Dulux Winter Colour Trends for 2018

Cool Greys and Warm Natural Tones

With a chill in the air, thoughts are naturally turning to cocooning ourselves from the outside world and enjoying the warmth and comfort of home, nurturing our personal connections. And there's little doubt that colour is the easiest and most effective way to create the restful sanctuary that most of us crave in the cooler months.

This winter, the mood is minimalist, casual, yet elegant, with a colour scheme of cool greys and warm natural tones inspired by Dulux's Essential palette – one of the four key palettes identified in the Dulux Colour Trends 2018. Think uncomplicated design combined with pale grey and accents of putty, rust, grey green and terracotta.

"With its soft, muted shades, this palette is all about laidback sophistication and simplicity. It-s incredibly easy to live with and works beautifully in Australian homes," says Andrea Lucena-Orr, Dulux's Colour and Communications Manager.

"Colour is a powerful decorating tool. It can change the mood of a space and elicit emotions in those who spend time there – whether it-s a cosy and inviting living room that encourages guests to relax and settle in, or a bedroom that feels calm and restful the moment you step foot in it."

The Essential palette is also the perfect pairing for the warm neutrals many of us already have in our homes. "When updating your colour scheme, you don't necessarily have to go all out – sometimes small changes can create all the impact you need," says Lucena-Orr.

The cool natural tones of the Essential palette sit wonderfully alongside warm whites such as Dulux Whisper White. "If you're cautious about introducing colour, start small," advises Lucena-Orr. "Look to add colour accents in unexpected spots, such as behind shelving, on the edge of doors or around a window frame."

"Or experiment with one of the season's biggest colour trends – the tonal look – by using different shades or strengths of the one colour on walls, details and even furniture."

"Texture is another key driver this season," she says. "Think raw, matt finishes and textured effects such as Dulux Suede Effect for walls, all of which will add depth and natural appeal to a space. Pair this with simple furniture with minimalist lines, and accessories in untreated timber, leather and brass for an understated, luxe look."

The key to making colour work in your home is to understand the mood you want to create, says Lucena-Orr. "Knowing whether you want to add light and energy to a space, create a sense of drama, or set a calm, nurturing feel will give you the confidence to balance neutrals, brights and deeper shades."

"Colour is enormous fun, so don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. And the best thing of all about paint – if you decide on a new colour down the track, you can simply paint over it."

 

Winter 2018 Styling Tips from Bree Leech, Creative Consultant and Stylist for Dulux

Curate your space: The Essential palette is about living with what you love or need. Feature the things that make you happy – items that have meaning or serve a purpose for you – and move away from décor that doesn't resonate.

A warm white and grey scheme pairs beautifully with other soft organic shades such as buttery tan, sand and green grey.

Keep highlights tonal and subtle. Add colour, such as dusty pink, terracotta or inky blue to create a focal point in a room or draw attention to interesting architectural features such as architraves or a beautiful ceiling rose.

A textured wall finish, such as Dulux Design Suede Effect, will add depth and interest to your scheme.

Accessorise with furniture crafted from simple shapes in raw timber, natural stone and leather.

Create warmth and character through layers: Combine cushions and throws in a mixture of different materials for a relaxed yet luxurious and inviting feel.

Embrace imperfection: Incorporate textiles and ceramics with raw edges and hand-finished detailing.

Add character with artisanal pieces, such as hand-glazed ceramics, hand-loomed cushions and woven leather baskets

To learn more about Dulux's 2018 Colour Trends or to view the eMag visit: dulux.com.au