“Will this color be out of style in five years?” is my most asked question when I am color consulting. It can be a daunting decision.

Here in Nashville, Tennessee many homeowners jumped hard on the Modern Farmhouse trend of the past 5-10 years. But as a color consultant, I am seeing the collective move from cool grays and stark whites toward more color, more warmth. Overall, homeowners want to keep the main interior (and exterior) colors neutral. The large-scale spaces (think ceilings, vast interior walls, hallways, etc) are leaning more toward warm bright neutrals like Sherwin Williams Alabaster, Gossamer Veil or Aesthetic White. (Some of my personal selections for these spaces this year.)

With home paint giants Sherwin Williams, PPG, Valspar, Behr and Benjamin Moore all choosing green tones for their colors of the year for 2022, it’s pretty clear that this year’s trend is a move toward fresh, organic and florid-inspired earth tones. These tones are–as the names suggest–whispers, mists and fog. They are wisps of color (muted or light gray-greens) that have more warmth than their clean, cool “silver sage” counterparts from 10 years ago.

Green tones are definitely having a moment and will continue this year and next. Some experts claim it is a result of the pandemic and more people spending time outdoors, which certainly rings true with my clients. Many of them are looking to bring the light, airy freshness of nature to their interiors this year.

I suggest inviting the green colors in non-traditional areas–like mill work accent walls, cabinetry, doors and even trim– and leaving large swathes of walls light, bright and neutral (warm-white or putty).

As a nature enthusiast myself, I desire to bring natural palettes to interiors. Earthy, organic natural tones reminiscent of the mid-century period are strong on the playing field. Add doses of clay, cocoa brown, taupe, and ecru to accent pieces or furnishings to create a lush, warm atmosphere.

Generally I am seeing a move away from cooler grays, navy and stark white toward this earthy palette. Even the blues we are seeing have shifted to those with more green undertones like Farrow and Ball’s Stone Blue or PPG’s Oceania.

This new palette of 2022 blends naturally with light wood tones, organic materials, woven fabrics, and lush house plants. My advice is keep the colors soft, subdued and warm undertones will allow the space to feel cozy while still fresh and clean.

Paint Color forecast for 2022

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