Pantone 2020 color of the year: Classic Blue
According to the prestigious Pantone Color Institute, the hottest colour in 2020 is Classic Blue. Recently, the institute unveiled its choice of Pantone Color of The Year is its annual rite of passage that sets the backdrop for design hues for the upcoming year.
Described as a timeless, soothing shade that takes its cue from the night sky, the 2020 Classic Blue tone is predicted to dominate the design industry over the next 12 months. Although it’s true that dark colours, such as red, purple, blue, and dark shades of green, can have a constricting and gloomy effect, when applied in the right place or as accent elements, they can help convey comfort and security.
So, says Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute.
“Our choice this year brings a sense of peace and tranquillity to the human spirit, offering refuge. A reflective blue tone, Classic Blue fosters resilience,” says Eiseman. “In interior design, classic blue is very versatile because it speaks to heritage and tradition.”
Choosing the colour isn’t a simple task. According to Eiseman, the institute’s team looks at several factors before choosing a colour. Over a year, the team looks at several influences like: where are people travelling, art collections that are garnering a lot of interest, which artists are in museums, Hollywood’s choice of movies and sports events, are just some of the considerations that go into its choice.
“We also look at what colour of cars are most popular, and of course fashion and cosmetic trends,” adds Eiseman. “We are living in a time that requires trust and faith. It is this kind of constancy and confidence that is expressed by Classic Blue, a solid and dependable blue hue we can always rely on.”
Eiseman went on to say that “Classic Blue provides an anchoring foundation. Classic Blue encourages us to look beyond the obvious to expand our thinking; challenging us to think more deeply, increase our perspective and open the flow of communication.”
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“Because Classic Blue is between a navy and royal blue, it makes it a very elegant colour - It can give a room or space a feeling of sophistication and luxury,” adds Eiseman. “As a fairly dark, eye-catching shade, t’s a colour that offers a visceral reaction, that looks great on appliances, in kitchen cabinetry and truly embraces both transitional and traditional décor.”
Eiseman suggests breaking up the Classic Blue with lighter shades for the ceiling, trims or architectural accents, along with a similar tone for furnishings. In addition, don’t be afraid to introduce a sumptuous, complementary colour, like orange, for rugs or cushions. Metallics also look fantastic with rich colours and also contribute to a brightening effect, so opt for bold statement pieces to balance out your overall look.
“Sometimes you can simply do an accent wall in the colour; in other spaces use it just for accessories,” says Eiseman. “At the institute, we tend to not use it too much in one room. Small amounts stand on their own without overwhelming a space.”
In the end, Eisman says “There are no rules stating you can’t use a dark colour palette in every area of your home, so go for it if you want to!
It’s entirely possible to turn a bland living room into an impressive retreat and a boring kitchen into a luxurious gathering place with a few coats of dark paint.