Color Trends 

This year's color trends cover a range of moods and tastes. Sunbaked shades consist of earthy colors that appear to be scorched and weather beaten. The tropical assortment of colors showcase refreshing hues that are saturated with a fruity essence. Finally, the aquatic palette offers an ambience that exhibits a unique tranquility of appearance.

The aquatic grouping of colors help to create an 'escape within the home.' As "blues" heavily dominate the 2004 color palette, this expansive pool of color offers stunning examples of cool and soothing oceanic choices. Celestial blue, light aqua, seagrass, green haze and misty jade are but a few examples of hues that create a peaceful environment in any space, interior or exterior, urban or rural. Glassy, transparent hues are particularly reflective and fresh using this palette of colors. Using a monochromatic painted color palette, any of these confident tones would help to establish a serene living environment.

Although the Asian aesthetic continues to remain strong, tropical tones are becoming increasingly popular. Vibrant colors such as Caribbean orange, bright lemon drop, wild fuchsia, lime sorbet and Tahiti pink allow the homeowner to add energy to any space. Jolts of tropical color are often used to add life to molding and trims, creating a perfect splash of color.

Sunbaked shades highlight the beauty of the great outdoors as part of the natural world. Washed sand, rawhide, deep slate and baked brick remind us of familiar outdoor scenes using trendy, earthy color. Weather beaten in appearance describes these tones that are growing increasingly popular amongst decorative painters.

Closely paralleling the recent quest for comforting hues, this year's selection of palettes reinforces this theme while integrating unexpected splashes of refreshing color! From the immensely popular rich reds to alluring pinks, warm oranges to sophisticated browns and seaside blues to botanical greens, this year offers color options for every decorating enthusiast!