Style Design + Decor Parks + Rec

How the National Park Service is Forecasting Color Trends

  • Written by Kelly Weimert
  • On Sunday, October 25, 2020

national park lake mountains tree scene

Trends have many different origins, but we must say, we never expected the latest interior trends to come from the National Park Service (NPS), but we couldn’t be happier about it. The NPS recently started the hashtag #NPSColorForecasting and posted beautiful scenes from national parks, like Glacier and Yellowstone, accompanied by coordinating color swatches. 

This trend couldn’t come at a better time given that most of us are reeling from this year and could seriously benefit from some gorgeous, nature-infused hues in our homes. 

 

The Grand Canyon got into the action with this striking shot featuring rich, dusky hues that would bring warmth to any aesthetic. 

 

Meanwhile, Yellowstone is bringing us this soothing neutral color palette, which is perfectly coordinated and would be great for every space from the living room to the kitchen.  

Grand Teton’s stunning display of blues, purples, and pinks is cool and calming, making it ideal for the bedroom. 

 

Glacier National Park’s colorful little rocks result in a vaguely retro color palette that lends itself well to mid-century modern looks. 

View this post on Instagram

It's NPS Fashion Week, and the what better inspiration for a color palette than a rainbow... of rocks? Hinting at an ancient geologic past, the striking colors of Glacier are a spectacle in their own right. For #NPSColorForecasting, we present to you two "models." First up is the shoreline of Lake McDonald, who's chilly waters and vibrant array of pebbles are known the world over. Next up is some outfit inspiration—venture into the high country of Glacier, and you'll find mountains made of those same colors! You'll also find yourself faced with clouds, snow, wind, and some of the well (and warmly) dressed locals. What colors stand out to you? What's your go-to Glacier outfit? If you're stumped, be sure to check out all the other parks participating in #NPSFW & #NYFW (I'm looking at you, @kenaifjordsnps!) #GlacierMovingForward These photos of colorful rocks, and a mountain goat in the cloudy high country were both taken on the traditional land of the Amskapi Piikuni, Kootenai, Selis, and Qlispe People

A post shared by Glacier National Park (@glaciernps) on

The NPS also showcased color palettes from Joshua Tree, Bryce Canyon, Denali, and more, offering boundless inspiration for seasonal updates. 

 

Even if none of these color palettes appeal to your personal aesthetic, they offer stellar inspiration for anyone who’s stuck in a design rut. If you snap a photo of any nature scene, then you’ll instantly have a coordinated color palette from which to build a design.  

 

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