From the International Builders' Show to the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show, Pantone's 2020 Color of the Year, Classic Blue, is everywhere. Though for the traditional home builder/renovator it may seem a daunting task, integrating this bold color is simple and will seamlessly bring a splash of serenity into your home.
In December of 2019, Pantone released their 2020 Color of the Year: PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue. Who knew the world would be in such desperate need of some calm and relaxation come the New Year? With all the panic of a global pandemic, everyone is feeling the effects in some way or another. We all have our own way of coping; however, there is one small, relatively effortless change that everyone can make in their home that is scientifically proven to reduce stress and bring some peace to even the most fretful mind.
According to the well-researched science of color, blue is a color of the mind. It has great soothing properties and promotes productivity. So whether you need to quiet the wave of anxiety that has emerged with the current state of our world, or be more productive while working from home, your space might benefit from a smidge of Pantone's Classic Blue.
It is up to you if you want to break the bank and replace all your worldly possessions with a blue counterpart or you want to save some money and sew yourself new blue pillow covers. There are an abundance of ways to bring a bit of 2020's Color of the Year into your spaces and we are here to help.
Incorporating a colorful backsplash in your kitchen or a niche in your bathroom is an easy way to brighten the room. Surrounding a bold tile with softer or more neutral tones allows the blue to pop, without overwhelming a space. One might even add a contrasting hardware finish to give your blue a particular panache. If you are more the adventurous type, you could consider a patterned blue tile to give your room that unique flair that encapsulates YOU!
Regardless, blue tiles are flooding the home renovation markets. 2019 and 2020 have seen a resurgence of colored accent walls, backsplashes, and bathrooms and we are loving it. From a simple rectangular tile, to geometric shapes, to ornate prints, the absolute abundance of blues can be overwhelming. So while some may know exactly what tile they want to refresh their rooms, others may need someone with experience to show them the way. Our expert product specialists at Earth Elements are always available to assist in any way necessary.
Historically speaking, people tend to stay away from colored lighting. But why is that? Is it the fear that color can go out of style? Is it that straying from the norm is uncomfortable? Whatever it may be, this year's Pantone color, Classic Blue, will never go out of style if done right. Furthermore, just because you have always had silver or gold light fixtures, does not mean that you should avoid an entire sector of home finishes simply because you are not accustomed to it.
Yes, blue light fixtures may seem formidable, but here are a couple options for the hesitant remodeler.
1. Do not go overboard with other colors and patterns in the space you intend on adding the light fixtures to. Neutral colors will allow the fixtures to stand out without being too much.
2. If the intensity of Classic Blue is not what you are looking for, tone it back. There are many variations of this blue. Lighten up the shade a bit more and it will not come across quite as bold.
An if you love colors and patterns like myself, go ahead an experiment with complimentary colors like oranges and greens. You may even toss in a few patterns to really seal the deal!
Whichever approach you decide to take, know that you local Earth Elements is always open and willing to help.
Whether you're doing a full home build, or simply need new appliances, there are many options to choose from. The classic kitchen includes all stainless steel appliances; however, if the opportunity to upgrade your appliances is open, then why not take the time to add some color to a space that is normally characterized by neutral colors? In previous years, colored appliances have made a resurgence. However, the colors of the past have been produced by retro-inspired manufacturers like Smeg and Big Chill. Now, while these old-school appliances are very cool, they don't suit every kitchen. What about the modern home? New, high-quality manufacturers have started coming out with their variations on colored appliances. Whether that is a response to a higher demand for something other than the standard, stainless steel, black or white, it is unclear. What is clear is the fatigue of standard appliance finishes. This year, it is clear that Pantone's Classic Blue had an impact as even Viking, known for their highly durable cooking ranges, has begun to produce a gorgeous blue finish available on many of their products.
So if you hope to infuse your food with some calm and relaxation by way of new, Classic Blue kitchen appliances, or simply imbue serenity into your socks with a new washer/dryer, there are a plethora of blue options to explore.
