PFK-Spring-2018

38 Pittsburgh’s Finest Kitchens | Greater Pittsburgh | Spring 2018 Edition When PPG Paints introduced Black Flame (1043-7) as the 2018 Color of the Year the bold choice stirred the design world into a frenzy. Photos of the daring shade garnered more than 13 million page views throughout various social media platforms in the first week with consumers pinning and sharing images like crazy. Dee Schlotter, the Senior Color Marketing Manager for PPG Paints, explains why. “This statement-making yet classic black, infused with an undertone of the deepest indigo, evokes the privacy, hope and classic modernism that many consumers crave today.” In media rooms, designers and homeowners are using dark shades like black and charcoal to create the perfect theater backdrop for the ever-growing television. Large screens fade away when not in use and high-definition images float on the wall theatre-style for the ultimate viewing experience. Black is quickly becoming the cabinet of choice for many kitchens as well. They are easy to clean and look just right in any design style from Farmhouse to Modern. Black cabinets are the perfect way to break up a run of white cabinetry, especially around a cooktop. They are also perfect to run over a large expanse of windows creating a “frame” to the outdoors. Using black cabinets can be a perfect solution for the kitchen island. It visually sets the stage for the countertop and makes the island seem less imposing. Cabinet knobs and pulls are like jewelry for your cabinetry. There is no better way to show it off than against a black backdrop. Gold, brass, and copper are shining bright, elevating kitchen design to a new elegance. Appliance companies have taken notice of the trend. Major brands including LG, Whirlpool, KitchenAid and Samsung have introduced black stainless lines. They are reflective of consumer desire to have more ease of care and timeless design. The new finish combines seamlessly with new technology in the brands. With all of them offering slide-in ranges in Induction and Convection or glass touch controls in wall units such as found in the GE Profile series. This staple is here to stay. Along with the Color of the Year, PPG Paints unveils a complete color palette told within four-color stories that have been chosen by a global team of nearly 30 experts from six countries. They gather to flesh out their research taking into consideration everything from cultural and world events to the state of the economy and politics. This group taps into the consumer mind to flesh out the trends that bubble to the surface. The critical decisions cross multiple segments including electronics, automotive and aerospace. The 2018 palette isn’t just about black; it’s about how we live and respond to the world around us. Being constantly inundated with technology, we crave quiet and mindfulness. We are plugging into soft neutrals like Synchronicity (1021-2) and Cool Slate (1002-3) and also turning to the softer white of Gypsum (1006-1). Today’s highly charged political climate has made consumers choose to create their personal happiness. The Nordic style of Hygge focuses on family, friends, and togetherness. Along with that, we are looking to live more at one with nature above and below us. Colors from the “ This statement-making yet classic black, infused with an undertone of the deepest indigo, evokes the privacy, hope and classic modernism that many consumers crave today. ”