For a number of years now Pantone and Dulux have set the benchmark for colour predictions, anticipating which colours to look out for in the 12 months ahead!

The budding design aficionado will be well aware of the hues that have made the cut this time round, but if they’ve slipped your attention then there’s no need to panic. Below, we explore the fruits of the brands’ labour, divulging the results of some truly tremendous crystal ball gazing.

Pantone: Rose Quartz & Serenity

Yes, in a shock development and representing a first for Pantone, TWO shades have been announced for its Colour of the Year 2016. A controversial move from these connoisseurs in colour, Pantone has reassured us that they’re breaking no rules through use of both Rose Quartz & Serenity: apparently, the colours work so well in combination that incorporating one over the other simply wouldn’t have made sense.

This is a much softer approach than colour ways that have gone before. We’ve seen the vibrant Tangerine Tango, Fuchsia Rose and Chili Pepper, but now it’s time for the subtle touch with some pastel tones. We’ve noticed a similar shift in design magazines and blogs ourselves, with the adage ‘less is more’ never so applicable.

“Joined together Rose Quartz and Serenity demonstrate an inherent balance between a warmer embracing rose tone and the cooler tranquil blue, reflecting connection and wellness as well as a soothing sense of order and peace.”

The theory is that introducing calming shades to the home will help take the stress out of chaotic modern day life, and in defence of Pantone, this is probably something we can all relate to. If we’re not glued to our mobile devices we’re haring around in a frenzy, attempting to achieve some semblance of work/life balance. This unilateral approach to colour is also representative of moves towards gender equality, and a new generation that is less concerned with being typecast or judged.

Unsurprisingly, Dulux sees things differently. Where Pantone has gone for a reserved, relaxing approach, Dulux sees 2016’s colour as being brave and bold, Cherished Gold the name of the game with its beautiful daring tone.

Dulux most certainly know what they’re talking about, the brand releasing fabulous colour palettes on a very regular basis, so if there’s anyone to trust when carrying out a home makeover it’s them. When a Colour of the Year is selected, it is far from a case of drawing lots from a hat. Instead, Dulux invests an immense amount of time and effort into reading global trends, picking up on key indicators from some of the most influential design individuals and bodies on the planet.

“Gold and tones of gold are being used everywhere in the design world. It is a recurring colour and material at design fairs and in graphic design as well as in architecture, fashion, beauty and interior decorating. For 2016 Cherished Gold is a beautiful next step, as metallics continue to add that feel good factor into our homes, this earthy gold inspired hue will offer that little touch of glamour in an authentic and personal way.”

Rebecca Williamson, Senior Colour Design & Content Manager, Dulux

So, what can Cherished Gold offer to our homes and interiors? A natural evolution from Copper Blush, Dulux’s last Colour of the Year, Cherished Gold brings an earthy undertone to both modern and traditional properties and can be added through UK Flooring Direct’s Plantation Leaf rug. This favourite is woven from only the finest wool, luscious to the touch and stunningly intricate in aesthetic.

Not a fan of gold in your fabrics? Why not explore with a gold feature wall, a brave step yet one that could elevate your interior to new heights. Dulux believe it was a one horse race for the Colour of the Year title, this gold hue streets ahead of its rivals in the style stakes… time will tell if they’re right!