How algorithms are making our environments bland

The Pantone color of the year for 2026 is white, known as Cloud Dancer, signaling a shift away from colors in our visual surroundings. This trend is evident in the development of areas like London's Elephant and Castle, once diverse with Latin American buildings, now becoming homogenous and "identikit." This uniformity in urban design is mirrored globally, as architect Rem Koolhaas observed through his "generic city" concept, favoring efficiency over creativity.

Algorithms play a significant role in this trend, shaping our choices and preferences, from music to home decor, by suggesting similar items based on our initial selections. This leads to a monotone aesthetic that mirrors and perpetuates blandness. Algorithms also drive the production of products to cater to generic tastes, further flattening the variety of creative works.

Consequently, environments and our interaction with them become bland, impacting our social well-being. The loss of color and variety in our surroundings not only affects our aesthetic experience but also our engagement with the environment, reducing opportunities for expression and participation. This trend raises concerns about our capacity to appreciate and utilize color effectively, especially when primary exposure to color comes through screens.

To combat this, the author advocates for a return to vibrant colors and a reduction in algorithmic decision-making in our lives.