The Color of the Year 2015 Pantone is Marsala (18-1438), a naturally robust and earthy red. A color that recalls the ground, a research of warmth and roots, balance and safety. A trend that was already anticipated last autumn by AzkoNobel that chose Copper Orange as Color Future 2015: both share the red-brown roots and the natural concreteness of the earth. In the year of the EXPO 2015 a color with the flavor of the wine and the food.

A definite change towards the Radiant Orchid 2014, lighter and frillier, that was chosen to encourage creativity and innovation: in an historical period characterized by lack of certainty, Marsala is a firm anchoring for body and soul. Versatile color, adaptable to any situation and context, essential peculiarity in our fast-paced society, Marsala is also a rich and charismatic and polished tone, able to satisfy the desire of sophisticated elegance in the simplest and most concrete things.
“Much like the fortified wine that gives Marsala its name, this tasteful hue embodies the satisfying richness of a fulfilling meal while it’s grounding red-brown roots emanate a sophisticated, natural earthiness. This hearty, yet stylish tone is universally appealing and translates easily to fashion, beauty, industrial design, home furnishings and interiors” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute.
Concerning Interior design Marsala provides an unifying element for interior spaces. Warm, but at the same time relaxing and welcoming, full-bodied without being stifling, Marsala amplifies its own peculiarities on rough surfaces and it particularly suits for carpets, living rooms and entrance halls furniture such as tables, small appliances or table covers.
Though Marsala gives its best in the graphic design field with its striking and not excessively bright tone, capturing the attention by its seductive shade. That’s why this color is perfect for anything concerning marketing and packaging.
So that is the magic formula for the 2015: 150, 79, 76 (RGB) or 25, 77, 64, 11 (CMYK).
Text by Gabriele Masi.