AMSTERDAM – Finishing materials specialist AkzoNobel has unveiled Spiced Honey as its 2019 Color of the Year. The warm amber tone is being marketed in the company's decorative paints brands, including Dulux, Coral, Levis and Flexa.

The company said the shade was selected following expert research into global trends, insights and consumer behavior. According to AkzoNobel, Spiced Honey is a versatile, contemporary choice, and complements a wide variety of lifestyle and interior design preferences. It also expresses the new sense of optimism felt throughout the global trend research that was carried out.

“Today’s reveal of Spiced Honey is another milestone in empowering consumers worldwide to choose paint colors with absolute confidence,” said Heleen van Gent, creative director of AkzoNobel’s Global Aesthetic Center. “It’s a color that can be calming or nourishing, stimulating and energizing, depending on the light and colors surrounding it.”

AkzoNobel noted color stylists at its Wood Coatings segment use the information to offer on-trend color selections for product developers and designers in major markets, such as furniture, cabinetry, flooring and building products. In addition, the Specialty Coatings business translates the annual trend research for customers in the consumer electronics and automotive markets.

“Our latest trend research shows that people around the world are experiencing a renewed sense of energy, optimism and purpose,” continued Van Gent. “We want to reach out, engage with others and make things better. Spiced Honey reflects those desires. Last year, many of us were left unsettled by global events, so we closed our doors to retreat and regroup. Now we feel ready to open our windows and let the light in.”

The choice of Spiced Honey has inspired four harmonious color palettes.