Colour trends in the post-pandemic office

During Clerkenwell Design Week, we welcomed the renowned colour and material specialist and trend forecaster, Laura Perryman, to our London showroom to talk about the future colour trends in the post-pandemic office. Let’s explore her 3 colour directions below.

The post-pandemic landscape

The global pandemic has clearly left a mark on how we perceive and interact with our environment. It has made us question how spaces affect us both mentally and physically. Ultimately, we want to feel safe in the spaces where we live and work. Or, as Laura puts it: “our homes should feel like sanctuaries and our offices should feel like home.”

Recovering from Covid-19 has also left us craving for a connection to each other and to nature. We find this translated in consumers’ conscious search for safe and healthy materials that boost wellbeing while taking care of the planet too.

So, the question that Laura asks is: which remedial colours and materials can be used to create positive and regenerative spaces that help us “thrive, connect and invent.”

1 | Bio bloom

This bio colour palette explores the symbiotic relationship between nature, colours and materials. Laura predicts that by looking at the ingenuity of living organisms and the innovations within the field of bio-design, we will be able to make responsible and regenerative materials that focus on cleansing the air and creating healthier environments overall. Biophilic design 2.0, so to speak.

Inspired by the vibrant shades of bacteria and fungi, the key colours are chlorophyll greens, organic oranges and effervescent purples. According to Laura, orange works softly stimulating, improving alertness. When used as a central colour in a workspace, it will help support focus for longer. On the other end of the spectrum, pairing ethereal purples with natural yellow-based tones is ideal for drawing people into more immersive yet natural experiences, sparking creativity.

2 | Nurture

The Nurture colour palette reflects on our need to feel safe and supported after the pandemic. It also explores the importance of tactility and authenticity, which Laura suggests is a reaction to the “touch deprivation” we’ve experienced during Covid-19.

It features several earthy tones, including grounding browns, soul-soothing reds and coral hues. As well as an Adriatic blue shade that inspires tranquillity and healing. In an office environment, the tone-on-tone coral, soft reds and pinks can be combined to support mental health and encourage natural breaks. Or you can play with the softer tones of the colour palette for a breakout zone where people will linger and relax.

3 | Joy

As we pick up our lives again after the many Covid restrictions we’ve faced, we’re entering a era of “sensory enjoyment,” says Laura. Playful and colourful workplaces speak to our senses and can help boost wellbeing and inclusivity in this era of the “new normal”.

The result is a kaleidoscope of energising, dopamine-inducing colours, combined with resourcefully recycled materials. It’s a spontaneous, yet responsible palette.
If you want to create a refreshing and positive atmosphere, Laura suggests to blend warm combinations of sunny yellow and orange across key walls and floors. Or combine opposites like green and pink into a bold and inspiring interior. Because these colours can be quite overpowering, Laura recommends to use light-diffusing textiles and recycled materials to tone down the look.

modulyss carpet tiles are available in myriad colours, textures and patterns that can sooth the craving for tactility in the post-pandemic landscape, while improving human and planetary health.

Explore our vast range.