Thinking in shades of blue: How to use Pantone Color of the Year in office spaces?

Over the years Pantone Color Institute with its Color of the Year selection has influenced not only fashion, product design and residential interior trends, but also the way work environment and office furniture are designed. Today, we’re thinking in shades of classic blue together with Abeer Zaidi, FF&E manager at Swiss Bureau Interior Design.

We are exploring a range of different office furniture products that can help you incorporate various shades of blue (from baby to navy blue) in workspace environments without overwhelming the space.

“Pantone’s Color of the Year is a very eye-catching shade of dark blue, a colour that is universally known as stable and calming, a colour that helps people remain focused throughout the working day. When used in moderation through pops of colour, it can make a space look quite fun and elegant. I would introduce colour by opting to either paint one wall in blue, or through accessories such as desktop lamps and definitely through upholstery; such as poufs, task chairs, divider screens. Classic Blue can be paired with so many colours, especially with neutral tones of natural materials. This colour can be beautifully matched with different wood finishes for both workstations and meeting room tables.” explains Abeer.

Our concept designer Melia Abs mixed & matched some of Abeer’s top picks from Schiavello, Orangebox and Interface to create an overall moodboard that combines light and darks shades of blue with understated beige and more punchy tones of mustard yellow and coral red.

So, let’s have a closer look at Abeer’s top picks:

Net Effect carpet tile collection by Interface that honours the ocean not only in its aesthetic references but also in a unique and tangible way as these carpet tiles are made from end-of-life fishing nets that is processed into 100% recycled nylon yarn.

Acoustic Baffle Light designed by design duo Doshi Levien for Schiavello. The light comes in a wool felt fabric, but Abeer liked the idea of customizing the powder-coated metal hanger in different shades, including blue.

Kase storage by Schiavello offers a contemporary and unobtrusive design achieved through a minimalist form. And, it looks impressive in pale blue. Another great product from Schiavello – Focus Booth - tops Abeer’s list. High, curved panels form a shield from the surrounding environment, but they can be highly customizable to achieve the desired look. Metal legs and understructure, as well as joints between the two panels, also come in multiple colours, including shades of light and dark blue.

For collaboration spaces, Abeer chose an eclectic mix and match of a few products from Orangebox.

“I also like Bae, a collaborative meeting room table from Orangebox in any wooden finish, maybe combined with task lights in pale blue and a mix of different chairs, including Acorn and Cubb chairs and Sully stools,” says Swiss Bureau’s FF&E expert.