Pantone Color Institute’s 2018 Color of the Year…

The Pantone Color Institute has forecasted their next global color trend; all hail Ultra Violet!  While we were personally ecstatic about the 2017 color “Greenery” because of its representation within the MasterPLAN culture, Pantone does give several reasons behind their 2018 selection.

The Executive Director of the Institute says, “We are living in a time that requires inventiveness and imagination.  It is this kind of creative inspiration that is indigenous to Pantone 18-3838 Ultra Violet, a blue-based purple that takes our awareness and potential to a higher level.  From exploring new technologies and the greater galaxy, to artistic expression and spiritual reflection, intuitive Ultra Violet lights the way what is yet to come.”

As we all know, purple is made of the two primary colors red and blue.  Perhaps giving light to the aforementioned quote and our current political condition; this color brings two utterly opposed hues together perfectly timed to create something new, something harmonious, something that elicits hope.  Hope and harmony are two passions each one of us should take with us, pushing through this seemingly over-stimulated world and finding solace in a new year.

As a color steeped in history, purple was known as the color of royalty, wealth and power.  Being hard to produce the color, except through an extensive process involving snails of all things, affluent members of society were the only ones able to purchase the dye.  Stemming from regal exclusivity, all shades of purple transcended themselves to represent spirituality and grace, conceivably leading us to the deeper notion that this color could visually symbolize spiritual reflection.

It is said that violet subconsciously promotes harmony of mind and emotion, directly correlating to mental stability, balance, peace of mind, resulting in inspiration, transformation and the pursuit of creative endeavors.  Was Jimi Hendrix or Prince inspired or influenced by this color?  Hard to say, and that may be a stretch, but there is no denying the ingenuity of Purple Haze or the harmony of Purple Rain that has affected the listeners at one point or another.  Artists, musicians, poets, writers and composers alike find inspiration in this hue, known for its revelation, ambition and extravagance.

While this color represents a figurative reflection of what we lack in our present and what we should strive for in our future, does it mean anything for the design world to come?  Should Ultra Violet just be something to fall by trend or should it be tangible?  With the cool and calm stability of blue and the strong, fierce energy of red, the combination that is Ultra Violet possesses both cool and warm properties that could compliment just about any space…when used with discretion.

Because this color is such a deeply saturated and rich tone, you will find that a little will go a long way.  Punches of purple throughout a home with neutral or light-colored walls will give off a playfully colorful yet elegant aesthetic.  Accessorizing your outdoor living spaces with purple tones will also call for a minimalist approach.  Since purple is rare in nature, you don’t want to go overboard making the space feel overexaggerated or unwelcoming.  Plants such as lilac, lavender, orchid or purple petunias are praised for their delicate qualities and sweet aesthetic.  Incorporating these plantings into your outdoor living space will surely bring a collective calm.  If wanting to add pop of purple within your hardscape, opt to include this color in little touches like an accent rug or throw pillows.

When presented with this color of the year, some people may just see the color purple while others see a more profound philosophy when examining the same swatch.  Whether you choose to believe the deep intention behind this Pantone color or not, it’s hard to argue that it isn’t a resonant and powerful color.  The richness and quality of the hue alone seems to breathe the air of self-assured ambition and leadership.  Well, whichever way you look at it, you are almost guaranteed to see it around often this year until we are introduced to the Pantone color of 2019!

• Does this color of the year inspire you to take the first steps into reimagining your own outdoor living space or are you looking for someone to help you realize the full potential for your property?  MasterPLAN Outdoor Living would love to partner with you to discover all options to fit your home, family and lifestyle!  MasterPLAN specializes in creating seamless indoor to outdoor transitions, so you can love your outdoor living space as much as you do your favorite indoor room.  Working together to create the perfect outdoor space will make you fall in love with your home all over again.  When you are ready to start the conversation, reach out to MasterPLAN; we are excited to transform your outdoor dreams into your reality!