As the calendar turned to 2018, interior design enthusiasts and homeowners alike looked to Benjamin Moore for guidance on the year's most inspiring hues. The company’s renowned color forecasters spent months analyzing cultural shifts, design movements, and consumer desires to curate a palette that balanced warmth, sophistication, and contemporary edge. This was not merely about picking pretty shades; it was about identifying colors that would create meaningful, livable spaces for the coming year.
The Rise of Tranquil Blues and Serene Greens
Leading the charge in 2018 were a collection of calming blues and greens designed to bring a sense of peace to increasingly chaotic lives. These hues drew inspiration from the soothing qualities of nature, think clear skies, still waters, and lush foliage. Benjamin Moore's experts predicted that these tranquil tones would be used to create serene sanctuaries where residents could unwind and recharge. This trend moved beyond the cold sterility of past decade's greys, offering a more comforting and grounded approach to blue and green.
Key Colors in the Serene Palette
- HC-174 Traditional Blue: A classic, dependable navy with deep richness.
- 1503 Blue Note: A softer, complex grey-blue perfect for modern bedrooms.
- HC-171 Rivermist: A misty, serene blue-green that evokes calm.
- 2059-70 Evergreen: A luxurious, dark forest green for sophisticated drama.
Embracing Cozy Neutrals and Warm Undertones
Counterbalancing the cool serenity were a series of warm, nurturing neutrals that promised to add comfort and depth to living spaces. Moving away from the stark, sometimes cold greys of previous years, Benjamin Moore’s 2018 trends leaned into beiges, tans, and soft browns with golden or red undertones. These colors provided the perfect backdrop for layering texture and creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere reminiscent of cherished natural materials like wood and stone.
The Anatomy of a Cozy Neutral
These shades were meticulously crafted to work with various lighting conditions, ensuring a home feels welcoming from dawn until dusk. They were the ideal canvas for bold art pieces, textured throw pillows, and the warm glow of candlelight, proving that neutrals could be just as dynamic and expressive as their saturated counterparts.
Bold Accents for a Confident Statement
For those unwilling to shy away from drama, 2018’s palette included a selection of deep, saturated tones intended to serve as bold focal points. These colors were the antidote to minimalist overload, offering a way to inject personality and energy into a room. Whether used on an accent wall, a piece of furniture, or through accessories, these shades demanded attention and conveyed a sense of confidence.
Deep, Expressive Hues
- 2152-20 Revere Copper: A dark, metallic copper with an almost liquid quality.
- 2067-20 Georgian Gold: A rich, earthy brown with red undertones and depth.
- 2070-20 Black Tar: An intense, inky black for maximum impact and sophistication.
Designing with the 2018 Palette
Successfully incorporating these trends required more than just selecting a paint chip. The key was in the application and combination. Designers recommended starting with a foundation of the serene blues, greens, or warm neutrals, then layering in bolder accents to create visual interest. Textures also played a crucial role, with matte finishes being particularly popular for their ability to absorb light and create a soft, velvety appearance.
The Psychology Behind the Palette
Benjamin Moore’s color choices for 2018 were deeply rooted in the collective mood of the time. The serene colors spoke to a universal desire for calm and respite, a need to create personal oases away from digital overload and daily stress. Simultaneously, the bold accents reflected a growing confidence and a wish to curate spaces that were unapologetically personal and expressive. This duality made the palette versatile enough to suit a wide range of tastes and lifestyles.
Legacy and Lasting Impact
The 2018 trends from Benjamin Moore established a new standard for balancing tranquility with intention. The focus on high-quality pigments and timeless combinations ensured that these colors remained relevant long after the trend cycle peaked. Homeowners who embraced these shades found they created spaces that were not only stylish but also deeply calming and authentically reflective of their personalities, proving that good design transcends a single season.
