I was recently asked by fixr.com to share my insights into finding colors that will work well with Ultra Violet, Pantone’s 2018 Color of the Year. Specifically, I was told to choose three colors as effective matches for Ultra Violet, which is PANTONE color number 18-3838. This was a fun challenge. Fixr also asked a number of other designers they consider to be “Top Influencers” to discuss how use Ultra Violet to advantage in an interior design setting.

As you might imagine, choosing color combinations is a standard part of the work process in interior design. Our clients at Marshall Erb Design frequently have a favorite color, or a piece of furniture or artwork that commands an intuitive, auspicious color match. Sometimes, it’s a favorite flower. Everyone’s eye is different. The trick is to see through your clients’ eyes and help them find a really amazing color combination.

Pantone describes Ultra Violet as “associated with mindfulness practices, which offer a higher ground to those seeking refuge from today’s over-stimulated world.” This description is true for people who might intuitively associate this hue with mindfulness. However, Ultra Violet is itself quite a bold color. I, and several others quoted in the article, feel that Ultra Violet used to excess may be overwhelming. Sixty percent of the influencers suggest Ultra Violet would work best in the home as an accent like a sofa, pillow or chair.

In my view, Ultra Violet should be the shadow in a floral print fabric, an accent pillow, or a dramatic tone in a silk area rug. It should ideally be used as a base note. Thinking it through, I chose Pantone colors #9EB6B8 (a sort of blue grey), #B3B17B (sandstone) and #7F8793 (a cold, dark grey) as my perfect complements for Ultra Violet. If Ultra Violet screams “wow,” my suggested matches for it are confident but understated.

To see more about the color choices, visit https://www.fixr.com/blog/2018/03/07/bringing-pantones-color-of-the-year-home-top-influencers-weigh-in-on-best-color-pairings/