2006 Color Forecast: Water colors

Spa colors create a relaxing environment with soothing blues and rejuvenating greens in 2006. "If ever there was a time for colors to come in and soothe, it is now," said Catherine Stein, president of The Color Council. "Call it turquoise, aqua or robin's egg, the coming together of green and blue ebbs and flows tirelessly."

Dana Poor, manager of home forecasting for Cotton Inc. echoes this sentiment with a palette called Simply Stated, tranquil hues that rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit. Often mixed with neutral sandy shades, these colors can be used to create an interior oasis, a natural combination for a bathroom or bedroom where tranquility is key.

"The blues and greens will remain stronger for the home than in fashion," said Christine Chow, director of membership for The Color Association of the U.S. "The water influence remains strong."

"It has been shown that blues can slow your respiratory rate and lower your blood pressure, while greens rejuvenate and rebalance," Stein said. "No wonder it is the color choice for spas around the world."

A beach scene from Mary Mayo Designs incorporates a crisp mid-tone blue ocean with cool blue clouds and tranquil green accents. eLink 760

The pottery platter from IMAX mixes sandy neutrals with subdued blues and soothing green for a color mix that fits nicely into any interior. eLink 551