So: Pantone Colour of the Year 2023 is the gloriously vibrant shade Viva Magenta. Here’s expert comment on how to use it in your home, and also our inspo gallery of products in the shade.
Drumroll… so Viva Magenta is Pantone Colour of the Year 2023. It’s a deep, rich pink-red, so it’s perfect for winter and Christmas. However, you might not be sure how to use it in your home. So here’s an inspiration gallery, along with the design industry’s thoughts…
Reactions from the design industry
Artist and founder of Red Dog Glass Design, Sally Coulden, says:
“I think it’s a great choice. It’s energising, but a warm energy which builds on strength and resilience. I think everyone is going to need this form of energy over the next year.”
“It makes me feel strong and secure when I see this colour,” continues Sally. “It’s a fantastic colour and red plays a major part in all my paintings. I often use it as a grounding colour to paint on as it brings a depth to my painting that other colours don’t.”
“I think this colour can be played either way depending on the furniture you pair with it and how you dress the room. You can create a very moody, atmospheric jazz club feel with rich leathers and subtle lighting. Alternatively, pair it with funky cobalt blue or green velvet furniture, lots of plants and foliage with lots of natural light. How fab would that be?
“I would either go soft and moody or completely out there with bright colours to bounce off it and play!”
So how do you think you’ll use it?
Jan Constantine, founder and creative director of Jan Constantine, says: “I really like it. It feels exciting to me and a big boost that I think we all need during these challenging times. It’s a fantastic choice as it’s so upbeat and optimistic, I think it’ll be incredibly popular across the board.”
“The more I see it the more I love it!” says Jan. “Yes, I’m in – so get ready for some hot crimson-red cushions and throws from me soon!”
More ways to use Pantone Colour of the Year 2023
Victoria Yardley, founder of eco-paint brand Victory Colours, says: “We think it is a great choice. We have seen a massive swing towards red hues. Our most recent popular colours have been Duchess D’Orleans (from the Addicted to Patterns Harmony Collection). And deeper burgundy hues such as Don Burgundy which closely match Viva Magenta.”
“There is an optimism and power in these strong jewel colours, almost a protest against the interminable grey of the pre-lock down years. We are embracing the dawn of a new era of colour and joy as we emerge from dark times.”
So this is how to use Viva Magenta in your home
“This contemporary colour is both modern and traditional at the same time. This primordial magenta hue goes well with lots of colours in the spectrum. Pair with a warm white (Manor White No. 1) for a toned down colour scheme. Or go full throttle with a full colour combination of brights – of green, and purple like Purple Reign and Water Dragon.”
More thoughts on Pantone Colour of the Year 2023
Beth Travers, founder of maximalist design house Bobo1325, says: “There’s a great deal of force behind this colour powerhouse. Magenta is often a colour associated with romance, and its intensity evokes feelings of passion. Magenta is a free spirit, and this non-conforming magenta is the essence of originality.”
“Which is why I think Viva Magenta makes a great accent colour. Its intensity and power can really draw the eye to where you want it, especially in botanical elements. It’s a little pop of passionate rebellion, standing out from the crowd in its individuality saying ‘I am here, I am me’ – something that really resonates with me as a designer.”
Brendon Haxby, co-founder of luxury interiors retailer Naken, says: “I’d say it’s a good choice and a warm opulent colour. I think it’s going to work well to show a streak of luxury but it will have to be used sparingly. I personally wouldn’t paint all four walls of a room with this colour. But maybe in some luxurious furniture of accessories like a pouf or some cushions.”
“You can usually get an idea of what it’s going to be with the new products that come out from the on trend brands. However, this one, Viva Magenta is a bit of a surprise and unlike the blues, yellows and greys of the most recent years I really like this one personally.”
So it turns out Viva Magenta was a big surprise!
Dani Burroughs, Head of Product at Snug, says: “Punchy and electrifying, Viva Magenta is going to give you the perfect backdrop, working especially well in the living room. Warming and empowering, this new hue should be embraced for the ultimate impact – we’re talking colour drenched walls, electric accents and vibrant upholstery choices.”
“Neutral lovers needn’t be scared off by this mood-boosting hue, because there are plenty of ways to have the best of both worlds. Oatmeal tones team up nicely with the lively Viva Magenta. When used in small areas, it adds a playful edge that doesn’t disrupt the feng shui of a zen living room.”
“The bright mustard hues of Turmeric add warmth to the energetic Viva Magenta, giving a cocooning feeling that is full of life. The perfect pairing: these two majestic shades work together to bring about a sense of excitement and expression. Pair with contrasting touches to enhance that oh-so-comforting feeling that will have your guests green eyed with envy.”
Therefore there are lots of different ways to use Viva Magenta. You might think it’s too strong for your home, but accents are the way to go. However you decide to use it, it’s sure to liven up your space. And also, your home will certainly be eye-catching!
So, did you love this feature? Then check out our feature on Dulux Colour of the Year 2023, Wild Wonder.