Color style for 2009 draws inspiration from both nature and nurture. With increasing numbers of homeowners remaining in place, many are searching for options to refresh and reinvigorate their living spaces. By simply changing the paint color in a room, all spaces in the home become reinvention candidates.

“Key drivers for 2009 color choices include aspirations that create a comfortable and tranquil home environment coupled with a return to authentic and sustainable materials. In contrast, lively color use and bold patterns will find their place as an alternative to more sedate living areas,” Debbie Zimmer, paint and color expert from Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute (PQI) said. She also revealed the upcoming 2009 paint hues along with potential rooms for incorporation and decorative effects.

Menswear

Like a warm argyle or paisley sweater, consumers increased their yearning for artisanship and authentic materials like those found in “Menswear”. Menswear allows for a more traditional use of hues than recently seen such as navy blue, “leather-like” brown and rich grey.

“Texture-like” finishes and decorative techniques are also important to this palette. Incorporating herringbone and argyle paint patterns provides a focal point in living and family rooms.

Color recommendations: grey, navy blue, brown and black

Decorative effects: argyle, herringbone and pinstripes

Weather or Not!

Our eco-consciousness continues to expand and “Weather or Not!” glances upward for inspiration. This palette takes a cue from the continually changing skies and provides the homeowner with colors represented at sunrise or sunset resulting in a shift from the more expected botanical hues.

While suitable for all areas of the home, these combinations are an especially good choice for bathrooms, bedrooms and family living spaces.

Color recommendations: Dusty purple, deep blue, bronze metallics and rosy pink

Decorative effects: Large, dramatic geometric patterns incorporating metallic finishes

What's in Bloom?

Consumers’ increased desire for healthy and sustainable locally grown fruits and vegetables provides fresh inspiration for “What’s in Bloom”. Another twist on the “green” movement is inspired by fresh hues including citrus green, mango and lemon yellow.

Not just a one season offering, “What’s in Bloom” also derives inspiration from fresh fall produce such as pumpkin orange and apple red. “What’s in Bloom” is ripe for use in a child’s bedroom, playroom and kitchens. Use in closets and pantry areas to provide an unanticipated pop of color.

Color Recommendations: citrus green, mango, apple red, lemon yellow and pumpkin orange

Decorative Effects: Black as an accent color on trim or doors provides an interesting and unexpected frame for the What’s in Bloom color palette.