Dulux latest: 2023 colour forecast reflects a post-pandemic shift

Just as skirt lengths and lipstick sales can be indexed to the social and political landscape, so to can interior trends. And, after a chaotic couple of years, it’s not surprising to find that many of us are feeling a desire to live more simply and authentically. We’re stripping away the superfluous (we’re truly thinking about how we spend our time and who with) to create space for more meaningful connections and the Dulux Colour forecast 2023 is reflective of this.

“Colour forecasting for interiors is an evolution. While fashion is an important influencer, the shifts in interiors are more subtle and nuanced. The palettes we can expect to see in our homes in 2023 are predominantly warm and nurturing, with nature continuing to be a key driver of trends. Brighter hues continue; however, they are deeper than last year,” says Dulux colour and communication manager Andrea Lucena-Orr.

The forecast is based on year-round research into the latest global and local trends that are predicted to influence Australian design and how we live. Led by Dulux colour and communication manager Andrea Lucena-Orr, in conjunction with Dulux colour forecaster and stylist Bree Leech, the latest forecast has been informed by seminars (including Future Laboratory London and Milan Design Week) as well as trend reports, editorials, fashion, product and design launches as well as customised research through Dulux’s extensive networks in the UK, Italy and France.

“We have all reacted to the upheavals of the last couple of years in different ways – some people crave lightness and whimsy, whilst others seek order and reassurance. The three palettes in the Dulux Colour Forecast 2023 reflect these differing needs, allowing you to create beautiful living spaces that reflect where you are in your life’s journey,” says Andrea.

Balance
A refined palette of serene marine inspired hues, gentle greens and accents of deep garnet, Balance evokes the ocean and shoreline. “Balance is very much inspired by a ‘less is more’ philosophy, with minimal detailing and a restrained approach to decorating. Instead, the focus is on immersive colour and the beauty of complex, structured patterns found in nature, such as a simple seashell or fern frond,” says Dulux colour forecaster and stylist Bree Leech.

Balance inspired styling includes lush textures (velvet and silk), furniture with exaggerated, curved silhouettes, abstract art and décor pieces with organic shapes and delicate pleating. “Balance has an elegant, understated feel that would work beautifully in an inner-city apartment or terrace home,” says Bree.

Connect
By contrast, the Connect palette is all about the great outdoors and features earthy tones of moss, wasabi, sandstone, muddied yellow-green and burnt charcoal. “It speaks of calm, comfort and an honest approach to living, and brings in many of the pastimes we experienced during lockdown, such as a hiking, cooking, quilting and gardening. Muddied yellow-green has something of a nostalgic, country-house feel, cinnamon is grounding, whilst rich, purple-brown adds an indulgent and contemporary twist,” says Andrea.

To complete the Connect look, the palette looks fabulous when with rustic furniture (in timber, leather or rattan) as well as stone flooring and bespoke, modern lighting made from recycled materials.

Revive
The most playful of the palettes, Revive features an array of uplifting, bright tones including rose pink, blue, sunshine yellow, emerald, violet and burnt orange – all designed to lift the mood after a tense couple of years. “As we emerge from trying times, we’re looking for lightness and a sense of freedom to revive our spirits. So, when it comes to our homes, it’s out with the rule book, and in with the possibilities to create something truly magical,” says Andrea.

“Pairing retro influences with futuristic features, such as pixel patterns and digital art, the Revive palette cleverly merges the past and present. And with its colourful, look-at-me accent walls and statement seating, it creates the perfect Instagrammable moment,” says Andrea.