2011 Color of the Year is Honeysuckle!

Last year's Pantone color of the year was turquoise because of its calming effect (much-needed after a tumultuous 2009). This year, the color institute has forecasted a way more vibrant color: Honeysuckle! This is a reddish-pink shade, something in between fuchsia and pink. Most people who know me know that I love everything pink, so it is not a surprise that I am pretty happy about this selection! According to Pantone Color Institute Executive Director Leatrice Eiseman, “In times of stress, we need something to lift our spirits. Honeysuckle is a captivating, stimulating color that gets the adrenaline going – perfect to ward off the blues."
I am sure many of you are looking at this color and thinking how am I ever going to be able to use this in my house? Believe me there are many opportunities. This color does not just have to be an accent color you can make it the main attraction if you dare. More subtle opportunities are on pillows, bead spreads, tabletop accessories and even on cabinet pulls. Seeing that it is such an upbeat and vibrant color you can use it sparingly and still make a big splash. If you are a bit more daring I would even suggest painting an entry vestibule, bathroom or even a family room honeysuckle.
Some great Honeysuckle paint colors are rhubarb and sultan’s palace by Benjamin Moore. The color works really well with shades of grey, chocolate brown and wedgewood blue.