Our Creative Director’s “Color Crush” Is a Neutral Hue That Really Brings the Drama
We’re asking some of the most stylish people we know for their 2024 Color Crush: the hue that’s lighting up their mood boards and room redos this year. Learn more about the colors they chose, then find more inspiration with our innovative image search, powered by Sherwin-Williams.
It’s easy to think about neutrals as soft, unobtrusive colors whose job is to let the rest of your decor shine. And they’re great at that! But, depending on how you use them, those same colors can be bold enough to make a big statement all on their own.
That’s what Apartment Therapy Creative Director Melissa Polhamus loves about her 2024 Color Crush: Tricorn Black SW 6258 by Sherwin-Williams. It’s a deep, true black that can transform a space even in small amounts, adding timeless elegance or emphatic glamour — or both at once!
Why Melissa Loves Tricorn Black
“Tricorn Black is a fantastic way to add color and warmth to your home while remaining relatively neutral,” Melissa says. “It’s a dramatic choice and a striking backdrop that enhances other colors and textures in a room.”
Tricorn Black’s ability to create a stunning focal point makes it ideal for an accent wall in the living room, bedroom, or dining area. “I’m also noticing more and more kitchens with sleek, modern black cabinets,” Melissa says. And that’s not the only trend she’s seeing with this captivating color.
“Black on the exterior of homes is a really elegant and bold choice,” she says. “I’ve seen it popping up on exterior doors and trim for some time, but I’m now seeing it being used in larger areas of the exterior as well. Two new builds in my neighborhood have primarily black exterior paint, and I am here for it!”
Colors That Work Well with Tricorn Black
Melissa would balance the depth of Tricorn Black with a trio of lighter hues: Pure White SW 7005, a creamy white; Courtyard SW 6440, a rich mossy green; and Faint Coral SW 6329, a sweet light pink.
“When paired with Tricorn Black, Pure White and Faint Coral add softness and a touch of romance,” Melissa says. “Courtyard adds richness and an organic feel.”
I have a black wall that serves as a backdrop for plants. I love how the black enhances the natural greens of the foliage.
Melissa Polhamus
Find Your Own Inspiration
Have these color-drenched images captured your imagination? The innovative Apartment Therapy image search, powered by Sherwin-Williams, lets you browse through thousands of House Tour photos — like the ones in this post! — for inspo that speaks to you. Look by color, room, decor style, and more. Then use any photo to generate a customized paint palette based on the image.
But we know ideas can be found everywhere, which is why you should also check out our new Color Collector, also powered by Sherwin-Williams. This tool allows you to upload any image and generate a personalized color palette recommendation. Try it with a photo of anything that speaks to you: a scene from your favorite movie, that outfit you’re wearing on repeat, or even a beautiful plate of food.
Once you’ve found your personalized color palettes, let Sherwin-Williams help you select the best shades for your space. With Peel & Stick samples and FREE color chips, you can get a true sense of how colors look and feel in your space, before you start painting. By the time you’re ready to pick up a brush, you’ll know exactly what to expect.