Paints and coatings company and the makers of Dulux paints in India, AkzoNobel, presented Monarch Gold as the Colour of the Year for 2016. As part of the 13th edition of AkzoNobel’s annual global study, ColourFutures, the company has unveiled the colour trend and its overriding theme: Looking both ways in a colour walk.

Developed by the company’s Global Aesthetic Centre in collaboration with leading design and colour experts from around the world, ColourFutures 2016 is inspired by contrasting opinions, with ‘looking both ways’ being the driving influence. This year, we find ourselves at a unique crossroads where we can see the advantage of both tradition and modern innovation, where the importance of weighing opposite opinions and views has never been stronger. Monarch Gold also weaves in beautifully with India’s affinity towards gold that is deeply engraved in the country’s culture, architecture and heritage.

This year’s research witnessed the use of gold and gold tones everywhere in the design world. It is a recurring colour at design fairs, graphic design and in architecture, fashion, beauty and interior decoration. Gold is also identified as the colour that connects with the overall trend of 2016: Looking both ways. Monarch Gold exemplifies this theme of duality – being bright enough to attract attention while also subtly referring to the past and the colour of the earth. It also combines well with other tones. The colour is the ‘golden hour’ of dark and light; it is the gold that appears in the paintings of both old masters (heritage) and modern artists (future). It exemplifies the fusion of our past, present and future.

Sharing his insights for the business in India, Rajiv Rajgopal, Director, Decorative Paints, AkzoNobel India, said, “In 2015, Dulux has launched innovative paint products such as Dulux Velvet Touch Diamond Glo, with the dazzling glow and strength of a diamond; Weathershield Powerflexx, with rainproof properties and Super Cover with its colours of the world. These innovations have successfully appealed to not only the aesthetic sense of our consumers but also catered to the need of protecting the walls of their homes.”