Design Notes
The start of a new year brings renewed energy and inspiration—especially for those in the world of design. One of the most anticipated announcements each January is the unveiling of the Color of the Year by leading paint and design companies. These carefully selected hues don’t just influence interior design; they ripple across industries such as fashion, furnishings, and lifestyle trends.
Each color choice reflects broader cultural moods, shifting lifestyles, and emerging design movements. As designers and homeowners look for meaningful ways to refresh their spaces, Color of the Year selections often spark common questions—how to use them, where they work best, and whether they’ll stand the test of time.
In this post, we’re taking a closer look at three standout color choices for 2025 and offering practical, stylish ideas for incorporating these trending tones into your home design.
Pantone: Ultimate Gray and Illuminating
“A marriage of color conveying a message of strength and hopefulness that is both enduring and uplifting.”
This year, Pantone took a unique approach by selecting two Colors of the Year—Ultimate Gray and Illuminating, a vibrant yellow. Their choice was inspired by a collective desire for stability and optimism—a “message of positivity” intended to uplift and reassure.
Yellow has long been associated with joy, energy, and sunshine, making it a beautiful accent in any room. Whether used in textiles, artwork, or décor, Illuminating instantly brightens a space and evokes warmth and cheer. Ultimate Gray, on the other hand, offers a grounded, timeless foundation. Much like stone, it symbolizes strength, resilience, and dependability.
Together, these colors strike a thoughtful balance—creating spaces that feel both welcoming and enduring. Consider pairing the two in:
-
Kitchens: Yellow bar stools or a tiled backsplash paired with gray cabinetry or countertops.
-
Living Rooms: Gray upholstered furniture with yellow accent pillows or throws.
-
Bathrooms: Soft gray walls with yellow towels or accessories for a fresh and clean look.
Want to dive deeper into Pantone’s selection? Read more about their inspiration here.
Benjamin Moore: Aegean Teal
“Intriguing, balanced, and deeply soothing”
Blue is a color that evokes a sense of calm wherever it is present, creating thoughts of the ocean and spa days. Their goal is to create an atmosphere of familiarity and comfort, two essential elements for the home. Life can be hectic and stressful, which means it is essential to have areas in the home where we can unwind and relax. Blue has the ability to help us relax, so consider adding a touch of calm in your home through the use of Aegean Teal. Read about some of the other colors Benjamin Moore recommends to complement their color of the year.
Sherwin-Williams: Urbane Bronze
“Capturing that simple sophistication every space is searching for”
Sherwin-Williams chose to take some advice from nature and go back to a color that is warm and tranquil. This is a great choice since many want to build more eco-friendly homes and incorporate that natural feel into their interior design. This color works well with an array of hues and shades as well as design elements such as lighting, decor items, and furniture since it is considered a neutral color. If you enjoy nature and want to create a design that takes you back to a simpler time, this color of the year is for you. Read more about why Sherwin-Williams made Urbane Bronze their choice.
How To Incorporate The Color Of The Year
Knowing the Color of the Year is one thing—but figuring out how to thoughtfully incorporate it into your home is where the real creativity begins. Whether you’re drawn to a bold hue or a more subdued tone, there are numerous stylish and approachable ways to incorporate these trending colors into your space.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Accent Walls
You don’t need to repaint an entire room to make an impact. A single accent wall can add depth and create a stunning focal point. Use it to highlight architectural features or to define a particular area in an open-concept space.
2. Decor Accesories
Small décor items are an easy and flexible way to add color. Think throw pillows, area rugs, vases, artwork, or even a patterned lampshade. These pieces are affordable, seasonal, and easy to swap out as your style evolves.
3. Statement Furniture
Incorporate the Color of the Year through statement furniture pieces. A gray sofa or bold yellow accent chair adds sophistication and energy to your space. Even built-in shelving with a colored backdrop can make a subtle yet impactful statement.
4. Window Treatments
Often overlooked, window treatments offer another opportunity to layer in color. From soft, neutral drapes to bold, patterned valances, the right window treatments can frame your space beautifully and pull a color story together.
5. Front Door
One of the simplest yet most striking updates? Paint your front door. It’s a fun, low-commitment way to add personality to your home’s exterior—and a splash of color that sets the tone before anyone even steps inside.
These are just a few of the many ways you can incorporate the Color of the Year into your home. Whether you’re going bold or subtle, the possibilities are endless—and always customizable to your style.
Imagine if technology could offer more than just inspiration. What if it could revolutionize how we design our homes—making the process simpler, more efficient, and infinitely more creative? That is IT-driven home styling, where practical solutions meet the digital landscape to unlock possibilities and create effortless home styling. It’s not just about following trends; it’s about leveraging technology to simplify the design process, empower our creativity, and bring our visions to life with ease.
Walker WoodworkingWelcome to a space where chaos turns calm, and clutter finds its way to clarity. You’re in the right place if you’ve ever felt the overwhelming urge to conquer the chaos lurking in your kitchen and bath areas. In this blog, we’ll embark on a journey together, exploring the art and science of kitchen and bath organization—all in pursuit of a clutter-free home. From smart decluttering tips to ingenious storage solutions, join me as we uncover the secrets to transforming your kitchen and bath into sanctuaries of order, harmony, and simplicity.
Choosing the right color for a room can profoundly impact its atmosphere and style. For those seeking a serene and elegant feel, look no further than Sherwin Williams’ “Upward.” This light, dreamy shade of blue effortlessly imbues any space with a sense of tranquility and sophistication. No wonder it’s the color of the year. Whether used for cabinetry or walls, “Upward” elevates interiors with its subtle yet impactful charm. Its versatility makes it popular among homeowners and designers, as it pairs beautifully with a wide range of colors and textures. From modern to traditional, “Upward” is a timeless choice that can adapt to any style. So why not transform your home with the soothing and refined energy of Sherwin-Williams’ “Upward”?
nterior Design Trends for 2024 – As we enter the new year, the design world continues to evolve, offering a beautiful fusion of contemporary and traditional elements that redefine how we experience our living spaces. For interior design enthusiasts—especially those planning kitchen and bathroom renovations—staying informed on the latest trends is key to creating stylish, functional homes. In this blog, we’ll explore the top Interior Design Trends for 2024 that are expected to make a lasting impact and inspire transformations throughout the home.
Walker WoodworkingRegarding home design, every homeowner desires a space that exudes beauty, durability, and functionality. While numerous options are available, tile is one versatile and timeless material that can effortlessly transform any room. Often associated with kitchens and bathrooms, tile is no longer limited to those areas. This blog will explore the potential of incorporating tile throughout your home, lending elegance and sophistication to every room.
Walker Woodworking
Walker Woodworking