Two decades of ColorSurfaces
What does the future of trends look like?
As AkzoNobel's ColorSurfaces Trend Collection approaches its 20th edition, we are at a significant turning point in the evolution of color trends in the automotive, aerospace, and consumer electronics industries.
Looking ahead at what’s to come, sustainability, technology, and design are set to shape the future of color and coating possibilities.
The evolution of color trends
The journey of the ColorSurfaces Trend Collection began with a focus on pure aesthetics - captivating color palettes and striking finishes that aimed to enhance the visual appeal of products. But as industries evolved, so did the trends. Over the past 20 years, we’ve witnessed a dramatic shift from the dominance of artificial bright tones and the stark contrasts of black and white to a more natural, organic approach - a testament to how deeply consumer preferences have evolved.
This shift in color preferences has gone hand in hand with advances in technology and the importance of functionality in design. Today’s coatings do more than just look good - they perform. They enhance durability, promote sustainability, and incorporate advanced features like UV protection and self-cleaning properties. These developments have influenced the aesthetic and practical application of coatings across all industries, aligning design trends with the changing demands of technology.
The E20 Trend Collection - What’s next?
As we get ready to unveil our latest Color of the Year and the 20th edition of the ColorSurfaces Trend Collection, it’s important to recognize what sets this collection apart. The E20 Trend Collection is a more forward-thinking, contemporary reflection of where the industry is headed - a window into the future of design.
This year’s trends are highly influenced by social and cultural shifts, with a strong emphasis on environmental protection, technological innovation, and current fashion trends. The E20 Trend Collection isn’t just about celebrating two decades of color trends; it’s about looking ahead to a future where sustainability and innovation are essential in the coatings industry.
The E20 Trend Collection offers designers in the automotive, aerospace, and consumer electronics industries a range of inspiring color palettes and effects perfectly aligned with their product strategies. Whether it’s the emergence of lightweight materials in the automotive industry, the rise of electric and autonomous vehicles, or the growing interconnectedness of consumer electronics, the E20 Trend Collection is designed to meet the needs of a rapidly changing market.
Looking to the future
As we look ahead to what the next decade could hold for our ColorSurfaces Trend Collections, several things will shape the future of color trends. Innovation and technology will play a central role, with advances in artificial intelligence (AI), deep learning, and other technologies driving changes in the color industry. The demand for personalization, a deeper understanding of cultural contexts, and a focus on sustainability will continue to influence design choices, particularly in the automotive and consumer electronics industries, where color can evoke strong emotional responses and influence purchasing decisions.
Sustainability will also be a significant driver of trends, influencing material choices and production processes. As stricter environmental and safety regulations come into play, AkzoNobel is at the forefront of developing coatings that meet these new standards, making this year's Trend Collection a true reflection of where the industry is headed.
Reflecting on the journey
For the team behind the ColorSurfaces Trend Collection, reaching the 20th edition is both a professional and personal achievement. Looking back, it’s clear that ColorSurfaces has not only captured the spirit of its time but has also set the stage for future trends, influencing the design choices of some of the world’s most iconic brands.
As we celebrate this milestone edition, we’re also looking ahead to the future, where AkzoNobel will continue to lead the way in color innovation, shaping the trends that will define the next two decades.
Next month, we’ll reveal the Color of the Year for 2025 and our ColorSurfaces E20 Trend Collection.
We invite you to explore the future of color coatings with us and the trends that will shape the next era of design.