World turmoil has influenced the color preferences we will see in 2006. Weather, war, economic uncertainties, and shifting markets have greatly impacted the color trends. Global awareness, bio, personal and social-consciousness are the driving forces behind the colors we will see in the New Year.
 
Many of the new colors have brown influences. The events of 9/11 caused a shift toward blues and browns in late 2001 and 2002. The same trend seems to be happening in 2006.  Browns represent stability and safety while blues promote a sense of peacefulness.”
 
Other trends for 2006 are the blurring of lines between residential and commercial colors, as public spaces strive to create a more home-like atmosphere. “Green Design" will continue to grow in importance. Organic textures provide comforting connection to the environment. Complex, sophisticated hues and combinations will reflect the cautious optimism of 2006.

• Brown is expected to be the "New Black" for the next two years and has become a hue in its own right. Deep delicious browns are voluptuous, velvety, and versatile. They bring balance to brighter colors as well as connect us emotionally to the earth.  The newest "Bad Boy" brown will be deep, complex and almost black.
• Blues will provide a soothing, intellectual uplift as well as a sense of security. They remind us of blue-gray flannel, historical homes and clear-peaceful waters.  A muted pearlescent greenish blue and a shimmering glass block jewel blue are new on the scene.  You’ll see them paired with the new "Bad Boy" browns.
• Yellow, typically optimistic and sunny, becomes browner, more neutral.  Creamy yellow-browns become more earthen.
• Oranges become orange-brown and more earth influenced as well as cleaner and brighter. These oranges are spicy and warm yet authentic.
• Reds and purples are one family.  Reds will range from deep true red, reddish-orange, reddish-brown, burgundy to silvery mauve.  Purple has all but disappeared from the palette.
• Green, a natural neutral, continues to be prominent.  As in nature, the greens for 2006 will be wide ranging. They are refreshing, with tropical foliage and citrus influences.
• Gold appears in low sheen finishes, muted and aged.

Environmentally responsible products will become increasingly popular and not just with the "Eco-set".  Mixing woods in the same room, even in the same furniture piece, creates a relaxed style statement in the high-end markets.  Consumers are looking for added value, natural finishes and high-style color.