Colour of the Year 2015 - Marsala

Every year Pantone compiles trend analysis and in-depth research of interiors, fashion plus social and cultural "strømninger" and declares what Pantone believes the colour of the coming year will (or is that 'should'?) be. It seems an odd concept to me, as I tend to run the other way when I feel that I am told to do something, or that everyone is or will do the same thing. Where is the interest in that, I wonder?

Pantone's colour of the year 2015 is called 'Marsala'. It's a luscious colour somewhere between bordeaux and bronze in my eyes. It's warm, rich and quite grown up. It reminds me of a Guerlain lipstick I used a few years ago... that may sound a bit silly, but I think Pantone's photo is reminiscent of a pot of rouge or a bottle of nail varnish. There is something rather appealing about it, so although at first sight people might think 'no, that would never work in my house' I have a feeling it will end up finding its way into our homes anyway. Or you might realise that you already have Marsala quite by chance...

Photo: Pantone

Photo: thegloss.com

Photo: H&M 

H&M velvet cushion cover in 'burgundy'. We have this one, which works beautifully alongside light and dark greys and blush pink.

Photo: Jotun Paints

Jotun LADY Pure Color paint. Jotun is not widely sold in the UK, but a specialist paint shop can often order it in if you are interested.

Photo: Ferm Living

Two trends in one: 'Marble' side table by Ferm Living combines Marsala with marble.

Photo: Sandberg Tyg & Tapet

Exquisite 'Hanako' wallpaper by Sandberg Wallpaper

Photo: Skandium

Round 'Samsas' sofa by Sjögren in 'Hallingdal' burgundy fabric

Pantone is not the only oracle when it comes to 'colour of the year' statements though. There are several others - more about these later...