Earth tones named 2017 colours of the year

The passion many Canadians have for nature will be written all over the walls in 2017 — literally.

Look for cozy earth tones to dominate as the hottest paint colours for your home in the year ahead, from spicy brown, clay and cinnamon shades to foliage green, moss grey, lake blue and ochre.

That’s the message PPG Paints is unveiling in its top paint picks for 2017 — a collection of 24 rich, timeless midtones with an earthy edge.

Taking the top spot as the PPG Paints brand’s colour of the year is a soft, muted purple with grey-blue undertones called Violet Verbena. Pairing well with timeless grey, brown, green and deep blue, it’s a versatile colour that blurs the boundaries of young and old, male and female. It works well in any room, according to Valerie Jager, associate marketing manager for PPG Paints.

"The 2017 colour palette is made up of classic shades with a contemporary spin," Jager says, explaining that next year’s earth tones are more vibrant and pigmented than the natural hues of the past. "Rooted in tradition, the colours are warm and toasty, emitting an air of stability and balance."

Other popular 2017 colours by PPG Paints brand include browns, such as Clay Ridge and Spiced Cider; Pewter Mug and Sheffield Gray greys; Autumn Ridge and Burgundy Wine reds; Thyme Green and Globe Artichoke greens; Annapolis Blue and Chinese Porcelain blues and yellow Cider Toddy.

"In today’s world, the only thing that’s certain is uncertainty, and the home is the one place where people can find stability and security," Jager explains. "The grounded, nature-inspired colours of 2017 visually deliver a sense of protection and help calm the body, mind and soul."

No matter what your personal style, the trending earth tones are adaptable enough to be incorporated into any decor, Jager says, offering the following advice to achieve your desired look:

Outdoorsy

Down-to-earth paint colours are perfect for nature lovers. Choose your favourite earth tone for the walls, decorate with natural materials such as wood, rattan, clay and linen, and add plenty of greenery for an outdoorsy feel.

Luxurious

Rich brown is making a comeback in 2017, and when combined with khaki green, it delivers a luxurious ambiance. Accessorize with dark wood, leather and pewter grey to complete your opulent look.

Modern

Greyed-off earthy colours contrast well with onyx or crisp white, producing a striking contemporary decor, especially when accented with granite and a pop of colour (such as rose pink or vibrant red). Finish the look with grey wood stain on flooring and furniture alike.

Traditional

Pair colours, such as this year’s fashionable greyish purple, burgundy or midtone blue, with curry tones to create a back-to-our-roots feel. Add charm and warmth with a creamy white hue on doors, window sills and trim, and accessorize with popular slate tones.