Dunn-Edwards Paint has launched its color and design trend forecast for 2012 called "Simply Refocus." With four color stories and references to its Perfect Palette color system, these trends can be found online at www.specsspaces.com.

“A reemergence of color is what we are seeing across the board. People are not afraid of color anymore. It defines our surroundings and lifestyle in more ways today than ever before,” said Sara McLean, color marketing manager at Dunn-Edwards

Four color and design stories are represented—Simply Sentimental, Simply Refined, Simply Revolutionary and Simply Essential. Each story provides inspiration, design prescriptions and a range of 12 colors from the Dunn-Edwards Perfect Palette color system. “The colors within each story provide the designer with ideas for walls, furnishing and décor," said McLean.

Simply Sentimental showcases a return to beautiful, layered design. With references to turn-of-the century color and design ideals, this is a story for those who appreciate pretty and saturated color along with many layers of design.

Simply Refined defines the latest trends in neutrals. With downtown loft references and spare attitudes to design, this story thread is for those appreciative of the clean, refined ideals in design.

Simply Revolutionary takes you on a journey into the world of science and technology with an eye towards those with unconventional attitudes to design. Splashes of bold, vivid color play with unusual design elements to surprise and delight the senses.

Simply Essential taps into the art of craftsmanship and fights against the technology-driven age. With colors grounded in earthy, pigmented colors and rich in color, this story provides a rustic, yet timelessly modern aesthetic.