The vibrant and cheerful Radiant Orchid has been named the 2014 Color of the Year by Pantone. Now that they've had a few weeks to bask in the fuchsia glow, what do leading interior designers and industry experts really think of using this hue in home decor?
Jeff Andrews, Interior Designer, Jeff Andrews Design:
“Radiant Orchid is a sophisticated lavender that pairs well with neutral greys and taupes: rich and vibrant, but not overly saturated. I would use it in small doses in a glamorous living room, or larger doses in a woman’s closet or vanity area.”
Robin Callan, Interior Designer, Room Fu:
“I'm fully onboard with Pantone's selection of Radiant Orchid as Color of the Year for 2014. That red-violet hue is such a luscious shade and would look equally amazing paired with linens and natural elements for a chic, subdued look, or combined with navy, citron or mustard for those of us who crave a little more color drama.”
Gretchen Aubuchon, Editor-in-Chief, Fashion + Decor:
“Pantone's 2014 color of the year pick, Radiant Orchid, seems to be in the same color family as Lilac, which was all over the fashion runways for Spring 2014. So, it seems fashion and home decor are actually colliding and I of course LOVE this. On the other hand though, I do think it is a tougher color then Emerald for all to embrace it. My recommendations for its use in the home would be, lamp shades, pillows, and wallpaper. I see Radiant Orchid being used in the home as an addition to other colors and used more on the accessories side.”
Mindy Miles Greenberg, Interior Designer, Encore Decor:
“Radiant Orchid” Pantone’s 2014 Color of The Year, is going to prove to be a challenging hue to incorporate into residential interior design. Its Pepto-Pink happy feeling might appeal to one’s feminine side, but it’s far from a universally passionate “love” at first glance. A lamp, a throw, a pillow, sure. Anything more? Sorry not in New York City.”
Manja Swanson, Chief Creative Officer, Lamps Plus:
“Table lamps and home decor, like pillows candles, and wall art are quick updates that allow you to add the Color of the Year, without breaking the bank.”
Rachel Cannon Lewis, Interior Designer, SoHaus Interior Design:
"The interior design industry has been showcasing Pantone's Radiant Orchid, and other purple hues, for a few years at market. Pick up any luxury shelter magazine and you're bound to see fabrics, lamps, and other home furnishings in this beautiful color. It's great in analogous schemes with blue and feels glamorous in white rooms. It instantly perks up an all-neutral design for those who are color-shy, but also looks sophisticated in a monochromatic scheme with layered tones of lavender. "
How have designers felt about the Color of the Year in years past? Take a look at their thoughts on Emerald, the 2013 Color of the Year and Tangerine Tango, 2012's Color of the Year.