Design inspiration is in full swing. IDS Vancouverkicked off the season last weekend and the Vancouver Fall Home Showis coming up later this month, so style at home is top of mind. Looking to give your space a major update without a massive overhaul? Start with paint.
Tackling a feature wall or a whole room refresh is a simple weekend project that offers up a serious style statement.
Moving into 2018, I checked in with a few style experts to chat about colour trends for the coming year. Erika Woelfel, vice president of colour and creative services at BEHR, speaks to the brand’s recently revealed 2018 palette and Colour of the Year (In the Moment – a cool, tranquil, spruce blue), while design darling Amanda Forrest (see below) shares her faves from her collaboration with The FAT Paint Company,and how she’s pairing them for the upcoming season.
What were the primary inspirations behind the BEHR 2018 Colour Trends collection?
Erika: Each year, our team is inspired by what’s happening in the world around us and how colour comes to life in new ways – in fashion, pop culture, travel, home decor and more. We spend months imagining a palette filled with colours that will reflect what’s to come. This year, we were specifically drawn to lifestyle trends of awareness, mindful living and the Danish concept of hygge – the feeling of cozy, comfortable conviviality and well-being. People are organizing and decluttering to prioritize experiences over material items. They are searching for balance amid their busy schedules, while trying to escape technological overload.
What made ‘In The Moment’ the standout colour for the year for BEHR?
Erika: Throughout the process of researching and curating our BEHR 2018 Colour Trends, cool, spruce blues popped up at every turn. From furniture to decor to fashion, stylists and designers across industries are finding new and beautiful ways to incorporate this usable blue-green. It’s so versatile, bringing a sense of sanctuary to almost any room – kitchens, bathrooms, dining rooms, you name it! We couldn’t resist giving In The Moment the spotlight this year.
What feelings do you think the 2018 colours will evoke?
Erika: The 2018 Colour Trends palette is all about the intentional use of colour to enhance the energy of your most meaningful spaces. We hope these 20 new colours will work to create personal sanctuaries, inspiring consumers to relax, disconnect and simply be present. The hues encourage people to capitalize on the positive effects of colour by using it sparingly or generously throughout their home. We often can’t wait to get home and just be – so it’s about choosing colours that allow us to do just that.
Talking trends with Amanda Forrest
What colours are you feeling inspired by for the coming year?
Amanda: Sensual earth tones reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour have got me really excited for the season ahead. Colours like deep plum, luscious teals and my paint colour Can't See Me Camo are all perfectly paired with this past season’s pastels. The mix of light and dark give the colour combos strength and presence while feeling luxurious.
Do you have any favourite colour combinations or trends for 2018?
Amanda: Absolutely! Anything camo-green coloured paired with blush. I would love to design a room around these colours with a little gold sparkle thrown in for good measure.
What do you feel your clients are most excited about when it comes to colour selection?
Amanda: Clients are generally afraid of using too much colour, but navy has been a great all around colour for both men and women. I have used it on painted cabinetry, on dining room ceilings and in dining rooms. It's a timeless colour that packs punch. Navy State Of Mind is my best-selling colour.
