Much like the weather, predicting specific "trending" colours for the year ahead would be near impossible without the global insights and industry experts we have access to.
From Dulux's annual Colour Trend Report, based on extensive global and cultural trends research, to insider tips from the stylists at the forefront of the interior design scene, we draw on a diverse range of sources to paint a picture of the key colours you can expect to see more of in the year ahead and how to embrace them in your own home.
Much like fashion, food and interior design trends, colour trends are influenced by what's happening in the world around us. It's no surprise then, at a time where demands on our time, attention and wellbeing have never been greater, and major environmental concerns like climate change weigh down on us, we've seen a shift toward earthy tones, warm neutrals and soft greens in our homes.
"These colour trends are influenced by what's happening in the world around us," says Andrea Lucena-Orr, Dulux Colour and Communications Manager. "With more focus on mental health, the wellness movement continues to gain momentum, as does an emphasis on natural materiality."
"Colours for 2020 are more restrained than in previous years. Brights are pulled back and influenced by nature. They appear in smaller doses – think feature walls and details – and are often used tonally as a backdrop for hero furniture pieces. Neutrals are soft and sophisticated, with a gently faded feel that speaks of stillness and calm. Clay, with its warm, earthy appeal, is emerging as a key neutral."
To learn more about these influences and how they translate into colour and interior design, we take a deeper look at Dulux's four core palettes for 2020 plus, stylist and self-confessed colour queen Julia Green shares her colour picks and tips for interpreting trends in your own unique way.
While colour isn't going anywhere, we will see a shift toward muted brights in 2020. Millennial pink makes way for dusty rose and rich, ruby reds will be replaced by earthy, amber tones.
Featuring rich burgundy, eggplant, earthy browns, faded terracotta and soft coral, Dulux's Indulge palette encompasses this luxurious yet down-to-earth look, that exudes nostalgic touches of 70s disco and art deco.
Dulux's Comeback palette, a fresh and invigorating mix of rich oceanic and mineral shades of blue-green, azure and amber, reaffirms this new wave of ocean-inspired hues set to make a splash on the interiors scene.
"There's a lightness and fluidity to the ocean tones in this palette that speak of creativity and adventure, while the warm, earthy shades add cosiness," says Lucena-Orr. "It's the ideal backdrop to combine furniture from different eras – from mid-century through to the 80s – in elegant and refined shapes."
"The colours and textures in Cultivate are easy to work with and have a warmth that really conveys the essence of 'home'," says Lucena-Orr. "They look beautiful paired with raw, mid-tone timbers, natural stone and transparent, coloured glass."
