Meet Cardinal, Colour of The Year 2025, the unexpected neutral

Since 2003, ColourNext by Asian Paints has been conducting in-depth colour research guided by creative powerhouses across art, architecture, interiors, fashion, sociology, media and FMCG segments. In 2025, the colour ‘Cardinal’ takes the lead. The dusky shade evokes myriad emotions, serving as a reminder to be unapologetically authentic.

Bhandary has created four looks—Elevator, Lacquer Wall, Library and Outdoor— to reflect the richness and versatility of this shade.

Every year, ColourNext also reveals four design directions, including palettes for colours, materials, finishes, and textures. Inspired by social and cultural influences from our region, these ideas are meant as a catalyst for the country's design and architecture communities to experiment. 

For Bhandary, styling sets based on the 2025 ColourNext stories–Salt, India Everywhere, Feel More and Bad Taste? —was a “challenging yet fun exercise”.

Beautiful Homes speaks to the designer to deconstruct her creative process, highlighting how she adapted Cardinal, the 2025 Colour of The Year.

Beautiful Homes (BH): From a colour perspective, what comes to mind when you hear of the word ‘Cardinal’?

Pooja Bhandary (PB): When I think of the colour ‘Cardinal’, I am transported to the richness of medieval Europe. It evokes the opulence of crimson robes worn by cardinals of the Catholic Church, symbolising power, sophistication, and timeless beauty. It also reminds me of the meticulously manicured European gardens—where bold colours harmoniously blend with nature.

When I first saw this shade, it felt like a modern reinterpretation of that classic elegance—perfectly balancing boldness with subtlety. It is commanding yet inviting.

BH: How versatile is it in its application in different settings?

PB: This colour is adaptable across various settings. In living rooms, it offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, creating a cosy yet elegant space. In bedrooms, it adds a sense of calm and sophistication, making it a perfect backdrop for relaxation. For outdoor spaces, as seen in one of my sets, it brings a unique vibrancy without being overpowering, blending effortlessly with natural elements.

Its biggest advantage is its ability to shift in tone depending on the lighting and surrounding décor—appearing playful in bright light and sophisticated in dimmer settings. It serves as both a statement and a complement, making it ideal for homes.

Look 1: Elevator

I aimed for a minimalist aesthetic with a focus on clean lines and simple décor, allowing the colour to take centre stage. The classic architecture and subtle accents created a sophisticated yet understated look.

Look 2: Lacquer Wall

Inspired by mid-century modern design, this space was a blend of bold furniture pieces and vintage decor. The colour in a glossy finish acted as a unifying backdrop, enhancing the eclectic mix while maintaining balance.

Look 3: Library

For the library setting, I envisioned a warm, inviting space that felt personal and lived-in. The colour added depth and warmth, making it an ideal environment for books, art, and collectibles, reflecting a well-traveled, cultured lifestyle.

Look 4: Outdoor

I wanted to push the boundaries by creating an outdoor or communal space. Inspired by urban architecture, the textured walls and contemporary design elements showcased how this colour can transform an outdoor setting into a stylish yet functional area.