Pantone Colour of the Year 2021 is announced as two colours – Ultimate Grey and Illuminating Yellow

The Pantone colour of the Year 2021 is announced as two shades, Ultimate Grey and Illuminating, a vibrant yellow, described by experts as “a marriage of colour conveying a message of strength and hopefulness that is both enduring and uplifting.”

Every year the leaders in colour announce a shade predicted to be the next big thing in the world of interiors, this year breaking the mould by choosing two colours as a colour partnership.

The releasing of two shades has been done only once before, back in 2016 when Rose Quarts and Serenity were chosen as Pantone Colour of the Year, however as we move into the new year the sentiment of a combination of shades is perhaps more important than ever.

The union of an enduring Ultimate Grey with the vibrant yellow Illuminating expresses a message of positivity supported by fortitude. Practical and rock solid but at the same time warming and optimistic, this is a colour combination that gives us resilience and hope. We need to feel encouraged and uplifted; this is essential to the human spirit.” Says Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of The Pantone Colour Institute.

The shades are both ideal for decorating, the cheerful and vivacious yellow shade of Illuminating brings positivity and happiness, and the resilient undertones of Ultimate Grey are quietly assuring and safe, a shade many interior fans will have already embraced into their homes.

Both shades are popular with interior designers and home DIYers alike, with grey being an ideal base to allow the use of more vibrant colours through home furnishings and accessories.

Interior Designer Adele Shotton-Pugh, of home furnishings retailer Terrys says “Grey is an extremely versatile colour and this shade of Ultimate Grey will act as a fantastic base for the home. Yellow is the ultimate mood booster, and when teamed together the shades work in harmony to create a space that’s both relaxing and full of personality.

She goes on to say “If you’re not quite ready for a full-out yellow makeover, soft furnishings such as bedding sets, cushions and blinds are all a great way of introducing cheery shade into your home and are sure to make you feel good about your space.”

Pantone’s Colour of the Year plays a key role in influencing fashion, home furnishings and design, so it’s anticipated that we’ll be seeing lots more yellow, and this beautiful combination throughout 2021.