Paint Colour Trends for 2023: What is Hot

Painters and Decorators Manchester have examined the decorating and paint trends for 2023. Our research shows these can be divided into two distinct categories: embracing bold and vibrant choices or opting for a more neutral aesthetic. These contrasting styles offer individuals the opportunity to explore various approaches based on their personal preferences and desired atmosphere within their living spaces.

In terms of vibrant color choices, the current trend revolves around luxurious shades of green, deep blue, rich red, and warm burnt orange, adding a touch of drama and coziness to any room. One popular technique for creating visually striking interiors is "color-blocking," which involves using two or more contrasting tones.

When it comes to a more subdued color palette, nature remains a significant source of inspiration. Neutral hues found in the great outdoors, such as mushroom, dried grass, cloud, and seafoam, are expected to dominate the realm of interior design in the upcoming year.

To stay updated on the latest paint trends for 2023, follow comprehensive guide below created by our painters and decorators in Manchester.

Exploring the Allure of Inky Blues

The enduring popularity of navy blue shows no signs of waning, but this year Painters and Decorators Manchester are witnessing a shift towards deeper, more opulent shades of dark blue. Picture the depths of the ocean, with its captivating hues, and consider incorporating these rich tones in a harmonious manner by extending the color to furniture and fabrics.

Another appealing approach is to combine various blue shades, as they complement each other splendidly and offer ample opportunities for mixing patterns. For instance, in a living room, you can pair inky blue walls with indigo striped curtains and cobalt patterned cushions for a visually captivating ensemble.

Blue has long been a favored choice for living room decor, as it effortlessly creates a serene and refined ambiance in a typically bustling space. Helen Shaw, the UK Director for Benjamin Moore paint, highlights the allure of their "Starry Night Blue," a radiant shade resembling the deep indigo hues of twilight. The touch of violet undertone adds a touch of sophistication, while still retaining a playful aspect, particularly when applied with a Satin finish. This color can also serve as a refreshing alternative to navy when used on cabinetry.

Harmonious Combination of Simple Colors

Take inspiration from colour-blocking, still found to be popular in the fashion world, and think about dressing your kitchen like you would pull an outfit together! One colour for the top and another for the bottom, with a little injection of colour for accessories - like this pop of yellow. 

Joa Studholme, Colour Curator at Farrow & Ball explains how to achieve this, ‘The biggest overall paint trend in 2023 will be about how we use colour as much as the colour itself. The use of stronger, simpler colours is extremely popular. Eclectic mixes evoke the warmth and harmony of a more innocent age’. 

She goes on to say, ‘this can be achieved by using two colours on one wall – easy if you have panelling or a dado rail, but if not then arm yourself with masking tape and just paint the bottom third of the wall in one colour and the top two thirds in another. 

Exploring the Luxurious Appeal of Rich Neutrals

Indulging in the comforting embrace of a steaming mug of hot chocolate or a delicious caramel latte is a pleasure that evokes a sense of coziness. It comes as no surprise, then, that these warm and inviting colors are increasingly making their way into the popular neutral palette. A quick scroll through Instagram reveals countless living rooms adorned in these rich neutrals, and now these captivating tones are making their presence felt in kitchens and bathrooms as well.

According to Andy Greenall, the Creative Director at Paint & Paper Library, there is a noticeable shift away from the impersonal and stark bright whites often seen in kitchen designs. Instead, there is a growing emphasis on creating more thoughtful and cohesive design schemes that align with the overall interior aesthetic of a home. This approach involves using richer, mood-setting colors to great effect, incorporating them across woodwork, cabinetry, and walls.

One such versatile and warm neutral shade is 'Mink,' which boasts a subtle pink undertone that adds depth and warmth to kitchen walls. For a sophisticated and timeless scheme, Greenall suggests pairing 'Mink' with the enigmatic and deep red-brown hue called 'Scarlet 'n' Rust.'

Discovering the Beauty of Hand-Painted Murals

In our quest for individuality and the desire to infuse our homes with a personal touch, sustainability takes center stage, leading to a rise in upcycling and a greater embrace of the "make-do-and-mend" mindset. Amidst this trend, there is no better way to create an eye-catching focal point on a budget than by painting a unique mural that is bound to ignite conversations among visitors.

Introducing pastel hues into your home can have a transformative effect, infusing the space with uplifting energy and invigorating the ambiance. To avoid an overly sweet or saccharine appearance, opt for soft pinks, mustard yellows, and dusky teals instead of pure white-based shades. Pastel colors possess the unique ability to strike a balance between darker, bolder hues and more subtle neutrals, making them a versatile choice for creating a visually engaging environment.

Combining Matte and Gloss Finishes

An excellent technique for adding dimension and captivating visual appeal to a flat wall is to combine matte and gloss paints in the same color. By experimenting with different patterns such as a checkerboard design, alternating stripes, or zoning specific areas, you can achieve remarkable results.The variation in paint finishes introduces a play of light that reflects off the surfaces to different degrees, effectively transforming an otherwise plain wall into a captivating feature.

Painting Ceilings

The trend of painted ceilings, popularized by interior designers like Abigail Aherne, continues to make waves in 2023, this time with a focus on vibrant color accents. If you feel that your ceilings are too low and confining or excessively high and lofty, painting them can significantly alter the overall ambiance of a room.

To create the illusion of a lower ceiling height, consider extending the paint from the ceiling onto the walls, stopping at the approximate height of a picture rail. This technique effectively blurs the boundaries between the wall and ceiling surfaces, visually harmonizing the space. It can also add interest to an area that lacks architectural details, infusing it with a unique charm.

Yellow, known for its optimistic and feel-good qualities, holds a special place when it comes to ceiling colors. Applying a bright and sunny shade of yellow on the ceiling replicates the warm and cheerful glow of natural sunlight, particularly in rooms that may lack ample light.

Tri-Color Room Design

When it comes to painting a room, there are three essential elements to consider: the walls, the woodwork (such as skirting boards and trim), and the ceiling. In the upcoming year, the trend of opting for safe, white skirting boards is set to be replaced by a bolder approach of highlighting them with vibrant contrasting colors. Research conducted by Painters and Decorators Manchester shows we are definitely going to see braver choices in using colour to highlight woodwork in 2023.

Exploring Reds with Pink Undertones

As we delve into 2023, deep reds maintain their popularity as a favored choice for paint. However, this year brings a fresh twist with the emergence of reds infused with powerful pink undertones. Among the noteworthy color selections, Benjamin Moore Paint has declared "Raspberry Blush" as its Color of the Year—a vivacious coral shade with captivating hints of pink. Additionally, Pantone has named "Viva Magenta" as its Color of the Year, showcasing a transformative crimson red with delightful raspberry undertones.

This year, we wholeheartedly embrace these warm hues, utilising them in various applications to make bold statements. They can be employed to envelop entire rooms, exuding a sense of vibrancy and setting a striking tone. Alternatively, these captivating shades can be used in smaller doses to bring character and excitement to specific areas, such as front doors, kitchen islands, or even stairways. These strategic accents create a daring aesthetic that emanates energy and enthusiasm

The Charm of Dusky Pink

In recent years, the allure of earthy pink tones has captivated us, offering a sense of comfort and warmth to our interior spaces. This enduring trend shows no signs of waning as we enter 2023.

The current shift in earthy pink tones moves away from the realm of baby pinks and soft white pinks. Instead, a captivating blend of blush and beige emerges, resulting in a grounding shade of pink that holds a unique charm.

This blend of blush and beige creates a sophisticated and serene ambiance. The resulting earthy pink hue brings a subtle warmth to interiors, evoking a sense of tranquility and connection to nature. Its versatile nature allows it to seamlessly complement a variety of design styles, making it a go-to choice for those seeking a harmonious and inviting atmosphere.

The Soothing Influence of Neutral Tones

Building upon the cocooning concepts of 2021, the minimal approach to interior design continues to flourish in 2023, offering spaces that serve as retreats for relaxation and comfort. Soft neutrals play a pivotal role in this design philosophy, infusing rooms with a soothing warmth and a touch of organic green. To complete the look, a contrasting unsaturated black-brown is introduced, adding depth and visual interest.

These soft neutrals create an inviting ambiance, evoking a sense of tranquility and cosiness. With their understated elegance, they provide a backdrop that allows other elements in the room to shine while maintaining a harmonious and balanced atmosphere. The subtle incorporation of organic green adds a natural touch, enhancing the overall serenity and connection to the environment.



Embracing the Splendor of Glossy Finishes

Traditionally, gloss finishes have been commonly associated with rooms that experience higher moisture levels, such as bathrooms. However, a fascinating trend has emerged, where gloss finishes are now being employed to infuse various rooms throughout the house with a touch of drama and visual allure. The high sheen and reflective nature of gloss can work wonders, making dark or smaller spaces appear more expansive and inviting.

The application of gloss finishes in unexpected spaces breathes new life into interior design, unlocking fresh possibilities for creating visually striking and spacious-looking rooms. Its ability to amplify natural and artificial light adds depth and dimension to any environment, transforming the perception of size and enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.

Contact Painters and Decorators Manchester for professional painting and decorating advice and your free competitive quote.