colors
work well to create warmth and safety in any room.
What Makes You Smile?
One of Pantone’s chosen colors for 2021 is a clear, vibrant
yellow. Pops of happy colors like this one can instantly transform a room.
We’ll see these colors emerging to brighten spaces. These hues contrast
beautifully with neutral tones, leaving a lot of room for optimistic accents in
the form of artwork, throw pillows or blankets, or rugs.
Rich & Refreshed
We’re all carrying hope into the new year. People feel
empowered to build places within their homes dedicated to work and play – to
create a home they truly want to spend time in, necessitated by lingering
stay-at-home orders. This feeling of renewal and hope will play into a
resurgence of rich jewel tones. We’ll see sapphires or emeralds glittering in
painted or wallpaper-covered walls, on furniture accent pieces, in artwork, and
on shelves.
We’re looking at a year of brightness and optimism – and
color trends are following right along. If the pairing of Pantone’s colors of
the year, vibrant yellow and neutral gray, can be extrapolated, expect to see
bright colors decorating solid foundations of neutral Earth tones. In 2021, we
can expect people to follow these trends as they transform their homes into
sanctuaries: places of comfort, stability, and energy.
