In a surprising move, color authority, Pantone, has named two colors their 2016 "Color of the Year": Rose Quartz, a delicate pink, which Pantone describes as a "gentle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure," and Serenity, a peaceful blue, which connotes "feelings of respite and relaxation even in turbulent times." The pairing of these two soft and gentle hues brings balance and harmony to design in 2016.Image: Pantone1. MAN UPPink and blue not your thing? You can still be on trend by adding dark, rich, grounding colors, such as charcoal, navy, chocolate brown, plum, even deep orange, with Rose Quartz and Serenity as accent hues. Introducing more masculine colors in rich textures, such as velvets, suedes and plaids to a softer palette will help you create a chic, sophisticated space. Image: Pantone A few of Pantone's more masculine color suggestions that pair well with Rose Quartz and Serenity.2. DON'T GO OVERBOARDIt IS possible to use this year's Pantone color couple in your home without it looking like 1982, but you have to get a bit creative. Riffs on the actual colors of Rose Quartz and Serenity can be quite beautiful when used in the right doses and in the right places. A grey blue rug against a silver wall is stunning. Blush pink silk drapery kissing a gleaming hardwood floor and forming a backdrop for a white sofa with blue pillows in a geometric pattern is so 2016. The key is to stay in this century and make these colors sing a modern tune. Image: Traditional Home3. ADD PATTERNPatterns definitely add interest to a room's design. Paisleys, plaids, stripes, quatrefoils, Ikats, Toiles, even polka dots, can make a softer color like Rose Quartz or Serenity edgier and give it punch. Patterns are perfect fabric choices for pillows, drapery, and upholstered accent pieces. And don't forget beauty underfoot. A gorgeous patterned rug or carpet can make a room come alive and set the stage for every other design decision.Image: Villa NovaImage: SchumacherImage: York WallcoveringsImage: ThibautImage: Jaipur4. PUT YOUR BEST FACE FORWARDPink and rose tones actually are universally complimentary to a wide variety of skin tones making them excellent color choices for powder rooms, bedrooms, dressing rooms, and even romantic restaurants. Pairing pink with white or black furnishings, cabinetry, and accessories keeps the palette from becoming too sweet and Barbie-esque.Image: Traditional HomeImage: The Gallery at SketchImage: Thibaut5. ACCENT WITH ACCESSORIESNot quite ready to commit to the Pantone Power Couple in a big way? Adding a few well-placed accessories in a pretty pink or blue hue can be just the perfect way to dip your toe into trendy waters. Image: ScalamandréImage: Regina AndrewImage: AnthropologieImage: Global Views
