The Sherwin-Williams Color Forecast 2015 reflects a brightened outlook and adventurous spirit for the year ahead. “We’re seeing a more cheerful approach to design and have forecasted colors that provide inspiration for people to create fresh, joyful interiors,” said Jackie Jordan, director of color marketing for Sherwin-Williams.
The Sherwin-Williams color experts researched trends in art, fashion, science and global culture to create the four-palette forecast shown here, which is designed to inspire homeowners as they are planning their remodeling projects.
Buoyant
“After weathering the recession and finally seeing signs of growth, the Buoyant palette reflects our enthusiasm with colors that evoke big, bright florals in fashion and interiors. Our spirits echo the optimism following World War II when GIs returned from exotic locales, bringing tropical prints and tiki-inspired looks,” said Jordan.
In addition to renewed optimism, Buoyant is also inspired by the incorporation of green spaces into even the most densely urban environments. Backyards are now as important as front yards, with builders investing in rear “curb appeal” and outdoor rooms.
Chrysalis
As technology rushes relentlessly ahead, the colors of Chrysalis evoke a calm oasis—a place to pause and find balance. The palette, with colors ranging from off-black to chalky neutrals and dusty blues, is designed to create a more comfortable interior.
“An important influence for Chrysalis is the appreciation of earth’s natural striations,” said Jordan. “The patterns created by land and sky are driving design inspiration, therefore the palette’s colors are found in nature, from rocks found on the beach to a stormy sky.”
Voyage
From space tourism to undersea resorts, the sci-fi dreams of past decades are more viable than ever. The Voyage palette looks to these outer limits, featuring hues imagined while emerging from the water into the atmosphere—undersea teal, bright green kelp, light watery blue and deep space purple.
“The colors of Voyage are supernatural and magical. The palette is driven by unusual atmospheric events including a decade-best aurora borealis, keeping our eyes focused on the heavens,” said Jordan. “The palette’s lighter colors create an uplifting space, while its deeper tones add drama.”
Unrestrained
From bold, ethnic-inspired colors and designs to the Bohemian lifestyle, the Unrestrained palette celebrates free-spirited wanderlust. Its saturated primary hues include sunny yellow, lively turquoise and bright blue, as well as black and white. Each can be used for a pop of color, or combined to create a vibrant, energetic space.
“South Africa’s colorful art scene and focus on the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro have influenced a Carnival-like spirit, inspiring design with a zest for life. The vibrant colors of Unrestrained reflect that aesthetic,” said Jordan.