Viva Magenta! Pantone’s Colour Of The Year 2023

Hello 2023!

What better way to start 2023 than with a dose of Pantone’s courageous colour of the year?

“Pantone’s Colour of the Year, Viva Magenta 18-1750, vibrates with vim and vigour. It is a shade rooted in nature descending from the red family and expressive of a new signal of strength. Viva Magenta is brave and fearless, and a pulsating colour whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration, writing a new narrative.”

– PANTONE

Welcome to the Magentaverse

Taking a bit of a turn from the previous softer pastel and neutral shades, this colour punches! The bold, brave and courageous characters of Viva Magenta are all elements to be seen in 2023. As we embark on new journeys we are ready to make some noise. Stemming from nature, this colour is taken from the Cochineal beetle which has been used for centuries to extract red dye, connecting the old and new.

“It is assertive, but not aggressive, like a fist in a velvet glove,”

Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute

How will you use it in the interior world?

We had a chat with our expert in-house design team who have all shared their thoughts on Viva Magenta and how they see it being used in commercial interiors.

Klaryce Edwards

I actually really liked this colour from the start! Though I do love pinks so it was immediately a hit. Viva Magenta is loud and proud and I feel some may find it too much, while others will be drawn to its warmth and energy. This colour would be a strong and positive refresh to any design endeavours moving into 2023. 

• Embrace bold: make bold moves in 2023
• Unapologetic: embrace unapologetic authenticity
• Strong and uplifting: colour radiates optimism and positive energy (the pinkish red is less aggressive than a more yellow/orange-red)
• Pair with strong textures, even organic textures inspired by nature – as the colour is derived from nature
• Tone down or be subtle by using it as an accent colour in prints/patterns
• Bold on bold colour blocking, either complimentary or contrasting.
• It could be styled to give a sense of sophistication and confidence paired alongside neutrals if not ready for bold-on-bold colour blocking
• Statement elements, anywhere this colour is used will immediately become a focal point and draw the eye. This can be advantageous when done correctly.

What colours go with Viva Magenta?

We’ve put together a few schemes to help inspire you on different ways you can incorporate magenta into your projects. Showcasing how versatile this colour can be.

Bush Berries

Dark, moody and sophisticated this combination looks towards the cooler bluer spectrum of Magenta. Mirroring the colours from the berries in the bush.

Calm Clay

Using slightly more saturated neutrals with hints of magenta we can achieve a very earthy and calming story. Layer this look with lots of different textures and finishes.

Tropical Paradise

Mix it up with zesty oranges and luscious greens. Taking inspiration from the jungle, we can create a palette that’s not only lively but also ties us back to nature. We know biophilia plays a big part in design, so why not make it pop?

Think Pink

Pink on pink, why not? Play with all the shades and tones and make something that shouts excitement.

There is definitely something energising about this colour. We hope you feel inspired and brave, we would love to know if you plan to use Viva Magenta in your upcoming projects.

Here’s to a bright and bold 2023!

About the Author: Chloe Rose

Chloe Rose is a Sydney-based designer and panel speaker, with a rich background in textile and graphic design. Since 2018, she has specialised in product development and textile design for Materialised, where she combines her expertise in creating prints with brand knowledge and creative flair. With a passion for vibrant colours, traditional techniques, and global patterns, Chloe is well known for infusing creativity and joy into her work, making her an energetic and inspiring collaborator on every project she takes on.