Launching its trend book for next year, Colour Feeling 2012+, produced in colloboration with trend agency The Future Laboratory, the German-based colour standard organisation believes the theme for 2012 will be ‘simplicity’.
“Simplicity and aesthetics are in focus when it comes to choosing colours and forms,” the group said in a statement.
“The colours range from powerful signal colours and luxurious metallics to reserved greys.
“The key trend themes – ‘bare’, ‘retro modern’, ‘soft industrial’ and ‘re-make’ – will define the future of product and industrial design as well as interior design and architecture,” it added.
RAL has highlighted eight trend colours, including ‘industrial pink’, ‘green spark’, ice white’, ‘mid-century blue’ and ‘sandpit’.
In its new colour trend book RAL explains the themes for next year in more detail.
“‘Bare’ is the name of the trend toward choosing natural forms and materials that emanate a quiet aesthetic. The classic colour palette encompasses tender greys, off-whites and neutral sand colours,” it said.
“Influenced by Scandinavia, the ‘retro modern’ colour trend has been shaped by a retro-inspired aesthetic that combines concise forms with highly saturated colours such as yellow ochre and lively green.
“‘Feminine and sophisticated’, ‘classic’ and ‘elegant’ are the words Colour Feeling 2012+ uses to characterise the ‘soft industrial’ trend. The trend colours are a combination of metallics and pastels such as copper and pale jade green.
“Individualised design and an experimental, colourful aesthetic – occasionally including a conscious discord – are the focus of the ‘re-make’ trend. Brilliant, dynamic colours such as primary red, primary blue or neon red mix with soft, neutral beiges and greys,” it added.
In September 2010 RAL collaborated with masterbatch group Gabriel-Chemie to produce the RAL Plastics Standard, which both companies hope to grow to some 200 different shades in response to industry demand.
