Interior Design Blog

Nimer spoke at the Colour Trend and Inspiration Seminar in Westminster last week, presenting the results of the international report conducted by the company. From in-depth research into global influences on colour popularity and the importance of colour choice in architecture, interiors and all areas of design, Nimer discussed how the recent changes in our society have affected our approach to colour. 'Our umbrella theme this year is appreciation,' Nimer announced, 'as with all the worries about ecology, global warming, being betrayed by our governments and financial companies, we have started to appreciate what we have, the simple things.'

Colour researchers have noticed references to simple pleasures, with strong influences from nature. Nimer mentioned clay, wood and earthy tones and references to sustainable and natural sources, with greens and browns a common occurrence. There are also undercurrents of softer, more feminine colours, representing home comforts, and a preference for the handmade, with clean pastels and warm tones.

According to Akzonobel, the world is now looking to the, 'beauty of everyday life,' for inspiration in its colour choice. Sky blue, grassy green and 'zingy' natural colours crop up frequently, Nimer says, because of the world's new, 'obsession for recreating nature.' With 2011 coloured lemon yellow, Nimer expects we, 'are positive for the future ahead.'

Akzonobel owns 104 brands of paint, with 128 companies including Dulux, Sikkens, Cuprinol, Hammerite. Based in Amsterdam, it employs over 55,000 people in around 80 countries. Per Nimer is an architect and graphic designer who has been a member of the Board of Directors of both the Colour Institute in Stockholm and the Colour Marketing Group in Alexandria Virginia. He also wrote Dare to Paint, a successful colour and design book.

www.akzonobel.com