Pantone Color of the Year 2024: Peach Fuzz

Yeah, no! We are not referring to the fine hair many women grow on their faces, known as Vellus hair. (And no, removing by shaving or other means will NOT make it grow back thicker or darker.) Rather, we are somewhat entranced by the latest Pantone Color of the Year, labeled Peach Fuzz (13-1023).

According to the influential color consultancy, “Peach Fuzz captures our desire to nurture ourselves and others. It's a velvety gentle peach tone whose all-embracing spirit enriches mind, body, and soul.”

“In seeking a hue that echoes our innate yearning for closeness and connection, we chose a color radiant with warmth and modern elegance. A shade that resonates with compassion, offers a tactile embrace, and effortlessly bridges the youthful with the timeless.” Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute™

Everything’s Peachy with Pantone 2024

While these descriptions may seem a bit of a reach for a mere color, the company is not pulling its punches and refuses to settle for less. “In home design, Peach Fuzz creates a welcoming ambiance … and can promote feelings of warmth whether it is used on a painted wall or as an accent within a pattern.” (HomeAccentsToday.com)

“A cozy peach hue softly nestled between pink and orange … Peach Fuzz brings belonging, inspires recalibration and an opportunity for nurturing, conjuring up an air of calm, offering us a space to be, feel, and heal and to flourish from whether spending time with others or taking the time to enjoy a moment by ourselves,” expounded Ms. Eiseman.

“Drawing comfort from Pantone Peach Fuzz, we can find peace from within, impacting our wellbeing. An idea as much as a feeling, Peach Fuzz awakens our senses to the comforting presence of tactility and cocooned warmth.”

Whether you believe a gentle, cozy, and warm color like Peach Fuzz (13-1023) can achieve all of these things through the use of paint, wallpaper, furniture fabrics, rugs, and such, is a valid question. Yet, we do know this: each year the Pantone Color of the Year tends to shape “product development and consumer decisions in fashion, industrial and interior design, product packaging and other industry areas” every year. (npr.org)

There is little reason to doubt that next year will be no exception.

As always, Ted remains available for business consulting to the trade, whether you have questions about the various colors of the year for 2024 or basic business practices. Simply… Contact TD Fall today.

2024 Sherwin-Williams Color of the Year – Upward into the Blue

With their 2024 Color of the Year concept broadened to a group of paint colors, one of which is named Persimmon, mentioned here previously, the Sherwin-Williams Color Collection of the Year also offers Upward SW6329. Described rather poetically as “a breezy shade of blue” by Anne Flynn Wear, Assistant Managing Editor of Home Accents Today, we’ve labeled the hue as simply lovely.

Having said that, Upward appears to be quite a versatile shade, as are so many of the innumerable tones of blue available from virtually every paint, textile, and floor and wallcovering manufacturers.

To be honest, we have always found the concept of declaring a “Color of the Year” by anyone to be more than a little bit arrogant, as well as decidedly pretentious. After all, it’s not as if the entire industry will accept said color and use nothing else, regardless of which entity proclaims it to be The One.

So yes, it does make at least a modicum of sense for Sherwin-Williams to offer a “Color Collection of the Year”. And why shouldn’t they? It makes just as much sense, and creates as much confusion, as trying to decipher the contrasting and conflicting choices presented by the many paint manufacturers relative to each other.

Onward and Upward for the New Year

As we said before, we find Upward (SW6329) to be a lovely and subtle hue that offers a homeowner a sense of tranquility, if not downright serenity, regardless of the space in which it is used. When combined with other colors from the Collection, such as Waterloo (HGSW9141), Friendly Yellow (HGSW6680), Pearly White (HGSW7009), or even the previously mentioned Persimmon (HGSW6339), the homey shade of blue appears to be the perfect anchor color for any space.

And, so, we offer these declarations from the manufacturer themselves: 

• “A HINT OF SILVER LINING – Introducing Upward, a breezy, blissful blue. The color found when we slow down, take a breath, and allow the mind to clear.

• RELAXED + CAREFREE – A sunny-day shade for spaces brimming with positive energy, creative thinking, and total contentment.”

From kitchens to living rooms and from bedrooms to bathrooms, we are convinced this enticing shade of blue can be used as the center point of any color palette. Whether used as a calming background for more striking colors and patterns on furnishings or as the carefree focus of more laid-back spaces, we wholeheartedly approve of the choice made by Sherwin-Williams for next year.

From the moment we saw it, we had no trouble imagining how Upward (SW6329), the 2024 Sherwin-Williams Color of the Year, might be exploited by interior designers and furnishing dealers to reimagine the client’s spaces. However, if you can’t quite see it, feel free to ask for a design business consultation with Ted. Simply… Contact TD Fall today.

Colors of the Year – Will Paint Companies Contrast or Conflict? Yes!

As we shared in an earlier post, Valspar Paints is marketed separately from its parent, Sherwin-Williams. Yet, even so, we were still a bit surprised at the contrast (née conflict?) between the two companies' choices for their latest Colors of the Year.

Without even seeing them, the names alone tell much of the story, with a bold name like Ironside from Valspar contrasting with the far softer-sounding Persimmon from Sherwin-Williams.

Sherwin-Williams 2024 Color Collection of the Year

In addition to its new Color of the Year, as mentioned above, the paint manufacturer has also unveiled its 2024 Color Collection of the Year, Renewed Comfort. Filled as it is with gentle neutral colors that are “restful and restorative”, Persimmon sets the mood, as well as the foundation for the Collection as an “earthy terracotta infused with tangerine tones”.

With a nod of the head to the folks at HomeAccentsToday.com, and including extensive quotes from the paint company we share the following: “The Renewed Comfort Color Collection is composed of shades that embody tranquility, comfort, and rejuvenation.”

“The … Collection is restful and restorative with an expressive touch to showcase unique personal style – bringing a sense of comfort into the home with a new, refreshed outlook,” said Ashley Banbury Sherwin-Williams color marketing manager.

“Customers can mix and match shades from the Color Collection to make a statement, giving space to feel renewed with comfort,” she added.

Sherwin-Williams 2024 Color of the Year

“Persimmon is a grounded earthy terracotta shade that feels energetic and refreshing…. [with] warm, earthy elements [that] add an uplifting personal touch to the home.”

“Persimmon balances the energy of tangerine with grounded neutral undertones, making it perfect for spaces like living rooms and kitchens as it promotes positive relationships and conversation. The beautiful shade helps rejuvenate a space while bringing unique design visions to life,” Banbury said.

Available exclusively at Lowe’s stores, the designer-inspired 2024 Color Collection of the Year includes 10 neutrals combined with bright shades that create a new twist on traditional color combinations. Persimmon, the 2024 Color of the Year, brings a sense of comfort into the home with natural hues to soften the space, according to Ms. Banbury.

As you can see, our cautionary notes were valid, considering the broad range and contrast of colors from two brands covered by a single umbrella.

As always, Ted remains available for business consulting to the trade, whether you have questions about colors or basic business practices. Simply… Contact TD Fall today.

Color Trends for 2024 – Paint Companies Jump the Gun!

Just last week we shared our surprise that paint companies in the US had already begun sharing what they believe will be the color trends for 2024; that is, their colors of the year. Whether we believe it’s too early for such predictions is irrelevant. They’re doing it and, as usual, we can only react.

Interestingly, though Valspar Paints is a Sherwin-Williams brand, they are marketed as a separate brand that offers its own 2024 Color of the Year and is sold exclusively at Lowe’s.

While perusing the internet for information on such, we stumbled upon HouseDigest.com where insight is offered into the importance of color for interior designers:

“Color is one of interior design's most important factors. Beyond creating an aesthetically pleasing room, color can help set the mood. Enveloping a room with the right color creates a setting that can relax or energize. However, choosing the right paint color can be an overwhelming choice for many homeowners. Luckily, many paint companies, including Valspar, choose a Color of the Year that's meant to forecast the interior design trends for the upcoming year.”

Having shared an even dozen “Colors of the Year” last year, Valspar has decided to select one color for 2024. Labeling it “Renew Blue”, Valspar has chosen a color that “is an incredibly versatile and all-season shade that anyone can envision in their space. The inspiration is rooted in nature and wellness, which can be achieved to help alleviate the anxiety in life.”

Valspar Offers a Sense of Wellness and Comfort

Even more important, Valspar offers a clearly stated reason for choosing Renew Blue as their Color of the Year for 2024:

“WHY IT’S TRENDING: Most of us are seeking an end to feeling overwhelmed – less stress, less information, less technology, fewer choices. Simplicity. Here, we can slow down and create the peaceful place we seek.”

Colorful yet welcoming, Renew Blue from Valspar can be used to gently say, “Welcome to our home” to guests or, perhaps more importantly, deliver a loving “Welcome home” to family.

“The Valspar Color of the Year for 2024 is Renew Blue, ‘a balanced blue with a touch of grayed sea-green that focuses on wellness and comfort,’ according to the paint company. The shade is meant to create a restful feeling to transform a home into a place meant to prioritize self-care and well-being.” (House Digest)

And, this living room definitely looks like a comfortable place to feel well.

“Inspired by fleeting elements like fog, mist, clouds, and glacier lakes, Renew Blue elevates the everyday mood, encourages self-expression, and evokes a feeling of balance and calm, with a twist of unique spontaneity,” explains Sue Kim, Valspar Director of Color Marketing. “Blue is a classic shade that has become the new neutral for today's home and can be mixed and matched to fit a variety of design styles and applications.”

And, what better place to elevate one’s mood than the most popular room in virtually everyone’s home, their kitchen?

All of that said, it’s likely best to allow the paint company to speak for itself concerning Valspar’s 2024 Color of the Year:

“A nourishing, green-influenced blue that creates a sense of peace wherever you place it.”

A quick cautionary note: Don’t be surprised by the variety of colors, some of which will definitely contrast in both look and feel with those of others.

As always, Ted remains available for business consulting to the trade, whether you have questions about colors or basic business practices. Simply… Contact TD Fall today.

2024 Color of the Year from Dutch Boy Paints (Wait, wut? Already?!?)

Well, the dance has begun, folks. Paint manufacturers have already begun to announce their 2024 Color of the Year: with more than four months to go until the New Year!

Trying to get a jump on the competition is one thing but, when everyone jumps at the same time – nothing but confusion can follow. Never fear, for we are here to help reduce the clutter.

Dutch Boy’s “Ironside” Paint Color of the Year

One of the first to jump is Dutch Boy Paints who, according to DesignersToday.com, have gone “deep and dark for color of the year”. The paint has been named “Ironside, [and is] a deep olive shade with dark undertones that creates a level of comfortable sophistication.”

“As dark shades become more appreciated in the home, this deep olive is versatile in wide-open spaces or enclosed comfy places, reflecting well-being from all angles, according to Dutch Boy,” wrote Product Editor Lauren Roses.

Quoting Ashley Banbury, NCIDQ and color marketing manager for Dutch Boy, we learn their thinking behind this intriguing color as the foundation for numerous palettes from the manufacturer:

“Creating a space for wellness should be a driving factor in everyday life,” she said. “That’s why taking a natural approach to healthy living and safe spaces is a pivotal part of the current landscape. Dutch Boy Paints’ 2024 One-Coat Color of the Year – the stunning, strong Ironside – incorporates all the above in one bold color and can be applied in one single coat.” (emphasis added)

Complementary Color Palettes from Dutch Boy Paints

Of course, every paint manufacturer offers a spread of choices, based on their chosen Color of the Year. In this way, they can offer a palette of colors that can be used by designers and homeowners to make a particular statement or enhance the feel of a chosen space.

• Embrace Palette - As homeowners place an emphasis on the comfort of slowing down, the Embrace Palette focuses on self-care and wellness. Shades include Antique White, Whale’s Tail, and Heritage Brown.

• Inspire Palette - Personal expression and creative outlets have become therapeutic. Bold uses of pattern, color, and curated spaces in this color palette create self-inspired trends and environments. Explore color by combining shades like Ultra White, Pineapple Flan, and Strawberry Shade.

• Retreat Palette - The Retreat color palette is intended to give peace of mind while taking extra personal time. Ironside is the color that ties Sanded Grout, Wild Orange, and Antiquated Olive together, bringing both cleanliness and warmth to the home.

Without a doubt, we’ll be hearing about and seeing many more offerings from many more paint manufacturers about their 2024 Color of the Year. As we do, we’ll be sharing them with you.

A quick cautionary note: Don’t be surprised by the variety of colors, some of which will definitely contrast with others.

As always, Ted remains available for business consulting to the trade, whether you have questions about colors or basic business practices. Simply… Contact TD Fall today.

Types of Optin Offers to Build Your Email Subscriber List

With the diversity of interior designers and furnishing dealers we work with across the country, it’s virtually impossible to share every type of optin offer that you might choose to offer. However, the following are some of the most common – and effective – examples we have seen.

As we shared in an earlier post:

Once you receive a subscriber’s email address in exchange for the valuable piece of information you offered them to opt-in to your list, you have an audience with whom you can engage. You can do this through newsletters, nurture email campaigns, “check-in” emails, event notices, and promotional materials.

This is how you begin to build relationships with your target audience in our digital world; relationships that show your expertise, create trust, and have the potential to generate conversions. (Yay, sales!)

Interior Design Optins

It goes without saying that many, if not most, people who consider working with an interior designer are interested in reimagining a particular space in their homes. Then again, some may be searching for nothing but new paint colors, high-end wallcoverings, or designer rugs. Potential clients like these will not be interested in tips about remodeling a kitchen, living room, or the whole house. So, your optin gifts must be targeted to smaller segments of your local design market.

• Paint color of the year

• Secrets of hand-tied springs for seating and/or bedding

• What does “Artisanal” mean and why they should care

• The value of Craftsmanship in luxury home furnishings

• What is the difference between tufted and woven carpeting and rugs?

• Types of wallpaper

• What to know about an Interior Design Consultation (with questions they might ask)

Since each of these optin gifts will appeal to a different segment of your target audience, you will be able to build your subscriber list with a diverse mix of potential clients whom you know are interested in what you offer.

Remember, free stuff generates interest and interest can eventually lead to conversions! This is why it makes sense to give away information you might be inclined to sell instead. So…

General Remodeling Tips

While many business owners are hesitant to simply give away their expert knowledge, it’s important to remember that you must build value and interest with the gifts you offer – value that is equal to or greater than the priceless remuneration you will receive in return – the email address of potential clients.

• Top 5 DIY Remodeling Tips

• 4 Easy Steps to Hang New Wallpaper

• Interior Designer Consult Checklist for Homeowners

• How to Select and Install New Bathroom Fixtures

• Best Space to Remodel to Increase the Value of Your Home

Now don’t start sweating at the thought of giving away such valuable info, with no guarantee of a return on your investment (of your training and experience).

The Secret Behind Valuable Optin Gifts

You see, the secret to this approach is this: even if you give away explicit, step-by-step instructions on how to install and finish the tile surrounding a beautiful new step-in bathtub (for example), it’s likely that 99% of those who need one will not have the patience or willingness to do it.

In other words, giving subscribers to your email list information that would otherwise cost them dearly has little to no risk for you. For example, anyone who would take your advice to start and complete a DIY remodeling project would be extremely unlikely to hire a designer anyway.

For the rest, they will receive your gift and think, “Wow, this designer knows their stuff. I should at least ask them about a consultation and estimate for remodeling my master bath.”

That about does it for a blog post, where space and attention spans are limited. In closing, it’s important to remember that a good optin gift solves a single important issue for your audience. It should then be followed with a series of emails to discover if the information you shared was helpful, eventually offering them a consultation.

Whether you offer a design consultation at no charge or for a minimal fee is entirely your choice. (Again, the high-value offer equals a high value in return – their time in front of you.)

And remember, Ted remains available for marketing and business consulting to the trade. Simply… Get in touch with TD Fall today.

Pantone Color of the Year 2023 – A Bold, Dramatic, Stunning Statement is Made

Finally, the paint color trendsetter has announced its startling choice for the Pantone Color of the Year for 2023. As their website says, “Welcome to the Magentaverse”, with Viva Magenta rockin’ your world!

After exploring the colors of the year from the major paint manufacturers, we are excited to see that Pantone has declared 2023 the perfect time for a bold, dramatic, even stunning statement to be made. And, with Viva Magenta, nothing could be more stunning.

Viva Magenta from Pantone

As they describe it, “Pantone’s Color of the Year, Viva Magenta 18-1750, vibrates with vim and vigor. It is a shade rooted in nature descending from the red family and expressive of a new signal of strength. Viva Magenta is brave and fearless, and a pulsating color whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration, writing a new narrative.

“This year’s Color of the Year is powerful and empowering. It is a new animated red that revels in pure joy, encouraging experimentation and self-expression without restraint, an electrifying, and a boundaryless shade that is manifesting as a stand-out statement. Pantone 18-1750 Viva Magenta welcomes anyone and everyone with the same verve for life and rebellious spirit. It is a color that is audacious, full of wit, and inclusive of all.”

Why Choose Such a Striking Color?

Why did Pantone choose a color that is so bold and striking? According to Pantone Color Institute’s Executive Director, Leatrice Eiseman:

“In this age of technology, we look to draw inspiration from nature and what is real. Pantone 18-1750 Viva Magenta descends from the red family and is inspired by the red of cochineal, one of the most precious dyes belonging to the natural dye family as well as one of the strongest and brightest the world has known.

“Rooted in the primordial, Pantone 18-1750 Viva Magenta reconnects us to original matter. Invoking the forces of nature, Pantone 18-1750 Viva Magenta galvanizes our spirit, helping us to build our inner strength.”

If the Pantone Color of the Year for 2023 doesn’t resonate with you, feel free to check in with us for further impressions of these categories of colors trending for next year. Just click here to… Get in touch with TD Fall today.

2023 Colors of the Year (Pt 2) – It’s a Pick ‘em

Continuing our look at the variety of Colors of the Year for 2023 (which we began last week), we’ll be taking a look at next year’s offerings from Sherwin-Williams, Butch Boy, Benjamin Moore, and Behr paint companies.

Again, instead of offering us shades of a single color, or even narrowly defined palettes as we’ve seen in the past, the major paint manufacturers are presenting us with more of a mix of categories: soft neutrals, warm pink shades, and rich, deep blue/greens. According to a recent article at the consumer-friendly design site Houzz.com, that is.

Redend Point by Sherwin-Williams

“If less intense pinks are more your jam, take a look at Redend Point [the 2023 Color of the Year from Sherwin-Williams]. It’s a medium-dark sand color, which makes it neutral, but it has a soft coral-pink undertone that gives it a twist. This is not your typical tan.

“The hint of warm pink allows the color to serve as a pleasing backdrop to hues that are more pink- or orange-forward, as seen here. But it’s still a neutral, and as such, it can work with a variety of other colors, especially those also on the warmer side of the color spectrum.”

Rustic Greige by Dutch Boy

“Along the lines of Redend Point, Rustic Greige [from Dutch Boy paints] is a sandy tan with a kiss of pink. These moodier neutrals seem to be gaining popularity in interiors, likely as a reaction to the long-popular bright whites and cool, silvery grays.

“I think this is a good choice for a neutral background wall color. You can then mix in touches of more vibrant colors or stick with a warm neutral palette and add variety with different shades of ivory, beige, tan, and brown.”

Raspberry Blush by Benjamin Moore

“Benjamin Moore [paint’s] selection also is a warm pink, but this one is super bold and vibrant.

“This extroverted hue works best in public areas of a home where an energetic vibe is desired. It’s a conversation-stimulating color for the dining room — good for those who love to entertain.”

Blank Canvas by Behr

“If you’re seeking a clean slate for 2023, you can’t go wrong with Behr [paint’s] choice of Blank Canvas. It’s pretty clear Behr is making a statement with this choice. And that statement is that most of us probably could use a fresh start.

“This go-anywhere off-white has a slightly warm cast, making it a versatile jumping-off color that can be paired with just about any other color. But because it has a touch of warmth, it also can be used as the dominant color in a room and not feel too cold or sterile.”

If these 2023 Colors of the Year fail to resonate with you, feel free to check in with us for our further impressions of these categories of colors that are trending for next year. Just click here to… Get in touch with TD Fall today.

2023 Colors of the Year – Get Your Feels On!

As we wait with bated breath (and frustration) for Pantone to declare their trend-setting Color of the Year for 2023, it’s important to recall that many other manufacturers announce their own Colors of the Year.

Rather than the shades of a single color as we’ve seen in the past, the major paint companies are presenting us with more of a mix of categories: soft neutrals, warm pink shades, and rich, deep blue/greens. That is, according to a recent article at the consumer-friendly design site Houzz.com.

Vining Ivy from PPG and Glidden

“PPG and its Glidden paint brand have both selected Vining Ivy as their 2023 Color of the Year for paint. A handsome aqua-emerald, Vining Ivy can be used to create a snug bedroom retreat, as shown here, or put to work in the kitchen as an accent color, perhaps for an island base or pantry cabinets in a glossy sheen.”

The crew at Glidden wants us to stress that “This ‘bluish-greenish-something-in-betweenish’ color serves up versatile vibes, making it an on-trend addition to any room. No matter if you think it looks more blue or more green, either way, it’s a vibe.”

Everglade Deck by Valspar

“Rather than promoting one Color of the Year, Valspar has chosen to highlight 12 trending paint colors, as it did for 2022. One of its picks, Everglade Deck, is another saturated blue/green, a bit moodier than Vining Ivy. It has surprising warmth for such a cool color. Here it infuses a bathroom with dramatic, elegant color.”

The folks at Valspar believe this colorway is trending because, “As we turn away from faster-paced lifestyles, we continue to seek balance and calmness as a source of health and rejuvenation.”

Terra Rosa by Dunn-Edwards

“While greens and blues remain popular with homeowners, increasingly warmer colors are making headway. Terra Rosa by Dunn-Edwards is a cinnamon-rose hue that’s a fresh take on more neutral browns and burgundies. It’s somewhat vibrant but also has an earthy quality; this earthiness makes it a versatile [shade of] pink.”

It’s so nice to know that there are people out there who not only see but wish to enhance our quality of life. The people at Dunn-Edwards illustrate that commitment to a life well lived by stating, “Terra Rosa highlights living a life filled with joy and finding the beauty in everyday small pleasures. The grounding quiet comfort of Terra Rosa provides a touch of prettiness with the influence of pink, yet still can create drama with its deep value.”

Are you confused by the number of choices yet? We understand so we’ll pause here to let you absorb these new design trends. But, you might want to stay tuned for a further examination of the broadening spectrum of trending 2023 Colors of the Year in a future post.

If that doesn’t work, feel free to check in with us for our further impressions of these categories of colors that are trending for next year. Just click here to… Get in touch with TD Fall today.

Home Design Trends for 2022 – Colors, Shapes, and Textures

As we mentioned last week, predicting home design trends is a tricky business when taken beyond local markets. And yet, as we also mentioned there can be broad-based trends that may influence what an interior designer can offer their clients when focused more narrowly. A few of these are the trending colors, shapes, and textures of home furnishings.

For example, the color green will likely be popular this year simply because so many paint manufacturers have declared it their color of the year. Also, as predicted by the folks at Houzz.com, research tells them that curvy furniture and velvet textures should be popular among homeowners in 2022.

More than one of the brands among Kravet’s family of brands are reflecting this, including curvy shapes from Donghia furniture and lovely fabric offerings in a variety of green shades from Grand Bazaar by Brunschwig & Fils.

Trending Furnishings from Kravet

Donghia is returning to the marketplace with the introduction of over 450 fabrics, its first launch within the Kravet family of brands. This expansive product offering includes 420 decorative fabrics, luxury textures, and an array of velvets. Complementing this selection are more than 50 wallcoverings, including metallic grasscloths, a signature of the Donghia lifestyle.

Brunschwig & Fils takes you on a journey through Turkey with its newest collection, Grand Bazaar, inspired by the alluring charm of Turkish culture. Established by the Sultan of the Byzantine Empire over 500 years ago, the Grand Bazaar was and is known as a trading place for jewels and textiles — a melting pot of the old and new. The beguiling history, architecture, and atmosphere of the market inspired this exclusive collection of gorgeous prints and coordinating wallcoverings. Let’s take a deeper look at this stunning new collection!

Katibi and Montguyon, Brunschwig & Fils archive favorites, have been updated to suit today’s interiors. Katibi was inspired by an 18th century Indian Palampore and features a beautiful tree of life pattern. Montguyon is another revival design, first introduced in 1961, featuring antique French needlework reinterpreted in a broken warp print effect.

These are just a few examples of how the industry leader, Kravet, can help you respond to the national home design trends that may influence your market locally.

As always, Ted is available to help you use your expertise, combined with his knowledge of the industry, to develop home design trends specific to your market that will benefit your business. Get in touch with TD Fall today.