A change of colour, whether on the walls, in furnishings or in accessories, makes a dramatic change. Best of all, it can be done easily and affordable – perhaps just an accent wall, new chair or some throw cushions in the latest colour trends.

Canadian House & Home identifies three major colour trends for 2016 in their January issue:

• Jewel Tones. Ruby, sapphire and emerald add richness to any space. The effect is high end and luxurious when used abundantly, lighter and fresher when applied only to accents. It’s a classic look that’s perfect for a traditional or even a Victorian-inspired home, paired with tufting, curved lines and warm woods. In a contemporary home, jewel tones add depth and glamour to whites and neutrals.
• Fresh Neutrals. Always stylish, the new neutrals are cleaner than seasons past. Neither warm nor cool, these are true neutrals that reflect light beautifully. Look for smoky grey and pure, clean white. For contrast, try using dark grey on trim and architectural details with soft white walls.
• Matte Black. Black is sleek, sensuous and simply everywhere this season! Furnishings, accessories and even cutlery and faucets are showing up in oh-so-cool matte black. Ready to challenge the status quo? How about black walls? The overall look is certainly dramatic, but also ultra sophisticated.
  

  Hooker Furniture Dining Collection Coming Soon to Stoney Creek Furniture.

Looking for further shade inspiration? Look to these options for your home this season:

• Fabulous Florals. Timelessly beautiful, florals are always stylish – the trick is in keeping them fresh and fun. This year, florals are big, bold and often set against a dark background, usually black. Consider adding wallpaper or updating your upholstery for a quick injection of pattern!
• Bluer than Blue. Is blue ever really off the radar? For 2016, look for darker, deeper blues, like indigo, turquoise, denim and especially navy. If black walls are too radical for your taste, navy may be the answer, with all the richness minus the leap outside your comfort zone. Furniture tip: Add a turquoise or mid-blue accent chest to contrast the darker walls.
  

  Hooker Furniture Chests Coming Soon to Stoney Creek Furniture.

• Pink. Bright and dark pinks like fuchsia reign supreme this season, but you’ll also see a return to gentler pinks, including pastels and beige pinks. The latter colours are being used in main living areas and even highly functional spaces like kitchens; it’s unexpected, but also fun and flirty. Rose Quartz and Serenity, (pastel pink and blue) are Pantone’s combined Colour of the Year. Let these shades be your guide. You’ll want to stay away from bubble gum colours and lean toward cool, elegant tones.
• Metallics. Still hugely popular this season, metallic gold, copper and chrome are especially hot. Experiment with metallic accessories or trims in your home on accents and furniture!
  

  Caracole Chairs Coming Soon to Stoney Creek Furniture.

Don’t forget, you can add just a little of these colour trends to your home by integrating accent pieces and accessories – and still be a trend setter.

Tags: decor, design tips, trends