Autumn Colour Trends
As autumn approaches, Dulux’s colour forecasters are predicting we will embrace muted tones and bold, expressive spaces that possess emotional warmth.
After a summer of romantic tones and airy pastels, Dulux is predicting Antipodeans will be embracing cocooning colours as the cooler months make their presence felt. Dulux’s team of colour forecasters, led by colour and design manager Lauren Treloar, suggest a shift toward muted tones and spaces that are bold and expressive, reflecting individuality, encouraging reminiscence and providing emotional warmth.
While the soft blues, greens and pinks of the Ethereal palette – one of three colourways that comprise Dulux’s 2026 Colour Forecast – complemented the lazy freedom of summer days, the Evoke palette evokes depth and nostalgia. “The palette is perfectly suited to autumn,” says Treloar, “creating a cocooning atmosphere that mirrors the season’s comfort, reflection and retreat.”
Blush pinks, burnt oranges and warm golds are countered by darker shades of grape, red and chocolate, together creating a nostalgic, cottagecore feel that “provides the perfect stepping stone for those looking to use colour to create cozy, warm, comfortable spaces in the cooler months”.
To bring the palette to life, the Dulux colour team worked with long-term stylist Bree Banfield to transform the dining room and bedrooms of a home in bayside Melbourne. Inspired by the ’60s and ’70s, the team drew on bold, comforting colours and textures to create looks that felt simultaneously nostalgic and contemporary.
“The home was a modern blank canvas, offering clean lines and generous natural light, but in need of an injection of warmth and personality that better reflected the family residing within it,” says Treloar. “Our design approach to the dining area was to layer colour and thoughtful styling to transform it from a neutral and understated room into a welcoming, character-filled environment.”
Here, the golden tones of Dulux Germania form the backdrop to the dining alcove, complemented by White Beach on the surrounding walls and a selection of vintage, handcrafted and sustainable homewares and objects. The main bedroom takes a more dramatic turn: rich moody Chocolate Treat forms the foundation, while artwork, textiles and furniture add lightness and contrast. A feature wall in Baked Clay in the second bedroom brings a sense of levity, contrasted with Snowy Mountain Half on the remaining walls. A golden velvet bedhead, multi-coloured rug and textiles complete the look.
“Leaning into tactile materials will enhance the mood,” says stylist Bree Banfield. “Velvet, faux fur, marble, glass and mid-tone or darker timbers all pair beautifully with this palette. Curved or sculptural shapes help soften the depth of colour and keep the room feeling inviting rather than heavy.”
