Sorry, Pantone: I'm not painting my room magenta, but I do love these buys

Less is more in our opinion

A compilation of home products in different shades of magenta
(Image credit: Future)

Pantone has officially announced the 2023 Color of the Year as Viva Magenta, and despite my dedication to neutrals, I'm kind of into it. 

"Viva Magenta is brave and fearless, and a pulsating color whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration, writing a new narrative," Pantone's announcement (opens in new tab) says. " It is a new animated red that revels in pure joy, encouraging experimentation and self-expression without restraint."

After a lot of fear and uncertainty in the global climate, and the need for the stability, consistency, and comfort, which were found in the cooler tones of previous years' picks from Pantone, the choice of bright and warm shade feels symbolic of our collective readiness to jump back into life headfirst. 

Plus, the unapologetically bold Viva Magenta also goes hand-in-hand with other home trends we've been loving for 2023, like Barbiecore and dopamine decorating.

Pantone's Color of the Year, Viva Magenta, alongside other Pantone shades that coordiate

(Image credit: Pantone)

Despite my love for white, beige, and muted earthy tones, I love what this color stands for, so I'm actually considering incorporating it into my home as a reminder to be fearless and optimistic.

Now don't get me wrong, I won't be painting a wall Viva Magenta (and my landlord wouldn't let me even if I wanted to), but I do think it could work beautifully as an accent shade in every room. Luckily, Pantone actually recommends styling the Color of the Year alongside some of my favorite colors, so I've gone on a deep dive to find decor pieces for the kitchen, living room, and bedroom.

A colorful kitchen

A dining table with magenta candle, candlestick holder, plates, and a tinted pink glass

(Image credit: Anthropologie)

As someone who lives in a small space with an open-plan living room and kitchen and limited cabinet space, I'm a big fan of picking kitchenware that becomes an element of my home decor. It makes anything left on my countertop feel much more intentional, and these Viva Magenta finds will look fab on any stovetop or dining table.

Livening your living space

Your bedroom is your personal sanctuary, and it's the most cozy and comforting space in any home. It's important to decorate your room in a way that speaks to you, whether that means soothing tones and textures, or bringing in bright colors like Viva Magenta that inspire and invigorate you through the winter months. (Plus, these picks would be great on a sofa or in your living room, too!)

Warm and bold rugs

Magenta runner rug in a neutral hallway

(Image credit: Rugs USA)

If you're obsessing over Viva Magenta and want to brighten things up in a big way, try incorporating it through a rug. No matter what size, these rugs are sure to become a focal point in any room you decide to put them in, and will complement any neutral furniture and soft furnishings you already have in your home.

Nishaa Sharma
Staff Writer

Hi! My name is Nishaa, and I’m the staff writer here at Real Homes. Originally from the Pacific Northwest in the US, I’ve made my way to the English countryside via Canada, Australia, Hungary, and Portugal. Along the way, I’ve found my passion for writing and creating content through working with travel, lifestyle, and wellness brands, and now use my expertise in social media to stay on top of the latest and greatest in home trends.

When I’m not writing or scrolling, you can find me exploring the cutest villages and brunch spots, or snuggled up on the sofa with a new recipe, my husband, and our puppy, Ebble!

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