TRENDSHot hues in home colourBy Sahar Majid “Colour has amazing powers within a home. The correctly applied colour scheme
can turn a large room with a high ceiling into a warm cozy space”, says Madeeha Mansoor, Colour Consultant, Berger Paints, Pakistan. Globalisation has brought the world into our living rooms. So why not apply it on the walls? Multi-cultural
colours in rich, dynamic
shades are the most favourite shades in home colour for the current year. Whether it's a bedroom awash in purple, a brown living room set off by a contrasting accent wall, or a kitchen painted orange, bright colours are the flavour of the year. “In 2006, we are seeing an increase in warm pastels, especially in the aqua and blue family. We are also seeing darker, more sophisticated colours accented by mid-tones. Various shades of fresh orange are also in”, reveals Madiha. “Finally, we are also seeing a trend towards a very earthy natural look, picking up on the colours from things found in nature like stones, trees, bamboo, terracotta clay and seashells”, she adds. Nowadays, people are not only embracing more colours, they are also embracing texture. According to Madeeha’s observation, texture in fabrics is very popular these days. Damask, nubby, beads, embroidery, crewels, velvets, silks, laser cuts, trims and cording are making fabric more interesting than ever. Whether the texture is found in drapery, bedding, or furniture, it can have a profound impact on the room. “Kitchens and bathrooms are also getting the colour treatment in 2006 with a trend-setting palette. This year's kitchen and bath colours cover grays, pale greens, icy blues and dusty lavenders”, explains Madeeha. When creating a colour scheme for a whole house, let the trends in colour be your guide; but remain true to what you are most comfortable with. “Take a look at the new colours coming out this year, and determine if you can live with them on a daily basis”, feels the colour expert. By shifting the colours slightly, making the combinations more complex, you can make them much more acceptable and sophisticated. Colour can be manipulated as the powerful ingredient that may be used to create a fashionably cohesive open styled home interior without investing a small fortune. With the increasing number of new and remodelled homes reflecting open floor plans, carefully considered colour schemes symbolise an integral part of the ambience within the home.