Redecorate with 2013’s forecasted “hot” colors

It’s time to file the old year away and to make plans for a successful 2013. One of the easiest, most recognizable and appreciated improvements that an organization can undertake is to update its facility’s environment.

Pantone, LLC, the world’s color authority and provider of professional standards for the design industry, has declared “Emerald” the color for 2013. It will show up in fashion, fabrics, wall coverings, linens and paints. The color will add vibrant accents to pep up a tired room or refresh dated furniture.  Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, notes that Emerald is a great color to use in an assisted living setting. According to Eiseman, “Emerald is the color of balance and harmony, enhancing one’s sense of well-being and inspiring insight and clarity.”

Pantone is not the only forecaster in the mix. Other paint and coatings manufacturers have declared their favorites, too. Cleveland-based Sherwin-Williams offers its colormix 2013 collection. Forty colors, chosen by the company’s color experts, are grouped in four palettes: Midnight Mystery, Honed Vitality, Vintage Moxie and High Voltage. “We know that people gravitate to personal preferences, but we are being shaped by the divergent energies pulsing all around us,” said Jackie Jordan, director of color marketing for Sherwin-Williams.

The top choice of Sherwin-Williams’ color experts is “Aloe,” which is ideal for smaller spaces, pairing neutral walls with Aloe accents. In reception areas, Aloe walls work nicely with natural textiles or warm wood tones, Jordan notes.

Other industry manufacturers have rendered their 2013 winning colors. From Pratt & Lambert’s quiet “Tide Pool” to Glidden’s elegant “Indigo Night” to Benjamin Moore’s soft “Lemon Sorbet,” updating and refreshing the long-term care environment can be a fun and functional undertaking.

While these new color trends are not specifically designed for healthcare environments, they can create an element of sparkle and optimism to an institutional setting. During these dreary, sunlight-deprived winter days, take a look around your facility and plan for a fresh look for spring.

Speaking of spring, don’t forget the annual Environments for Aging conference, April 6–10 in New Orleans. Experts in architecture, design and other disciplines will share their insights on what works—in design, community living and positive aging.

Sandra Hoban

Sandra Hoban was on I Advance Senior Care / Long-Term Living’s editorial staff for 17 years. She is one of the country’s longest-serving senior care journalists. Before joining Long-Term Living, she was a member of the promotions department at Advanstar Communications. In addition to her editorial experience, Sandi has served past roles in print and broadcast advertising as a traffic and talent coordinator.