Color is a telling barometer of the social climate. And, according to the color experts at Benjamin Moore, the predominant colors for 2009 are telling us there's a craving for simplicity in our lives as we search for refuge from the rough and stormy economy.
"There's clearly a trend for homes to be simpler, pared down and offering relief from the pressures and anxieties of the outside world, " said Eileen McComb, Benjamin Moore's director of communications. "And, of course, paint is the perfect solution for simplifying a decorating makeover. Not only is a new coat of color able to provide quick and uplifting results, it's one of the most economical ways to refresh and redecorate."
Another pervasive trend, according to McComb, is the desire to put a personal imprint on one's space. "People are seeking to put their own style signature on their homes. They value the opportunity to customize and individualize a look."
What the experts also are observing is an interest to incorporate some unexpected design surprise-a visual treat that adds a feel-good quality to enliven everyday living. "We see this as a symbol of optimism," she said.
According to McComb, these trends are reflected in a series of paint color palettes proposed by Benjamin Moore that are showcased in Colors for Your Home, a free, helpful booklet now available at Benjamin Moore retailers nationwide. While 18 trend colors are forecasted, Benjamin Moore has its eye on three predicted to prove to be exceedingly popular. Among them is Blue Nose 1678 , a chic blue with a small measure of gray, that's ideal for making a personal statement and adding your imprimatur to a space. Sea Haze 2137-50 also promises to be a 2009 hit. It's a gray with a tinge of brown, an organic hue that helps bring nature's essence into a room. One other color on track to be tops in '09, and fulfilling the desire to create "unexpected synergies," is Vellum 207 . It's best described as a subdued yellow, bordering on the color of wheat. Colors for Your Home also is filled with timely ideas and inspiration plus suggestions for a decorative painting technique or two, with numerous room settings to illustrate.