Designer Reviews the Colour of the Year, Hit or Miss?

Every year, the design world eagerly awaits the revelation of the Pantone Colour of the Year, a shade that shapes fashion, interior design, and artistic expression. The Pantone Colour of the Year 2024 continues this tradition, encapsulating current trends and cultural sentiments. This post explores the significance of this colour choice, its historical context, and its influence across various design realms. Additionally, it delves into ways to seamlessly integrate this trendsetting colour into your home (or not).

When did “the colour of the year” become a thing?

The tradition of selecting a Pantone Colour of the Year originated in 2000, serving as a colour trend forecaster for the interior design industry. Each chosen hue reflects the global mood and societal trends. For instance, the vibrant ‘Living Coral’ in 2019 symbolized our need for optimism, while ‘Classic Blue’ in 2020 represented stability and resilience. These colours define not only aesthetic trends but also mirror society’s collective consciousness during specific periods.

Drum roll please…the 2024 colour of the year is…

Pantone 13-1023 Peach Fuzz.

You know, like the little hairs on a peach? Or like the fine hairs on your face? Yeup, Peach Fuzz.

So, what does “Peach Fuzz” symbolize for the new year?

Peach Fuzz – a colour blending warmth, comfort, and gentle optimism. This soothing yet vibrant hue reflects rejuvenation and hope, echoing society’s desire for positivity and lightheartedness amidst rapid change. In today’s world, I think that we can all agree that WE NEED SOME POSITIVITY.

More than just visually appealing, Peach Fuzz holds deeper symbolism. It signifies a shift toward softer, nurturing tones in design. This colour embodies comfort, akin to serene sunrises and the gentle touch of early morning light. Amid a quest for solace and calmness, Peach Fuzz offers tranquility and a reminder of joy in daily life.

A designer’s thoughts on the 2024 colour of the year

When I first took a look at peach fuzz, I honestly wasn’t feeling it. I thought to myself…well, that is going to be a hard sell. Considering that most people are afraid of colour in this day-in-age (but oddly enough, most are okay with the colour blue), I don’t think most people will gravitate towards this colour. As a designer, I have worked with the public to transform their spaces for a number of years now. And that is how I came to the conclusion that colour is a hard sell (besides blue). Every now and again, I meet some people who are super into colour, which is awesome. But most seem to be okay with little to no colour in their homes. And listen, I do like neutral interiors…BUT I also really appreciate colour and wish more people did as well.

So, back to peach fuzz. I just don’t think a lot of people will go for it. I think it’s a really playful, whimsical and feminine colour which could be amazing for a baby’s room, Mediterranean home or funky bedroom. But, I don’t see it working in most homes today. That’s my honest opinion. But, if a client did want to use it in an interior, I’d be thrilled to take on the challenge.

So, is it a hit or miss? In my books, it’s kind of a miss.

Not to say that I don’t like the colour, I do. But I can’t imagine many will be dressing or using this colour in their homes much.

If I had to choose a colour for the upcoming year, it would be a burgundy/red. Simply because I wish people used this colour in interiors more. I mean, look how stunning it is.

Peach Fuzz in interior design

In interior design, Peach Fuzz can refresh aesthetics, creating cozy and welcoming spaces. Whether on walls, furniture, or decor, it can transform rooms into playful, comforting havens.

Why you shouldn’t care about the colour of the year

Yes, I wrote a whole post about the colour of the year, only to tell you that you shouldn’t care about it.

The reason is, I don’t think your style should be influenced by what’s “trending” or “in”.

Your style will always be influenced to some extent, but I encourage people to try and get in touch with their own true home decor style as much as they can, with limited influence.

Read What Is My Home Decor Style?

Because the trends will always change and style will always seemingly go out of style. Then you’re stuck asking yourself, “what the heck was I thinking when I bought this?!” a few years later.

When you decorate for yourself and not the public, you can be confident that in years down the line, you will still enjoy your home. And that’s what interior design is really all about, enjoying your home.

Also, I think decorating timelessly and not trendy is much more cost-effective and realistic for the average Joe.

Read How To Create A Timeless Interior That Never Goes Out Of Style.

Now, it’s part of my job to keep well-informed about the latest interior design trends and all, but honestly, what I’ve realized is that new things don’t excite me. Old things do.

So, there’s my 2 cents.