KBB - January/February 2013 - (Page 20)

TRENDS Into the Blue Calming colors and warm neutrals headline 2013 After four years of uncertainty and a sluggish recovery, life may be turning a corner, but we’re still in search of security. At least, that’s what color forecasts for 2013 are indicating. From the various “Color of the Year” pronouncements to the palettes released by forecasting organizations, the message seems to be one of stability, balance, reinvention and even optimism. Although the housing market collapse and economic woes engendered a new conservatism in consumer lifestyles and certainly in consumer spending, some experts have been seeing a growing weariness with being, well, wary.“People are tired of playing it safe and talking about the recession and the doom and gloom,” said Leslie Harrington, executive director of The Color Association of the United States (CAUS). “They’re trying to push themselves a little beyond making conservative color decisions.” Consequently, while monochromatic stories, or groupings—which tend to be safe bets—dominated CAUS’ 2012 forecast, this year’s edition reintroduces combinations of different hues. COOLER COLORS But don’t expect to see a sudden rash of brash and bold color schemes anytime soon. Last year’s pops of bright orange, red and even teal, which may have been an expression of defiance or even escapism, have given way to more tranquil blues and regenerative greens. “With global issues, environmental concerns and the political atmosphere swirling around us, we seek the calm of blue skies, aqua seas and the trust that blue represents,” said Kate Smith, president of Sensational Color. Similarly, Patricia Call, chairholder and VP emeritus of Color Marketing Group (CMG), noted, “Blue relates to a sense of relaxation and meditation,” which seems universally needed, as variations of it appeared in all of CMG’s regional reports. Moreover, blue “serves as the underpinning for most of the new colors” in the association’s forecast, noted Call, and for its Next color, CMG chose Re-Blued, a mid-range colonial blue that, according to CMG President Mark Woodman, of Global Color Research Ltd., “can be as energizing as it can be soothing.” Not jazzed about blue? No problem. Greens continue to show strength and, having shed some of their earthiness, encompass everything from bright jewel tones, such as Pantone’s Emerald, to yellow-infused and slightly grayed varieties. Also expected to win admiration is a soft minty pastel, which Smith said offers “a nod to Mid-century design but with freshness and rejuvenation” and may provide a refreshing alternative to “spa blue” for bathrooms. Reds and oranges will also resonate this year, as they reflect our need for connection, comfort and warmth. Depending on the forecast, they range from blood red and ripe— or nearly ripe—tomato to coral, rust and terra cotta. CAUS has combined the reds and oranges with pink, yellow, nude and camel in two trend groupings: Entice, which is an “uplifting palette,” said Harrington, and Embrace, which she likens to a “big bear hug” and includes colors with names such as ”Cozy,” “Radiant” and “Hugs” to evoke its feelgood character. Some experts reference haute cuisine and gardening for this year’s reds, which have been described as being “vegetal” in tone. NEUTRALS WARM UP For kitchens and baths, however, many consumers will undoubtedly gravitate toward neutrals, which, by all accounts, are still going strong. According to Call, they account 20 + K BB January/February 2013 / www.kbbonline.com / The Official Sponsor of KBIS www.kbis.com http://www.kbbonline.com http://www.kbis.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of KBB - January/February 2013

KBB - January/February 2013
Contents
Online Contents
Editorial
Show Director’s Note
KBIS Special Section
Web Savvy
Focus
Trends
Products
Design Feature: A Touch of Glass
Design Feature: Glam Rock
Practice
Ad Index
Favorites

KBB - January/February 2013