Jade Green has been declared as the Colour of the Year 2009.

Colour consultants for ICI Dulux say that greens provide a sense of peace and calmness while creating a feeling of harmonious, sustainable living, ideal for the turbulent times expected in the year ahead.

“Green has a strong affinity with nature which we instinctively seek out during times of stress or emotional trauma,” said assistant manager, Dulux Decorator Centres for Al Gurg Leigh's Paints, Amna Saqib.

“The colour creates a feeling of comfort, and relaxation. It calms, lessens stress, and sooths the emotions.”

Experts say trends for 2009 will see a move towards colours that are softer and more understated, but which have very strong links to the built environment, the landscape and natural craft materials.

“Green is iconic of the environmental movement and 2009 will be another big year for focusing on sustainability,” added Saqib. “The psychological acceptance of cool green comes from its association with the herbs and plants used in both culinary and medical contexts.”

Botanical yellow–based greens add a touch of futuristic energy – they are reminiscent of both the jungle and the laboratory. Cooler jades and tea greens are creative colours loved by the East and West alike – calming, thoughtful shades for refreshment of mind and body.

Subtle, architectural greens remind us of the earth’s natural building materials clay, timber, stone and thatch – eco-friendly materials for modern living.

In both exterior and interior decoration, Jade Green has an important role to play. In modernist terms it works with glass, steel, concrete, and combines with a cool palette of grey, soft blues, taupe, and chocolate.

For a softer and more domestic look it can be combined with warmer tones like plum, terracotta, peach and pink.

The Colour of the Year 2009 is exclusively available at Dulux Decorator Centres throughout the UAE including at the Mall of Emirates and The Walk, at Jumeirah Beach Residence. – TradeArabia News Service