Pantone announced the new Colour of the Year a few weeks ago and it really has raised some eyebrows in the design world. The colour is called Ultra Violet, and it is Purple folks, a very bright Purple – think Barney vibes!
I am still wrapping my head around how to use “Greenery” – last year’s colour of the year! (read all about that here)
The Pantone colour institute says the following about their choice: “A dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shade, PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet communicates originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that points us toward the future.” Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the institute, said: “We are living in a time that requires inventiveness and imagination. It is this kind of creative inspiration that is indigenous to Pantone 18-3838 ultra violet, a blue-based purple that takes our awareness and potential to a higher level.”
Purple Rain Purple Rain
The meaning of purple most often refers to nobility, abundance, and dignity and is very often used in more opulent and regal interiors where more traditional decor is favoured. Think deep buttoned velvet sofa… That is all well and good but how can this colour sit comfortably in a contemporary space which is not a tween’s bedroom?!
I would start off by advising that this colour be used with a less-is-more approach and rather on small pieces of furniture, art or décor accessories. Maybe as a colour brought into a rug. I would stay clear of wall treatments.
To use purple effectively in a contemporary interior, I would pair it with materials such as concrete, timber, glass and shades of grey. This will all neutralize the saturation of the colour and make it more contemporary and stylish, and less brazen.
Can we also have a moment for the light!
It will be interesting to see how this colour fares this year across all the design disciplines. I am not so sure it is going to take off in interiors, perhaps a muted Lilac or Mauve shade will to compliment “Millenial Pink” that is still so popular?
I do see this colour as a passing trend (read more about Trends for this year here) and wouldn’t encourage too much investment in it.
What are your thoughts on the colour and can you see yourself using it in your home?
