Looking to decorate? The colour of the year is in...

Looking to decorate? The colour of the year is in... hero
Pantone 18-750, aka Viva Magenta, is described by the esteemed colour institute as ‘an unconventional shade for an unconventional time’ and, unveiling the 2023 colour of the year crown, Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, said, “It’s brave, it’s fearless, it depicts optimism and joy – and we are all greatly in need of that.”

Somewhere between warm and cool, Pantone suggests adding a splash of the crimson red with a velvet couch or lacquered wall, or as an accent with a light fixture, canvas or floral arrangement.

Emma Deterding, founder and creative director of Kelling Designs, an international interior design company based in Norfolk and London, said: 

“Pantone’s colour of the year, Viva Magenta, is a bold and bright hue. It’s an uplifting, energising and warming colour and will bring exactly that to the home. Something we all need a bit of in the current climate, this rich pinkish-red shade will bring joy, life and a positive energy to any living space, whether you go full-on maximalist or pair it with more muted, neutral tones. 

"A colour that is both modern and traditional at the same time, you can pair it with warm whites, ivories and neutrals for a toned down feel, using accents on soft furnishings and accessories in magenta tones to add pops of colour and warmth. This way, you can create little pockets of interest around a room that will draw the eye to where you really want to, whilst being a bit rebellious and allowing your personality and individual style to shine through.

"If, however, you are more daring, then why not create a moody and atmospheric space that layers various shades of magenta, pinks and reds to add depth, dimension and make a real statement? Opt for rich velvets, leathers and bolder shades and add accents of metallics and brass to bring in that luxury, indulgent feel.”

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Laura Clark is an interior stylist with Home Stagers which specialises in interior and show home design:

"Using this vibrant colour in textiles is a great way to add a bold, but warm pop of colour to a scheme with sumptuous cushions or throws. Viva Magenta is also a fantastic colour for accessories, such as candles, which can be used as a striking addition to a dining or coffee table. Pair the crimson red with earthy, rustic tones and textures to create depth, interest and a dramatic contrast within your design.”

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Sara Clarke, a home buyer for The Granary, Jarrold’s homes and interiors store, added to this:

“Though it is a descendent of red, it has interesting cool notes especially when compared to more traditional or carroty shades and, as such, this wonderful shade of pink can work in a number of different style of interiors.

"While we love a monochromatic look and think magenta with other shades of pink would be a statement, try opting for strong magenta accessories in neutral settings to add depth to any room.”

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