To delve into the details of Pantone’s 2025 “Colour of the Year” announcement and explore current paint trends, we must recognize the cultural, psychological, and aesthetic influences that shape our choices. Pantone’s “Colour of the Year” – Mocha Mousse serves as a focal point for design discussions, blending practicality and emotional appeal. Simultaneously, the broader spectrum of paint trends for 2025 showcases our growing comfort with bolder and mood-enhancing hues. Let’s explore these in depth:

Pantone’s “Colour of the Year” 2025: Mocha Mousse

Announced against the iconic London skyline bathed in this rich, soothing shade, Mocha Mousse encapsulates warmth and balance. This soft, beige-brown hue conveys a sense of understated luxury while evoking comforting associations with cocoa and frothy coffee.

• Why Mocha Mousse? Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute, highlights a blend of influences behind this selection, including art, cinema, travel, and socio-economic trends. In the post-pandemic era, where we increasingly value simplicity and emotional well-being, this shade resonates deeply. Its neutrality allows it to transition seamlessly across styles, from minimalist to rustic interiors.

• Applications:
  • Paired with crisp whites, it creates a clean and modern look.
  • When combined with tactile materials like suede or velvet, it evokes cosiness and richness, perfect for headboards or sofa upholstery.

The Psychology Behind Paint Colour Choices

Colour isn’t just aesthetic—it’s deeply tied to emotions and mood. Trends in 2025 reflect a growing understanding of how colour affects mental well-being, with interior designs leaning towards shades that evoke calm, inspiration, and even nostalgia.

• Warm-Toned Beiges and Browns: These hues have a soothing effect, helping to ground spaces in warmth and stability. Philippa Stockley notes their association with comfort foods like chocolate, making them both familiar and emotionally reassuring.
• Darker, Moody Hues: From jewel-like purples to deep moss greens, these colours are seen as therapeutic. Bonnie Pierre-Davis describes how these shades inspire confidence and create a cocooning effect in interiors.

Emerging Paint Trends for 2025

Here’s a detailed look at some of the standout shades making waves this year:

1. Mocha Mousse

The star of the season, this shade balances neutrality and sophistication. As noted earlier, its versatility makes it ideal for modern and traditional interiors alike.

2. Avocado and Olive Green

Nature-inspired greens continue to dominate, with avocado and olive tones taking the spotlight. Ruth Mottershead explains how layering multiple shades of green, such as acidic lime and deep olive, can create immersive spaces that mimic the depth of natural landscapes.

Applications:

• Walls and Ceilings: Using varying tones to create a gradient effect.
• Skirting Boards and Panelling: To add visual intrigue without overwhelming the space.

3. Burgundy and Crimson

Rich, warm reds with earthy undertones like cinnamon and carnelian are trending for their ability to create drama and intimacy. Designers like Betsy Smith emphasize pairing these hues with textured materials like wood to enhance their impact.

Applications:

• Feature Walls: Adding depth and focus to a room.
• Bookshelves and Panelling: For a striking contrast against neutral backdrops.

4. Plum and Grape Tones

Chalky purples with a hint of brown, such as Neptune’s “Clove,” offer a unique alternative to traditional neutrals. These hues evoke a bohemian vibe and work well in eclectic interiors.

Applications:

• Small Rooms: Create an enveloping, cozy effect.
• Accent Furniture: Chairs, cabinets, or even light fixtures in plum tones make bold statements.

5. Deep Moss Green

A moodier take on nature-inspired tones, this shade appeals to those seeking a connection with history and art. Despina Curtis links its appeal to the Bloomsbury Group’s emphasis on creativity and individuality.

Applications:

• Cabinets or Doors: To introduce a touch of sophistication without overwhelming.
• Living Rooms: When paired with warm wood and metallic accents.

6. Rich Browns

Shades like Little Greene’s “Galette” lean into the earthy, comforting trend, providing a neutral backdrop that complements rustic or industrial designs.

Applications:

• Kitchens: Perfect for creating a homely, vintage-inspired look.
• Hallways: To ground transitional spaces with warmth.

Adopting Colour Trends in Your Home

As much as trendy hues can invigorate interiors, their application requires careful thought:

• Tester Pots: Always test colours on movable boards to see how they react to different light conditions in your space.
• Pairing Bold and Neutral: For those hesitant about darker hues, balance them with neutrals like beige or soft white.
• Seasonal Flexibility: Strong colours may feel oppressive during certain seasons; consider limiting their use to accent walls or furniture.

The Broader Impact of Colour Trends

Beyond home interiors, colour trends are increasingly shaping fashion, automotive, and product designs. From catwalks to TV shows like Strictly Come Dancing, the prominence of bold tones like plum and teal reflects our collective shift towards self-expression and emotional resonance.

Laurie Pressman succinctly sums up this phenomenon: colour is a lens through which we interpret the world, capturing cultural zeitgeists and personal aspirations alike.

Whether you’re drawn to Pantone’s cozy Mocha Mousse or the vibrancy of greens and reds, 2025’s paint trends emphasize emotional well-being and creative expression. With a mix of neutral, earthy, and bold tones, the year promises to redefine how we view and use colour in our living spaces. The key is to find hues that resonate with your personal style and make your space feel like home.