Welcome to Houston Moms, your #1 resource!

FAST FORWARD: COLOR TRENDS 2008

By Elaine Dorcheus
President, An Eye for Design

Color trends are a topic that always surface whenever “home décor” is mentioned. From “What are the newest colors?” to “Which color will create the desired mood for a particular room?” and many more in between, these are typical questions I get asked constantly. As a result, I stay tuned to what is happening in the color industry.

Distant lands, ancient cultures, and ethnic influences all seem to be threading their way throughout new color palettes. Bronzes and golds, spicy reds and terra cottas, and warm greens. Shades of purple and violet are becoming mainstream. Not only do the colors themselves reflect this influence but even the combinations of colors. Saturated brights paired with darker earthy hues create drama.

Technology has even expanded our color choices. More sophisticated pigments allow us more flexibility in the use of metallics, not only in paint colors but also in fabrics. A whole new range of possibilities has been manifesting itself in silver, gold, bronze, copper and pewter. Even colors we don’t normally consider metallic can be metallicized for added punch and textural interest. For instance, a deep rich plum turned metallic in a supple leather. Or an earth-friendly natural linen fabric with a subtle wash of metallic gold.

The green, environmentally-friendly wave of sentiment has had an impact on color also. Use of no or low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) paint is gaining interest from people who are concerned about how it impacts their living spaces. Even the particular saturation of a color can be earth-friendly. Brighter colors can reduce the need for artificial light and save energy.

This new eco-consciousness has also created a desire for a calmer, more soothing personal space. Atmospheric whites and grays have emerged along with a more earthy pink. Greens continue to be important and some cross over into the blue range and take on a jade-like appearance. The ever-popular water blues have evolved into a more saturated deep aqua along with a dark indigo, even navy.

Fashion and color trends are shaped by the world we live in. And the colors with which we choose to surround ourselves impact our lives. Take a moment to reflect upon the colors that surround you now and how they influence your life.

For more information, contact Elaine Dorcheus, President, An Eye For Design, Inc, 12774 Grant Road, Cypress, TX 77429, 281-379-5959, elained@aneyefordesigninc.com.