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54 | M A R C H 2 0 2 3 Paint & Coatings Brushing up on the latest news in paint and coatings for 2023 by LAURIE JONES T he options for adding or altering colours in both commercial and residential settings have broad- ened to include earthy, subdued tones for some, with choices that reflect a renewed interest in bold hues for the adventurous designer. The increased trend for finding serenity and sta- bility inside the home inspired Sico paint brand by PPG to select Melt Water – a grounded, refreshing teal that combines the healing power of water and nature with balance and tranquility – as its 2023 Colour of the Year. Melt Water is a robust and refined bluish-green- ish tone that intertwines bold blue and calming green to create a captivating colour symbolic of deep water. Its adaptable, blue-jewelled hue sets a soothing, serene mood in spaces, while its emer- ald nuances evoke feelings of equilibrium. Paired together, these two undertones create an ultra-rich, uber-trendy colour that blends well with contem- porary designs or adds a refined pop of colour to traditional decor. "On the other side of the pandemic, people are looking for a mental reset and want to infuse their homes with invigorating colours that help give them a boost as well as refuge in today's unpredictable world," says Martin Tustin-Fuchs, PPG senior mar- keting manager, Sico paint brand. "Melt Water accomplishes just that with its energizing yet grounding vibe. It's symbolic of a newfound outlook and works exceptionally well in any space – both interior and exterior." Among the other popular 2023 colours unveiled by Sico paint brand are equally bold and soothing deep greenish-gray, forest green, muted terracotta, and coppery brown hues. The brand's Ancient Lava, Boreal Forest, Brown Tobacco, and Faux Leather all pair beautifully with Melt Water. Sico paint brand's 2023 colours are one-coat and available in recently introduced Sico Prestige paint, which Tustin-Fuchs describes as one of the brand's best paints ever. "The breakthrough, ultra-resilient interior paint-plus-primer is designed to maximize colour and quality, while minimizing the effort required to apply and maintain the paint," Tustin- Fuchs says. The palette is also available in one-coat protection Sico Super Premium Exterior paint. Also available from PPG is the Dulux Paints' 2023 Colour of the Year – Vining Ivy teal. A striking green- blue jewel-toned hue that is symbolic of deep water, Vining Ivy is both calming and invigorating, infus- ing home decor with a much-needed breath of fresh air after a few challenging years. Get Your Coat On "Canadians took pause during the pandemic to reflect on what matters most, appreciating the beauty of the natural world like never before, and this is translating into uber-earthy and rich, sanc- tuary-like colour choices for the home," says Mitsu Dhawan, Dulux brand manager. "As opposed to softer neutrals that have been popular in recent years, the new nature-inspired tones are bolder and more expressive, reflecting an optimistic mood as we emerge ready for the next normal. This trend reflects our desire to feel more anchored and con- nected to the planet and turn toward the wonders of nature as a way to move forward and counterbal- ance the pressures of the world." Dhawan suggests using Vining Ivy teal in rooms where one wishes to relax and unwind, such as a living room or bedroom, and adding an addi- tional infusion of comfort with warm metal or wood accessories. As an exterior, this blue-green hue enhances curb appeal as a punch of colour or adds welcoming charm to a front door. Dhawan adds that Vining Ivy pairs well with the range of other colours in the Dulux Paints' palette, which is domi- nated by sea, stone, mineral, and soil hues. These earth shades include brown tones with Dark Granite and Cook Clay, the terracotta orange of Georgian Leather, and Weathered Wood's warm neutral. The 2023 Colormix Forecast Terra collection from Sherwin-Williams embraces regeneration, cre- ativity, and connection through rich earth tones, natural clays, sunbaked sands, restful neutrals, and powdery pastels. For commercial projects, the Terra palette offers a variety of choices, with a casual earthy vibe that conveys a relaxed, almost residen- tial atmosphere for employees to feel comfortable and focused. With an increased focus on self-care and per- sonal wellness, homeowners want ways to make their homes a pleasant place. These earthy tones and natural finishes are the ideal combination to bring the outside in and feel closer to nature as well as unique elements, such as statement colours to help define spaces while adding personality. Melt Water – Sico paint brand's 2023 Colour of the Year. Terra collection from Sherwin-Williams. P H OTO G R A P H Y CO U RT E S Y S I CO/ P P G A RC H I T EC T U R A L COAT I N GS; S H ERW I N -W I L L I A M S

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