Color titan Pantone announced today its 2018 color of the year: Ultra Violet. The blue-based purple emphasizes not only the intrigue of a night sky but also represents peoples desire to explore beyond "where [they] are now," according to Pantone. In addition, the association of purple with mindfulness and spirituality makes it a perfect tone "for those seeking refuge from today's over-stimulated world."
For 2017, the company chose Greenery, a yellow-based green hue reminiscent of nature that reflected peoples' desire to reconnect with the outdoors, each other, and their personal passions. And while Greenery and Ultra Violet may seem like a disconnect, the themes behind the color choices do not drastically change.
"With Ultra Violet, we're following along a similar vein [as we did with Greenery], but taking it one step deeper," Laurie Pressman, vice president of Pantone Color Institute, said in a webinar today about Ultra Violet. "It's provocative [and] communicates visionary thinking to create meaningful direction for the future. It lights the way for what is yet to come."
She further noted that Ultra Violet works perfectly with Greenery, as both vibrant hues are found paired together in nature.
In home decor, Pressman says Ultra Violet can be a shade for both elegant and informal settings. Use it in a statement piece, as an accent wall, or as a way to draw attention to another feature of the room (such as a modern painting). Pressman also advised using the hue on a backdrop of neutrals for a modern look.
Pantone has created eight separate palettes to showcase the versatility of Ultra Violet. But, if you don't like those palettes or are uncertain of the shades, don't worry. Pressman encourages all designers to experiment with the color and to find a combination that works best for them.
