Every year, Pantone chooses a colour they believe will define the year. A colour that will set trends, inspire designs, and create conversations. 2020's colour is as familiar as your favourite pair of denim jeans. "Classic Blue is a solid and dependable blue hue", says Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute. "We can always rely on it."
If you want to get creative with this timeless colour, you're in the right place. Sandton-based Interior Designer, Blake Matthew, is all about Classic Blue. He reveals how you can use the "it" colour in your home.
Blake, what do you think about this year's colour?
I love blue, it has always been a favourite of mine. I usually like my darker shades of blue as they work well with accents of gold, burnt orange, and mustards. However, this year's Classic Blue adds a bit of a contemporary freshness which still works well in contrast to those warmer hues.
Why should people decorate with Classic Blue?
Classic Blue signifies peace, coolness, stillness, serenity, and calmness. When decorating your home, you want to create a space where you can escape your busy life and just recharge. Bringing classic blue into your home will do this.
That sounds great. How can people bring this colour into their homes?
To create a balance in your home, my personal advice is to bring it in with your accents or décor pieces. Whether it is a vase, artwork on the wall, scatter cushions or maybe a throw, small elements can be incorporated without dominating your home. If you are brave and love a burst of colour, then painting an accent wall will do the trick. Be sure to still bring in some smaller pieces so that the room is balanced.
Can the colour work across seasons?
Yes, it definitely can. It all depends on the other colours or textures you incorporate into the space.
How would I use it all year round, Blake?
So for summer, you could use Classic Blue with accents of white, shades of yellow or green. These fresh colours will radiate coolness. When winter approaches, you can swap out the lighter colours and mix in some rich golds, burnt oranges and warm mustards. These will create warmth and depth but still maintain the calming factor.
Just to recap, what colours pair well with Classic Blue?
Definitely burnt oranges, mustards, emerald greens, rich golds and, of course, our faithful white if you want a simpler fresher look.
Classic Blue is a bold colour. What should people be careful not to do?
Stay away from using it on a large scale in your home. For example, your curtains, flooring, rugs, and chunky furniture. Keep to accent walls and décor accents.
Let's say I'm excited and want to jump on the colour trend. Where in Sandton can I look for Classic Blue decor pieces?
Sandton City and Kramerville have many beautiful décor stores that have incorporated the Classic Blue into their scheme this year. If there is something specific you are looking for, you can always approach an interior decorator or designer who will be able to assist and guide you.
Thanks for the advice, Blake. You're very passionate about Sandton. Why do you love the area?
Sandton is the hub for décor and design. We are close to all the amazing fabric stores, restaurants, décor stores and furniture outlets. The suburb is on-trend and offers inspiration at every corner.
With Classic Blue, you can tap into your imagination and create something beautiful. Century 21 has a number of Sandton properties for sale and rent which can be a fresh canvas for your Classic Blue ideas. If you're looking to list your home, we can give you advice on using the statement colour to impress sellers. Contact us today.