As we collectively ride out this period of relative isolation because of the coronavirus pandemic, it’s safe to say all of us are looking for happy distractions. For me, I enjoy thinking about colors and textures and the new trends that will emerge in the coming year.
Back in April I sat in on a webinar presented by Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute. The Presentation, titled “Innovation: The Key to Success Through Color and Design” did not disappoint. The emphasis of the Pantone color forecast was centered on Innovation in this era of technological advances, societal shifts and changing attitudes. Innovation in not just color combinations but also surface treatments.
As we move into the second half of the year, one questions remains on my mind. Will a worldwide pandemic and the ripples of social transformation impact our color preferences?
PANTONEVIEW Home + Interiors 2021
For 2021 interior design, Pantone has released 9 palettes.
Folkloric draws upon rustic textures and speaks to the poetry of pre-tech life and long-forgotten traditions. It combines woodsy textures with the rich colors of deep-dyed yarns. It speaks to the mythic, genuine authenticity and new forms of folk art. Focus on the handmade, crafts in surface, materials, patterns and styles. It features deeply saturated authentic colors that look handmade (not like they were made by chemicals) including indigos and fern greens.

Terra Cotta reflects the natural baked earth and the need for warmth in nature essential to humankind. Its rustic inspiration is casually convivial. It relates to concern for the environment and sustainable practices. Terra Cotta embraces natural fibers, crafts and the support of local artisans. The versatility of this cordial shade and surrounding variations makes for perfect companions to warm taupe, mushroom, sand, peach and quiet blue or when uniquely punctuated by Dusky Citron and Lilac Sachet.
Terra Cotta is already trending because of it’s warm and grounding nature. Expect this trend to stay strong into 2021.

Composed orchestrates a blended harmony of neutrals and pastels with cool greys or tones of darker blues. The balanced classics are timeless colors that bring us together. It’s a relaxed, comfortable palette that blurs genders with colors that appeal to males or females. The clean and simple contemporary styling is easy to live with as balance is the key message.

Vivify represents a completely different side of the palette: positivity and cheerfulness in a fresh new modernity. Since color influences how you feel, Vivify stimulates happiness and puts a smile on your face. It conveys a youthful, upbeat spirit in sunny colors with contrasts of black and white.

“I’m not a forecaster who says this is the one thing everybody is going to be doing,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. “We recognize there are different strokes for different folks, and what may work for some people, like softer colors, there are others who might say they want a little more excitement in their surroundings; something a little more whimsical and fun.”
Fleur recalls old world glamour and explores past luxuries. A more formal palette, or in an outdated term, ‘upstairs’ styling, Fleur looks to new romance, passion and intimacy. It combines lush reds, deep rose tones, a touch of gold and accents in dark polished forest greens. Even though today consumers are living in more leisurely clothes, this palette looks ahead to a time when they will dress up again for elegant events.

Synergy is immersed in nature—peaceful, quiet and harmonious. Its nurturing, healing heartbeat includes soft colors in moderation from yellow greens to blue greens. Synergy expresses collaboration and a minimalist inspiration, yet there is drama evident in contrasts of light and dark. Think spa colors and an atmosphere that inspires you to take a deep breath and calm down.

Quixotic speaks of multi-cultural influences of art and fashion. A new sophistication based on adventurous tonal combinations, Quixotic appeals to intrigue and complexity with strong orange-toned reds with blues and black accents in jagged patterns and quirky splashes.

Polychrome is a complex palette with novel combinations of similar colors. It draws from global historic architecture with intricate patterning and details. From painted surfaces and architectural details to high-end fabrics or everyday objects, this palette opens the creative possibilities unleashed in
combinations of Plum, Sheer Lilac and Milky Blue, Fuchsia and Quartz Pink,
or the exotic possibility of Dijon-enriched Spicy Mustard and the rich chocolate flavored taste of Mocha Mousse.

Galaxies looks to the stars. Our fascination with orbiting in outer space, light and technology is expressed in metallic finishes and blends. Galactic inspiration appears in dramatic contrasts of light and dark—gold, silver, blues and purples as stars streak across the dark skies. Glistening products in shiny finishes and icy colors sparkled.

It’s hard to say if people will gravitate towards calming hues or more optimistic palettes in the coming year. To learn more about Pantone and their direction for product or merchandising trends, visit them HERE.
Wow, something for everyone here! I’m always drawn to blues and greens and anything that combines the two, so the synergy palette has my heart!
Thanks, Janet. I like that one, too.
Lots of color inspiration here. I love color!
It will be interesting to see if the predictions are correct, Christina. Thanks for commenting!
I adore every single palette. They are so uplifting which is something we are all wanting now!
Thanks, Lisa. I always enjoy making them every year.
Lots of great inspiration! While I am personally drawn to one more than the others, there is certainly something for everyone here!
Lots of inspiration from color to texture to personal style! Great post, happy to see Pantone reaching out in so many ways.
Thanks, Amy! As a color expert, I’m always interested in your perspective.