Decor

Pantone color of 2020: Classic Blue – of calm, comfort and character

It is that time of the year again when Pantone Colour Institute heralds’ global trends, offers colour directives and announces the colour of the year, a much-awaited announcement for most industries in the décor and lifestyle space.  Well, the colour that ushers in the new decade aka 2020 is 19-4052 Classic Blue.    A ubiquitous colour that instantly conjures images of the sky at dusk, placid waters or even perfectly ripened blue berries, this one brings in a feeling of confidence, stability and reliability.

Pic courtesy Pepperfry
Pic courtesy Pepperfry

This solid indigo hue is synonymous with a sense of credibility and consistency that is much needed in the present times.  With a timeless appeal, this is a colour that is intriguing, enigmatic and yet resonates with most people. “It is colour you can depend on and has a universal appeal. An attractive shade that is a symbol of understated elegance and sophistication, classic blue has the quality of providing tranquil yet peppy vibes to any space” says Hemil Parikh, Founder, Elysium Abodes LLP.

Classic Blue in homes: ideas aplenty

Enduring and therapeutic, this colour holds the potential to infuse confidence and character into your interiors. Whether you are setting up a new home or refurbishing your existing one, there are numerous ways to incorporate this colour into your space, right from curtains, accessories, furniture, soft furnishings, wallpaper, light fixtures and even paint.

Classic blue cushions
Classic blue cushions

Spruce up your living room with a few hints of classic blue in the form of upholstery, cushions, artefacts like blue pottery and porcelain or even a classic blue mid-century modern sofa which works perfectly against a bright white wall. “If you are scared to experiment with the colour at a large scale, then just add some glam quotient by treating your windows in classic blue.  If you are a minimalist, opt for a dichromatic scheme by picking curtains in a neutral shade and pair it with sheer curtains in classic blue” says Saloni Khosla, Head of Bespoke, Pepperfry.  

Classic blue in homes
Classic blue in homes

For bedrooms, you can choose to layer it up.  Classic blue throw blankets, pillows and rugs add a pop of colour to the background while a blue lampshade will help in setting the tone of the space.  A classicblue chest of drawers or side table can also add a dash of vibrancy.  When it comes to the kitchen, classic blue cutlery and dishes can add just the right amount of style and panache.  “Kitchen cabinets in classic blue lend a chic feel when paired with marble counters while tiling your floor in ultra-marine will have a playful edge” adds Hemil Parikh.

Pic courtesy Pepperfry
Pic courtesy Pepperfry

Balconies too can be made vibrant spaces with tiny classic blue planters paired with oversized floor cushions. A rich classic blue faux-wicker sofa along with a coffee table can help add to the rejuvenating vibes.  In case you are not sure where to start from, start with the main door! True-blue doors always have a unique appeal and is known to enhance a home’s curb appeal.

Classic blue sofa: Pic courtesy Pepperfry
Classic blue sofa: Pic courtesy Pepperfry

Colour combinations and tipsf

While pairing classic blue with whites and neutral hues works conventionally well, you can also opt to pair it with shades like rich greens, dramatic reds, orange and charcoals.  If you want to create an unusual colour palette, pair it with greys, teals and yellows.   “You can match wooden or white laminates with classic blue to break the monotony of the dark swatch and stop it from over saturating the room. Colours like walnut and oak work great with classic blue” says Basshobe Majumdar , VP – Design, HomeLane.  One thing to keep in mind is to not use classic blue for small rooms with less natural light or spaces meant to be cosy like a library, media room or den.   Airy rooms and white lights best complement this colour.

Styling with classic blue
Styling with classic blue

This article was published originally in The Tribune.

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