Each year Pantone Inc., an international color standards group, declares a particular hue “Color of the Year”. To arrive at this decision, Pantone quite literally searches the globe looking for color influences that stem from the film & entertainment industry, technology, music, popular travel destinations, and even upcoming sports events that attract worldwide attention. After a secret two-day meeting where the top choices are debated, the winner is announced. For 2014, the color of the year is Radiant Orchid.
Blending both cool and warm undertones, Radiant Orchid has a bit of a Fuchsia feel, with a mix of pink and purple hues. According to Pantone, the color “encourages expanded creativity and originality, which is increasingly valued in today’s society.” So what can you do with this color from a design perspective?
Maybe you’re in the market for a hip new stand mixer from Kitchen Aid?
Kitchen Aid Mixer
York Wallcovering, Inner Beauty
Or maybe you’re just wondering what colors you could pair with Radiant Orchid to create a pleasing palette?
Photo via House to Home
Photo via Design Seeds
You can see how the Color of the Year influences products in home and industrial design. Many fashion designers are already incorporating this hue into their spring clothing and accessory collections. I experienced this first hand just last week at my hair salon when I walked in to see my stylist sporting a Radiant Orchid dress shirt. Perfect timing!
Avalanche Salon & Spa
Whether you choose to incorporate this dynamic hue into your home or wardrobe, it’s certainly a stimulating color that will liven up neutrals and energize any space.
Radiant Orchid Not For You?
If decorating with neutrals is more your style, it doesn’t have to mean boring.
Photo via Caldwell Flake
Photo via Lucina
The trick is to blend varying combinations of subtle hues with interesting textures, shapes and patterns to keep the space from feeling stagnant. Try mixing in a few metallic finishes to add some shine and contrast.