This autumn, warm neutrals and muted yellow-greens in Connect, one of three palettes identified in the Dulux Colour Forecast 2023, are set to take centre stage. These colours evoke the natural beauty of autumn and create a cosy and inviting feel for homes as the weather turns cooler. The earth-based neutrals are versatile and work well with a variety of architectural styles, enhancing the character of period homes while adding warmth and colour to contemporary interiors.
In this space, the Connect palette was used by Dulux to transform a spacious open-plan lounge and dining area with cathedral ceilings and exposed timber beams into a cosy and welcoming family retreat. The main walls and ceiling were painted in Dulux Pataua Beach, a lovely creamy honey hue, to tie in with the timber beams and offset the stone look floor tiles, creating a space for gathering with the fireplace at its heart. The fireplace wall was painted in a slightly richer colour, Dulux St Bathans, to make it the clear focal point. The muted, earthy hues create unity between the interior and the lush garden outside, visible through generous picture windows and sliding glass doors. These colours are also carried through to the adjoining dining room, where Dulux Gentle Annie can be seen through the opening that leads to the main entrance of the house and behind the shelves in the study nook.
Walls and ceilings (living room): Dulux Pataua Beach, Walls (front): Mt Inaccessible
The Connect palette speaks to our growing passion for craftsmanship, sustainability and living more simply, and creates the relaxed and cocooning feeling we crave from our homes in the autumn months. Further enhanced by furniture art and objects, these include beautifully worn vintage pieces, such as a '70s leather sofa and slate coffee table, sitting comfortably alongside newer future family heirlooms, such as the classic Camaleonda upholstered ottomans and a deep-seated, contemporary sofa by Jardan in a tobacco linen. Tactile, natural materials are layered, including raw timber, rattan, worn leather, heavy linen fabric, shearling, and stone, all drawn from the same curated colour palette to create a cohesive look. Handmade ceramics displayed on the fireplace ledge and a mix of botanicals and dried flowers emphasise the earth-drawn theme, while an abstract artwork reflected the dynamic colours in the landscape.
Walls and ceilings: Dulux Pataua Beach, Fireplace wall: St Bathans
Experimentation with these warm earthy colours will help your spaces feel intimate, warm and inviting this autumn. By using the Dulux Connect palette, you can create a calming, earthy vibe that's perfect for laid-back entertaining and family gatherings as the weather cools, blurring the lines between inside and out.
Walls: Dulux Pataua Beach, Entrance (through opening) and behind shelves: Dulux Gentle Annie
To learn more about Dulux’s Colour Forecast 2023 visit www.dulux.co.nz.
Image Credits
Styling: Bree Leech
Photographer: Lisa Cohen