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.

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…

The post a calming NEUTRAL COLORs palette FOR OUR WELL BEING appeared first on INTERIOR DESIGN BLOG.

WHY  YELLOW?

Many people shy away from this bold sunshine yellow color but if incorporated thoughtfully it can bring so much cheer and vibrancy to a lackluster space. There is always an option of those mellower shades of yellow which are soothing and relaxing for those who don’t prefer bold colors. But this zingy hue is so much more fun to have around us in its more saturated and brighter appearance. It has this inherent ability to spread joy, energy and brightness. With this color around us it always feels like having some sunshine around.

Sun is the ultimate representation of this color. Sunshine yellow signifies energy, optimism, vitality, self confidence. Lemons, mangoes, sunflowers,straw, honey,saffron,turmeric – all connote the variations of this hue in nature. A little sunshine brightens and enlivens darkest of corners. It adds that dash of cheerfulness and optimism, brightening up our interiors.

Yellow is the color of rejuvenation and renewal. Turmeric is of great significance in Ayurveda and Hindu traditions and rituals. The golden spice possesses healing and purifying properties. Its used as an offering in worship rituals.

Brighter and bolder versions, of course, are the best to add that zing and pop of color.The hue ranges from being very pale and mellow to lemony and bright and saturated to a more muted mustard and ochre. It works well with any color and style. Works effortlessly with cool colors (green, blue,purple) or warm colors (orange) or neutrals (white, gray).

The lemony hue refreshes and uplifts our moods like no other color. Having a little goes a long way. There are so many ways to incorporate it into our insipid spaces. Sunshine yellow so warm and inviting, best suitable for social, engaging spaces.

Bold and bright yellow has this attitude and confidence to stand on its own alone and grab all the attention.

Art is the most beautiful form of expressing a color in your decor. What else can one ask for when art itself is the focal point and draws the eye in a space. Yellow, teal and burnt orange form a primary color scheme here.

This statement piece of furniture looks so inviting and warm in this otherwise neutral space. Lots of white and natural light freshen up the look. The yellow picks off the honey toned wood in the room.

What about a reading nook to curl on, in this zingy color. This yellow with green undertones is enhancing the sunlight entering in this room. It contrasts well with the black of console, lamp and art.

A clever way to add any bold color, without committing too much, is to play with accessories.We can always swap them later with another color of our choice.

The ocher shade of this accent chair adds the right amount of warmth and sophistication to the grayed background of this space. It adds warmth to the stark white and moody gray color palette.

Doesn’t this vase full of flowers feel like a lit up lamp. Its adding that much needed dash of sparkle and organic feel to this neutral palette .

Yellow is a natural choice for kitchens. It warms up not just traditional but contemporary kitchens as well. The accent wall adds the warm and whimsical color to the neutral color palette. Black stools and floating white shelves contrast well against this bright sunshine hue.

Gray always gets a new lease of life on pairing with yellow. The cool color is nicely balanced by the warm yellow hue in this contemporary bedroom.

For those who prefer paler mellower yellows. This is almost like a soft neutral. Paler versions work well in traditional spaces. Its a soothing and serene palette to relax in a bedroom.

Cheery yellow is an apt choice for kids’ spaces as its gender neutral and also so invigorating for the little ones. Colors always help stimulate their creative abilities.

Notice how yellow is making the frames of these pictures pop on these soft pink walls. Pink and yellow are like natural allies. They always work well together.

Yellow and blue is a classic color combination which can never go wrong. Its is especially appealing when combined with sophisticated navy. It gives the much needed maturity to the vibrant yellow.

Yellow is a nice color choice for exteriors as well. The earthen tone of yellow blends well with the surroundings and is so warm and inviting. Stark white window surrounds provide the contrast. This Spanish style of architecture combines red clay roof tiles, ocher paint finish, wrought iron railings and white bands in an appealing and pleasing manner.

Hope this inspires you to consider this cozy, vibrant and versatile hue in your deco

Happy decorating with sunshine yellow!

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