Color in Design (3 Trends That POP!)
But one thing has remained constant: the power of color.
Color is more than just a visual element; it’s a mood setter, a statement maker, and, believe it or not, a major player in your home’s resale value. Think about it – a fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to boost your home’s appeal. But choosing the right color? That’s where the magic happens.
Did you know that a Zillow study found that homes with blue bathrooms sold for $5,440 more than expected? Zillow Digs Paint Color Analysis
That’s the power of color, folks! It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about influencing buyers’ perceptions and emotional responses.
So, what colors are making waves right now? What hues are capturing hearts and driving up property values?
Today, I’m diving into three color trends that are absolutely popping in the design world. These aren’t just fleeting fads; they’re versatile, impactful, and, most importantly, they can seriously elevate your home’s appeal.
Ready to get colorful? Let’s jump in!
Section 1: Trend 1 – Bold Jewel Tones
Definition and Characteristics
Okay, let’s talk jewel tones.
Think emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red, amethyst purple, and citrine yellow. These are rich, saturated colors that evoke feelings of luxury, comfort, and even a bit of drama. They’re inspired by, well, jewels!
But why are they so effective?
It’s all about psychology. These colors are associated with preciousness, rarity, and sophistication. They create a sense of depth and richness that can transform a space from bland to breathtaking.
For example, emerald green is often linked to nature and tranquility, while ruby red can ignite passion and energy.
According to color psychology expert Angela Wright, “Color affects us on many levels: psychologically, sociologically, culturally, and biologically.”
Jewel tones tap into these deep-seated associations, creating a powerful emotional response.
Application in Design
Now, how do you actually use these bold beauties in your home?
The key is balance. You don’t want your living room to look like a pirate’s treasure chest (unless that’s your thing, of course!).
Here are a few ideas:
- Living Rooms: A deep sapphire blue sofa can be the focal point of a living room, paired with neutral walls and pops of gold or brass accents.
- Bedrooms: An emerald green accent wall can create a calming and luxurious atmosphere in a bedroom.
- Kitchens: Ruby red bar stools or a citrine yellow backsplash can add a vibrant touch to a kitchen without overwhelming the space.
- Bathrooms: Amethyst purple towels and accessories can transform a bathroom into a spa-like oasis.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with color pairings! Jewel tones often look stunning when combined with each other. For example, emerald green and ruby red can create a dramatic and sophisticated look, while sapphire blue and citrine yellow can create a more playful and energetic vibe.
Remember to balance these bold colors with neutrals like white, gray, beige, or even black. This will prevent your space from feeling too overwhelming and allow the jewel tones to really shine.
Impact on Resale Value
So, how do jewel tones affect your home’s resale value?
Well, a well-executed jewel-toned design can definitely enhance your home’s appeal to potential buyers.
These colors can make a home feel more luxurious, sophisticated, and unique, which can be a major selling point in a competitive market.
However, it’s important to consider your target audience. Jewel tones may not appeal to everyone, so it’s crucial to use them strategically and in moderation.
A survey by the National Association of Realtors found that 49% of realtors suggested that staging a home could increase the dollar value buyers are willing to offer.
Incorporating jewel tones thoughtfully can be a part of that staging process.
Talk to your real estate agent about the local market trends and buyer preferences in your area. They can give you valuable insights into whether jewel tones are a good fit for your home.
Visual Examples
Let me paint you a picture (pun intended!) with a few examples:
- Before: A living room with beige walls, a brown sofa, and generic artwork.
-
After: The same living room with a sapphire blue accent wall, a cream-colored sofa, gold accents, and a vibrant rug with jewel-toned patterns. The room instantly feels more inviting, luxurious, and stylish.
-
Before: A bathroom with white walls, a basic white shower curtain, and plain white towels.
- After: The same bathroom with amethyst purple towels, a patterned shower curtain with jewel tones, and a few strategically placed candles. The bathroom is transformed into a relaxing and spa-like retreat.
See the difference? Jewel tones can make a huge impact!
Section 2: Trend 2 – Earthy Neutrals
Definition and Characteristics
Alright, let’s move on to a trend that’s a bit more grounded (literally!). Earthy neutrals are all about bringing the outdoors in.
Think taupe, clay, olive green, warm grays, and creamy off-whites. These colors are inspired by nature and evoke feelings of calmness, serenity, and connection to the earth.
What makes them so appealing?
Earthy neutrals are incredibly versatile and timeless. They create a sense of warmth and comfort that makes a house feel like a home.
They’re also incredibly easy to live with. Unlike bold colors, earthy neutrals don’t demand attention or overwhelm the senses. They provide a soothing backdrop for your furniture, artwork, and personal belongings.
Color expert Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, notes that “Neutrals are inherently adaptable and timeless. They provide a solid foundation for any design.”
Application in Design
How can you incorporate earthy neutrals into your home?
The possibilities are endless!
- Walls: Earthy neutrals are a perfect choice for walls. They create a blank canvas that allows you to experiment with different styles and décor.
- Furniture: A taupe sofa or a clay-colored armchair can be a versatile addition to any living room.
- Flooring: Natural wood floors or earthy-toned tiles can create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- Accessories: Olive green pillows, woven baskets, and terracotta pots can add a touch of nature to any space.
Earthy neutrals work well with a variety of styles, from rustic to modern. They can be used to create a cozy and inviting farmhouse-style kitchen or a sleek and minimalist modern living room.
They’re also great for making small spaces feel larger and more open. Light earthy neutrals reflect light, which can visually expand a room.
Impact on Resale Value
So, how do earthy neutrals affect your home’s resale value?
Well, a home painted in earthy neutrals is likely to attract a wider range of buyers.
These colors are universally appealing and create a sense of calm and comfort that makes potential buyers feel more at home.
According to a study by Trulia, homes with neutral color schemes tend to sell faster than homes with bold or unusual colors.
This is because earthy neutrals allow buyers to envision themselves living in the space and personalize it to their own tastes.
They’re also less likely to be polarizing, which can be a major advantage when selling a home.
I’ve talked to countless real estate agents who swear by the power of neutral paint colors. They say that a fresh coat of paint in a neutral color is one of the best investments you can make when preparing your home for sale.
Visual Examples
Let’s take a look at some examples:
- Before: A living room with bright blue walls, a patterned sofa, and cluttered décor.
-
After: The same living room with taupe walls, a cream-colored sofa, minimalist décor, and natural wood accents. The room feels more spacious, calming, and inviting.
-
Before: A kitchen with dark brown cabinets, a busy backsplash, and outdated appliances.
- After: The same kitchen with creamy off-white cabinets, a simple subway tile backsplash, and stainless steel appliances. The kitchen feels brighter, cleaner, and more modern.
See how earthy neutrals can transform a space? They’re a safe bet for appealing to a broad range of buyers.
Section 3: Trend 3 – Pastel Accents
Definition and Characteristics
Okay, let’s lighten things up with pastel accents!
Think soft pinks, light blues, mint greens, lavender purples, and pale yellows. These colors are delicate, whimsical, and joyful.
They’re often associated with springtime, childhood, and all things sweet and innocent.
Why are they so popular right now?
Pastels are a refreshing departure from the bolder, more saturated colors that have dominated the design world in recent years.
They offer a sense of lightness and airiness that can brighten up any space.
They’re also incredibly versatile and can be used to add a touch of personality and charm to any room.
According to trend forecasters at WGSN, pastel colors are “key to creating a sense of optimism and well-being in the home.”
Application in Design
How can you use pastel accents in your home without making it look like a nursery?
The key is to use them strategically and in moderation.
Here are a few ideas:
- Accessories: Pastel pillows, throws, and artwork can add a pop of color to a neutral room.
- Furniture: A pastel armchair or a side table can be a fun and unexpected addition to a living room or bedroom.
- Accent Walls: A light blue or mint green accent wall can create a calming and cheerful atmosphere.
- Kitchenware: Pastel-colored dishes, mugs, and utensils can add a touch of whimsy to your kitchen.
Pastels work well with a variety of styles, from bohemian to Scandinavian. They can be used to create a romantic and feminine bedroom or a playful and energetic playroom.
They’re also great for adding a touch of personality to a neutral space without overwhelming it.
Impact on Resale Value
So, how do pastel accents affect your home’s resale value?
Well, pastel colors can be particularly appealing to millennials and first-time homebuyers.
These demographics are often drawn to lighter, brighter, and more cheerful colors that create a fresh and inviting atmosphere.
According to a survey by Realtor.com, homes with pastel-colored exteriors tend to attract more attention online.
This is because pastel colors stand out from the crowd and create a sense of curb appeal that can entice potential buyers to take a closer look.
However, it’s important to consider your target audience and the overall style of your home. Pastels may not be the best choice for a traditional or formal home.
Talk to your real estate agent about the local market trends and buyer preferences in your area. They can give you valuable insights into whether pastel accents are a good fit for your home.
Visual Examples
Let’s take a look at some examples:
- Before: A living room with gray walls, a black sofa, and dark furniture.
-
After: The same living room with pastel pink pillows, a light blue throw, and a lavender-colored rug. The room feels brighter, more cheerful, and more inviting.
-
Before: A bedroom with white walls, a plain white bedspread, and minimal décor.
- After: The same bedroom with mint green curtains, a pastel yellow nightstand, and a few strategically placed flowers. The bedroom feels more romantic, feminine, and relaxing.
See how pastel accents can add a touch of personality and charm to any space? They’re a great way to appeal to a younger demographic and create a fresh and inviting atmosphere.
Conclusion
So, there you have it: three color trends that are absolutely popping in the design world right now: bold jewel tones, earthy neutrals, and pastel accents.
Each of these trends offers a unique way to transform your home and enhance its appeal to potential buyers.
Remember, color is a powerful tool that can influence emotions, perceptions, and even property values.
By understanding color psychology and current trends, you can make informed decisions that not only enhance your living spaces but also contribute to financial returns when it comes time to sell.
Whether you’re drawn to the luxurious drama of jewel tones, the calming serenity of earthy neutrals, or the playful charm of pastel accents, I encourage you to experiment and find the colors that speak to you.
After all, your home should be a reflection of your personality and a place where you feel happy and comfortable.
And who knows, maybe a well-chosen color palette will even help you boost your home’s resale value!
So, go ahead, get colorful! And don’t be afraid to have some fun along the way. Thanks for reading!
