2012 paint trends that could help Minnesota homeowners

Whether you recently purchased a home or are just looking to give your walls new life, a fresh coat of paint can give any home a new look. The Paint Quality Institute has come up with what is believed to be the hottest paint color trends in 2012.

According to the institute, many of the soon-to-be popular colors will reflect hues found in nature. After gaining popularity in 2011, blue will continue to be trendy. One color expert says that there are different shades of blue that are fitting for any living space. Bright sea blues are great for bedrooms, while muted blue-greys work well as neutrals for communal living areas.

Greens are also expected to remain popular and will likely work best in kitchens and dining rooms. The institute predicts that natural greens, such as the lighter colors of celery and asparagus as well as darker shades belonging to ferns and firs. The addition of this natural color can help brighten up or dim down many rooms throughout your home.

Majestic purples are also anticipated as a trend and reflect the color of mountain scenery and are expected to be very versatile when it comes to use in different rooms of your home.

"A harmonious combination of patriotic blue and red hues, violet can add punch to any room when used as an accent color, or serve as the dominant color in a bedroom," says Debbie Zimmer, a color expert at the Paint Quality Institute.

Minnesota homeowners looking for something other than bright colors may like the combination of black and white which will also make a comeback in 2012, PQI states. The classic pairing is perfect for homeowners who are both stylish and simple.

If solid colors aren't your idea of a new look, the institute says patterned paint including lacy designs and color blocking is expected to be just as popular in 2012.