Why PANTONE 2021 Colors of the Year are the Secret Ingredient

The kitchen and bath industry - even candy companies, product developers, fashion designers and more - continue to reflect on Pantone's break from tradition. The much-awaited 2021 Pantone Color of the Year was announced as a duo, reflecting the season of change in which we live.

The Pantone Color Institute often takes into account the relationship between culture and color during their selection process. The global team draws from many influences, including television, travel, fashion, architecture, home design and technology. The choice is a well-researched process. This year's color combination and their names of Ultimate Gray and Illumination send a message that Pantone finds essential.

The union of an enduring Ultimate Gray with the vibrant yellow illuminating expresses a message of positivity supported by fortitude. Practical and rock solid but at the same time warming and optimistic, this is a color combination that gives us resilience and hope. We need to feel encouraged and uplifted; this is essential to the human spirit.” - Leatrice Eisemann, Executive Director Pantone Color Institute

The previous year brought many new possibilities, as well as responsibilities. While Pantone didn't plan on having a color duo (as they did in 2016,) they were compelled to use two colors. Selecting a color duo embodies the connectedness principle and the feeling that a way forward requires coming together.

“The selection of two independent colors highlight how different elements come together to express a message of strength and hopefulness that is both enduring and uplifting, conveying the idea that it’s not about one color or one person, it’s about more than one. The union of an enduring Ultimate Gray with the vibrant yellow Illuminating expresses a message of positivity supported by fortitude. Practical and rock solid but at the same time warming and optimistic, this is a color combination that gives us resilience and hope. We need to feel encouraged and uplifted, this is essential to the human spirit.” ​ - Leatrice Eisemann, Executive Director Pantone Color Institute

Now in the second month of 2021, the search forward with energy, clarity and optimism continues. The quest for resiliency is a balancing act of uneasiness and eagerness. As homeowners continue to shelter-in-place and splurge on kitchen and bath remodels, will they invite the color story of Ultimate Gray and Illuminating into their home?

Following trends is a bit of a double-edged sword in the kitchen and bath industry. As homeowners update their homes, they want their space to be a reflection of their lifestyle and personality. Picking finishes and appliances that best suit their needs for years to come is paramount.

At the same time, color is a vital form of communication. It symbolizes thoughts and ideas. Inviting homeowners to consider surrounding themselves with color to help them meet the future with strength and hopefulness may be the secret ingredient to designing the perfect kitchen for years to come.

Introducing Illuminating and Ultimate Gray in the Kitchen and Bath

Ultimate Gray and Illuminating are a unique mix that adds a sunshot and positivity to set the tone in every room. In plumbing fixtures and lighting, juxtaposing Illuminating with Ultimate Gray infuses strength and liveliness.

Illuminating

Illuminating, "a bright and cheerful yellow sparkling with vivacity, a warming yellow shade imbued with solar power," is a great color splash in any space. Try adding a grill in bright yellow Illuminating conveys a warm and welcoming message primarily when supported by solid and dependable Ultimate Gray in the surrounding exterior finishes.

Ultimate Gray

Ultimate Gray, a color that "quietly assures, encouraging feelings of composure, steadiness and resilience," is the perfect shade to ground a room. Specifically, Ultimate Gray offers the solid base for Illuminating, a bright yellow that stimulates consciousness and strengthens intuition and resourcefulness. As more homeowners are working from their homes, it is essential to note that Pantone considers it the perfect combination for any workplace, whether in the home or commercial space.