It’s that time again when color experts are announcing their top color selections for the coming year.  Earlier this Fall, we reported Sherwin William’s pick of Poised Taupe a combination of earthy brown and conservative gray. Recently we learned that Benjamin Moore and PPG Pittsburg Paints both chose shades of purple for their Color of the Year, Shadow and Violet Verbena respectively. The two are very different, though both firms noted their decision was based on their hue’s ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia.

Benjamin Moore’s Shadow is a rich amethyst with the ability to reinforce shadow and light.  When used in decorating, this dramatic Renaissance purple can become the star of the room or work to stabilize other shades found within its surroundings.

The selection committee, an assembly of designers from diverse backgrounds, found inspiration from art exhibits, fashion, architecture, and other cultural influences both domestic and abroad. This year, they were highly affected by what they saw happening in the arts around the globe. 

PPG’s Violet Verbena, a grayish purple has been called a chameleon for its ability to work well in different settings and design aesthetics.  A total of 26 color experts from six different countries debate the options for three days before making a decision. Representatives from diverse industries such as architecture, automotive and consumer electronics study everything from fashion blogs and movies to the latest technology.

Violet Verbena was selected by PPG’s group to bring a sense of calm and enable our collective desire to lead an uncluttered lifestyle and disconnect from our ever-present cell phones, laptops and other electronic devices.

Every year we write about the latest color trends and look forward to seeing how they resonate with our clients. This year, we found ourselves ahead of the press when we completed a whole house decorating project in Ashburn where shades of purple were used together with creams and grays to create a gorgeous color palette.

In the dining room, notice the horizontal stripe of Shadow in the drapery fabric, the deep purple accessories on the dining and console table and the muted purples in the wallpaper. 

Here, a beautifull graphic area rug brings in shades of plum, blue, pinks and lavender.

In the basement, a wide vertical stripe of lavender creates an accent wall that compliments the soft shades of purple and pink in the draperies and accessories.

In the living room, you can see Shadow and Violet Verbena used together, with the deeper shade anchoring the room with an area rug and the pale and airy hue framing the windows. 

So, 2017 could be the year of purple.  What do you think? Do you like one of these shades better than the other?When choosing color for your home, we always recommend first considering the palettes you gravitate toward ad the existing furnishings in your home.  Beyond that, you should also look and how existing and new colors will flow throughout your home.  Need help?  You don’t have to tackle it alone. Simply contact us  and request to schedule a color consultation in your home.

Signature Design Interiors provides customized decorating, remodeling and staging services for busy individuals and professionals who are looking for turnkey service. From start to finish, we handle ALL of the details for you from budgeting, drafting floor plans for fit and function, sourcing furnishings and remodeling materials, and finally project managing the entire back-end process of ordering, measuring and installing until the last detail is complete. We serve the Washington Metropolitan area including - Washington, DC; Northern Virginia – McLean, Vienna, Reston, Herndon, Arlington, Alexandria, Annandale, Burke, Tysons Corner,  Centreville, Chantilly, Oakton, Falls Church, Clifton, Fairfax, Fairfax Station, Great Falls, Gainesville; Loudoun County - Ashburn, Brambleton, Dulles, Sterling, Leesburg Montgomery County MD - Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Silver Spring; Prince Georges County Maryland, MD - Bowie, Laurel, Upper Marlboro. We will also travel to assist with vacation homes.