Choosing paint colours for the interior or exterior of a house can be overwhelming to say the least. I am starting to think about the palette for my new home and it won’t come as a surprise that I am considering whites, greys and maybe a bit of navy thrown in (follow my Pinterest Board, Dulux Paint Colours here). To assist my selection and get some insight into what’s trending in Dulux Paint Colours I have interviewed Andrea Lucena-Orr, Dulux Colour Planning and Communications Manager.
B: Can you list some of the most popular white paint colours at the moment?
These are the colours that Andrea listed. I thought it would be easier to see them against each other in a collage. I used Antique White USA for the trim in our previous house but am leaning towards Natural White this time around (which looks great against grey!).
B: The colours grey and navy often feature in the Gallerie B blog, is there a ‘go to’ grey or navy for interior use?
A: For deeper blues have a look at these popular choices, Harpoon, Baltic and Surf ‘n’ Dive.
A: For greys consider Domino, Wayward Grey, Malay Grey, Western Myall and Oolong.
all paint swatch images from Dulux
B: In what ways are Dulux customers being more adventurous with paint at the moment?
A: I think people are starting to use colour for areas of their home that need uplifting or a new focus. I also think that with so many great inspirational images they are seeing in magazines and in blogs this is giving them more courage to do something a little more unique. The new trend of customisation is also helping people understand that their space is their own to play with and experiment.
B: Can you give the Gallerie B readers any tips on choosing painting colours for interiors/exteriors?
A: The main tip is to really understand the overall look for the interior and exterior. For exterior you are a little more limited due to having to work with other key materials such as brick, stone, Colorbond or powder coated windows. The main thing is that you work with what is there and use Sample Pots to ensure the new colours work with all the other elements in the home. You can always make a statement on your front door, even if you have to go neutral for your main colours!
For interior, the sky is the limit! You will however need to work with existing soft furnishings, kitchen elements etc. There are so many options for interior and you can really create a specific mood in the room with a particular colour. Don’t just rest on the whites, play around with a stronger colour on four walls, or at least one or two walls. This can really enhance the space and create your own personal sanctuary.
B: Are there any new applications for Dulux paint?
A: Once again there are so many things you can do with paint. From patterns to murals to adding in textures or metallics. Don’t feel afraid to play around with patterns. A simple set of coloured polka dots in a child’s bedroom or playroom, using a chalkboard in a kitchen or home office. Using simple stripes can make an interesting space. Don’t ignore internal doors too. Often they are the easiest way to incorporate a pattern into a space.
Finally, if there was ever question of the wonders of paint in a makeover, our fibro is surely testament to that. Hopefully Andrea would be happy with my statement door colour!
House colour: Dulux Raku, Trim: Dulux Vivid White, Front Door: Dulux Saltspray
What are your ‘go to’ paint colours at the moment?
Belinda XO
Feature image is from the Dulux Winter Forecast Wildland palette (from top, Purri Sticks, Western Myall, Baltica).