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Soft pastels from Benjamin Moore. J U LY 2 0 2 0 | 29 Paint & Coatings A s the spring weather arrives, freshening up the home is top of the to-do list for many people, and paint is one of the easiest ways to accomplish the task. Designers are also looking to the new trends to create welcoming environments for both com- mercial and residential clients. The team at Benjamin Moore is aware that for spring we often yearn for pastels and other fresh, airy colours and spring 2020 was no different. First Light is an uplifting refreshing pink and Crystalline an invigorating, silvery green. As alternatives to neutral greys and beiges, these fresh pastels make wonderful backdrops to many spaces. They enhance various textures and materials, play well with other hues, and bring a welcome softness to a minimalist esthetic. "The overarching theme of comfort is driving trends in colour, texture, and finish," says Sharon Grech, Benjamin Moore spokesperson, colour and design. "In 2020 we are seeing both pastels and saturated hues soften, with a greyed effect. Textures are very tactile with heavy basket weaves, crumpled linen, leather and natural wood. Overall interiors are feeling less formal, more relaxed and lived-in." She adds there is nothing better than the look and feel of a freshly painted space. In both commercial and residential spaces, paint is one of the least expensive products with the most impact. The impact of a colour transforma- tion is huge, but it doesn't stop there. "Choosing a premium quality product can save several coats of paint and time. Benjamin Moore paint provides both premium colour and proven performance across the entire colour spectrum, so you only repaint when you want to, not because you have to." Regal Select paint has been a trusted product by both professionals and homeowners for more than 50 years and now benefits from Benjamin Moore's Gennex Colour Technology composed of proprietary resins and colourants. It is zero VOC, low odour, and will resist colour fading inside and outside of the home, while standing up to harsh weather conditions outdoors. Kevin Skelly, social media and digital marketing manager for Cloverdale Paint says all of the company's products are focusing on reducing VOCs – which they have since about 2006. "It's a great 'race to the bottom' for emissions! This is not only in compliance with Federal regulations, it's simply the right thing to do for our world." He explains with technological advances, the industry continues to focus on joining old paint technology properties and characteristics (flow, levelling, a long alkyd/oil), but using water-based technologies. "Our Multimaster is a good example of that – a mix of Polyurethane and Acrylic. It is a super-adhesive, super durable finish that can be used on almost any surface. It comes in two finishes – Satin [Goss Level 3] and Semi-Gloss [GL5]." In the colour arena, Skelly says colour palettes continue to be complex in the neutrals area – colours with undertones that may appear differently under different lighting conditions throughout the day. " Also, in the lights area, the off-whites are strong, but not just white – again, more complex, with subtle hints of brown, grey or tan." Sico's Mystic Cobalt was introduced as their Colour of the Year for 2020. A deep blue verging on purple, the timeless tone was used in the Mediterranean pottery thousands of years ago. In modern days, blue inspires reconnection with nature and calm. Designers and homeowners can opt for the classic look of blue and white with Sico's White Goose Down. Pairing with crisp white linen and accent pieces, the ambiance of a Greek island is easy to attain. For a warmer tone, blending the Mystic Cobalt with Sico's Chestnut Tree option gives an exotic African or Middle Eastern look. To add bright- ness to the room while maintaining the elegance of the Mystic Cobalt, Buckwheat Yellow gives a natural blend, particularly against unique crown moulding. Paint and coatings take you into your comfort zone by LAURIE JONES Different Strokes For Different Folks