This Autumn Dulux NZ brings a rustic-luxe feel to the forefront with rich, natural colours, mid-tone timbers and simple yet sophisticated styling. As the weather cools and our thoughts turn to retreating indoors, the look is about bringing the outside in and creating cosy, joyful spaces that nurture and inspire.
Living room featuring Dulux Kohukohuni and Cornstalk
Set against a backdrop of warm timber and honeyed leather, the soft grey-green – this season’s ‘new neutral’ – is my favourite for Autumn. Paired with shades of olive, dusty pink, and invigorating accents of rich, blue-green and ochre the look is derived from Repair, one of the four key palettes in the 2019 Dulux Colour Forecast that I introduced you to last year. Featuring rich greens and accents of burnished gold, the combination is both comforting and uplifting. Drawn from nature, I love that these colours plug into our collective desire to slow down and connect with the natural world.
“Striking combinations, such as verdant green, chocolate, umber and sienna set a playful, optimistic tone, while soft, green-based grey has emerged as the neutral – and the ideal pairing for these nature-based hues", says Davina Harper, Dulux Colour Specialist.
“There’s a sense of quiet luxury to this look, but it doesn’t come down to extravagant finishes or accessories. Rather, it’s the layering of natural colours and textures – richly grained timber, time-worn leather, cork and tactile velvets. There’s also a mindful appreciation of the humble and handcrafted simple pieces – whether they’ve been collected on your travels or found in vintage stores.”
Even though I love summer, there is something really appealing about the change of season. The thought of spending more time indoors and snuggling up on the sofa or entertaining friends around the dining table makes me want to introduce cosy textures and colours. The beauty of the Dulux colour palettes is you can choose how far you take it. If you're feeling bold, you could go for a feature wall in a rich green or blue-green, or if like me, you prefer an understated look, you could paint the backdrop of your room in this season's subtle grey-green.
"Adding contrast is the key to making this scheme work, so introduce doses of other colours such as terracotta, chocolate or burnt orange in varying amounts within the room," says Davina. "Complete the look with warm timber tones and buttery leathers in furniture and accessories. For an unexpected, contemporary twist, consider adding a sense of organic rawness using concrete by painting a tabletop, planters or a feature wall with Dulux Concrete Effect paint."
In summary, here are some AUTUMN STYLING TIPS to help inject this season's theme into your own home....
Combine natural finishes: Warm timber, leather and woven rattan can create a cosy and eclectic feel.
Add a twist: Paint a bedhead or feature wall in an exhilarating shade of blue-green or ochre to spice up this palette’s warm greens and earthy tones.
Create interesting displays: Scour antiques fairs and second-hand stores for unusual collectibles.
Layer up textures and prints: Think cosy knits, aged leather, velvets and block prints.
Introduce concrete: This finish will add an eclectic feel.
Add a twist: Paint a bedhead or feature wall in an exhilarating shade of blue-green or ochre to spice up this palette’s warm greens and earthy tones.
Create interesting displays: Scour antiques fairs and second-hand stores for unusual collectibles.
Layer up textures and prints: Think cosy knits, aged leather, velvets and block prints.
Introduce concrete: This finish will add an interesting twist to green tones and timber. Use Dulux Concrete Effect paint to upcycle small accessories or to create a feature wall.
Set up a cosy corner: A comfortable armchair or a window seat with a few soft cushions is the perfect spot to spend an Autumn’s afternoon with a good book.
Dial down the lighting: Reduce harsh overhead lighting at night and set a cosy mood with a variety of table and floor lamps.
Finish off with greenery: A trailing devil’s ivy n a bookshelf or a large, potted long-leaf fig in the corner of a room can provide a sense of calmness and reinforce a natural element.
Study Nook featuring Dulux Manaia and Cape Colville
Styling by Bree Leech / Photography by Mike Baker