Embracing Bold: Our Take on Benjamin Moore’s Colour of the Year
Why we love Cinnamon Slate
As a designer, I’m always excited to see the Benjamin Moore Colour of the Year, and this year’s choice of Cinnamon Slate didn’t disappoint. With the change of seasons and the warmth of fall upon us, there’s no better time to embrace rich, bold colours that bring depth and character to any space.
I can’t help but wonder if the Benjamin Moore Colour of the Year had been announced in the spring; we might not be having this conversation. But something about the warmth of fall colours and the “back-to-school” aesthetic removes any hesitation when declaring my love for this colour.
The saturated burgundy, purple, and forest greens of the 1990s are secure in their comeback, but with the IG-like filter of a faded photo. Let’s call the trend “muted jewels.” These colours are best paired with authentic wood tones, burnished metallics, natural stone, highly tactile fabrics, and the occasional accent of a clashing colour such as chartreuse, mustard, brick, or pink.
Bold Moves at Dawlish
I have to admit, when I saw Cinnamon Slate announced last month, I did a mini fist pump and declared, “I told you so!” In truth, I didn’t “tell” anyone anything, but I felt vindicated in trusting my instincts when designing the second-floor den at Project Dawlish. The concept first came to me in 2021 during the initial schematic design phase, and it just stuck. The colour used for this room was Benjamin Moore’s Dark Walnut.
Check out the renderings versus the final results to see how the design came to life.
The Art of Using Bold Colour
What makes this room “work”? Here are a few tips for painting a room with a bold colour:
Paint ALL of it: We painted the walls and ceiling in a matte finish and used the same colour in a pearl finish for the baseboards, doors, door trim, and window trim.
Select your furniture BEFORE your paint: Yes, it’s helpful to have an idea of the wall colour you want to achieve, but remember that paint comes in a thousand shades, while that rug (the one that fits your budget, size, and availability) doesn’t have as many options. The same goes for upholstered furniture, art, and other fabrics in the room. Once these less flexible items are decided, pull out the paint deck and find the best version of your dream colour that works with the furniture.
Consider the light: Paint looks different in varying lighting conditions, and it’s not just the natural light coming through the window that matters. Include light fixtures in your plan that will help you create the desired look. Deep, moody colours are often found in rooms with lower lighting; think fabric lamps, diffused bulbs, and dimmers.
Let’s Create Your Dream Space Together
Ready to transform your space with the perfect blend of colour, texture, and style? Whether you're looking to make a bold statement or create a serene retreat, our team can bring your vision to life. Book a consultation with us and let’s craft a space that reflects your personal style and elevates your everyday living.
