Colour is light, travelling to us in waves. When light strikes any object, the object will absorb only the wavelengths that exactly match its own atomic structure and reflect the rest — which is what we see. As such, colour is inescapable.
Science has always recognized the link between colour and human behaviour and there are numerous studies that detail the subject, but many are inconclusive. It is important to understand that there is a great difference between colour psychology and colour symbolism. As well, cultural differences can effect how people determine their reactions to colour.
There are positive and negative associations with all colours. The slightest changes in tone and hue can greatly determine how colour is perceived. For example, gray can be neutral and calming, but also depressing. White can represent purity and cleanliness, but also sterility and coldness. Red can be seen as aggressive, but warm.
For 2018, colour trends from premier paint companies are inspired by nature, modernism and metallic sheens.
Beauti-Tone “Green Peace”
Beauti-Tone has chosen Green Peace as their colour of the year. A colour strongly rooted in nature, Green Peace is an interesting blend of an earthy camouflage green and a soft botanical green.
“As humans, we crave nature. It is there that we slow down, feel connection — become stronger,” said Bev Bell, creative director, Beauti-Tone Paint and Home Products Division, Home Hardware Stores Limited. “Since we can’t always get outside, the solution is to bring aspects of nature into our home to improve our well-being, productivity and creativity.”
PPG Voice of Colour “Black Flame”
PPG unveiled Black Flame as their 2018 choice.
“It acts like a black curtain, allowing your other decor elements to take centre stage,” said Dee Schlotter, PPG senior colour marketing manager. “It’s a fantastic blend of black and indigo, two classic hues. Black creates the silence we crave in an information-heavy world, while the indigo offers possibility and a deep hopefulness. The blend of two colours makes it incredibly versatile — use it on a statement wall, with a matte finish on a ceiling, with high gloss on a naturally-lit staircase, on cabinets, interior and exterior doors and in many more places. The versatile hue can also provide strength and a modern luxe vibe to spaces with a lot of whites, blush pinks and soft pastels.”
According to the colour experts at Pantone, intense colours are back and there are eight palettes that will inspire 2018.
VERDURE: Vegetal colours like celery are combined with berry-infused purples and eggshell blue, symbolic of health, in this palette.
PLAYFUL: Think Minions. Bright yellow, lime popsicle and all other things fun come together for this colour scheme. “People need to stop and smile,” said Pantone Colour Institute executive director Leatrice Eiseman.
DISCRETION: Playful’s alter ego. Subtle hues such as elderberry and hawthorne rose offer a new sense of strength. “Pink has developed more power than ever before,” Eiseman said.
FAR-FETCHED: With warm, earthy hues such as corn silk yellow blending with rosy tones, this palette embraces many different cultures.
INTRICACY: A palette of neutral metallics (the new neutrals) with accents of dramatic holly berry red and yellow sulfur.
INTENSITY: This is an eclectic mix of colours that evokes a sense of strength, power and sophistication, all balanced with black and gold.
TECH-NIQUE: Bright turquoise, pink and purple colours anchored with brilliant white and frosted almond are a nod to technology.
Benjamin Moore “Caliente”
Benjamin Moore declared its Colour of the Year 2018 as Caliente, a vibrant, charismatic shade of red.
“Strong, radiant and full of energy, Caliente is total confidence. It is pleasing, passionate and makes people feel special, like ‘red carpet treatment,’ said Ellen O’Neill, Benjamin Moore director of strategic design intelligence. “Whether used as one note or on four walls, the spirited personality of red turns heads, signalling surprise and adventure. The eye can’t help but follow its bold strokes.”
Sherwin Williams “Oceanside”
Sherwin Williams has focused on a relaxing shade of teal for their colour of the year. Oceanside is inspired by travel and the blue-green hue will add an air of mystery and elegance to any space.
“People today have a growing sense of adventure, and it is making its way into even the coziest corners of our homes. We are craving things that remind us of bright folklore, like mermaids and expeditions across continents,” said Sue Wadden, director of colour marketing. “Oceanside is the colour of wanderlust right in our own homes.”
For the past few years, whites and neutrals have ruled the world of paint colour. Behr isn’t one to follow the lead, which is why they named In the Moment as its first-ever Colour of the Year. In it, spruce blue, soft gray and lush green coalesce to evoke a sense of sanctuary and relaxation.
“In The Moment speaks to our society’s desire to disconnect and be present,” said Erika Woelfel, vice president of colour and creative services at Behr. “It crosses multiple design styles — global, coastal, modern — and pairs well with other subdued colours to create harmony for interiors or exteriors.”
SAMANTHA SANNELLA, BFA ID, M ARCH, is a designer, educator and principal at Urban Retreat Homes.
She is an expert in the field of design and construction and is a columnist for RENO & DECOR and editor of the Ontario Design Trade Sourcebook.
IDC’s popular Industry Sales Professionals Course (ISPC) series is kicking off again in October, and will be held in a hybrid format, offering limited in-person participation to GTA-based IDC members
Trade professionals will explore the fascinating world of sensory design and its positive impact on the built environment at this highly anticipated industry event
Catering to both the very discerning clientele and to the avid collector looking for a functional and reasonable approach for their long term wine storage.
Custom window covering products made in Canada for commercial, residental and automated shading applications. Dealer distribution across Canada – contact us to become a dealer. TRADE ONLY.
Blum is the leader in functional hardware providing solutions for hinge and lift systems as well as interior organization products for every room in the home. Blum’s focus is on functionality and offers products that will last the life of your furniture. TRADE ONLY.
Thin Tile specializes in full service solutions for commercial and residential thin gauged porcelain slab projects in and around the Greater Toronto Area.
Van Gogh Designs is a Canadian upholstered furniture manufacturer providing custom, made-to-order products for the retail, design and hospitality industries. We offer a wide range of sofas sectionals, chairs and beds in hundreds of designer fabrics. TRADE ONLY.
We are proud to showcase a complete line of home furnishings and accessories to define your style and transform your space. From contemporary and industrial to mid-century modern and rustic, we shop the world for quality pieces to fit your vision.
Sourcing the latest trends in ceramic, porcelain, glass and natural stone tile as well as natural stone slabs from throughout the world to remain at the forefront of innovation and style. Branches throughout Canada and U.S affiliate companies.
We showcase a wide selection of hand-crafted ceramic, encaustic concrete and eco-friendy glass tiles, natural stone and glass mosaics as well as hand-painted terra cotta.
Tobi Kitchens & Fine Cabinetry specializes in kitchens, closet organizers, wall units, home offices, libraries, wet bars, pro-finishing and custom millwork. Make Tobi your choice to adorn your dream home with custom beauty and perfection.
Established in 1987, Caesarstone pioneered the original quartz surface and continues to be a leading developer and manufacturer of premium surfaces. Highly functional and design forward, Caesarstone surfaces have endless application possibilities including kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, wall paneling, furniture and more.
With over 90 years of experience, BLANCO is the leading kitchen sinks and faucets manufacturer. From handcrafted in Germany Steelart® sinks and the beauty of Silgranit®, to the European design faucets, BLANCO products are celebrated worldwide for their unmatched quality and design. Blanco Silgranit® sinks are proudly manufactured in Canada TRADE ONLY.
Beauti-Tone paint is a proud Canadian company, available exclusive to Home Hardware stores across Canada. We manufacture a full range of exceptional high quality products with outstanding value. An extensive colour offering, including exclusive collections from Style at Home, Chatelaine, Simon Chang and Sesame Street. That’s why we are Canada’s paint experts.
The Chesterfield Shop, family owned and operated since 1948, with five locations in Toronto, North York, Newmarket, Scarborough and Mississauga. Best selection in every contemporary seating category including sofas, sofa beds, sectionals, chairs, recliner sofas and home theatre, in-stock or special-order in leathers or fabrics and customize to fit all room types. Exceptional City-size seating.
Metrie offers interior finishing solutions including mouldings and interior door collections to help professionals transform spaces and set the stage for every room to tell a story. Founded in 1926, our dedication to creating high-quality, finely crafted architectural elements has helped us grow to become the largest supplier and manufacturer of solid wood and composite mouldings in North America.
A retailer of quality flooring products such as hardwood, engineered, and laminate flooring and carpeting. We specialize in quality materials and service. We provide professional installation services for all of our products as well as providing refinishing services. We also specialize in Solid Hardwood stairs.
Since 1883, Benjamin Moore has been producing the highest quality paints and finishes in the industry. A superior paint experience with every product. Incomparable colour, flawless coverage, and lasting durability.
Up-market Showroom specializing in unique wall and floor coverings for both residential and commercial applications. Exclusive, distinguished designs include the Intarsi Collection from Italy; Henzel Carpets from Finland and Jamie Beckwith from the United States. Open to the Public and the Trade.
Bring sophistication, functionality and handcrafted quality to your home! Stone Edge specializes in the design and production of natural stone kitchen countertops, vanities, fireplace surrounds and tub and shower surrounds. Granite, Marble and Quartz resonate the character of your home, and add that finishing touch that will last a lifetime.
BSH is the world’s second largest major appliance manufacturer, distributing Bosch, Thermador and Gaggenau brands across Canada. Designers and clients can schedule visits and live cooking demos at the Toronto showroom. We also host designer lunch and learns.
Rolltec® awnings is the leading Canadian manufacturer of upscale retractable awnings. Since our startup in 1984, Toronto based Rolltec® has proven to be an industry leader in motorized canvas awnings by providing the highest caliber in both quality of products and customer service.
