In December,The Pantone Color Institute announced that for 2021, two selections are named for its color of the year: Ultimate Gray and Illuminating which is a bright sunny yellow hue.

It was said that one color couldn’t possibly encapsulate all that we’ve been through in 2020!  This striking duo embraces deeper feelings with the promise of something sunny and friendly. In short, it offers “a message of happiness supported by fortitude”. 

Designers say that working with yellow and gray sets the tone for a home that is modern, fresh, and inviting. Here are some ideas for how to do just that.

Go small to begin.

Placing home accessories like pillows, area rugs, throws, and wall art with one or both colors is the best way to test out these trendy colors. Starting with a few colorful updates -  like vibrant yellow pillows on your in-place grey couch - will add new life to your space without an all-in commitment.

Bring trendy color to the kitchen.

Ultimate Gray is a timeless neutral and an excellent choice for kitchen cabinetry. It pairs easily with a variety of other hues so you can easily change it up in the future.

Add splashes to your current setting with colorful barstools, a sunny Roman shade or table runner, one freshly painted wall, or even tea towels and canisters.

Create layers with new fabrics.

Make down time more comforting with textiles that are inviting and soothing. Visit trendy home sites like Wayfair and West Elm to discover new window coverings, bedding, plush pillows. We’re all spending more time at home for now; make being inside an oasis of comfort.

Decorate the bedroom.

Warm yellow-tinted bedding is arguably the easiest way to test drive this yellow, while gray is an inherently soothing color that makes going to bed especially relaxing.

Applying the soft neutral on walls or bedding creates a calming backdrop, and adding a pop of energetic color with pillows or throws will help you wake up each morning.

Upgrade the bathroom.

For a backsplash, floor tile, or wall color, Ultimate Gray is gorgeous. Adding splashes of yellow with accessories and countertop pieces, rugs, and towels can equal an “atypical pairing” experiment gone very right.

Paint the front door with panache.

Impress visitors with a bright, happy yellow front door, especially striking against gray exteriors/siding/roofing materials. If it’s possible to combine the two colors, a message is sent that is warm and welcoming, supported by solid and dependable. 

Outfit outdoor space.

Bringing this color combination outside makes a patio, porch, or deck especially inviting. Gray provides a great neutral foundation, accented beautifully with vivid yellow pillows and accents. Consider shiny yellow garden stools from Home Depot for side tables and seating options, and an outdoor area rug for a softer feel underfoot.

To get in on the fun, explore new pieces that bring both hues into your home experience this New Year. Visit these links:

bit.ly/2021PantoneHome

bit.ly/2021PantoneHome2