Psychologists reveal the meaning behind Veri Peri – Pantone’s Color of the Year 2022
The color authority has set the tone for seasons ahead – this is the science behind the hue of the moment


Color masters Pantone recently has announced Veri Peri as their Color of the Year 2022. The ‘periwinkle blue hue’ with vivid red undertones has since become the most talked-about shade of the season – and it’s not going anywhere fast.
Pantone’s Executive Director, Leatrice Eiseman, praised the shade for its trustworthiness and ability to provoke a ‘novel perspective’ in the year ahead – but what does this mean for our decorating ideas?
Naturally, this color trend-setter is set to make waves in all rooms – from a statement wall to a piece of accent furniture. However, while the shade has approval in the interior world, we asked, how will this affect your space psychologically? And what tone will the shade set for all who pass through your home?
The psychological meaning behind Pantone’s Color of the Year 2022
According to Psychologist and Wellbeing Consultant Lee Chambers (opens in new tab), the therapeutic blues of Veri Peri (opens in new tab) provides stability after a ‘turbulent year’ – as it offers a ‘feeling of calming confidence that we have a reliable platform to build upon.’
Behind the scenes, the violet undertones bring a level of energy and reinvigoration that give us permission to start stepping out and expressing ourselves again, unrestricted and unbound,’ Lee says.
The Psychologist adds that Pantone’s paint idea offers a sense of warmth whilst ‘conveying a subtle optimism and a vision for the future of finding solutions’ – so naturally, we’re racing to bring the hue into our homes.
‘More than ever, Very Peri represents an agile and flexible world where even the coolest of colors needs to bring some heat as the boundaries are blurred, and individuals step out to create their optimal ways of living,’ he adds.
Plus, color consultant and therapist Suzy Chiazzari (opens in new tab) emphasizes Lee’s suggestion that Pantone’s announcement ‘reflects the changing times we are living through’ – and so is an apt addition to your decorating ideas for 2022.
‘Indigo is linked to our higher mind and intuition, and violet is a powerful color that taps into our creative spirit,’ she adds.
Has psychology changed the way you see Pantone’s Color of the Year 2022? If anything, we think we love it that little bit more...
Megan is the News and Trends Editor at Homes & Gardens. She first joined Future Plc as a News Writer across their interiors titles, including Livingetc and Real Homes. As the News Editor, she often focuses on emerging microtrends, sleep and wellbeing stories, and celebrity-focused pieces. Before joining Future, Megan worked as a News Explainer at The Telegraph, following her MA in International Journalism at the University of Leeds. During her BA in English Literature and Creative Writing, she gained writing experience in the US while studying in New York. Megan also focused on travel writing during her time living in Paris, where she produced content for a French travel site. She currently lives in London with her antique typewriter and an expansive collection of houseplants.
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