Pantone, the world-renowned hue authority declared ultra violet as the color of the year for 2018. Ultra Violet is a bold, blue-tinged purple hue that warranted words such as “inventiveness,” “imagination,” and “creative inspiration” when described by Pantone’s Executive Director. Other authorities on the subject have also commented about it saying “Because it’s such a lush, deeply saturated hue, ultra violet has a large impact even in small doses.”
When all’s been said and done, it’s now time to actually look at HOW to make this colour work in our homes. Here are some tips:
Pick the space for the colour wisely
Ultra violet is a bold choice that can bring confidence and originality to a space when styled correctly. This is perhaps better used as an accent colour to the home, by painting spaces that are less lingered in. Think along the lines of entryways, hallways, and stairways; these spaces are important but are not congregated in, and would make for a bold accent if painted in Ultra Violet.
Paint a statement wall
Use the colour as a surprise effect; paint a single wall in a room, may it be the bathroom, tv room or even the bedroom. The rest of the walls can be neutral in shade, or softened with shades in the same color family—lilac, blush, mauve, blue, etc… Ultra violet is sure to provide a welcome boost of vibrant energy wherever used.
Accessorize
Ultra Violet is probably one of the prettiest shades out there to dress up a home and give it pops of colour in unexpected areas. Imagine few sprigs of orchids in a jar, a pair of purple throw pillows, a centre piece on the dining table, or a vintage rug with a few violet threads in it, and boom! There it is, subtly.
Create the mood
Violets tend to be thought of as healing, inspiring, and imaginative. If you believe in colour therapy, employ this shade in a room where you want to exercise creativity, such as a home office, art studio, or a kid’s playroom.
Be dramatic
At the end of it all, if you’re feeling bold enough, just paint the whole room Ultra Violet; especially if it’s a small space. It is sure give the room a dramatic effect; combined with subtle florals or textured furnishing, and perhaps a velvet violet throw-pillow the dramatic look will be tied together. Indiana-based designer Julie Browning Bova also says “Incorporating ultra violet with rich, deep colors like emerald green and chocolate brown, and lighter shades such as celery green and blush, help create colour combinations that withstand the test of time.”
