PALETTES ON PARADE
From sophisticated surface materials to the paints and fabrics about to make their mark, here’s a line-up to take note of.
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In the shades As colour expert and trend forecaster for Dulux, Andrea Lucena-Orr senses the mood and scours trade fairs to land on hues that will shape the seasons.
For 2019, Dulux presents four key paint palettes. Repair ( 3) is a collection of earthy neutrals and rich greens, with spicy cinnamon and sienna notes. “I love its muted tonal combinations and slightly offbeat, vintage feel,” says Andrea. Wholeself ( 1) draws together shades of mauve-grey, powdery pinks and touches of gold to create serene, calming interiors. Legacy ( 2) presents intense saturated hues, such as deep purple, russet and aqua, offset by brown-based pinks. The Identity palette is for rule-breakers, with clashing patterns and brights bringing optimism and cheer (dulux.com.au). 2
Textile thrills It’s an exciting time to explore colour, texture and pattern, says Luciana Wallis from Warwick Fabrics’ design studio. She nominates shades of electric blue, scarlet red and yellow as strong directions for 2019. Coral tones foster playfulness, she says, while greens are evolving into pared-back shades like those found in our backyards ( 4). Meanwhile, rich brown is making a comeback ( 5), influenced by Mid-century design. Finding the right balance between aesthetic factors and performance in fabrics is the key to success, advises Luciana (warwick.com.au). 3
Surface attention New-look colours and textures for Laminex fall into groupings of easy-to-use neutrals or accents. At a recent forum hosted by the Design Institute of Australia, Laminex’s Catherine Valente presented a range of exciting palettes that create a variety of decor moods. Smoked Birchply ( 6A), a sophisticated woodgrain from the Landscape series, is teamed with Oyster Grey ( 6B) from the Absolute
Matte range, along with Essastone Perla Venato ( 6C), which is also from Laminex. “Ethereal smoked tones, soft veining and delicate grains represent honesty and an organic sensibility,” says Catherine (laminex.com.au). #