Maybe it’s the economy, maybe it’s the housing crunch, or perhaps it’s the environmental push but 2010 is bringing out a slate of new colors for interior decorating that are more exciting and inspired than the past few years. These colors may be the cutting edge of a new decade defining look so hop on that train before it pulls out of the station and you can be an interior decorating trend setter.
Purple/Lavender
In the past purple has been used very sparingly in interior decorating and lavender was reserved for little girls’ bedrooms but in 2010 this is changing dramatically. Purple and lavender and any related shade in between is bursting onto the decorating scene.
This color has often been associated with royalty and luxuriance but has lost a lot of that connection in the past years and suddenly its back. Decorate a room with lavender on purple on maroon and instantly it’s a winning combination this season. Accessorize purple hued room with metallics and rich fabrics to carry the color to a higher level.
Pink
Another color that has been reserved for little girls’ rooms in the past has really taken the decorating world by storm is pink, pink on pink to be exact. A bold saturated pink sets the stage for a room that is not girly but strong and feminine. Using a statement pink is also warm and sophisticated. And the best way to set off a deep pink is by pairing it with a softer pastel pink and a medium tone that gives layers of depth and contrast to the look.
Pulling from the purple trend, a little lavender can be mixed in as well to provide a bit of contrast that is pleasing yet pops for the eye. Accessorize with metallics, and sharp edges with smooth lines. Bring strength into the color scheme to avoid giving it a baby soft feel.
Soft Greens
The popularity of green is no surprise as it reflects on the environmental trends and the concern everyone currently has about the economy but the green colors that are pulling ahead of the pack are soft, diluted greens. Jewel tones and deep forest greens are not even being used to accessorize the soft greens so stay away from these saturated hues.
Look for greens that are so soft they border on yellow. In fact, pairing a soft green with a similarly toned yellow is a great way to go. To add interest and depth mix in a very pastel turquoise or robin’s egg blue, the key is to make all of these colors as washed out as possible, creating a soothing palette. Accessorize with muted or brushed metallics, deep woods and wrought iron to add a bit of force to a soft decorating scheme.
Hopefully these colors won’t become as staid as the avocado green and harvest gold of the '70s, but they’re definitely making a splash that is nearly as big. 2010’s interior decorating color trends may be the first step in defining the look of the future.
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