The end of the year is always filled with reflection, as well as anticipation, for what the next year will bring. In this year’s annual color forecast, Brentano looks back on the successes and trends of 2011 and predicts what’s in store for the interior design world in 2012. To do this, the Brentano design department evaluates their previous and upcoming collections, consults their sales team about client requests, and gathers to discuss what they’ve observed lately in the world of design.

As a leader in designer textiles in a range of beautiful colors, Brentano knows that interior design colors do not change as rapidly as those in fashion. As Brentano Design Director Iris Wang points out  this as a positive aspect; otherwise, everyone would be pressured to change upholstery fabric and drapery with far too much frequency. Additionally, interior design relies on base colors, often hues of tried-and-true neutrals, to create a classic palette.  However, she points out that there are always slight changes, as well as fun new additions that can be added to an interior through use of accent pieces, such as chair backs and pillows.

The six colors singled out for 2012 include the updated neutrals Paper White and Graphite, as well as Linen, a warm shade that can be used either as a neutral or as a color in its own right.  Bold colors come in the form of the lively Sproutand saturated Tangerine, and also with the continuation of 2011’s sophisticated jewel-tone Marine.

Marine - A continuation from 2011, Marine is a navy that plays up the rich, jewel-toned aspect of the color while keeping true to its classic appeal. 

Sprout - This bright, yellow-green shade is perfect for livening up an atmosphere.  Use it for accent pieces to give interiors a fun, current twist.

Tangerine - A saturated orange with a touch of red, tangerine offers a fresh counterpart to sophisticated neutrals.

Paper White - 2011 saw a move from creamier neutrals to this “true white” that is pure, clean, and luxurious—the perfect basic to continue using in 2012. 

Graphite - While Brentano’s 2011 color forecast called for silvery, platinum hues, 2012 will see grays shifting to a darker charcoal that looks beautiful with colors (such as deep yellows and purples), or pairs perfectly with neutral shades.

Linen - Linen looks beautiful as a crisp white or dyed a vibrant color, but also has a natural appeal in its unprocessed, raw form.  Its comforting, clean feel works as a neutral, but also offers stunning warmth that makes it the perfect color for a subtle palette.

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