Sherwin-Williams announced Urbane Bronze SW 7048 (245-C7), a color rooted in nature, as its 2021 Color of the Year. As the home becomes the ultimate retreat to help us feel safe and grounded, this warm and sophisticated bronze hue invites designers and homeowners to create a sanctuary in the spaces around them.

Urbane Bronze is a rich anchor that grounds the mind in calm and stability with its ties to the natural world. The color is part of the Sanctuary palette from Sherwin-Williams 2021 Colormix® Forecast, a collection of 40 trending hues, which focuses on the need for balance in design this upcoming year.

Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams, describes Urbane Bronze as a comforting color that draws from nature and brings a feeling of relaxation and serenity. In addition, she explains, there's reassurance in its sentimentality, with nostalgic ties to design in the ‘70s and ‘90s, but with gray undertones that give it a distinctly modern twist.

This new neutral is bold and understated at the same time and can be used as both a primary or accent color in interiors or exteriors. Paired with natural materials such as wood, stone accents or woven textiles, Urbane Bronze conveys a sense of calm in bedrooms, living rooms and home offices.

To create balance and a sense of calm in commercial spaces, combine this hue with elements of biophilic design, including large, light-filled spaces and indoor greenery, which continue to play an important role in the design world.

As more people seek to create a retreat from the world in the spaces around them, Urbane Bronze SW 7048 (245-C7) is an effective and easy way to deliver Zen in our daily lives.

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