Global colors are the trend-setting style for 2008 and a top choice, says architectural paint brand PARA Paints.

“With the increase in globalization, the world is shrinking and its colors are merging,” says Melanie Rice, Color Advisor for PARA Paints and a member of the Virginia-based international color forecaster, Color Marketing Group. Images of fashion, architecture and landscapes from different countries have a major influence in setting the trend for the popular colors we’ll see in 2008 and beyond.

Even the world’s focus on the environment is affecting the colors we choose, explains Rice. “We’re seeing a movement from all countries towards increased use of deep natural, organic tones, with a dash of color,” she says.

Browns still occupy the number-one spot in this category, particularly medium browns infused with red, green or yellow, which are lighter and more earthy-looking than the dark browns of previous years.

Making a comeback is gray, now cooler and more complex than the office gray of past years. Oranges, which are becoming more earth-based and terra cotta-toned, taking on a clay-mixed-with-copper look, are also gaining increased global appeal.

Greens with an Asian eco-influence are moving in a yellow and brown direction, and blues are showing more gray and green influence than prior years. Reds, a hot color for the year, are present in every major culture, symbolizing strength and durability.

“Whether used for a whole room, on a single wall or as an accent, global colors add warmth and charm to any setting,” Rice says. “More and more, the future will be viewed from a world perspective, and color is no exception. Cross-culturalism is here to stay, and our homes will increasingly reflect this reality.”