Spring House Pa., August 13, 2007 – Fashion runways have long been the inspirational source for home furnishings and decorating color choices. Debbie Zimmer, paint and color expert with The Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute shares 2008 trendy paint palettes.

“Consumers’ increasing color confidence and personal style makes any color fashionable for 2008”, Zimmer says. “From glass-like blues, botanical greens, dramatic black and white and whisper soft pink, color directions will drive towards individual self-expression, glamorous living experiences or an increasing awareness of important environmental causes.”

“Sophisticated Elegance”

Gaining popularity in 2008, black and white paint hues will enhance opulent living spaces filled with accessories, lighting, mirrors and rich fabrics. Silver metallics and high sheen finishes along with rich textures benefit from the sophistication of this striking palette. Zimmer suggests, “For an unexpected color punch, add cause related hues such as dramatic red or maintain the room’s classic undertones with subtle pink or taupe.” Dramatic and sophisticated, black and white is becoming the backdrop of choice for glamorous spaces.

Master bedroom suites and living rooms are two of the spaces that can benefit from sophisticated elegance.

“Crewel Colors”

Many consumers continue to strive for simplicity in their technology-driven overloaded lifestyles and seek a return to a gentler way of life. The crewel color palette reflects consumers returning interest in crafts, home cooking and family focused activities. Like a rich and color filled needlepoint pattern, these hues add a soulful and personalized feel to any space. “Handcrafted items create a sense of stability and security and these warm, creamy rich colors will do the same in your space,” says Zimmer. Rich cranberry reds, warm browns, along with pumpkin orange help to create a nurturing and caring environment. Mix in deep-toned blue and the tapestry is complete.

Crewel colors remain an excellent choice for kitchen or dining areas and can be warming, like a knitted afghan, in family spaces.

“No matter which paint hue or palette attracts your individual attention, consumers continue to have an increased appreciation for paint quality and value. After all it’s a personal choice for a personal space—your home,” Zimmer says.

Deborah Zimmer

Director of PQI Communications and Media Relations in North America, is on the cutting edge of the latest interior painting trends such as color, decorative techniques, gloss levels and quality issues. Debbie combines her knowledge of paint chemistry and her talent for decorating to educate homeowners on how and why to use quality paints and coatings when decorating the interior of their homes. Today, as part of the Paint Quality Institute’s public information program, Debbie travels the country appearing on television shows and conducting seminars for magazine editors and newspaper feature writers.

She is a member of the Color Marketing Group, the Home Comfort Council and was recently named as one of the top industry influencers in American Painting Contractor’s “Who’s Who in the Painting Industry”.