With design, we surround ourselves in colour that affects mood, energy and mindfulness. And design trends continually transform. In 2023, we see a return to moody tones that represent strength, earthiness and positivity, and biophilic design, which brings the awe of our planet into our spaces and connects us with the natural environment. Biophilic environments use nature-inspired tones in finishes such as statement wallpapers, natural materials, plants, flora pops of colour, and natural light. In step with biophilic design, A-dec’s new upholstery colours embrace earth-inspired tones that are on-trend, yet timeless. The updated palette includes rich, yet adaptable colours and as always, are made for the rigors of our dental environment.
Lori Saleba, professional interior designer and dental resource consultant, assisted A-dec’s team in curating this new collection. Her goal was to bring an earth-inspired palette to the line with, “Tones that are natural to our planet, and include colours from earth, atmosphere, flora and fauna.” While trends come and go, natural colours found all around us are timeless. “Dental environments strive to provide a relaxing, inviting professional ambiance. When selecting major elements such as the dental furniture, a focus on timeless choices is important,” states Lori. “We love to see this furniture looking as fresh as the day it was installed years down the road.” Timeless selections provide longevity in design. If trendy colours appeal to your aesthetic, it’s achievable with paint, art and textiles that are easily updated.
Luxurious, down-to-earth colours for your operatory
A-dec’s newest upholstery palette is on-trend with nature-inspired design, while exuding timeless, upscale luxury:
- Arugula — earthy, fresh, soothing
- Blueberry — deep, moody, serene
- Poseidon — timeless, earthy, regal
- Salt — pristine, crisp, modern
- Schooner — malleable, soft, dusky
- Shore — warm, sandy, neutral
- St. John — serene, classic, engaging
- Vivid Punch — expressive, vibrant, confident
(Check out all of our dental chair upholstery colours!)
Vivid Punch, an A-dec exclusive in partnership with worldwide colour standard leader Pantone® and high-performance fabric maker, Ultrafabrics®, reflects the Pantone 2023 colour of the year. Bold. Expressive. Confident. It can be beautifully incorporated into any operatory for added energy.
Lori recommends looking at the 70’s and 80’s inspirational use of colours. It was an energetic era! Think of the atmosphere and flora for Vivid Punch, and mix it with orange, purple and pink tones. Go back to those atmospheric and floral colours and the blend becomes energetic, not just one vivid pink. For example, she recommends a piece of art reflecting these rich colours to tie it all together. “Rhythm and repetition are important for cohesive design. Vivid is your jewel in the room, not your entire palette. It’s your punch.”
Mix Vivid Punch with atmosphere, flora, and fauna tones.
Nature becomes art
Another favorite way Lori incorporates natural elements into an office is to go outside the box of framed art and consider nature’s bounty for art statements. She has asked doctors to find beautiful pieces of local wood such as a piece of driftwood or Madrona branch, clean it up, and it becomes a gorgeous textural piece of art! Previous clients have engaged in the challenge and a team approach has discovered wonderful pieces. Not only is the team invested, but this added touch provides a bespoke piece of art with personality (and a story!).
Ready to explore your design aesthetic?
Contact your A-dec Territory Manager for details—we're happy to help you explore your dental office design.
