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16 | M A R C H 2 0 2 5 Paint & Coatings dynamic spaces that foster connection. Paired with earthy tones like Pink Adobe (6073-31), Soft Shell Clam (6193-53), and Gray Area (6240-52), Starry Night mirrors the sky, land, and sea. McCollum recommends Sico Prestige paint for these transformative shades, offering a stain-and-scuff-resistant finish that uplifts every room with rich, expressive colour. Together, Dulux and Sico's 2025 palettes invite homeowners to explore bold, dynamic choices in design. At Sherwin-Williams, the 2025 Color Capsule of the Year celebrates the com- pany's 15th anniversary of announcing the Color of the Year. "Each year colour forecasting is complex and exciting. The Global Trendsight team drew inspira- tion this year from global influences and emerging design preferences to select a capsule that captures the spirit of the times and resonates with a broad audi- ence," explains Emily Kantz, colour marketing manager at Sherwin-Williams. While many of the colours evoke a sense of nature – reflecting a growing trend among homeowners to bring the outdoors in – Kantz clarifies that the cen- tral theme is "vintage with a twist." The capsule feels eclectic and reminiscent of the 1970s, which is making a comeback in design, with modern shades added to keep it fresh and fun. One of Kantz's favourite colour pairings is combining browns like Grounded SW 6089 with whites like Sunbleached SW 9585. "The combination feels elegant, yet restorative. It's a softer take on the classic black-and-white pairing with a refreshing twist," Kantz says. She recommends using this combination in mas- ter bedrooms for a luxurious yet comforting feel. Another unexpected pairing she loves is Rain Cloud SW 9639 and Chartreuse SW 0073, creating a fresh, light, and fun vibe, perfect for spaces like dining rooms or sitting rooms. TOP COATING PERFORMERS While colour inspires creativity, coatings themselves continue to evolve with performance-driven innovation. Cloverdale Paint continues to lead the way in architectural coatings with its cutting-edge Guardian Plus Interior 100 percent Acrylic Enamel line. This advanced family of coatings is designed to meet the high standards of architects and designers, offering exceptional scuff and burnish resistance, optimal washability, and four gloss options: Matte, Eggshell, Pearl, and Semi-Gloss. These coatings are low-VOC, non-yellowing, and ideal for residential, commercial, and institutional projects, balancing durability with reduced environmental impact and maintenance needs. Cloverdale also introduces Rodeo (EX010) as its 2025 Colour of the Year. "Reflecting a growing desire to connect with nature in an increasingly technological world, Rodeo embodies calm and balance. Its earthy tones pair seamlessly with greens, terracottas, and soft creams, creating harmonious, nature-inspired interiors," says Trish Picariello, colour consultant. Picariello adds that advancements in smart lighting and sustainable design complement these trends, integrating technology that enhances natural lighting while reducing energy use. When paired with higher reflective value colours and strategically positioned surfaces, designers can achieve dynamic, eco-conscious spaces that connect people to the planet. Meanwhile, the growing popularity of textured concrete opens doors for creativity, thanks to innovative solutions from companies like Nawkaw Corporation. Since 1988, Nawkaw Corporation has been at the forefront of architectural staining, developing, and applying innovative colour solutions for concrete and masonry. As textured concrete continues to emerge as a popular trend in modern design, Nawkaw's expertise is shaping how this material is used to create visually dynamic surfaces. Textured concrete offers a canvas for creativity, and Nawkaw's hand-applied mineral stains enhance its versatility. Their skilled artisans use advanced tech- niques to mimic the look of materials like wood, metal, and leather, allowing for endless design possibilities. These finishes go beyond aesthetics, delivering durable and unique results tailored to each project. By blending craftsmanship with decades of experience, Nawkaw helps designers and architects push the boundaries of what textured concrete can achieve. Whether it's bold facades or intricate interior walls, their work high- lights the potential of this innovative material in modern spaces. DUR ABLE SOLUTIONS Canadian innovation takes centre stage with Corkelite cork spray, a cutting-edge coating made from natural cork granules and water-based resins. According to experts at the company, this versatile solution enhances both energy efficiency and durability, making it a standout choice for modern construction and reno- vation projects. Achieving Class A certification in tunnel fire tests, Corkelite is the first product of its kind in Canada to meet this high safety standard. Beyond fire resistance, Corkelite cork spray provides thermal and acoustic insulation, flexibility, and exceptional weather resistance, offering a blend of performance and aesthetic appeal. Another leader in this realm is the Thermal Elite Pro paints that have been formulated to improve energy efficiency in buildings and reduce thermal absorption. The company states that this decreases the reliance on HVAC systems, contributing to energy savings and enhanced indoor comfort. Like cork spray, these paints are eco-friendly and easy to apply, providing a practical and sustainable solution for projects that combine aesthetics and functionality. The company states that incorporating products like Corkelite's cork spray and Thermal Elite Pro paints enables construction professionals in Canada to adopt safer, more efficient, and environmentally-friendly practices, aligning with current industry trends. A Rodeo (EX010) from Cloverdale Paint. Starry Night (6044-83) from Sico. Sunbleached SW 9585 from Sherwin-Williams.