Create Joyful Spaces with the Dopamine Decorating Style

Move over, Barbiecore: Dopamine decorating is the latest colorful, playful antidote to boring interiors. This trend is all about brilliantly bold colors and patterns, eclectic prints, inviting textures, and a nostalgia-infused vibe that can't be missed. Named after the feel-good neurotransmitter, dopamine decor is like bringing back the carefree joy of childhood into your home.

What is Dopamine Decor?

Dopamine decor is inspired by the concept of dopamine dressing in fashion, where the focus is on wearing clothes that make you feel good. Similarly, dopamine decor aims to create spaces that evoke happiness and warmth. This style encourages going all out with vibrant colors and playful designs while ensuring everything ties together aesthetically.

Personalized Happiness in Your Home

Dopamine decor is deeply personal and individualistic. Each home can reflect the homeowner’s personality through thoughtful choices in color, texture, and composition. Whether it’s a bespoke piece as your living room focal point or handmade decorations for a cozy nook, the key is to make the space uniquely yours.

Pair Vintage with Bold Patterns

One effective approach to dopamine decor is pairing vintage pieces with bold patterns and bright colors. Think oranges, pinks, yellows, lime greens, and cobalt blues to brighten the space and keep the joyful vibes alive. In the living room, pops of color in furniture like console tables or end tables, and bright upholstery or quirky cushions, can add contrast to a neutral sofa. Pastel walls can balance the look while colorful elements on your coffee table or media console can enhance the vibrancy.

Colorful Fixtures and Accessories

Don’t overlook fixtures and accessories as opportunities to add color. In bedrooms or studies, bold geometric designs, floral prints, and abstract patterns can create a sense of movement and whimsy through wallpapers, floor cushions, rugs, and throw pillows. In the kitchen, vintage appliance collections and colorful backsplashes can add cheerful touches.

Eco-Friendly Decorating

Consider the environmental impact of your decor choices. Revitalize old pieces by purchasing vintage, recycled, or upcycled designs. This not only reduces your carbon footprint but also adds a personal touch with items that carry historical or emotional significance.

Starting with a Joyful Color Scheme

Begin your dopamine decor journey with a color scheme that sparks joy. Consistency is key—use diverse shades of the same hue or stick to a couple of harmonious color schemes. Bright colors on smaller walls and well-considered lighting can create a harmonious ambiance that enhances the overall feel-good vibe of your home.

Fill Your Space with Priceless Memories

A fundamental element of dopamine decor is making room for familiar faces—in frames, that is. Instead of impersonal art, opt for framed snapshots of friends and family. These personal touches can instantly fill your space with priceless memories and joy.

By incorporating these principles, your home can become a sanctuary of happiness, reflecting your unique style and personality. Ready to bring some dopamine into your decor? Let’s get started!

Has this feel-good happy mix of colors, patterns, nostalgia and style inspired you? If you’d like me to help you figure out how to incorporate some of this dopamine decor styling into your home or business, let me know. It takes a good eye to pull things together so they're not cluttered or overwhelming, and I'm here to help!

You can choose a contact method right below this blog post. And feel free to give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399, and we can explore some exciting living room decor ideas together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also click this link to message me via my website.

Capture the pure joy of carefree summer days as a child with June’s Summer Camp palette. A bright, effervescent collection where color comes to play, these fun-loving hues spark nostalgic wonder and inspire a unique and playful style. With a shade as cheery as Honeydew holding it all together, it’s easy to embrace the creative possibilities. Why I love it: Joyful. Cheery. Soft.

Honeydew is a Fun and Fresh Color

Soft yet energizing, Honeydew’s citrus hue easily fills any space with a fresh and frothy feel. With Fresh Zest as an accent color, you get the perfect combination for infusing a burst of vibrant liveliness without the boldness of more saturated shades. Bring them into a room with lots of natural light to meet the zestier, more expressive side of these hues.

Get the look: Graphic Rug, Eclectic Lighting, Light Wood Tones, Colorful Accents

Perfectly Eclectic

Summer Camp’s lighthearted optimism makes it easy to stray from the familiar in favor of something more fun. From mid-century modern to free-spirited, maximalist-inspired looks, these hues infuse a buoyant energy that can carry any design. The soft denim blue of an Aleutian backdrop keeps it light while bolder punches of saturated color excite the eye. Honeydew’s sweet, happy vibe permeates the room and balances everything out from above.

Get the look: Retro Furniture, Gallery Prints, Brass Fixtures, Large Floor Plants

Room to Be Unique

Whimsical color shines brightest in a unique design style that feels like an endless summer. A room saturated with Honeydew’s citrus hue becomes a blank canvas for personal style to come to life. Infuse a dose of Breathtaking’s breezy, calming influence while Jovial’s happy coral shade, hinted at only through accents, lifts the mood in a perpetual upward motion.

Get the look: Gallery Prints, Graphic Rug, Pastel Palette, Layered Elements

THE SUMMER CAMP PALETTE

Do You Like the Zesty Optimism of Honeydew?

I can help you explore how to bring the fresh, vibrant citrus pastel of Honeydew into your home or office, let's talk. I can guide you on so many ways that this lovely retro hue might enhance your spaces.

And if you feel like other colors from the Summer Camp palette might be a good fit, I'd be glad to consult with you on what makes the most sense for where your ideas take you. Just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399.

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this friendly, happy shade together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

Wade into an elegance that ebbs and flows between the laid-back atmosphere of a coastal look and a more elevated yet approachable modern style. With Silver Strand anchoring the collection, May’s Seaside Tranquility palette weaves a harmonious backdrop of refreshing and relaxed comfort that ties it all together.Why I love it: Relaxing. Airy. Calming

Radiant Receptions

Greet guests with a stunning shade of warm white that bathes spaces with a welcoming feel. As backdrop, Egret White’s bright shade breathes an airy expansiveness into the sun-drenched foyer and sets a tone of serene sophistication. Subtle pops of Silver Strand’s soft, breezy shade evoke the soothing qualities of lounging by the seaside. Warm wood tones coupled with the texture of accents like a jute rug and wicker baskets underscore the rustic charm. The overall uncomplicated, minimalist approach leaves the space with a clean, fresh feel that’s timeless.

Get the look: Wicker, Weathered Wood, Rustic Wooden Flooring, Lush Greenery

Silver Strand Creates a Mood of Serene Haven

Silver Strand’s calming, green-gray hue looks perfect anywhere, instantly evoking a relaxed effortlessness. It’s perfect as a backdrop in a sunlit sitting room meant for unwinding and connecting. Tricorn Black’s striking hue on the doors offers a touch of modern elegance, elevating the casual ambiance while adding rich contrast and depth.

Get the look: Striped Patterns, Artisanal Items, Soft Palette, Black Framed Window

THE SEASIDE TRANQUILITY PALETTE

Do You Like the Calm, Relaxing Vibe of Silver Strand?

If you'd like me to help you explore how to bring the calm, coastal color of Silver Strand into your home or office, let's talk. I can guide you on so many ways that this airy hue might enhance your spaces.

And if you feel like other colors from the Seaside Tranquility palette might be a good fit, I'd be glad to consult with you on what makes the most sense for where your vision takes you. Just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399.

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this calming, happy shade together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

My Guide to a Perfect Summer Gathering in Your Garden

As an interior designer, I adore the challenge of transforming spaces, not just indoors but outdoors as well. Spring and summer beckon us outdoors, and there's no better way to enjoy it than hosting a backyard BBQ party. In this guide, I’ll share some tips and ideas on how to set up your backyard with both rustic and elegant touches for the perfect BBQ party.

Ensuring Comfortable Seating for Your Backyard BBQ Party

When I design a space for a backyard BBQ, I focus on cozy seating. I love creating smaller, intimate seating areas where guests can relax with a cold drink, away from the grill’s heat and smoke. Adding soft furnishings like cushions and lightweight throws can transform these spots into comfortable retreats.

Crafting a Charming Tablescape

Even casual events like a backyard BBQ party benefit from beautifully decorated tablescapes. I like to draw guests to the table with greenery runners and rustic elements. Seasonal blooms arranged in clear jars or straw baskets make for delightful, eye-catching centerpieces.

Dazzling with a Drinks and Dessert Station

At any backyard BBQ party I host, I ensure the food and beverages are not just tasty but also beautifully presented. For instance, setting up fruit-infused waters or colorful summertime teas in mason jars not only quenches thirst but also enhances the decor. I often use a rustic metal bucket as a beverage cooler to amplify the summery vibe.

Enhancing the Ambience with Lighting

As the evening sets in during a backyard BBQ party, the right lighting is crucial. I incorporate fire pits for a warm glow and string lights on trees for a magical feel. Large lanterns filled with string lights or flameless candles also help illuminate the gathering beautifully.

Elevating the Atmosphere with Greenery

Utilizing nature as decoration is my favorite tip for summer. I accentuate existing natural foliage with lifelike greenery and vibrant artificial flowers. Adding hanging baskets or potted arrangements introduces cheerful colors, while topiaries along pathways give a well-manicured look.

Backyard BBQ Party FAQs: Ensuring Your Gathering Is a Hit

Whenever I plan a backyard BBQ party, I aim for a seamless and enjoyable experience. Below are some practical tips to ensure your barbecue is perfectly prepared and stress-free.

Preparing Your Space for a Backyard BBQ Party

Start by evaluating the space designated for the event. Ensure there's enough room for the grill, dining areas, and guest mingling. Clean all patio furniture, accessories, and décor, especially if they've been stored away. Adding fresh greenery and sprucing up the garden can significantly enhance the festive vibe.

Organizing Your BBQ Party

For a successful backyard BBQ party, send out invitations about 4-6 weeks in advance. Once your guest list is set, calculate the amount of food, sides, and drinks you'll need. It's crucial to prepare your backyard in advance to comfortably accommodate everyone.

Making Your BBQ Party Fun

To keep the entertainment lively, I recommend incorporating games that cater to all ages. Giant Jenga, lawn games, or even a small inflatable pool for the little ones can add a fun element. For adults, setting up an informal poker table or leaving out board games can engage them throughout the event. If you want something unique, projecting a movie outdoors as the evening winds down is always a hit.

Now it's Time to Create a Memorable Backyard BBQ Party

By following these tips, you can host a backyard BBQ party that’s both fun and fuss-free. Remember, the key to a great gathering is not just the good food and decor, but also creating a warm, inviting space where everyone feels comfortable and entertained. I hope these ideas inspire you to throw a BBQ party that your guests will rave about long after BBQ season fades.

Is Your Backyard BBQ-Ready?

If your backyard could use a makeover – especially for throwing outdoor parties like a good BBQ, please let me know and I can consult with you on how to make it into an outdoor space perfect for your needs. Message me here, right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link, or you can email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com And you can call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

Nostalgia meets modern in Sashay Sand’s blushing beige-pink hue. This playful shade brings a lighthearted whimsy to April’s candy-coated color palette that’s made to charm. Why I love it: Sashay Sand is graceful, delicate, and warm.

Dial Up the Sweet Life with Sherwin-Williams' Sashay Sand

April’s Candy Filter palette adds a sweet sophistication to a design style that blends the best of past and present. Sashay Sand’s mood-boosting nature infuses spaces with a calming atmosphere of dreamy nostalgia.

As a backdrop, this subtle shade creates the perfect canvas for blending the simple minimalism of Scandinavian style with mid-century, vintage vibes. Decorative accents and furniture that evoke a bygone era but also feel at home in a modern design pull these looks together.

Get the look: Vintage Items, Mid-century Furniture, Light Wood Tones, Organic Shapes

Pastel Heaven

A bright, pastel palette of pinks, greens, and beiges is welcome anywhere, but it makes a standout statement in the kitchen.

Coupled with abundant natural light, White Snow walls and a Pearl Gray backsplash maintain an open, airy feel in the space that enhances the other shades.

Cascade Green’s dusty mint hue adds a surprise of charismatic color and balances the overall delicate lightness.

Get the look: Vintage Items, Mid-century Furniture, Light Wood Tones, Organic Shapes

Sashay Sand is Subdued and Simple

A subdued and simple approach sometimes works best for a kid's bedroom. Porcelain’s warm undertones hug the space with a comforting sense of security and coziness.

Aside from its timeless appeal that won’t go out of style, this neutral shade’s versatility allows subtle pops of Sashay Sand and supporting colors from the palette to add character and interest.

Get the look: Simplified Palette, Layered Fabrics, Natural Wood, Mixed Textures

Talk to me if you'd like me to show you how to bring these shades to life in your home.

THE CANDY FILTER PALETTE

Do You Like the Nostalgic Playfulness of Sashay Sand?

Ready to see if this delicate, warm blush neutral works in your space? If you think the Candy Filter palette speaks to you and would like some help figuring out how to best use some of these fun neutrals in your spaces, just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399. 

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this calming, happy shade together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

Now that the sun is setting later and the ideal weather is settling in, it's the perfect time for open-air cocktail parties and lazy afternoons. 

But first, and being spring, you likely need to do a patio makeover to create that backyard oasis.

Not sure where to start with your patio makeover? I hear you.

Check out this handy guide, which has everything you need to know to get your outdoor space in shape in no time.

Start Your Patio Makeover with a Deep Clean

Give your deck or patio a good clean. Sweep up leaves, cobwebs, and debris with a broom that has outdoor-grade bristles, then wash away the winter with your hose.

Note: Don’t power wash stained wood — only concrete, brick and stone. (No power washer? Most big-box hardware stores allow you to rent them for the day.)

Refresh Your Outdoor Furniture

Instead of investing in new pieces, try restoring them. Hearty woods like teak and acacia are meant to survive harsh weather; however, if the woods start to turn gray and muted, give them a facelift with a fresh coat of teak cleaner.

Wash your table with soap and water, sand the gray spots and apply two coats of cleaner. Scrub pieces made of plastic or composite materials, such as Polywood and Trex, with liquid dish soap and water.

Add Color to Enhance Your Patio Makeover

Most outdoor furniture pieces come in wood styles and neutral colors, which makes for a palette that blends in well with the great outdoors.

Layering in a few pillows in bright colors and fun patterns will give your patio a fresh look.

Brighten Your Space with Rugs in Your Patio Makeover

Rugs are a fun and easy way to brighten your outdoor living space. If you spot a stain, vacuum up the dirt and dust, then give the rug a good wash with a hose.

These days, stylish designs that will also hold up to outdoor living should be pretty easy to find.

Prep the Grill

Use a stiff wire brush to clean your grill’s grates before inviting the neighbors over for a backyard feast.

If you’re ready for an outdoor kitchen upgrade, let me know and I can steer you in the right direction for your outdoor cooking inspiration.

Add a Few Side Tables for Spring Sips

Freshly squeezed cocktails and chilled glasses of Sauvignon Blanc deserve to rest on a chic side table.

Consider a ceramic stool for easy maintenance and cleanup. The right color or pattern will add some pop to your patio makeover.

Create Ambiance with Lighting in Your Patio Makeover

Create ambiance for your al fresco dinners with twinkling lights. Wrap them around trees, line them along your pergola roof, or string them from tree to tree for an instant mood lifter.

Choose bistro lights with bigger bulbs for more impact.

Hanging string lights from tree to tree is an instant mood lifter for any outdoor space.

Mulch and Refill Pots for a Fresh Patio Makeover Look

Late spring is the best time to mulch your planters, pots, and containers. Add a fresh layer to discourage weeds and keep your plants nicely hydrated.

Depending on where you live, flowers like pansies, marigolds, and petunias add beautiful seasonal color, while plants like cacti and succulents add texture and greenery.

Consider hanging baskets filled with hearty begonias to add dimension.

Create Seating Vignettes

Keep the conversation flowing with cozy arrangements. Arrange Adirondack loungers around a fire pit to encourage a warm chat, or take your patio to new heights by adding a whimsical hanging chair or hammock.

Throw Some Shade

Shaded spots are necessary for a respite from the Florida sun. If your deck or patio isn’t covered, add a stylish umbrella to the mix. From freestanding styles to patio tables with umbrellas, there are plenty of options.

Take it one step further and add a gazebo to your backyard’s scheme. Talk to me first, I'll steer you in the right direction for an incredible patio makeover!

If you're considering sprucing up your outdoor patio or deck for spring – and year-round enjoyment – talk to me! Especially if you're considering an upgrade. Let me come by and see the areas you're thinking of enhancing, and I guarantee I'll have some ideas for you that will make your outdoor spaces delightful! 

These ideas are just the beginning of possibilities – let's talk about it! Message me here, right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link, or you can email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com You can call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

Find renewal with a rejuvenating dark green. A rich hue like Sherwin-Williams’ Roycroft Bronze Green (SW 2846) evokes the tranquil atmosphere of a deep, shaded forest.

Why I Love It: Rustic. Earthy. Muted.

Nestle into Nature

March is that time of year when the earth wakes up to find itself green yet again. Our Woodland Retreat palette is a timely nod to fresh, nature-inspired color. At the center of the collection sits Roycroft Bronze Green, a versatile forest green that effortlessly captures the calm serenity of the outdoors. This moody shade’s earthy character envelops interiors with an easy, inviting feel perfectly fit for a modern rustic look.

Get the look: Mixed Textures, Handcrafted Items, Organic Shapes, Greenery

A Little or a Lot

Roycroft Bronze Green makes a statement whether in large or small doses. Just a hint of this shade on doors or trim ties the space together with the library, creating a harmonious room-to-room color story. White Sesame walls create a clean, uncomplicated backdrop for Tarragon‘s compelling blue-green shade to stand out on cabinets. The slight warmth from White Sesame emphasizes the impression of a relaxed yet elevated style.

Get the look: Natural Light, Simplified Palette, Wood Tones, Clean Lines

Snug Spaces

Wheat Penny‘s sunbaked, terracotta tone radiates cozy and comforting warmth that easily fills any space. Its humble, earthy energy is grounding, creating a sense of laid-back sophistication. Organic accents and natural materials connect to the outdoors and add to the nature-inspired vibe of the look.

Get the look: Earth Tones, Natural Light, Raw Wood, Natural Elements

Ready to get close to nature with Roycroft Bronze Green? Get FREE color chips delivered to see the whole Color of the Month palette in person! Need personalized, expert guidance? Book a FREE Virtual Color Consultation with one of our color experts to bring these shades to life in your home.

The Woodland Retreat Palette

Here are some more photos showing the rich, soothing earthiness of Roycroft Bronze Green...

Do You Like the Richness of Roycroft Bronze Green? 

Ready to see if this deep, serene color works in your space? If you like this deep dive into the forest and would like some help figuring out how to best use it in your spaces, just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399. 

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this rich, deep, soothing shade together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

Discover the Top 2024 Interior Design Trends from 1stDibs’ Latest Designer Survey

The anticipation for 2024 Interior Design Trends has become a much-awaited annual event. Each year, 1stDibs, the leading online marketplace, engages with designers and industry experts to forecast the future of interior aesthetics. The insights from their seventh annual survey reveal what's next in the world of design."

Chocolate Brown: Rich Warmth in 2024 Interior Design Trends

Chocolate brown emerges as a leading color in the 2024 interior design trends, marking a significant rise in preference among designers. This sultry hue, alongside earthy tones like burnt orange and mustard, signifies a shift towards warmth and comfort in interior spaces.

The Blue Evolution: Refreshing Hues in 2024 Interior Design Trends

2024 sees a nuanced shift in blue hues, with robin’s egg gaining favor. This subtle evolution reflects a broader trend towards serene and inviting interiors, illustrating the dynamic nature of color trends in design.

The Enduring Appeal of Green 

Green maintains its dominance, symbolizing the ongoing desire for nature-inspired elements in interior design. The shift towards sage green underscores a preference for timeless, soothing colors in 2024's design trends.

Textures and Materials: Shaping the Future of 2024 Interior Design Trends 

Textures and materials like limewash, ceramic/terra-cotta, and blond wood highlight the move towards tactile, comforting environments. This trend points to a broader appreciation for materials that evoke a sense of calm and warmth.

Curves and Patterns Define Spaces 

The preference for curved furniture and patterned wallpapers, including ceiling applications, speaks to a desire for playful, dynamic interiors. This trend reflects a broader move towards personalized, character-rich spaces. Bold, large-scale patterns are stopping into the limelight.

Midcentury and Scandinavian Influences Persist in Shaping 2024 Interior Design Trends

Designers forecast a continued appreciation for midcentury and Scandinavian modernism, with a balanced embrace of minimalism and maximalism. These influences demonstrate the diverse inspirations helping define 2024 interior design trends.

Iconic Designs Remain Timeless 

Classics like Eames chairs and Noguchi lamps retain their allure, signaling the lasting impact of iconic designs in shaping contemporary interiors. This trend underscores the enduring relevance of historical design elements.

A Future of Cautious Optimism 

Designers express a cautious yet optimistic outlook, considering economic factors and the slow adoption of digital innovations like AI in their practice. This perspective reflects a broader industry contemplation on the future of design.

The Importance of Physical Spaces 

Physical storage solutions like walk-in closets and libraries underscore the continued preference for tangible, functional elements in home design, countering the speculative trends towards virtual environments.

Shifting Away from Overly Bright and Bold 

The move away from eye-popping shades of bright, neon colors and edgy accessories marks a broader trend towards subdued, sophisticated design choices, reflecting a maturing aesthetic preference.

Did You Get Inspired?

I hope these stylish interior design trends for 2024 have inspired you regarding any upgrades, renovations, or remodeling that you might be considering! If you’d like me to help you update your spaces with some of these new and exciting trends in interior design, contact me.

You can choose a contact method right below this blog post. And feel free to give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399, and we can explore some wonderful decor and design approaches together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also click this link to message me via my website.

Craft a cozy haven of airy serenity with a soft gray. The humble, calming character of Drift of Mist calls to mind a slower pace and the joy in simplicity.

Why I love it: serene, inviting, versatile.

Keeping It Simple

Simple meets cozy in a design style that’s a perfect match for February’s Mindful Minimalist palette. This collection of tonal hues, anchored by Drift of Mist (SW 9166), embodies the essence of a style that blends delicate minimalism and warm elegance. It’s a look that gets its sense of tranquil harmony from its soft, muted shades, clean lines, and spaciousness. Skyline Steel, the featured color in the living room, balances the minimalist character of the space with its warm, comforting shade.

Get the Look: Simple Palette, Mixed Textures, Wood Tones, Organic Shapes

Drift of Mist is Relaxed & Restful

Drift of Mist’s soft gray tone provides a serene backdrop and sets the tone for a soothing sanctuary. It’s a restful space of quiet beauty that takes on the peaceful, calming vibes of this honest shade. A Quarry Stone-covered accent wall adds definition and subtle contrast, anchoring the space in its slightly deeper, putty tone. Coordinating shades in the textiles and furniture evoke the simple harmony of nature.

Get the Look: Layered Textiles, Plush Textures, Wood Accents, Clean Lines

Clean & Serene

Bathed in the light airiness of Drift of Mist’s soft hue, any space instantly takes on an oasis atmosphere of quiet calm. With an abundance of natural light and open space, the serene vibes at the heart of this style fill the room. This shade’s easy ability to shift its character with the light gives it the sense of clean minimalism this look thrives on while also bringing a feeling of comforting warmth. What better way to blend impressions than with a truly versatile, neutral shade.

Get the Look: Plants, Natural Light, Open Space, Natural Elements

The Mindful Minimalist Palette (featuring Drift of Mist):

Ready to see if Drift of Mist works in your space? If you like this serene, versatile paint color and would like some help figuring out how to best use it in your spaces, just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399. 

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this rich, tranquil shade together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

Since it was first introduced in 2010, the peach emoji has come to symbolize everything from a stone fruit, a particularly taut derriere, and—of course—a booty call. In 2024, however, it will be the color on everyone’s walls, according to Pantone. Today, the global color authority named Pantone 13-1023 Peach Fuzz as its 2024 Color of the Year (COTY).

The hue, one of more than nearly 20,000 in the company’s color library, is a blushing orange-pink. It’s a warm, comforting color that Pantone’s experts feel will epitomize the mood in the year ahead. Leatrice Eiseman, the executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, describes Peach Fuzz as “nurturing,” and “warm and welcoming.”

An evolution in trends and global mood

“In a world that can seem very harsh, people are looking for colors that soothe, colors that are soft and warm, colors that nurture and provide us with comfort,” Eiseman says.

The announcement marks the 25th anniversary of Pantone’s annual COTY unveiling—an event that sets the standard for industries ranging from interiors to fashion to packaging design. And while Peach Fuzz may feel like a sharp turn from its showy sister, Pantone’s 2023 COTY Viva Magenta, Eiseman says next year’s choice marks an “evolution”—both of trends and the global mood.

“Viva Magenta was an animated red shade, both powerful and empowering, that encouraged experimentation and self-expression, encouraging us as we endeavored to write a new narrative for our lives,” she says. “As we move into 2024, we are seeing that at a time of turmoil in many aspects of our lives, our need for nurturing, empathy, and compassion is growing stronger, as are our imaginings and desire for a more peaceful future.”

Echoes of Barbenheimer?

Pantone’s favored 2024 tint also echoes the coming year’s “Barbenheimer”-esque array of competing COTYs, which have ranged from dark, moody hues like slate and evergreen (see Behr’s Cracked Pepper) to a spectrum of optimistic blues (take Benjamin Moore’s Blue Nova and Sherwin-Williams’s appropriately named Upward). “Different companies and brands are going to want to send different messages depending upon the products they offer,” Eiseman says “There is never just one trend, and some may want to send a message of protective cover or mystery and intrigue.”

Everything's peachy!

One thing was for sure: Variations of peach popped up virtually everywhere the Pantone team looked. “We were seeing colors in the peach family…in all areas of design from clothing and color cosmetics to carpets and cars,” Eiseman explains, speaking to their research process that kicks off in May. “As we spoke with people and zeroed in on the mood and what people were looking for, we started to zone into this particular family of color.”

“We did not feel there were other color families that were strong contenders,” she adds.

Jump on the peach bandwagon

And Pantone isn’t the only company keen on peach: Benjamin Moore named Pristine, a barely there peach, among its trending array of shades, while HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams homed in on a sandy tangerine called Persimmon for next year.

Color experts see these hues as a new cadre of neutral—a trend paint companies and color forecasters have been predicting since the pandemic. Eiseman, for her part, thinks Peach Fuzz works perfectly as a wall color, especially in bathrooms, where, she points out, it is “very flattering to all skin tones.” 

She also sees it as the ideal color for accessories, ranging from rugs to countertop kitchen appliances. “With that said, we would like designers to bring the color into their designs in a way that expresses their vision.”

What do you think about this Pantone Color of the Year 2024: Peach Fuzz? 

Does it feel like a warm, nurturing, comfortable color? Let me know your thoughts, especially if you’d like to explore using this color in any of your spaces, or even in fabrics – I can help you test the waters.

If this comforting peachy color for 2024 inspires you, and you’d like to see how to incorporate it into your spaces, I’m always available for consultations. Choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com And you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.