a calming NEUTRAL COLORs palette FOR OUR WELL BEING

Capture a relaxing, soothing feeling at home with a calming neutral colors palette drawn from nature.

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With the changing hues of our circumstances in recent times, melancholy is inevitable. The ruthless and shocking loss of fellow citizens, known or unknown, fills our hearts with deep-seated sorrow.

The shade of these dark times seems never-ending. A sense of vulnerability and insecurity is encompassing many into a state of depression.

Testing times cast a tint of anger in our minds, for the invisible enemy. The horrific tales of helplessness and despair leave us with many unanswered questions.

The clouds in grey tone engulf us and we are forced to doubt our faith and belief. The faith we placed on our system, on humanity, on divinity.

Could things have been better or handled in a more responsible manner? Well without getting into any political debate here, I would rather stick to my job.

However, under the layers of these shades, tints, and tones of the hue of this pandemic lies our response to the current situation. Spaces are evolving and rising up to the challenges posed by the current times.

“Colors must fit together like pieces of puzzle or cogs in a wheel”

Hans Hoffman

The perception of our dwelling spaces has changed. And so have our needs, both physical and emotional. We are spending so much time indoors. Our homes have become our second office spaces, schools, entertainment zones, etc. Well-being and comfort are our top priority now.

COLORS AND WELLBEING

Colors affect our psychology more than anything else. The way we perceive space and perform or enjoy working in it is greatly influenced by the colors.

Apart from being secure, flexible, and spacious, we aspire for spaces that boost our health and well-being. Well-being at both physical and mental levels. After facing so much uncertainty and turmoil, there is a need for relaxed and calming vibes for our abodes.

Apart from planning and other considerations, colors can have a huge impact on the way we experience an indoor space. And that is why colors are one of my favorite topics.

PANTONE COLORS FOR THE YEAR 22021

Pantone has announced Pantone 17-5104 Ultimate Gray + Pantone 13-0647 Illuminating, as the colors for the year 2021. It describes it as a combination of strength and hopefulness that is both enduring and uplifting.

While bright colors like yellow, orange evoke emotions of hope and cheerfulness, what we need more of right now is a sense of safety. A reassuring color palette that induces feelings of well-being, relaxation, and tranquility.

A RELAXING NATURAL COLOR PALETTE

I believe, a color palette that is rooted in nature can provide us with some solace, even if just at an emotional level. Nature can provide us with the much-needed answers. A palette that is rooted in the five elements of nature.

Being restricted indoors, we all want a connection with the outdoors. A muted, natural palette can establish that connection. We have always got some wonderful solutions to our problems from nature and a natural color palette will give us the reassurance.

The earthen colors of nature have a sense of warmth associated with them. They are soothing and relaxing. Out of all the elements, the earth has the power of grounding our emotions.

SHERWIN WILLIAMS COLOR FOR THE YEAR 2021

Sherwin Williams has recommended Urban Bronze as the color for the year 2021. It recommends a warm neutral- Modern Grey for pairing with Urban Bronze. it describes it as a hue with warmth and comfort that breathes down-to-earth tranquility.

BENJAMIN MOORE COLOR FOR THE YEAR 2021

Benjamin Moore recommends Aegean Teal as the color of the year 2021. It describes it as an Intriguing, balanced, and deeply soothing color that creates a natural harmony.

A CALMING NEUTRAL COLORs PALETTE

Neutrals have always been popular amongst interior designers and architects. They are the desaturated colors obtained by mixing parent colors with pure black, white, or grey. Basically, the chromatic content of color gets reduced and it becomes muted and soothing, softer to the eyes.

A Biophylliic color palette incorporating the hues of nature can work as a balm to nurture our mind, body, and spirit. Besides, the subtle effect of calming neutral colors helps create a serene, holistic environment.

Unassuming, barely their calming neutral colors have always trended on the color palette charts. I would cast my vote for Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore as against Pantone this year. As I feel they respond to our psychological needs more appropriately.

A sophisticated tone-on-tone palette of warm, calming neutral colors works as a warm bear hug. I would prefer neutrals with warm undertones to sterile grays or steel grays. Moreover, neutrals provide us with a background like a blank canvas on which we can paint a picture. Versatile neutrals work well with almost any style.

ADD VISUAL INTEREST TO THE PALETTE

Additionally, pep up the restricted color scheme with some natural textures like natural wood, sisal rugs, rattan furniture, and organic prints, and patterns to keep the interiors from looking sterile and boring. Also, add muted green as an accent color through a feature wall, plants, upholstery, etc for added visual interest.

Going out for a relaxed and cozy dinner evening, a casual conversation with my next-door neighbor over a cup of coffee, hanging out with friends and family, planning a vacation, I have missed out on so much in the last year and a half.

But let us leave behind all the grief and gloom and reinvent and decorate our space with a fresh spirit.

Hoping for the return of good times soon. I hope you enjoyed reading my blog post and it helps you create a serene sanctuary yourself. If yes, do share with your friends.

Happy Painting!

Till next time…