Pantone Color of the Year: Cloud Dancer – A Soft Return to Light and Simplicity

Every year, designers, fashion creators, and professionals in the creative industries eagerly await the announcement of Pantone’s Color of the Year. Since 2000, the Pantone Color Institute has selected a single shade that reflects global moods, values, and changes taking place in society. The Color of the Year is not merely a trend, but a visual tool and source of inspiration that influences how we create, design, and perceive our surrounding environment.

After several years of introducing bolder contrasts and stronger tones into homes, the world of interior design is moving back toward simplicity. The Color of the Year, PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer, is not boringly sterile or cold, but warm, airy, and soft—like light behind a cloudy sky. Inspired by the color of the year, we have curated a selection of light-toned interior pieces on ELKE Mööbel’s selection.

In the image: Muuto Strand pendant lights

What is the Color of the Year like?

Cloud Dancer stands apart from classic white due to its softness. It does not dominate a space, but rather supports it. When applied to walls, the tone creates a sense of openness and a calm backdrop. In a room, the color feels bright and hopeful. Furniture pieces in shades close to this tone do not draw attention to themselves, but blend into the environment naturally and elegantly. The result is a space that breathes: light reflects softly off surfaces, contrasts are balanced, and the overall impression remains light and clean. Furniture in Cloud Dancer–like tones creates a safe and harmonious foundation against which textures, forms, and details can stand out. The pieces feel timeless, invite lingering, and create a sense that everything is in its place—calmly, without excessive effort. This quality is exactly what makes Cloud Dancer an excellent base for both modern and more timeless interiors.

In the image: &Tradition Mist ceiling light, Loafer armchair, and Hi Lo AV54 sofa

In the image: New Works Margin pendant and table lamp, Covent sofa

In the image: Ferm Living accessories: Drisca vase, Fountain bowl, Shell vase

In the image: HAY Amante sofa

What to combine the Pantone Cloud Dancer color with?
A white base allows materials to stand out and creates a layered yet calm whole. Less color, more feeling. Cloud Dancer pairs especially well with materials that have a natural character of their own.

• Natural wood and veneer, which add warmth and a soft contrast.

• Stone surfaces and lime plaster effects, bringing timeless and slightly robust dignity to the space.

• Linen, cotton, and wool textiles, which soften the overall impression and create a sense of coziness.

• Ceramics and handcrafted details, which add humanity and a unique character to the space.

In the image: Muuto Fiber lounge chairs, Ridge vases, and Kink vases

In the image: Muuto Couple coffee table