As a leading colour specialist, Dulux's forecast on what's to come on the colour horizon offers insight into global trends and the direction that palettes will be taking internationally in interiors.
The decorative paint brand for Amsterdam-based AkzoNobel, which is active in 80 countries and headquartered in Amsterdam, Dulux gains insight from the company's Global Aesthetic Centre's colour research, which is drawn from experts across a range of professions and compiled by all participating countries, taking into account the social, economic, design, lifestyle and colour trends.
Colour consultant for Dulux SA, Palesa Ramaisa, offered some insight into what's happening from an industry perspective as well as what homeowners are gravitating towards.
While colour is inherently personal and expressive of both individual style and mood, over the past few seasons Palesa has noticed a few pervading trends, one of which is an uptick in the popularity of grey as a neutral. "Shades of grey have made a huge impact on both interior and exterior colour choices as it is perceived as a 'modern' colour."
At the same time, warm and calming clay tones have made an impact across the design world (architecture, product, fashion and interiors), used especially with wood - polished or untreated - to create spaces that speak volumes.
Palesa says the overarching theme for 2019 is re-energising oneself, creating a space and outlook that is positive, optimistic and purpose driven - encouraging the next individual to be kind to themselves with a renewed sense of being.
"The year 2019 is about letting the light in and spreading positive energy, with the aim through colour being to create an atmosphere that is calming and where one can find clarity, where we are able to be our true selves," she says.
Other global views: in line with Dulux's findings we're seeing a new breed of calming neutrals, both saturated and pastel. The nudes of last season are by no means disappearing, but rather developing into paler or deeper tones (like terracotta and clay).
Softer mauves will replace the intense purple of 2018 and we move towards orange-based pinks like peach and apricot.
The cool kids of the colour clique, Pantone's take is also always hotly anticipated. "It is essential for home furnishings and interiors brands and designers to connect with consumers and engage and stimulate beyond the surface," says Laurie Pressman, vice-president of the Pantone Color Institute. Its PANTONEVIEW home + interiors 2019 forecast (palettes chosen specifically for homeware and interior design) pinpoints two seasonal trends.
The first of these, Cravings, draws inspiration from the plate. Stimulating and spicy reds, sweet orange and rich purples are seductive allusions to "fetish foods" and deepen the irresistible message of the palette. Neutrals Butterum and Cappuccino are a warming support presence, while grassy green is a cooling respite from the rest.
The second palette, Classico, "opens the door to a more enduring style" - graceful swan white and camel-coloured tan with deep teal, grey flannel, burgundy and black...