Understated Elegance

Bland? Boring? Not today's neutrals. Their mix of values, of warm and cool tones harmonizing together as they do in natural stone, represent a subtle rainbow compared with the safe off-white palettes of yesteryear.

Sherwin-Williams' cool grays, such as pale Krypton and deep Cyberspace, are making a comeback after a noticeable absence, says Ralich Spak.

And technology brings a whole new dimension to neutral palettes, adding light and inner luster with textures and finishes we could never have imagined previously.

"Technology has come so far since neutrals were last in the spotlight," says Ralich Spak. "There are wall coverings that look like fish scales, LED lighting that adds texture and dimension, even leather with a luminescent quality."

The Milan Furniture Fair was a-shimmer with metallic finishes and crystal-embedded textiles, Eiseman notes. "Years ago, if crystals were in the fabric, you would feel them. Now technology allows a flat finish that still sparkles."

The range of products with chameleonic colors is rapidly expanding, says Jill Morton, CEO of Colorcom. "We first saw it in the automotive industry, with complex grays that shift from silver to lavender. Once we see it in one arena, we look for it in others."

Technology is redefining luxury for the mass market, Eiseman says. "Luxury today doesn't necessarily mean the most expensive textile. Today you can create a very sumptuous fabric that is synthetic but still looks natural. Technology is allowing us to have more."

Due to individual computer monitor limitations, colors seen here may not accurately reflect Sherwin-Williams paint colors. To confirm your color choices, visit your neighborhood Sherwin-Williams store and refer to our in-store color cards.