Paint power!

Marianne Shillingford, creative director of Dulux, shares her predictions on the biggest colour trends for 2021 – the power of pastels, and how to use them.

Gentle blues

Combining a cool blue shade like Copenhagen Blue with warm whites and greys, strikes the perfect balance between a fresh and cosy look.

Blue and white is a timeless duo, and a versatile one too.

Décor can be kept simple and classic or be vamped up to bring a little luxury to any space.

A white paint for wood can transform tired furniture into an upcycled seaside escape, while a darker wood tone in the furniture options can bring depth and warmth to a room.

Chalky pinks

Modern pinks can create grown up spaces which are muted, neutral and cosy, perfect for reading, relaxing and sinking into a peaceful cocoon. Potters Pink, from the new Heritage by Dulux collection, is a pale, ultrafeminine shade that can add a light, bright, breath of fresh air.

For a stylish, modern look, match it with a muddy neutral like Mud Lark, and finish off with matching accessories.

Crisp neutrals

Create a cosy haven by layering cool neutrals with pearly whites. Cool whites have hints of grey, blue, green and violet in them and they create a tranquil, breezy look, which is perfect for a room that gets lots of light and sun.

Romney Wool, a very pale taupe, offers a lot of flexibility regarding the colours it can be combined with.

Tranquil greens

Muted pale greens work wonders for bringing the outside in, as well as making up for lack of outdoor space in city homes. Stone Green is a mid grey/ green that has a natural connection to materials such as granite and marble with its muted tones reflected in their flecks and seams of colour. Finish the look with plants for ultimate calm. z duluxheritage.co.uk