Pantone's Colour of the Year - Classic Blue

Pantone has recently revealed 2020's Colour of the Year and it could not be more appropriate. We are bringing calm, confidence, and connection into this new decade and no colour screams that more than ''Classic Blue''. In these busy times, when technology takes over and can sometimes be too overwhelming for us to process, we tend to gravitate towards colours that bring us a sense of peace, clarity and relaxation so it's only natural that Classic Blue is the chosen aesthetic.

Classic Blue is a timeless hue that's suggestive of the sky at dusk and is a favourite for many interior designers and homeowners due to its calming properties and versatility. CEO of Greeff Christie's International Real Estate Mike Greeff advises that this versatile colour should be used in the ''main living areas of the home'' as it evokes a sense of ''homeliness, luxury and comfort''. He further advises that ''Classic Blue can also make for an eye-catching feature wall in the home because as its name states, it's a classic hue that has been and will remain, a trending colour''.

There are so many ways for you to incorporate this colour into your home - whether you want to spruce up your current place, or you've just bought a new home - this shade of blue will suit everyone's sense of style.

If you have no clue where to start, don't worry, we've got you covered with a few tips and tricks on how to use this classic in your home.

1. Use Classic Blue accents to add that pop of colour

If you're not as daring when it comes to decorating your home, start slowly by adding pops of Classic Blue in and around your home. This way, you will be able to see a change, without it feeling over-saturated. The beauty of this colour is that it goes well with almost everything so choose a handful of accessories and place them where you like and see the difference it makes.

Tip! Try to choose an accent or two for every room in the house.

Reception areas and Bedroom Accessories

• Accent rugs
• End tables
• Decorative vases
• Throw pillows
• Bold coffee table book

Bathroom Accessories:

• Soaps/Soap dispensers
• Hand towels
• Shower curtains
• Bathroom mats

Trick: A Classic Blue-painted vanity can add some depth and variety to an otherwise neutral bathroom.

2. Opt for large pieces of furniture and accessories in an open-plan space

Interior designers suggest adding Classic Blue to a room in the form of a large piece of furniture, such as a statement-making couch or an area rug.

When people are inspired by one single color, like we are with the Classic Blue this year, they should try playing around with different textures and materials of that same colour to add more variety and style. For example, a Classic Blue velvet couch would be the perfect addition to a living area, contrasted with a textured rug. Using a variety of materials and textures will show off the versatility of the colour without it looking too ''mix-and-match''.

3. Mix it up

Classic Blue is a rich shade but it's not one to be feared. Because this is such a versatile hue, it complements almost every colour so don't be afraid to pair it with a pop of mustard or a warm mahogany. Take a study/TV room for example, you can choose to have two Classic Blue chairs that's placed under a wall featuring bold pieces and adjacent to that, a bookshelf that's popping with colour. 

Tip: Classic Blue goes well with almost every colour but it pairs best with the following:

• Pastel colours: these add a touch of softness to the dramatic blue, giving the space a perfect balance of masculine and feminine.
• Grays and whites: Cool grays and whites impart a sense of elegance that just adds to the richness of Classic Blue
• Greens and yellows for a touch of modernity: incorporate yellow tones with metallic accents or warm metal hardware. Greens also pair well with blue and act as a connection to nature.

Although Classic Blue is a rich, luxurious colour, it is also a fairly dark, eye-catching shade so make sure to use it in moderation. Find the balance by choosing how bold or understated you want to go. Going bold means using larger pieces, like couches or feature walls to add some drama to the room. An understated look means you will be using small-to-medium sized accents such as artwork, throws and even side tables to add a beautiful pop of color without having it dominate the space.

Pantone Color Institute could not have chosen a better colour for 2020. It represents everything the new decade holds - confidence, luxury, serenity and sophistication. Add a dash of this hue to your home and watch the change unfold.