When it comes to colour trends for 2023, local and international drivers are experiencing a marked synergy. Despite global unrest surrounding politics, social injustice and the climate crisis, African landscapes, art and design shine through to bring warmth, hope and a celebration of nature to interior design directions. The trending colours for 2023 are therefore heavily influenced by what is wonderfully familiar and unique to us here in South Africa.

From sun-drenched skies casting a radiant glow, to sun-bleached greens and neutrals, Plascon has identified rich yet subtle colours that look to our environment for joy and comfort. The focus on nature sees a combination of natural lighting, landscapes and indigenous plants driving specific colours and combinations. Soft neutrals such as Plascon Fragrant Day (Y6-C2-2), Plascon Bleached Baobab (Y2-C2-2), Plascon Evening Mist (1), Plascon Rain Slicker (Y5-A2-2) and Plascon Fun in The Sun (Y1-A2-1) provide gentle backdrops for more pigmented, nature-inspired colours.

Light and sun, and their effect on the appearance of colours, have inspired a collection of radiant yellow hues such as Plascon Sunkissed (Y3-A1-2), Plascon Baked Earth (O4-B1-1) and Plascon Safari Sun (O7-C1-1). In greens, Plascon Green Glass (81), Plascon Garden Scent (G3-B2-3), Plascon Coming My Way (G2-C2-2) and Plascon Lime Juice (Y6-B1-2) are nods to plant-based tones.

In addition to natural inspiration, the Plascon 2023 Colour Forecast explores colours that are relevant to a post-pandemic world where increased awareness of health and wellness are key. Here, the importance of sleep, rest and calm has inspired a circadian collection of soothing pastel hues, such as Plascon Downy Comfort (O2-B2-2), Plascon Miami Pink (R5-B1-3), Plascon Windstar (B4-B2-3) and Plascon Steamy Shadow (P3-E2-1).

Meanwhile, for those drawn to the bold, a combination of sharp and nuanced monochromes, such as Plascon Phantom Ship (60), Plascon Lagoon Mirror (3) and Plascon Rhine Castle (54), deliver fresh graphic notes. Uniquely African hues inspired by traditional prints and weaves also bring a touch of drama. These rich pigments, such as Plascon Coffee Shop (O2-D1-2), Plascon Baked Earth (O4-B1-1), Plascon River God (B2-D1-2) and Plascon Red Flame (R7-A1-1), add depth to the lighter, neutral backdrops.

For free advice on how to use the Plascon 2023 Colour Forecast or any other Plascon colours, please contact the Plascon Colour Advice team via email: ColourAdvice@kansaiplascon.co.za