Colour trend research by Akzo Nobel reveals that people's choice of colour is influenced by the state of the economy, with neutral tones favoured for interiors during a downturn.
Akzo Nobel's ongoing colour trends research Colour Futures revealed that homeowners favour neutral colours such as black, white and grey when decorating during an economic downturn. It also found that more intense colours are used when people feel more confident.

Akzo Nobel Decorative Paints global colour training manager Stephanie Kaneveld explained: "At the end of the 20th Century, for example, neutrals were predominantly used. When fear and uncertainty surrounding the dawn of the new millennium faded, colour began to reappear in homes, varying from bright, vibrant colours to less saturated tones. "

The research found that currently in Western Europe, sober whites and off-whites are the most popular, while in the US, beige and grey are dominant. Fresh colours such as clean yellows, pinks and light blue are preferred in Asia, which Ms Kaneveld believes could well be related to the local economy.

Discussing the trends for 2010, she said: "Midtones will tend to predominate overall, with cleaner off-whites and fewer heavy shades evident, indicating a move towards colours that are lighter in mood and more optimistic in feeling, which will lift our spirits as we move on from the tough economic times we're currently going through."