Pantone’s colour of 2018 is ultraviolet, but how do you use it at home?

Pantone – aka the power to be in the chromatic world – has declared that the colour of the year is ultraviolet. The snazzy shade of purple makes for a bold design statement, but how does one use it at home without feeling like you are living in an oversized grape?

Architect Jean-Michel Gathy has some useful tips for colour coding that will help.

1. Steer clear of monotone

It’s boring, it’s lazy, and in the case of ultraviolet, it can be scary. Rather, pair different hues together for a more exciting palette. “Too much tone on tone is quite boring. The colours you choose do not always have to match, but should complement one another,” Gathy says.

2. Keep things in proportion

Remember that you have to actually live in this space, so don’t get carried away with too many strong colours and patterns. Gathy suggests grounding the room with neutrals, and then adding colourful highlights through accessories. “Be careful not to over-mix patterns, otherwise they’ll start to compete with each other,” he says. “Offset patterns with neutral breaks to create balance so the eye isn’t challenged. For example, if you have busy, multi-coloured pillows, opt for a more streamlined geometrical rug in black and white or tones of beige.”