From fashion runways to luxurious interior design this bold shade of green, which has been a staple in Ireland for hundreds of years, was selected by Pantone as Color Of The Year 2013. As a designer it is imperative for me to be on the cutting edge of color trends and it is such an exciting time of year when Pantone announces their pick. In a European capital, twice a year, Pantone hosts a meeting of representatives from various nations’ color standards groups. After presentations and debate, they choose a color for the following year. The results of the meeting are published in Pantone View, which fashion designers, florists, and many other consumer-driven companies purchase to influence their designs and planning for future product and projects.
Let’s take a walk through the possibilities of infusing some emerald green into your life this year. I find that my clients either love or strongly dislike green overall, no matter what the shade is. I am a green person so designing with it for me comes naturally. I just adore how the many shades of green invite the outdoors in with such positive energy.
Above, chevron pattern window treatments provide the perfect emerald wow factor complemented with lovely custom pillows. The use of cool neutral tones and black work perfectly with emerald green to create a well balanced room. Often when I suggest a bold color my clients fear that I will want to use it everywhere but that is not always the case. This living room demonstrates how you can use it sparingly for a dramatic effect. Further below kitchen stools infuse just a touch of emerald when you desire that pop of color.
I just love emerald green and wearing it is no exception, why not add a fabulous emerald wool coat to your holiday wish list? Wearing leather gloves in the same bold color adds to the dramatic look.
When a strong color like emerald is used in one room of the house I like to repeat it again in a different way in another space. Those rooms do not have to be next to each-other but the repetition of the color in the house creates a harmonious feel throughout. Below; darker green fixtures, an emerald green painted dining table and seating are fresh and inviting.
If you are daring enough to use patterned wallpaper and area rugs, then the use of emerald green will be a breeze. This whimsical look is all about positive energy and fun. A closet is a great place to enjoy the color especially if a significant other is not fond of it. Used here with espresso brown it is a nice switch from the often used black accent.
I hope you have enjoyed learning about the emerald possibilities and that I have inspired you to introduce some of this happy color into your home. If you are still not sold on the idea, a simple vase or piece of pottery might be all the green you need. Let me know about your adventures using emerald and what you think about Pantones’ choice for 2013, I would love to hear from you.


















