From decorator Shelley Herod:
I always suggest bringing the outdoors in when decorating. This year the outdoors has become even more abundant in home interiors. Move over sizzling “Tangerine Tango” of 2012, Pantone has named “Emerald” the spring color of 2013.
Pantone goes through a very detailed process to determine the winning color. The film industry, art collections, travel locations, and pop cultures are just a few influences to determining their decision. Technology and how the textures will affect the impact of a color also play a key deciding factor. Pantone is celebrating its 50th anniversary as the worldwide color authority.
“Green is the abundant hue in nature – the human eye sees more green than any other color in the spectrum,” says Leatice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. “Symbolically, Emerald brings a sense of clarity, renewal, and rejuvenation. This powerful and universally appealing tone translates easily to both fashion and home interiors.”
Emerald could be called the neutral of the outdoors. Paring this luscious shade with crisp white or against dark shades of blacks or charcoals will be sure to make a dramatic and rich statement. After all, we do think of money when we think of green. Hopefully, this is a sign that our economy is on the rise. “Green is the color of growth, renewal, and prosperity – no other color conveys regeneration more that green. For centuries, many countries have chosen green to represent healing and unity.”
Personally, I have a difficult time grasping the fact of painting a room in this vibrant Emerald jewel tone, but it can be used as an accent in any room throughout the house. It is both a plush and chic color. A hint of this lively hue can be displayed throughout the house. Use it in your china or stemware in the kitchen and dining room; in the bathroom accent with it in your towels and bath rugs; throw pillows are always an excellent way to introduce an accent color in the bedroom and scattered on the sofa in living spaces. If you do want to be brave and use it as an actual paint color, maybe a in a powder room or an accent wall would be a good starting point.
Now, your friends will be green with envy over your decorating colors!
Shelley Herod is the owner and designer for Designing Women, LLC from Woodstock, Georgia. She has been a local designer for the past 20 years. She graduated from Butler University with a degree in merchandising and design. Shelley is a certified home stager and recently was selected by Executive Who’s Who. She is the veteran interior designer to the Junior Service League of Woodstock Christmas Home Tour, where she has been active for the past 10 years. She also works with wedding and special event venues as design coordinator to make dreams become reality. Designing Women is an active member of the The Atlanta Bridal Connection. Shelley can be reached at (770) 235-5640 or on her Facebook page: Designing Women.