Color is a major consideration for those designing the built environment. A skyscraper, school complex, office building or residential structure is destined to be perceived by the public eye. Because of this, architects and product manufacturers often elevate their designs with colors and effects that evoke awe and emotion.
Analyzing industry, societal and cultural movements, color forecasts envision which colors will dominate our building spaces and resonate most with those enjoying them.
What is color forecasting?
Color forecasting involves analyzing, anticipating and preparing for forthcoming movements in color and design. Though the findings are rooted in color, they also account for the materials, finishes and special effects that accompany building trends.
At its core, color forecasting is a service to our customers. Its primary goal is to provide reputable research to architects and product manufacturers that helps them make informed design decisions. Many color and coating authorities publish their findings, supporting customers by outlining prevalent colors, effects and design inspiration years in advance.
Methods for tracking color
Color and coatings authorities must be immersed in both industry and society to develop well-rounded forecasts.
Industry research
Tradeshows and industry publications are beneficial resources for tracking color and industry trends year-round. Additionally, pigment suppliers, color standards organizations and paint and coatings manufacturers collaborate by sharing color and trend information to monitor and anticipate color movements.
Societal catalysts
Major societal catalysts such as economic turbulence, government affairs, pandemics and new technologies all influence popular culture, societal wellness and consumer preferences. Color forecasts track these macro trends, informed by both incremental and monumental changes in society, to curate relevant color forecasts.
Color forecasting at Sherwin-Williams
Sherwin-Williams curates forecasts within its color ecosystem through shared knowledge and resources. The Sherwin-Williams Color Forecast Team gathers color, marketing and design experts from across the enterprise to share what’s on the horizon for color and design. These collaborations inform an assortment of color forecasts across the company – from residential house paint to consumer brands to architectural metal coatings and more. The Sherwin-Williams DesignHouse is responsible for translating industrial color trends for the exterior building market.
Forecasts for coil and extrusion
Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings serves architects and product manufacturers through its architectural metal coatings color forecasts which look more than 3-5 years in the future. The latest color forecast FUSE builds on layers of colorful inspiration.
The architectural color forecasts are also incorporated into building product lookbooks, which identify market-specific colors and effects. The color experts at Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings routinely update the division’s color library with in-demand colors and effects based on research gathered in the color forecasting process. The team also provides palette analysis services to support customers looking to refine their color and coating offerings.
Do you want deeper insight into color and design forecasts in your market? Contact a Sherwin-Williams color expert today to get started.
