A very happy Emerald new year to everyone! That’s right, I said Emerald. Pantone, the world’s color authority for almost 50 years, recently declared 2013 the year of the Emerald.

So, if you are thinking of painting your newly purchased Atlanta home, this color should be at the top of your list. Emerald is most often associated with precious gemstones, and it has a variety of connotations attached to it including sophistication, luxury, beauty, new life, growth, renewal, unity and prosperity. With so many interpretations, there is bound to be one that resonates with your lifestyle

Here are a few ways you can decorate your real estate in Atlanta with this year’s color:

• Go crazy and paint a whole room such as an entryway or bathroom in this luxurious shade, or for a more subtle look, use it on an accent wall in your living room or bedroom.
• Tie your accent wall into the rest of your space with green throw pillows, blankets, bath towels and other accessories. JC Penny is even rolling out a whole line of products dedicated to this color beginning February 1.
• Add color to your eating spaces with Emerald colored dinnerware, appliances and stemware.
• Bring nature inside with fresh flowers and plants placed strategically throughout the home.

However, you don’t just have to see green in 2013, you can also live green. Replace outdated appliances with those designated by ENERGY STAR labels, swap out your old light bulbs for energy saving options or move into a new 100 percent ENERGY STAR home.

No matter what you choose to do, you’re spreading the Emerald green in 2013 message.

For more information and to see a full listing of Pantone’s color choices for 2013, visit www.Pantone.com.