JACKSONVILLE, Florida – Over the past few years, an increasing focus toward environmental concerns has put the color green in the spotlight.  As time moves on and current affairs bring changes to the economy, a new signature color is emerging.  Blue is becoming the new green.

“Just as the color green is synonymous with nature, the color blue is helping to bring new life to the environmental movement,” said Judith Sisler Johnston, president of Sisler Johnston Interior Design and ASID Allied Member.  “In these stressful times, blue is a calming, hopeful, soothing color.”

For the past year, colorists and other trend forecasters, including the Pantone Color Institute and JWT Intelligence, have predicted the palette shift from green to blue.  Many industry insiders say the color green has been overused and run its course.  They concluded the color blue reflects environmental responsibility in a more contemporary and credible ways than the color green.
                                                                         
Social trends have a major influence on color trends.  With environmental concerns commanding everyone’s attention, green has been the symbolic color and a major force in the marketplace.  Color palettes vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but this year’s new shades of blue brings heightened attention to water and other natural resources.  The most popular hues include vibrant iris blue, serene aqua-blue and violet-tinged celestial blue.

Nevertheless, blue has not completely replaced green in color circles.  Sisler Johnston has seen many green hues evolve into fused shades of blue.  Although the blue-green palette is not really new, this new approach to organic colors suggests environmental awareness while also giving a nod to serenity and relaxation. 

While green is still alive and well, blue is making an impact on 2008 design.  Its influence is evident on fashion runways and in cosmetics.  Color trends also determine the available choices in fabric, flooring, paint, furniture and other décor.


Sisler Johnston recommends homeowners consult with a licensed interior designer before beginning any home interior design project, including do-it-yourself endeavors to update color trends.  It can be a valuable investment to have an expert review the plan and provide recommendations.

Sisler Johnston Interior Design offers comprehensive interior design services for residential and commercial clients.  The company designs private residences, builder model homes, community centers, hotel guest accommodations and office suites.  Sisler Johnston Interior Design also provides marketable designs for senior lifestyle communities.

ASID Allied Member Judith Sisler Johnston and her team of licensed, talented designers help clients enhance their surroundings with designs that range from traditional elegance to classic contemporary style.  Sisler Johnston is Jacksonville’s leading authority on designing spectacular spaces that are beautiful, functional and reflect her clients’ personalities and lifestyles.

Sisler Johnston’s design work has been featured in numerous books, newspapers, magazines and television programs.  Sisler Johnston Interior Design celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2004 and has been recognized with more than 100 industry awards.

For more information about Sisler Johnston Interior Design, call (904) 288-0908 or visit www.sislerjohnston.com.

Photography:

Judith Sisler Johnston, president of Sisler Johnston Interior Design, describes the color blue as the new green.  She says blue tops the new color trends of 2008.

1. Under the Sea Room – Soft aqua blue is the basis color for Sisler Johnston’s guest room mural for Brylen Homes at Queen’s Harbour.

2. Living Room – Fused shades of green and blue enhance Sisler Johnston’s St. Augustine model at Covenant Cove for Mattamy Homes.

3. Stonebridge Living Room – Vibrant Iris blue brings heightened attention to water at Sisler Johnston’s Stonebridge model at Tidewater for ICI Homes.