Color, materials and finishes (CMF) bring a product to life by conveying a mood and overall vibe, communicating whether a product is energetic or calm, optimistic or safe. While in development a product is often personified and discussed in terms of “what does it want to be?” CMF decisions must speak to the goals of the product and considerations like price point, audience and product placement are critical. Color is rooted in psychology, in our personal and collective experiences and is a significant part of the audience relationship with a product.
CMF grouping of cozy textured neutrals with a touch of vibrancy.
Current materials in light, clean, warm neutrals, cool lilacs, livened with a few zippy yellows.
Rounding out this insanity of last year, 2021 trends point toward divergent paths. We crave colors that are upbeat and happy. However, these touches of vibrancy require a steady foundation of warm, cozy neutrals that communicate security and stability. Key color families for 2021 are active and bright as well as subdued and calming. Both categories are important. Both are valid and set out to balance each other, and maybe us in the process.
Often, I explore various color and material combinations and sometimes just with paint chips. This is an equal opportunity palette, balanced with saturated brights and warm neutrals.
These informal paint chip palettes are a quick and easy way to work through an idea out on an index card. Here too, the boldness of orange countered with mid-tone brown and soft blue.
Through observation of global movements and design trends I am focused on building balanced CMF strategies to help my clients further their voice in the ever complex realm of surface materials.