Haymes releases 2014 colour forecast and more than 200 new colours

Melbourne paint brand Haymes met with me recently to share their 2014 Colour Expressions Forecast and the addition of more than 200 new colours to its range. That’s a lot of new colours!

The annual forecast is an interpretation of 4 themes and how they are expressed through 48 key colours. Developed by colour and concept manager Wendy Rennie, it’s based on research into the latest trends in design, interiors and colour for the year ahead. The palettes chosen have a specific focus on colour directions that will work in Australian homes.

Wendy explains: “Each theme contains a mix of carefully chosen neutral and accent colours, which are designed to complement each other. We have 2 trends that are confronting and experimental compared with 2 that are more reflective and authentic.”

The 4 key themes and trends

Head Space – A Soft & Soothing Palette

When does it stop? From the moment we get up until the moment we rest at night it seems we are constantly connected to information via technology. This incessant stream of demands from work and home has fuelled the desire to create areas within our homes, workspaces and public places that encourage a time out zone. This area is almost meditative; it is one that is separated from the rest of the household or the outside world.

Creating the right ‘Head Space’ is key to being true to an inner authentic self, which can easily be lost amidst the fast pace of modern day life. The colours in the Head Space palette are serene and gentle, a mix of calming whites and greys complement soft pastels in yellow, blues and greens.

Tall Tales – A Bright & Animated Palette

Exposure to the harsh realities of what is happening in the world around us can be confronting and stressful. The need for an escape has pushed many to seek refuge in technology through games based on fantasy and fun. There is a resurgence in storytelling, blurring of the lines between the real and fictitious, the absurd and unexpected. It allows us to venture into dream like realities providing a perceived escape. Tall Tales encapsulates this emerging trend of a new reality, fun and fantasy, with unexpected colour combinations and styling.

This palette provides an opportunity to experiment using a blend of bold and bright colours, including pinks, blues and citrus hues.

Globe Trotter – A Bold & Eclectic Palette

The more accessible the world becomes via technology so too does the link between where we are and where we can go, both physically and virtually. There are no boundaries to what we can share and learn from other countries. Cultures become intertwined; multi-cultural communities share their traditions enriching others with their history.

It combines cultural influences such as pattern and colour, which together capture the Globe Trotters multi-cultural aesthetic. It tells a story of where you’ve been. The Globe Trotter palette combines warm browns and greys with strong accents in bold greens, blues and orange.

Precious- An Earthy & Raw Palette

The Precious theme is about treasuring what we have and the natural resources the earth provides.

As we consume these materials to give us energy and fuel, we slowly deplete these resources recognising the impact we have can make a difference now and in the future. We must find extra value in items by repurposing, revitalising and recycling. Exploring alternatives and becoming a conscious decorator by understanding the ethos and life cycle behind the products you purchase is central to this theme.

The colour palette is derived from the environment; earthy greys found in coal and beautiful blues reflective of water. Other neutrals are as subtle as the graduations found in a single stone, showcasing both the strength, beauty and fragility of the environment we live in.

More on the 200 new colours next week.

For store locations or further information, visit www.haymespaint.com.au or free call Haymes Service Express on 1800 033 431.