For the first time, world-renowned authority on color, Pantone, introduces two shades — Rose Quartz and Serenity — as the Pantone 2016 Color of the Year. Rose Quartz is a gentle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure. Serenity is weightless and airy, like the expanse of the blue sky above us, bringing feelings of relaxation even in turbulent times.

Om, or as I like to say, ‘Serenity now!’

Once you get over the feeling of baby nursery colors, they are quite soft and pretty.
As consumers seek mindfulness and well-being as an antidote to modern day stresses, welcoming colors that psychologically fulfill our yearning for reassurance and security are becoming more prominent. Joined together, Rose Quartz and Serenity demonstrate an inherent balance between a warmer embracing rose tone and the cooler tranquil blue, reflecting connection and wellness as well as a soothing sense of order and peace.

Symbiotic color selection

The prevalent combination of Rose Quartz and Serenity also challenges traditional perceptions of color association. We are experiencing a gender blur as it relates to fashion, which has in turn impacted color trends throughout all other areas of design. This more unilateral approach to color is coinciding with societal movements toward gender equality and fluidity, the consumer’s increased comfort with using color as a form of expression, a generation that has less concern about being typecast or judged and an open exchange of digital information that has opened our eyes to different approaches to color usage.

Pairings

Whether in soft or hard surface material, the pairing of Rose Quartz and Serenity brings calm and relaxation. Appealing in all finishes, matte, metallic and glossy, the engaging combo joins easily with other mid-tones including greens and purples, rich browns, and all shades of yellow and pink. Add in silver or hot bright colors for more splash and sparkle.

Feng shui

In feng shui, Rose Quartz is known as a healing crystal for attracting and keeping love and also used in an effort to heal heartbreak and disappointment. Pooled with Serenity, the combination is meant to evoke a harmonious feeling of tranquility and repose overall.

Benjamin Moore 2016 Color of the Year

Simply White is the Benjamin Moore color of the year. Pantone reflects colors for broader lines in both fashion and the home. Benjamin Moore is paint and white paint is classic, timeless yet not the easiest color to select. An interior space needs the right white based on natural lightening and room content.
For those who have a fear of color, or making the wrong selection, the right white will never go out of style. There is a reason white towels and sheets are so popular. They are not only safe, but look clean and crisp and are quite popular for staging homes for sale especially in the bathroom. It all reflects our current trend of simplifying our lives by de-cluttering.