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The design world’s most anticipated 2023 color of the year announcement is coming in hot. Chromatic authority Pantone has dubbed Viva Magenta (or Pantone 18-1750) as the hue that will lead the way in the New Year. From the name alone, you might assume the color skews pink, but as Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, points out, it’s technically part of the red family. “It’s a nuanced crimson-red tone that presents a balance between warm and cool, so we call it a hybrid color,” she says. In other words: It’s assertive but not aggressive—a mood that felt fitting coming out of the pandemic. “We’re living in this unconventional time, a time when we need to act bravely and boldly to write this new narrative for ourselves,” adds Laurie Pressman, vice president of the Pantone Color Institute.
To help people bring the It color home, Pantone is partnering with wallpaper and fabric purveyor Spoonflower to unveil designs by six artists that are inspired by the shade. It has also collaborated with Hydrow to offer its chic Wave Rower in the fearless hue. But while Viva Magenta is meant to ignite feelings of empowerment, for those who tend to play it safe in the color department, it’s utterly daunting. That’s why we asked five interior designers how they’d make this bold move work in any space.
For Textiles, Think Beyond Accent Pillows
Viva Magenta conjures up sun-filled days by the beach. I would love to see this shade as an umbrella with contrasting cream fringe, a striped daybed with nostalgic florals, or a custom striped tent in a beautiful garden setting. Imagine yourself at Il Pelicano! —Sibella Court, designer and founder of The Society Inc.
Texture is key with a color like this. I would use it in a plush velvet on a traditional armchair. I’d always add another item in the same room to give it context (a lampshade or artwork that incorporates the same hue). —Lisa le Duc, designer
Avoid Pairing It With Bright Whites
I would paint an entire room with Viva Magenta. I’d pull inspiration from when artist Julian Schnabel first painted Palazzo Chupi in New York City and pair it with a rich brown(ish) mohair or velvet sofa, beige linens, olive accents, and rich wood pieces—a blend of mahogany, rosewood, and walnut. The key is to have the largest piece of furniture in the space be the richest in color. Stay away from pure or bright whites and colored lacquered furniture; that’s when it would start to feel a little gaudy and cheap. —Michael Hilal, designer
Take It to the Ceiling
I’d likely use it as an accent color on the ceiling or millwork. I love to use very colorful wallpaper throughout a space, and then have the ceiling, trim, and cabinets be a bold hue that is pulled from the wall treatment. —Kelly Finley, designer and founder of Joy Street Design
Upcycle Antiques
I want to refinish a piece of wood furniture—such as a bed or breakfast room chairs—in this color and place it in a room painted a robin’s-egg blue. I think that contrast allows the shade to bring its strength and joy to a space without overwhelming it. I can’t wait to use it. —Jenny Vorhoff, designer and founder of Studio Riga