Summer’s hot colours
Colour experts say there’s a change in the wind – and this summer’s colours are inspired by the natural world, writes Colleen Hawkes.
It’s been a tough, stay-athome year for most of us, so it’s not surprising our homes have taken on extra significance. And that’s why sales of DIY tools, paint and gardening supplies have rocketed.
Summer is, of course, an ideal time to consider a change of colour inside your home, with good reason – it affects the way we feel.
Dulux colour specialist Davina Harper says colour and mood are intimately connected, so it’s important to surround yourself with colours that help you feel positive.
‘‘Changing the colour of your walls might seem like a fairly insignificant thing, however it’s all part of self-care and surrounding yourself in uplifting hues to help you feel secure and comfortable during difficult times.’’
But what colours to choose? Because most of us don’t change the colour of our walls very often, it is helpful to see what colourways are on-trend this summer.
Dulux says colours drawn from nature are tops. These include brighter, oceanic shades of blue-green and coral, muted botanical greens, warm whites and soothing mauve-greys.
‘‘Whites and pale neutrals might feel like the safe choice, but they might not always be the best choice,’’ says Harper. ‘‘Richer hues can add depth and interest to a space and make a house feel like home. And if you want a different look or feel down the track, it’s easy to change.’’
Amy Watkins of Resene says the move to a naturalearthy colour palette range goes hand-in-hand with the trend for indoor plants.
‘‘To achieve the look, try using off-whites that contain an ochre undertone, such as Resene Rice Cake or Cararra to contrast against the stronger rich tones of the sage greens like Resene Gecko, and the more icy bluegreen of Maestro.
Another Resene colour consultant, Brooke Calvert, says a tonal palette is trending for 2020-21, with muted and misty greens. She suggests accessorising soft terracotta and apricot pinks with brass and fabrics with a boucle texture to complete the look.
‘‘Less is more is always a great saying when trying to create a beautiful calming space with neutral colours. Neutral schemes don’t have to be boring;
you can play it up with the use of natural finishes, such as rattan, and textures that might also include linen.’’
Resene neutrals finding favour include White Pointer, Double Ash and Resene Shabby Chic.
Stylist Bree Leech painted over a white brick wall in her dining room with a deep bluegreen (Dulux Cook Strait). ‘‘This dramatic hue gives the room a distinct mood and enriches the space,’’ Leech says.
‘‘The features of the room, such as the rustic brick wall, archway and timber lining, are all amplified through the use of colour and a backdrop is created to contrast against the crisp white pendant light.’’
The inner part of the arch is painted in a neutral white to further accentuate the curve. ‘‘The blue-green backdrop is punctuated with invigorating pops of melon and chilli in art and accessories. We carried the colour scheme through to the adjoining hallway with artwork and a comfy bench seat.’’
Little touches such as a round blue-green cushion on the bench seat that matches the dining room wall create a flow between the two areas.
Leech also chose a deep shade for a brick wall in her kitchen, which was formerly white: ‘‘I wanted even more warmth in this room, and was inspired by the chilli-red oven. I saw this space as an inviting place for the family to gather, and selected a warm palette [Dulux Half Bluff], giving it a different mood to the adjacent rooms.
‘‘To soften the contrast between the feature wall and the white in the room, I opted to paint the rangehood a gentle blush – Dulux Prebbleton. This colour also sits beautifully against the brass tap.
‘‘I completed the look by swapping out the black timber bar stools for seating in aubergine and blush. I chose styles with soft cushioned seats to encourage those in the household to sit, linger and connect in the kitchen,’’ says Leech.