Tag Archives: colors

Top Ten Color Trends For 2024

Posted on by

In 2024, we can expect a bolder approach to life, as color experts anticipate that colors will be more personal than ever, allowing individuals to express themselves. Whether opting for bold or softer hues, there are no rules but it is all about personal feelings and resonating with the moment. With the primary theme of 2024 centering around home well-being, homeowners are keen on creating spaces that radiate a calm and serene environment. Hence, the featured color trends play a crucial role in establishing environments that offer respite from the fast pace of day-to-day life.

What factors should you consider when picking a color?

Consider the lighting, existing furniture colors, and the desired mood that you aim to achieve when choosing a paint color. Lighter tones, like creamy white and neutral hues of grey, create a brighter and more spacious feel, while darker shades such as deep purple and warm orange or red make a bold statement, fostering a cozy atmosphere. Also, when choosing the suitable colors for your home, consider its psychology, as it explores how colors influence human behavior and emotions and can impact mood and decision-making, subject to individual preferences and cultural influences.

Check out the trending colors of 2024 and make sure to choose the colors that are best suited for your home.

1. Cool Blue

Image courtesy of: archideaphoto

Blue is a timeless color that maintains popularity because of its natural connection with the blue skies and calm water. Some of the airy and watery tones include refreshing aqua blues, teal, turquoise, and serene shades that aim to create tranquil spaces. Additionally, blue has evolved into a contemporary neutral for modern homes, offering versatility to mix and match across various design styles and applications. The best part about using blue color is that lighter shades of this color have an inherent lightness that uplifts the décor of any room with ease.

2. Versatile Purple

Image courtesy of: archideaphoto

Across fashion and interiors, purple shades, once linked with wealth and royalty, are now infused into contemporary aesthetics, bringing a fresh dynamic to color schemes. The color purple exudes calmness and luxury, with deeper shades of purple adding playful depth for a sense of opulence in the interior decor. Soft and muted shades of purple are gaining popularity and complement hues of pinks, greens, and blues as they bring an element of dynamic energy into the interiors. Dark mauves are emerging as a significant color trend in 2024, possessing a versatile quality that reads as neutral yet remains lively and bold. Its compatibility with many colors makes it an easy and versatile hue to work with. With its profound and rich undertones, the color purple radiates sophistication and charm

3. Peach Fuzz

Image courtesy of: Pressmaster

In 2024, the trend is all about pinky peaches, with Pantone naming 13-1023 Peach Fuzz as the Color of the Year. Pantone’s Peach Fuzz stands out as a warming color that offers comfort and connectivity. In a world that can feel harsh, the preference for soothing, soft, and warm colors that offer comfort is evident. Whether used as a textured rug or an accent wall in a dining room, it brings a convivial atmosphere to spaces, capable of complementing traditional neutrals and standing out in vibrant color schemes. This pinkish-orange hue can instantly cozy up your bathroom, bedroom, or living room during your next home makeover.

4. Earthy Greens

Image courtesy of: FollowTheFlowStudio

Shades of green are expected to maintain their immense popularity in interior design as individuals continue to embrace biophilic design, seeking a heightened sense of wellness inspired by nature. Green imparts a grounding and warm ambiance to spaces, crafting contemporary and atmospheric room designs. The color green contributes depth to a space and blurs the boundaries between the exterior and interior. In addition to earthy tones, rich greens are anticipated to gain prominence along with darker shades that exude elegance. Emerald green, a jewel tone that is both saturated and not overly bright, is making a major statement, bringing a rich mood and depth of color to various spaces. Note that dark green, when paired with complementary colors, can introduce balance, drama, or a sense of tranquility to a room.

5. Warm Neutrals

Image courtesy of: vanitjan

There is a renewed love for neutrals, especially in bedroom trends, which fosters a restful ambiance and a comforting sanctuary. Pairing warm creams with soft terracotta or deep red tones adds depth, while incorporating layers of texture within neutral schemes brings tactility. Note that warm off-whites and cream tones are becoming the go-to neutrals for 2024 and designers as well as homeowners currently favor these warm neutrals to counterbalance the coldness induced by LED lighting. Whether applied to walls, ceilings, woodwork, or furniture, these comforting and warm neutrals are suitable for diverse design styles, imparting timeless charm and a sense of relaxation to all spaces.

6. Tone-on-tone Color

Image courtesy of: bialasiewicz

Tone-on-tone palettes revolve around a single core hue, incorporating various shaded tones within that spectrum for a harmonious color scheme. You can use diverse paints on your walls and seamlessly complement them with furniture, textiles, and accessories. Anticipate the prominence of monochromatic color schemes in both indoor and outdoor spaces, where the blending of colors from the same family exudes sophistication and an effortless sense of chic.

7. Black

Image courtesy of: hemul75

Darker black tones are gaining prominence as the primary color choice, serving as a bold accent and becoming the focal hue for smaller spaces, while the appeal of a softer black shade lies in its inviting, versatile, and timeless qualities. This bold and strong color is highly versatile, making it easy to incorporate into any style of decor.

8. Soft Pinks

Image courtesy of: dit26978

Pink is being used in modern ways, making it more interesting, especially when different shades are combined to create a sophisticated atmosphere. The gentle blush of soft pink makes it a perfect neutral choice for smaller rooms or spaces with limited natural light, as its warm undertones contribute to elevating the color and adding depth. Soft pink is ideal for establishing a tranquil atmosphere in the home, introducing subtle hues that effortlessly harmonize with a wide range of other colors.

9. Rich Brown

Image courtesy of: hemul75

Embrace a luxurious blend of warm earthy tones, crafting a design environment that exudes both a grounded and welcoming atmosphere. One such color is rich brown which infuses depth and sophistication into the design narrative. The inviting richness of brown is perfect for traditional and contemporary themed interiors, making it an ideal backdrop for a cozy space. Throughout 2024, earthy browns are expected to continue dominating our homes as there is a growing inclination to connect with nature for enhanced well-being

10. Soft Terracotta

Image courtesy of: lytvynliliia

Terracotta infuses warmth into spaces, capturing attention and creating an inviting, cozy indoor ambiance while subtly evoking the essence of the outdoors. Soft terra-cotta tones are becoming increasingly popular, especially in spaces like living rooms and kitchens, where they enhance positive interactions and conversations. This inviting shade not only refreshes a space but also functions as a sophisticated neutral for those exploring alternatives to whites, beiges, and creams. The best part of introducing earthy terracotta hues is that it fosters a sense of comfort in the home and introduces a burst of vibrant energy while retaining a gentle aesthetic.

The post Top Ten Color Trends For 2024 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Analogue Pocket Classic retro gaming handheld puts the color in Game Boy Color

Posted on by

Just because you’re trying to design a retro interpretation of an old design doesn’t mean you have to copy the original inch for inch. In fact, it might even be illegal in some cases to be an exact replica of the product you’re trying to pay homage to. It’s definitely a good opportunity to address the flaws of the past or to implement designs that were intended but couldn’t be implemented because of the limitations or tastes of ages past. It wouldn’t make sense, for example, for a modern recreation of the Game Boy Color to display the extremely limited palette of the original in this day and age. Fortunately, Analogue had the sense to equip its retro gaming handheld with modern capabilities while staying faithful to the original’s essence. So faithful that it, in fact, even tried to recreate the playful colors of the Game Boy Color while also expanding that selection with almost all the colors of the rainbow and then some.

Designer: Analogue

Even by yesteryear’s standards, the Game Boy Color’s chunky design clearly earmarked it as a toy for kids. Those kids, however, have now grown up, and many of them want to relive those fun-filled days but probably with something that doesn’t look like it was plucked out of a time capsule. The Analogue Pocket is an attempt to feed this hunger while also making the design and the heritage accessible to a lot more people. Its more modern and sleeker aesthetic easily appeals to gamers of all ages but still exudes that charm that made the GBC an icon. Still, the retro handheld seemed to be missing one particular element that would really set it apart from other Game Boy Color recreations.

That missing piece of the puzzle was delivered by the “Classic” edition of the Analogue Pocket, which basically gives the device a colorful paint job. The very first GBC was a rather boring and very industrial gray, but the market eventually exploded in a variety of colors, including a transparent one. The Analogue Pocket Classic brings back not just one or two or five of these but offers no less than eight hues. That’s on top of the plain black, white, transparent, and glow-in-the-dark editions that came out in the past.

The full palette includes Indigo, Red, Green, Blue, Yellow, Pink, Orange, and Silver, all of which Analogue boasts have been color-matched to the original models. It might just be a change of hue, but it immediately gives the Pocket a vibrant character befitting of a gaming device. With these accurate colors and the overall design of the handheld, there is very little doubt that this retro revival truly captures the spirit of the Game Boy Color as faithfully as it can without tripping over legal landmines.

The story doesn’t end on a high note, unfortunately, with all variants of the Analogue Pocket now declared to be completely sold out. That’s true for this colorful yet limited run of the “Classic” edition as well as the original models. It’s uncertain if these will ever return to shelves, and collectors will have to stay on their toes while waiting for hopeful news in the coming days.

The post Analogue Pocket Classic retro gaming handheld puts the color in Game Boy Color first appeared on Yanko Design.

This colorful writing desk brings energy and playfulness to your busy work

Posted on by

The desk has always been associated with serious activities, whether it’s work from the office, school work, or anything else that requires your utmost concentration. That, unfortunately, gives this piece of furniture a solemn and almost emotionless atmosphere, something people would avoid under normal circumstances. That’s why most people try to add photos, toys, and knickknacks to their desks in an attempt to inject some life into their workspace. Of course, there’s no rule that says that desks need to be somber and serious affairs, as this multi-functional writing desk tries to prove with a dynamic composition of lines and colors that radiate vibrancy and energy that will hopefully help prime your mind for the work that lies ahead.

Designer: Alessandro Mendini (by Porro)

We’ve seen our fair share of desks here at Yanko Design, and most of them take the form of flat horizontal planes with plenty of room for papers, computers, and stationery. There is, however, also a class of desks, particularly writing desks, that are practically vertical shelves with retractable or fall-front/drop-front panels that transform into areas for writing, typing, and any other kind of work. The Linea writing desk is this latter kind, but it goes beyond the typical monochromatic wooden writing desks to add a bit of life to your space.

Based on rediscovered designs by famed postmodernist Italian architect and designer Alessandro Mendini, the Linea writing desk utilizes dynamic lines and bright colors to catch your attention and tickle your mind into activity. There are now gentle curves or circles here, just lines that cross each other to form geometric patterns usually associated with dynamism, such as triangles and diamonds.

Of course, lines aren’t enough to really make a design pop, and Linea also employs bold colors that complement and contrast with each other. The shiny cellulose acetate surfaces bring these hues to life, while the chiaroscuro effect of contrasting dark and light colors gives it more depth. The Linea writing desk goes against the flow of beautiful yet lifeless minimalist desks and makes an ode to boldness and creativity in the hopes of inspiring the same.

The writing desk is actually just one-third of a set that makes up this Linea line. Also part of that family are two low cupboards, one with hinged doors and another with an open face and a drawer. Regardless of the form, all three embrace the same design of lines and colors that capture not only the eyes but also the imagination, giving the brain a little exercise to help get your creative juices flowing for the work you’re about to face.

The post This colorful writing desk brings energy and playfulness to your busy work first appeared on Yanko Design.

Playful coffee table concept brings Piet Mondrian’s three colors to your home

Posted on by

Coffee tables, sofas, side tables, and shelves have all become points of interest and pride these days. Since they usually become the visual centers of a room, owners take the opportunity to use furniture that either reflects their interests and personality or, at the very least, shows off their design tastes. The variety of designs for tables and chairs can range from the ultra-minimalist to the highly elaborate, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. You don’t have to go overboard, however, just to make a memorable impact. This table, for example, is nothing but a few circles, one of which isn’t even full, and three colors, but the asymmetric combination gives it a vibrant and playful character, especially once you start looking at it from different angles.

Designer: Miguel Pinheira

Rendered on KeyShot: Click Here to Download Your Free Trial Now!

Dutch artist Pier Mondrian showed that it doesn’t take much to leave a lasting impression. His famed “Composition with Red, Blue and Yellow” simply used three colors, aside from black and white, and asymmetrical shapes to create a masterpiece that would be remembered for decades. This harmony of contrasts and economy of colors are what inspired this peculiar table design, resulting in a piece that, while artistic, also conveys some of that tension between elements in a lively manner.

Instead of squares, the RYB Coffee Table uses two circles and a half circle joined by transparent rods that make the circles look as if they’re floating on air. The three pieces serve different functions, like a tabletop, a secondary table, and a magazine or vinyl record holder. The top circle can even be removed and placed in a different position, making the design a bit modular.

While the main parts can be made of different materials and use a monochromatic scheme, the best effect is achieved with translucent or transparent material and sticking to the original red, yellow, and blue triplet. This particular combination really brings out the table’s personality, making it look like hard candy or stained glass. Even better, looking at the different pieces through each other can bring out other colors, like green resulting from mixing yellow and blue.

In terms of functionality, however, the RYB Coffee Table is probably better as a side table, though it will still manage to grab anyone’s attention, regardless of its location. Its arrangement makes it look a little unbalanced visually, which could make some people hesitate to put anything fragile on top. That’s also why it’s probably better off to the side rather than as a centerpiece, lending a bit of vibrancy and life to the room without getting in the way.

The post Playful coffee table concept brings Piet Mondrian’s three colors to your home first appeared on Yanko Design.

What is color psychology in interior design

Posted on by

Color can set your home’s tone and energy level; you may have noticed that some spaces feel restful while others feel energized. As per scientific studies, colors have energy and different emotions are attached to each hue. Hence, color has the potential to calm stress, stimulate creativity, foster visual thinking, and create an experience. In addition, color can have a long-lasting effect on us, and it is one of the essential tools of interior design that can set up a specific atmosphere and mood within a given space. Since hues impact the room’s mood, strategically using colors can create the energy and mood we seek.

Designer: Klik Architekti

What is Color Psychology?

Color psychology is a study between color and human behavior about how color can affect a person’s mood, well-being, productivity, and creativity. This study is based on the scientific effect of different hues on the brain. According to physics, color is how our brain and eyes react to different wavelengths of light reflected from objects. The seven spectrum colors include VIBGYOR or violet, indigo, and blue, which are cool colors with a short wavelength. Green is a medium wavelength and restful, while yellow, orange, and red are warm colors with a larger wavelength. Cool colors are relaxing and meditative and are ideal for bedrooms. Pastel shades promote relaxation, while warm colors such as cream, beige, etc., are suitable for common areas of the house, such as the living room, dining area, and balcony.

Color Basics

The basic colors are primary colors like red, yellow, and blue, as these colors cannot be produced by mixing other colors, but with these colors, one can create any color. The secondary colors are located between the primary colors and include shades of green, orange, and purple. Intermediate colors are produced by mixing different proportions of secondary colors.

Color Psychology in Interior Design

Color can make or break the look of the space, where the color of the walls, ceiling, furniture, upholstery, and flooring determine any room’s color scheme. It is always crucial for the end user to decide the color scheme of the place, as each person reacts differently to a particular color. One can use a burst of color or apply it to the whole walls and create the right ambiance in each space. Another method is to pair it with light, softer color upholstery and accessories for a less overwhelming, far more pleasing aesthetic.

Here is the psychology behind some of the most common colors used in interior design:

Red

One of the most vibrant and intense colors of the color spectrum, red is an attention-grabbing hue and an excellent color that intensifies the room’s energy. This color is highly recommended in a couple’s bedroom, as it stimulates intimacy and passion and provokes strong passion. In addition, it triggers ambition and energy, so it is highly recommended for the home office or study area. Introduce it on one wall or an accent chair to make sure living room areas feel warmer.

Designer: Morgan Lovell

Yellow

Capture the positive hues of sunshine and happiness with yellow color. The sunny and energetic hues of yellow uplift the spirit. It creates a warm and welcoming ambiance and infuses lightness into the space. The psychology of yellow color is joy and optimism, but it is not a relaxing color because its brightness can be overpowering in large doses. Therefore, selectively use yellow color and style the space with statement pieces of yellow furniture and accessories. It is best suited for Boho or maximalist interiors.

Designer: Lookofsky Architecture

Blue

Blue is the hue of the sea and the sky. It creates a calm, serene, and relaxing environment and substantially impacts our well-being. Light blue shades have a soothing and healing effect on the mind and promote good sleep. It helps us to relax better and is perfect for areas like the bedroom, living room, and bathroom where one wants to rejuvenate. Blue is a soothing color and goes well with other color tones like red, grey, and lilac, to name a few.

Designer: Richardson Sadeki

Green

It is a cheerful color that immediately draws one towards nature and symbolizes freshness, harmony, and growth. It fosters the feeling of abundance while having a soothing and relaxing impact on children and adults. It improves the child’s focus and offers a sense of security. Popular emerald, jade, and sage green hues suit areas like the kitchen and study room. This color exudes an organic vibe and adds life, depth, and dimension to the space. Living in an urban city apartment is a great way to reduce anxiety and bring the freshness of nature indoors.

Designer: Poster Store

Purple

Purple is a spiritual and imaginative color and is formed by mixing red with blue. It is associated with elegance and royalty and fosters creativity. Purple is a symbol of luxury and depth and is perfect for the home’s living room and entertainment areas. Purple is a powerful color, so limit the use of purple to accent pieces of furniture or an accent wall.

Designer: Allison Crawford Design

Orange

Bright and punchy, the orange color is socially inviting and promotes a sense of cheerfulness. The psychology of orange is that it is a fun and energetic color that boosts creativity and encouragement in young people. Since orange is a bold color, consider peach, as it is a softer hue of orange. It is perfect for areas like the gym and the bedroom.

Designers: Hang Vu, Elemental Design

Brown

Brown is considered a neutral and natural hue that adds an element of coziness and works well with modern and traditional spaces. Associated with all things earthy, brown imparts a relaxing vibe and evokes the feeling of warmth, comfort, and earthiness.

Designer: Natalia Bohachova

Pink

When light falls on pink, it radiates a subtle glow, making the space look brighter and better. Pink instigates the feeling of love and compassion. It is known to be a feminine color that instantly adds softness, uplifts the mood, and adds brightness. It is also associated with the beauty and fragrance of pink flowers that are found in nature. Magenta is a darker hue of pink. It can be used as a pop color and in the textures and patterns of cushions and throw pillows.

Designer: Ashley Stark

Black

Black is an elegant and dominating color with a contemporary appeal. It’s a dramatic color that infuses sleek sophistication and simplicity into a modern design. The psychology of black color is that it adds drama and symbolizes power.

Designer: Bummer Lamb

Gray

Grey is a neutral color that exudes elegance, style, and sophistication into any space. The color also offers a sense of security and creates a calm and serene vibe.

Designer: Nicoleta Jelihovschi

White

White is a color that stands for purity, cleanliness, and innocence. For some, white may look sterile and cold, so one can incorporate pops of color to energize the space. Perfect for minimalist interiors, beach houses, and outdoor patios, white combines well with wood and glass. White color creates a bright and airy look and makes the space look larger than it is.

Designer: Johanna (scandinavian.interior)

Choose your colors wisely and ensure they make you feel comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. This is because the surrounding colors determine the feelings a space can evoke.

The post What is color psychology in interior design first appeared on Yanko Design.

Your interior design style according to your Zodiac sign

Posted on by

Astrology has been around for ages, and as per studies, people from each of the 12 sun signs have their distinct personality traits and habits. From preferred colors to design styles, these sun signs influence and play a key role in determining our individual décor choices. Our homes being personal sanctuaries, we subconsciously tend to take design inspiration from our Zodiac signs. Let’s take a look at what yours is and how you can use it as a guide to creating a home that reflects your personality.

These Zodiac signs are grouped into four elements like earth, water, fire, and air.

  • The fire sign is known for its passion, courage, and creativity.
  • The earth element is stable, grounded, and practical.
  • Individuals of the air sign are communicative, sharp, intellectual, and social beings
  • The water sign is emotional and intuitive in nature.

Aries, March 21 to April 19

Aries is a fire sign represented by the ram.

Personality – Fearless, passionate, and confident

People born under this sign are warm, energetic, and confident home decorators. They love opulence and experiment with bold design elements and accessories that symbolize success. Arians are fond of bright colors, especially shades of red and open spaces that offer a tranquil and relaxing vibe.

Designer: Caffe Latte Home

Taurus, April 20 to May 20

Taurus is an earth sign represented by the bull.

Personality– Honest, grounded, and peaceful

Taurians love stability, strive for consistency, and have a palette for fine things such as luxurious fabrics, materials, soothing fragrances, and home décor items. The Scandinavian style works best for them as this Zodiac thrives in a relaxing and serene environment designed with nature-inspired hues, like sage and mint green. Additionally, people born under this are foodies, so their kitchens should be well-designed with nice kitchenware and sturdy appliances.

Designer: FURDO

Gemini, May 21 to June 20

Gemini is an air sign symbolized by celestial twins.

Personality– Extrovert, flexible, and youthful

People born under this sign have a dual nature. They tend to look for variety and love traditional, vintage, and modern design styles. Hence, the mix-and-match trend goes very well with them. In addition, Geminis are social butterflies who love to party, so their homes usually incorporate plenty of seating for guests and a nice home bar. The décor is functional and clutter-free and includes the latest gadgets.

Designer: Vella Interiors

Cancer, June 21 to July 22

Cancer is a water sign represented as a crab.

Personality– Sensitive, compassionate, and humorous

Ruled by the moon and water, people born under this sign are sensitive to their environment. They prefer a traditional style and love soft furnishing and a cozy atmosphere that exudes comfort. Their environment focuses on relaxed decor with a layered look, just like the shell of the crab. This star sign’s favorite color would be soothing soft pastels, whites, grays, metallic silver, or rose gold that can exude a sense of luxury. They are sentimental, so consider hanging photographs of family and friends throughout the home to create their secure zone.

Designer: Tabula Rasa Design Studio

Leo, July 23 to August 22

Leo is a fire sign represented by the lion.

Personality – Confident, bold, and regal

This sun sign is bold, daring, loves maximalism, and flaunts its desire for luxuries. They love their homes to show off indulgent materials, amazing vignettes, attention-grabbing accent pieces, and luxurious fabrics like silk and velvet that make a statement. Ruled by the sun, Leo’s are fond of bright homes that are full of natural light and are attracted to hues of mustard and yellow. People belonging to this sun sign love bling, shimmer, and designer labels.

Designer: ALMA de LUCE

Virgo, August 23 to September 22

Virgo is an earth sign represented by the virgin.

Personality – Practical, elegant, and organized

Virgos are well organized; they strive for order, simplicity, and cleanliness. The clean-lined Scandinavian design style goes best with them. People born under this sign love nature and earthy tones. They also prefer organic shapes and materials like wood and natural stone. Simple colors like browns, gray, and deep or icy blues would appeal to them and help give their homes a cozy appeal.

Designer: Jeco Jara Design Group

Libra, September 23 to October 22

Libra is an earth sign represented by the scales.

Personality–Balanced, artistic, and elegant

Ruled by Venus, the planet of beauty, people born under this sun sign strive to achieve peaceful surroundings and design the most aesthetically pleasing homes. The decor uses color and texture to create a stylish, symmetrical, harmonious space, incorporating clean lines and a clutter-free look. Note that Librans tend to get overwhelmed if the house gets messy. To achieve balance, a transitional décor style works best, which is not too modern or traditional, and they are comfortable in almost any color scheme.

Designer: R/terior Studio

Scorpio, October 23 to November 21

Scorpio is a water sign represented by the scorpion.

Personality– Strategic, emotional, and bold

Scorpions pay meticulous attention to detail, and their homes are classy and elegant, make a statement, and strive to create the right ambiance. A mid-century Gothic style goes well with their personality, and they love to integrate jewel tones like emerald green, burgundy, and plum. They love sensual textures like faux fur and silk, alongside extensive use of natural wood.

Designer: Fashionable Interiors

Sagittarius, November 22 to December 21

Sagittarius is a fire sign represented by the mounted archer.

Personality – Smart, compassionate, and adventurous

People born under this sign love traveling around the globe, and they love storytelling through artifacts and souvenirs collected from their travels. They have a free spirit, so their homes should revolve around modern and contemporary open-plan layouts. Nature-inspired shades of beige, brown, and blue are recommended, as they are reminiscent of mountains and beaches that bring them closer to the outdoors. Their homes should incorporate plenty of houseplants.

Designer: Blyth Designs

Capricorn, December 22 to January 19

Capricorn is an earth sign represented by the sea goat.

Personality – Practical, disciplined, and loves comfort

Capricorns are the workaholics of the Zodiac; hence, they will have the best home office with a functional desk, a nice bookcase, and ample storage. Consider an earthy color scheme and good layered lighting, splurge on smart technology, and add a few accent pieces of furniture that ensure comfort. People born under this sign are known for their discipline and formal aesthetics that can be achieved in hues of gray and blue.

Designer: Fredda Partners

Aquarius, January 20 to February 18

Aquarius is a water sign symbolized by the water bearer.

Personality – Intellectual, creative, and advanced

This sun sign is a symbol of fluidity and inclines spirituality. Their homes should be calm and tranquil, with warm colors and inspiring artwork being a must-have. People born under this sign invest in technologically advanced gadgets as they are ruled by the planet Uranus, which stands for innovation and technology.

Designer: Saija

Pisces, February 19 to March 20

Pisces is a water sign symbolized by two fish moving in the opposite direction.

Personality – Gracious, spiritual, and calm

They are spiritual beings who love daydreaming. Hence, their homes should be a sanctuary that allows them to rest, relax, and recharge. Consider fluffy cushions and soft throws in muted tones and fabrics like silk and linen. They love their balcony, which allows them to disconnect from their everyday life. Also, they gravitate towards ocean or water colors like icy blues, teal, or aqua hues that bring joy and serenity.

Designer: She Rin

Does this study resonate with your Zodiac and design style? Do let us know in the Comments.

The post Your interior design style according to your Zodiac sign first appeared on Yanko Design.

Transparent vases create an optical illusion of colors stretching into nothingness

Posted on by

It is probably too easy to take vases for granted since they’re meant to hold the flowers that are supposed to grab your attention. Of course, the right combination of a beautiful flower arrangement and an equally eye-catching vase can have a stronger impact than just one or the other. And when it comes to being eye-catching, there is probably nothing better than an invisible vase, or at least one that seems to disappear and reappear out of thin air. Thanks to the seemingly magical play of colors, materials, and shapes, this vase collection takes center stage by deceiving your brains into thinking that parts of its form have stretched so far to the point of disappearing completely.

Designer: Bo Zhang

Pliable materials have the tendency to grow thinner the more you stretch them, as one can easily see with rubber, clay, or dough. As these stretched sections become thinner, they also have a tendency to become paler, presuming they have some distinct color, to begin with. In the real world, these stretched objects will break at some point, but fantasy might make us think that these parts can instead become invisible and disappear.

This is exactly the kind of fantasy illusion that the Stretch Color vase collection generates in our minds. The mysterious shapes of these crystalline vases are meant to reflect its designer’s “obsession with the color of the reconstruction space,” and its illusion works on multiple levels beyond its disappearing act. Depending on the angle you’re viewing it, the vase could sometimes look like a 2D planar art painting or sometimes a 3D sculptural artwork. It’s almost as if the vases were designed to confound the mind with both their beauty as well as their conflicting visual signals.

The vases come in three forms, two of which seem to bend and stretch near the middle but have full color at both ends. Perhaps the most visually perplexing member of the trio is the vase whose form ends where its color disappears, strengthening the illusion of stretching to the point of becoming nothing. The vases are, in a way, also testaments to sophisticated manufacturing processes considering how they also defy conventional shapes and color patterns.

Of course, with vases like these, it’s almost a shame to have them filled with flowers that take the attention away from their mesmerizing forms. They do force a sense of minimalism by making you pick simpler flowers and arrangements that truly bring out the vase’s beauty, not to mention further trick your mind into wondering how the flowers or parts of the vase manage to stay afloat despite the missing parts.

The post Transparent vases create an optical illusion of colors stretching into nothingness first appeared on Yanko Design.

These chimes turn your personal fashion sense into music

Posted on by

They say everyone has a personal vibe, and this computer-powered musical instrument makes that audible.

There are some people who believe that the universe can more or less be distilled down to numbers. Everything is quantifiable, from the atoms that make up the known universe to the waves that delight some of our senses. We take for granted the many waves and vibrations that we rely on each day, and yet we also use metaphors above having a certain vibe or making waves all throughout our lives. Wouldn’t it be interesting if these waves could actually sync and take form? Seeing waves of light that dance to the music is probably nothing new, especially for those who have experienced the joys of light shows. This interactive exhibit, however, takes the concept in a different direction and creates an intersection of light, sound, and personal “vibes” to produce an interesting experience.

Designer: Pepe Santillán (José Carlos Ortiz Santillán)

Most people are probably familiar with how sound waves enable us to hear things, but few might actually associate light and colors with similar waves. The fact is that the difference in frequencies of light is what gives visible light the colors that we see and enjoy. Of course, we don’t see light as literal waves or vibrations, so there’s a big opportunity to come up with creative ways to express this kind of vibe.

“Que Onda,” which is Spanish for “What’s up,” is a device that turns colors into sound. But rather than do it the direct and rather boring way using sensors and a speaker, the machine takes its input from an almost unusual source. Playing on the metaphor of a person’s unique vibe emanating from their fashion choices, the computer-driven chime set translates colors from the clothes you’re wearing and translates them into musical notes.

The instrument scans a person standing in front of it and uses computer vision to analyze the light frequencies that are interpreted as colors on the person’s clothes. The colors are grouped into eight that correspond to the different notes in a musical octave. Hammers then hit the corresponding chimes to translate the

The length and frequency of each note depend on the pattern of the colors and their ratio to other colors. Even black and white colors can represent different notes, depending on the other colors around them or their brightness. Even the actual arrangement of the notes is randomized, so the same clothes on different people could still produce different harmonies.

There is, of course, no science behind quantifying these personal vibes into something visible or audible, but it’s still fun to imagine how each person’s apparel could produce different tunes. The designer says that the interactive art piece tries to invite people to reflect on the hidden numbers in our world, like the different waves and vibes that make our life enjoyable and special.

The post These chimes turn your personal fashion sense into music first appeared on Yanko Design.

Zeefier is creating sustainable textile dyes from recycled seaweed waste

Posted on by

Everyone wears clothes and, regardless of your particular style or aesthetic inclinations, those clothes will often have one or more colors. While most of the materials used in textile could be considered sustainable or at least biodegradable, part of their production actually has a tremendous negative impact on the environment. It’s almost too easy to take for granted that the things responsible for our colorful attires harm both the planet and the humans working with these dyes. The need for safer and more sustainable ways to dye textiles has never been greater, and, as always, we only have to look to Mother Nature for the answers to many of the problems we have made for ourselves.

Designer: Nienke Hoogvliet

Despite its almost pejorative name, people have started to recognize the benefits of seaweed, at least beyond just an ingredient for food. True to its name, it is almost too easy to grow seaweed without the need for freshwater or agricultural land. And like any other plant, it purifies CO2 and produces life-sustaining oxygen. Seaweed has also become a favorite component in cosmetics these days, which has increased their use and, unfortunately, their waste.

The startup Zeefier is trying to fight two battles on different fronts. On the one hand, it is trying to promote the use of seaweed to solve many of the sustainability problems of the fashion industry, particularly in the use of synthetic dyes. On the other hand, it is also trying to avoid pushing “seagricultural” practices that could also harm the environment in other ways. So instead, the seaweed they are using for their 100% natural dyes is collected from food and cosmetic wastes, enabling a more circular economy that reduces the risk of growing or harvesting seaweed too much.

Given the nature of seaweed, some might doubt how varied the dyes produced from these plants can be. In truth, the potential colors do seem to sit on a specific range, but it isn’t at all limited as one might presume. There are, of course, browns and greens, but there are also oranges, purples, and even pinks. Despite the existence of red seaweed, red dye has proven to be a bit problematic so far. Blue, at least for now, seems to be out of the question, too.

There are apparently other bumps in the road in creating natural dyes from seaweed or any other organic material in general. There’s the potential discoloration over time, even if subtle. These natural substances also don’t seem to work well with anything but natural materials like cotton, silk, and wool. Perhaps it is a good thing in order to sway people away from synthetic textiles as well.

Fortunately, Zeefier is intent on developing the secret sauce to make seaweed-based dyes and textiles successful and commercially viable. This kind of sustainable thinking pushes bright minds to utilize the wealth of materials that the Earth provides us, especially the ones that are easily replenished. At the same time, Zeefier’s advocacy is also a testament to how an overabundance of anything can be harmful and that we don’t really need to grow or harvest more seaweed than what we’re already throwing away.

The post Zeefier is creating sustainable textile dyes from recycled seaweed waste first appeared on Yanko Design.

Furniture that plays with hues and shapes is sure to bring some color into your home life

Posted on by

The pervasive minimalism trend in design has made many products, particularly furniture, almost too plain. Of course, there is beauty in simplicity and uniform colors, but that doesn’t mean it’s the only way to go. In fact, there’s almost a sort of counter-culture flowing in the undercurrents today, offering maximalism as a salve to soothe many of the mental and emotional ills of today. One doesn’t have to go overboard, of course, in spicing up everyday life, and a new collection of everyday furniture shows how mundane objects can become the literal and figurative highlight of a room, with just the right interplay of colors, materials, and shapes.

Designer: Lisa Brustolin

On their own and with their peculiar designs, these pieces of furniture would have pretty much fit the description of minimalist products. Their basic shapes and base color schemes are not that uncommon, but as with anything in life, it’s the different ways you mix these elements up that really make a difference. And in this collection, it’s exactly that interaction of elements that makes them stand out without removing their primary function as usable pieces of furniture.

The translucent epoxy resin legs and opaque shelves already give the Differ Shelf a sharply contrasting motif. It is, however, the way the light bends, reflects, and refracts through those yellowish panels that turn the shelf into an almost dazzling light show, depending on where you stand. Given its unique visual properties, this shelf is designed to stand in the center rather than against a wall so that people can walk around it and view it from different angles. It truly differs from other shelves.

In contrast, the Opticabinet is meant to be viewed from afar in a corner or an edge of the room. Made by Venetian craftsmen from wood on a brass base, the alternating patterns of blue and green make it look like the cabinet’s exterior was expertly painted with a gradient color. Upclose, however, you can clearly see it’s all just an optical illusion created by shapes and contours.

The Wrong Mirror is both the least complex but also the boldest of the collection, providing only half of the function it’s supposed to give. It puts a modernist twist on a classic arch mirror design, visually splitting a mirror in half and using the wrong scale and wrong material on the non-reflective half. Admittedly, you’ll feel a bit wrong looking into the mirror, but perhaps it could also be a thought-provoking metaphor like a glass that is half full or half empty.

Brustolin’s furniture collection displays an interesting way of giving shape to color, whether through a play of light or through optical illusions. At the same time, the quirky designs also give shape to expression at home or in your room, providing functional furniture that also stands like art pieces to complement your personal style and inclinations.

The post Furniture that plays with hues and shapes is sure to bring some color into your home life first appeared on Yanko Design.