Sherwin Williams September Color of the Month, Palm Leaf, brings a sense of nostalgia with its rich, earthy avocado green tones. This shade draws inspiration from the vibrant designs of the 1970s, a decade known for its bold experimentation with colors and textures. Palm Leaf takes the best of that era and breathes new life into it, offering a fresh, modern twist on a classic hue.
The Retro Renaissance: Why We Love Palm Leaf
The resurgence of retro styles in interior design has led to a renewed appreciation for colors that evoke warmth, comfort, and a touch of whimsy. Sherwin-Williams Palm Leaf embodies all these qualities and more. Its vintage appeal lies in its ability to transport us back to a time when design was daring yet grounded in nature. This earthy green shade resonates with a sense of calm and tranquility, reminiscent of lush forests and natural landscapes. It’s a color that feels both rooted and free-spirited, making it a perfect choice for those looking to create spaces that are inviting, relaxing, and full of character.
But what makes Palm Leaf truly stand out is its versatility. This is not just a color for those who want to recreate a 1970s aesthetic; it’s also a shade that can seamlessly blend into contemporary spaces, adding depth and personality. Whether you’re aiming for a full-on retro revival or just a hint of vintage flair, Palm Leaf offers endless possibilities.
Fit for Retro: Merging Old with New
One of the most exciting aspects of Palm Leaf is its ability to bridge the gap between old and new. This shade is a master at infusing a modern feel into a vintage look, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate the charm of the past but want to keep their spaces feeling fresh and current.
When paired with the right colors and design elements, Palm Leaf can either be the star of the show or play a supportive role. For instance, when used as a feature wall color, it can create a striking focal point that commands attention. On the other hand, when used as an accent color, it adds just the right amount of interest and contrast without overwhelming the space.
To achieve a truly harmonious retro-modern blend, consider pairing Palm Leaf with Oat Milk , a light, neutral hue that provides a clean backdrop for retro styling. Oat Milk’s subtle warmth complements the richness of Palm Leaf, allowing the green to pop while still maintaining a balanced, cohesive look. This combination works particularly well in living rooms and bedrooms, where you want to create a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.
Image courtesy Sherwin-Williams
Get the Look: Geometric Shapes, Eclectic Lighting, Natural Wood Tones
Designing with Palm Leaf offers a fantastic opportunity to explore retro-inspired elements that enhance the overall aesthetic. Geometric shapes, a hallmark of 1970s design, are a perfect match for this color. Whether through wallpaper, artwork, or textiles, incorporating bold, geometric patterns can amplify the retro vibe and add visual interest to your space.
Eclectic lighting is another key element to consider. Think of fixtures with unique, sculptural shapes, or vintage-inspired designs that harken back to mid-century modern styles. Brass or gold finishes work beautifully with Palm Leaf, adding a touch of glamour and warmth. Pendant lights, arc lamps, or chandeliers with a retro flair can serve as stunning focal points while also providing functional lighting.
Natural wood tones are essential for grounding the look and bringing a sense of warmth and organic texture to the space. Opt for wood furniture with clean lines and simple silhouettes, which were prevalent in 1970s design. Whether you choose a rich walnut, light oak, or a deep mahogany, the natural wood will complement Palm Leaf’s earthy qualities, creating a harmonious and inviting environment.
Beautifully Blended: Balancing the 70s Boho Palette
Achieving the perfect balance is key when working with a color as distinctive as Palm Leaf. While the 70s Boho palette is known for its cozy allure and nostalgic charm, it’s the careful selection and combination of shades that ensure a harmonious and well-rounded space.
Palm Leaf pairs beautifully with deeper shades like Antiquarian Brown , a rich, earthy tone that adds depth and sophistication. This color combination is ideal for creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere in living rooms or dining areas. Antiquarian Brown serves as an excellent backdrop, allowing Palm Leaf to stand out while still maintaining a cohesive look.
To keep the space feeling light and open, consider incorporating Jogging Path , a soft, neutral hue that ties everything together. Jogging Path works particularly well in spaces where you want to maintain a sense of airiness and tranquility, such as bedrooms or home offices. By using Jogging Path as the main wall color and incorporating Palm Leaf and Antiquarian Brown through furniture, accessories, or accent walls, you can create a balanced and serene environment that feels both timeless and contemporary.
Get the Look: Retro Furniture, Jute Rug, Greenery
Retro furniture plays a crucial role in bringing the Palm Leaf aesthetic to life. Look for pieces that feature clean lines, simple silhouettes, and organic shapes—hallmarks of mid-century modern and 1970s design. Whether it’s a sleek, low-profile sofa in a neutral fabric or a statement chair upholstered in a bold geometric pattern, retro furniture adds a sense of authenticity and charm to the space.
A jute rug is the perfect way to add texture and warmth to a room designed with Palm Leaf. Jute’s natural, earthy quality complements the green tones of Palm Leaf, creating a cohesive and grounded look. Plus, jute is incredibly versatile, working well in a variety of settings, from casual, bohemian spaces to more refined, modern environments.
No retro-inspired space is complete without a touch of greenery. Indoor plants not only enhance the natural, earthy vibe of Palm Leaf but also bring life and energy into the room. Consider adding potted plants, hanging planters, or even a small indoor tree to create a lush, inviting atmosphere. Plants like monstera, fiddle leaf fig, or snake plant are excellent choices that complement the retro aesthetic while also being relatively low-maintenance.
Unique Expressions: Embracing Creativity with Palm Leaf
Palm Leaf’s subtle yellow-brown undertones make it an incredibly versatile color that lends itself to creative expression. One of the best ways to highlight this shade is by pairing it with Pale Moss , a cheerful, earthy hue that adds brightness and energy to the space. This combination is perfect for those who want to create a mood-boosting environment that feels both vibrant and grounded.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your design choices. One way to embrace the retro vibe is by incorporating a hand-drawn mural that features simple, abstract shapes or patterns. This adds a personal touch to the space and allows you to express your unique style. Whether you opt for a large-scale mural on a feature wall or a smaller, more subtle design, the combination of Palm Leaf and Pale Moss will ensure that the mural feels cohesive and integrated into the overall design.
Get the Look: Natural Wood Tones, Textured Rug, Brass Hardware
Incorporating natural wood tones is essential for adding warmth and grounding the space when working with Palm Leaf. Whether it’s through furniture, flooring, or decorative accents, the organic texture of wood complements the earthy quality of Palm Leaf, creating a harmonious and inviting environment. Consider using wood with a warm finish, such as oak or walnut, to enhance the retro vibe.
A textured rug is another key element to consider when designing with Palm Leaf. Whether you choose a shag rug, which was iconic in the 1970s, or a more modern, woven design, adding texture underfoot helps to create a cozy, layered look. The texture of the rug will also contrast beautifully with the smooth, rich tones of Palm Leaf, adding depth and dimension to the space.
Brass hardware is the perfect finishing touch for a Palm Leaf-inspired room. Whether it’s through cabinet knobs, light fixtures, or decorative accents, brass adds a touch of elegance and warmth that complements the earthy tones of Palm Leaf. The subtle shine of brass also contrasts nicely with the matte finish of Palm Leaf, creating a dynamic and visually interesting space.
Image courtesy Sherwin-Williams
Incorporating Palm Leaf into Different Spaces
Living Room:
The living room is an ideal space to showcase the versatility of Palm Leaf. Use it as the main wall color to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere that feels both modern and nostalgic. Pair it with neutral furnishings and pops of color through accessories like throw pillows, rugs, and artwork. Incorporate natural wood tones and brass accents to enhance the retro vibe.
Bedroom:
In the bedroom, Palm Leaf can create a serene and restful environment. Consider using it as an accent wall behind the bed, paired with soft, neutral bedding and curtains. Add warmth and texture with a jute rug, wooden nightstands, and a mix of greenery. The result is a space that feels tranquil and grounded, perfect for relaxation.
Kitchen:
In the kitchen, Palm Leaf can add a touch of retro charm while still feeling fresh and modern. Use it on cabinetry or as a backsplash color, paired with light countertops and natural wood finishes. Incorporate brass hardware and eclectic lighting to complete the look. The result is a kitchen that feels vibrant, welcoming, and full of character.
Home Office:
Palm Leaf is a great choice for a home office, where it can create a calm and focused atmosphere. Use it on the walls or as an accent color, paired with neutral furniture and natural wood tones. Add a few indoor plants to bring life into the space, and choose lighting that is both functional and stylish. The result is a workspace that feels both productive and inspiring.
Bathroom:
In the bathroom, Palm Leaf can add a sense of luxury and relaxation. Use it on the walls or as a tile color, paired with white or light gray fixtures. Incorporate brass accents through faucets, mirrors, and hardware to add warmth and elegance. The result is a bathroom that feels like a serene retreat, perfect for unwinding.
Palm Leaf , with its earthy avocado green tones and subtle retro flair, is a color that beautifully captures the spirit of both past and present. Whether you’re aiming to evoke the charm of the 1970s or simply looking to bring a touch of nature-inspired elegance into your space, this versatile shade offers endless possibilities. As September 2024’s Color of the Month, Palm Leaf invites you to explore creative design choices that blend vintage aesthetics with modern sensibilities. From cozy living rooms to serene bedrooms and stylish kitchens, Palm Leaf is the perfect hue to anchor your décor, bringing warmth, depth, and a sense of timeless style to any space.
Embrace the nostalgia, play with textures, and let Palm Leaf inspire you to create interiors that are as unique and expressive as they are comforting and inviting. Whether it takes center stage or acts as a complementary accent, Palm Leaf promises to leave a lasting impression, making your home a true reflection of your personal style.