color of the year

The Pantone Color Institute announced the 2013 Color of the Year:

17-5641 Emerald.

Pantone describes the choice as:

"Lively. Radiant. Lush… A color of elegance and beauty that enhances our sense of well-being, balance and harmony."

This vivid green replaces last year's color, Tangerine Tango.  The energetic orange was 2012, now we have the color of prosperity and growth for the upcoming year.

"For more than a decade, Pantone's Color of the Year has influenced product development and purchasing decisions in multiple industries, including fashion, home and industrial design, as well as product packaging and graphic design," the news release said.

The bold emerald color has been growing in popularity recently and I'm looking forward to seeing more of this fresh green hue throughout design.  What do you think of the new "it" color for 2013?

white or white

This week 15" inches of snow fell in Minneapolis.  A winter-wonderland remains the backdrop for many months.  The season shifts to unique outdoor sports, snowmen, warm comfort foods, hot drinks, and cool winter accessories! 
Everything is white outside…hundreds of tints and shades.  

Clients often request "white" for architectural finishes and details, not realizing that there are so many options.

Some tips:  Modern interiors look dramatic in pure, crisp whites with bright contrasts.  In traditional spaces, antique whites best match the period.  For a casual atmosphere, shades of cream and neutrals create a relaxed vibe.

Start with the perfect white...then bring on the color!