Anyone thinking of calling in professional wallpaper installers to transform their interior may have been looking around for some interesting, novel and attractive options. Just such an idea may have been provided by paint company Pantone.

The announcement of the Pantone Colour of the Year is always a bit of event in the design world, one that may influence interior design, fashion and much else. This year, the colour nominated is Viva Magenta. 

For those who love rich colours at the pink-red end of the spectrum, this may be particularly attractive. Pantone said of the hue: “Viva Magenta is brave and fearless, and a pulsating colour whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration, writing a new narrative.”

Executive director of the Pantone Colour Institute Leatrice Eisman described the shade as “inspired by the red of cochineal, one of the most precious dyes belonging to the natural dye family as well as one of the strongest and brightest the world has known.”

Reflecting on this year’s choice, the Independent quoted Chelsea Clark, head of brand at Lust Home, stated that the key to styling in Viva Magenta is to focus on wallpaper. “Wallpaper is a great starting point when looking to dip your toes into the world of bright interiors,” she commented. 

Ms Clark added: “Add a pop of Viva Magenta to your walls in the form of a patterned wallpaper and embrace the bold trend.”

Of course, it is far from the first time in recent years that a pinkish hue has been the Pantone Colour of the year, with others including Living Coral in 2019, Rose Quartz in 2016 and Honeysuckle in 2011. However, it is certainly a shift from the 2022 colour, the violet-blue Peri Peri. 

In summary, Viva Magenta is a bright and expressive colour and not for the faint-hearted. There is little that is subtle about it, but it could be perfect if a bold statement is what you want from your wallpaper and other décor in 2023.