The Economy is Affecting Paint Colour Choices - Photo Courtesy of Gail Bergman
By Gail Bergman and Indira Tarachandra
Toronto, Ontario – September 1, 2009 – The economic recession is affecting more than people’s pocketbooks. It’s also influencing their choice and use of colour.
That’s the finding of CIL Paints, following a detailed study of colour trends by its international team of colour experts.
“Our research found that in good economic times, people tend to favour brighter colours, while in difficult economies, more somber hues like white, beige and grey are the preferred choice,” said Jennifer Jones, Marketing Communications Manager of CIL Paints.
It’s no surprise then, that CIL’s top-selling colours this year are neutral tones, from off-whites like Swiss Coffee (50YY 83/057), to sandy shades such as Brazil Nut (20YY 63/149) and muted greys like Granite Grey (00NN 37/000).
“During difficult economic times, neutrals are popular because they are safe,” Jones explained, explaining that neutrals mix and match with any colour family, which provides consumers with a sense of security that they have selected a long-lasting décor choice.
She added that, throughout history, consumers’ choice of colours has fluctuated according to people’s level of confidence in the economy. “Heading into the year 2000, for example, neutrals were predominant in home décor, yet when the fear and uncertainty surrounding the new millennium faded, more vibrant colours began to reappear in homes.”
Looking to the months and years ahead, CIL expects the current trend toward neutral colours to shift once again. “We expect to see a move toward colours that are lighter in mood and more optimistic in feeling as people’s spirits lift in response to improved forecasts of the world’s economy,” Jones said.
“Adding lively colours to home décor may not change the economic reality, but it will definitely provide a lift during difficult times,” she said, emphasizing that cautious consumers should stick to neutral tones for high-ticket items such as sofas and other furniture, and add colour to the room through paint, the most cost-effective form of decorating.
CIL recommends coordinating such vibrant paint colours as Riverboat Cruise (30BG 33/207) blue, Precious Jasper (10GY 40/296) green, and Wineberry Red (30RR 12/281), with neutrals as good choices to add life to any room.
For more information about CIL’s paint colours or to locate a CIL retailer near you, call 1-800-387-3767.
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