This week, while the television and motion picture industry was eagerly awaiting the announcement of the Golden Globe nominations, the design community was on pins and needles anticipating the announcement of the Pantone 2019 Color of the Year. And the winner is…Living Coral.
Living Coral is an orange hue with a touch of pink that the Pantone Color Institute describes as “vibrant, yet mellow,” adding that the color “embraces us with warmth and nourishment to provide comfort and buoyancy in our continually shifting environment.”
You may be scratching your head remembering that a few months ago I already reported on the Color of the Year, albeit from the paint companies like Benjamin Moore. So what’s the difference? Why is Pantone such a big deal?
Keep in mind that the paint companies are selling paint — they are recommending paint colors that you can purchase and apply on your walls. That’s why the colors they choose are typically more neutral. But Pantone’s pick goes much broader, influencing fashion, home décor and graphic design. Therefore, the Pantone Color of the Year is usually bolder and more polarizing, gaining both admirers and haters the moment it’s announced.
How do you feel about Living Coral? To get you in the mood for it, here are some products you can already find sporting this on-trend color.
Apple already had designed the iPhone XR before the Pantone announcement, so it’s interesting they picked coral as one of the case colors. iPhone XR in coral, available at apple.com
Let there be light with this contemporary table lamp in coral. Robert Alley Delta Melon Ceramic Lamp in coral, available at lampsplus.com
This mezuzah case will shine in the doorway. Coral mezuzah case by Adina Plastelina, available at ajudaica.com
Take a seat with this upholstered coral armchair. It would provide a nice pop of color in a room full of neutrals. Clay Alder Armchair available at overstock.com
Jonathan Fong is the author of “Flowers That Wow” and “Parties That Wow,” and host of “Style With a Smile” on YouTube. You can see more of his do-it-yourself projects at jonathanfongstyle.com.