As this point in the winter, who doesn’t need some decor inspo? Perhaps you’re already dreaming of a refresh in some of your spaces. As we look ahead with new plans and goals, paint companies are keeping us inspired with their colours of the year. While the colours can vary across the companies, the theme that has emerged for 2022 is that of renewed hope and optimism and the colours promise the creation of calm, relaxed spaces. Did you know that in addition to a specific colour, each company develops a palette of coordinating colours that allow you to plan a beautifully refreshed, coordinated and harmonized space?
The selection of colours is determined on the basis of a number of factors including: sociological; economic; environmental issues and challenges; political climate; technology; and, exploration and science. The colour palettes released by the companies are created to support, reflect, foster the feelings people have about these issues, and the results of changes and discoveries in each of these areas. So, what can we expect to see in colours for paint, furnishings and decor accessories over the coming year? Read on for inspiration as you plan updates to your spaces in 2022.
Colour Trends
When you look across the varied colours selected by the paint companies for their colour of the year as well as the associated palettes, there are a broad range of choices. However as I contemplate the colours from several of the brands, there are a number of common themes, ideas and inspirations that are consistent across them all. It goes without saying the past couple of years have been challenging for all of us - challenging in both negative and positive ways.
During this time you may have assessed your home (I know many of you have based on the calls for assistance) and lifestyle through a whole new lens. Our homes continue to be places of refuge, safety and comfort but they have also become offices, gyms and schools which have many of us rethinking our spaces and how they might do double and in some cases triple duty. Nothing like necessity pushing us to be creative and innovative! Considering the good and bad together, we have contemplated and pressed reset on our priorities and goals as we start to move more freely, engage in social activities and set new routines for ourselves.
As we begin to emerge from the stress of the past couple of years we are seeking calm, comfortable, familiar colours, colours that will support and further our feelings of well being and sense of renewal. We are feeling more optimistic and energized and are looking for an infusion of colours that are lively, energetic and playful and these are the themes I see trending across a number of the paint companies.
From Benjamin Moore look to October Mist (CC-550), a “fresh, grounded, timeless colour that pairs well with a variety of other colours” (Benjamin Moore, October 13, 2021). The other colours in the palette are botanically focused and range from an energizing red (Wild Flower, 2090-40) infused with pinks and orange and a blue (Mysterious, AF-565) that can appear black or navy depending on the light, to lighter colours that reflect the colours found in nature, colours we associate with comfort. Being in nature brings a sense of calm tranquility and Benjamin Moore’s colours of the 2022 palette are inspired by nature and the botanical elements found there.
Benjamin Moore’s October Mist (CC-550) is calm, clean and uncomplicated (Photo Credit: Benjami Moore, 2021)
Farrow and Ball have selected colours for 2022 that are basic yet familiar colours that invoke feelings of comfort, confidence and nostalgia. Their palette of five colours provides enough variety that your spaces could be updated to feel dramatic, cheerful, playful, calming or bold depending on your choices and how you might combine the colours. Consider pairing warm Babouche (No. 223) with the rich crimson of Incarnadine (No. 228) for a warm, energetic vibe. Or familiar, comfortable School House White (No. 291) with classic Stone Blue (No. 86) for a timeless look.
Farrow and Ball Babouche (No. 223) is sunny and warm (Photo Credit: Farrow and Ball, 2021)
Stone Blue (No. 86) is classic, timeless (Photo Credit: Farrow and Ball, 2021)
Sherwin-Williams colour of the year for 2022 is a comfortable, soft colour that is at once versatile and calming. Evergreen Fog (SW 9130) is a beautiful subtle colour of gray-green with a hint of blue. It’s simple sophistication makes this a perfect statement colour for any space in your home and pairs beautifully with many other colours in their collection.
Evergreen Fog (SW 130) is soft, versatile and calming and is the perfect partner to a wide range of colours. (Photo Credit: Sherwin-Williams, 2021)
From calm, creative and contemplative to optimistic, energizing and lively, there is a broad range of colours to choose from for 2022. As you plan updates to your spaces, consider the vibe you want to bring to the space you are refreshing, the atmosphere you want to achieve. Even the addition of decor accents in one of the new colours will recharge and update your room, bringing renewed energy.. Enjoy dreaming and creating as you move forward with hope, optimism and confidence.
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Simply Swank Decor provides virtual and in person consultations (as permitted) to discuss updates to your home in order to support wellness and accessibility, styling your home for a whole new look or staging in preparation for sale. Email janet@simplyswankdecor.ca to discuss your project and how I can help.