Dulux has nailed again! Seriously, these people present the most amazing color trends combined with a superb styling always. Revealing their take on color for the upcoming year is a highlight!
Today we see 4 Color Trends 2016 developed by New Zealand based paint company Dulux, and what intrigues me most is what similarity we will find between the different tastemakers and trend experts on upcoming paint trends.
1// BIO FRAGILITY
Bio Fragility is inspired by natural and living matter – flesh tones, lichen, moss and stone influence the subtle hues of the palette which are derived from chalky brittle elements rather than soft textures.
BIO FRAGILITY COLORS:
The delicate structure of an insect wing, rock formations stacked inexplicably on a hill, cracked surfaces of parched earth – we called on nature to not just inspire but to collaborate.
Employing nature’s innate features transforms materials and forms into beautiful, unexpected and unique designs that somehow feel more human and waver between manmade and natural.
I believe these colors have already become pretty timeless and we’ll find them in a similar shade in every season. What I like here most is the combo of pink and olive.

Wednesday Journal
2// INFINITE WORLD
Dark colors form the majority of the Infinite Worlds palette, juxtaposed with flashes of brilliant reds, pinks and coral and space age metallics. Glowing hues are used as accents to help recreate the eerie effect of deep uncharted worlds.
INFINITE WORLD COLORS:
As our planet becomes overcrowded we explore the innovative possibilities of unknown worlds.
With humankind only occupying 30% of the earth’s surface, the ocean is one of the logical new frontiers and our gaze also turns upwards beyond our atmosphere for future habitats.
I had a real strong Déja Vue with this story. It all reminded me of the Studio Dimore Showroom visit they past May in Milan. If you see the short video we filmed there, you’ll understand.
3// RETRO MIX
Retro Remix celebrates the lighter aspects of the new retro movement where experimentation in color combinations leads to acid brights clashing with faded muddied colours such as browns and olive greens.
RETRO MIX COLORS:
A new retro has formed – mixing together iconic elements from across the mid to late century.
We are fascinated by the use of color to define our interiors, reflecting on colorful eras we widen our inspiration to include design influences from the 60s and 70s.
A time when color began to permeate our spaces in unexpected combinations and the introduction of modern materials such as plastic were explored resulting in new technologies and fluid forms.
I see a lot of Memphis here and though I believe, this trend has arrived and a lot of designer have worked on it, it doesn’t mean it has ben received on all markets and fields. As well when looking up the color palette, it feels quite different than on the styled images and might be a bit confusing even since there is no bright red and yellow. Not sure that was intended…
4// FUTURE PAST
Future Past takes its cues from steampunk merging with modern design – creating a new version of the old. Deep and decadent traditional hues are made modern with the addition of mustard, pink and purple.
FUTURE PAST COLORS:
As we move towards the future we look for reassurance from our past. We are drawn to contemporary designs that evoke reassuring memories.
Our reality is one of a digital world where we seek comfort in nostalgic references that ground us in times of uncertainty.
Design explores analogue processes, customising and reinvigorating old techniques with the enhancement of new technology.
This one was surprising to me. Yay for the wonderful moody colors! I hadn’t seen them in a while on color reports, and I am happy to have them back. I am not too sure about the rather classic approach (believing they look good in a different context too) but the images are beautifully styled (and make sense when reading the text), and so is the entire project. A big ovation here for stylists Bree Leech and Heather Nette King. G, x
16 Responses
Great report! Really concise and easy to understand, Although I’m drawn to the more moody palette of Future Past colours, I do like the subtleties of the Fragility palette. Quite an unexpected combo, but really works. I agree fab styling!
Glad you like it! The people just do always an awesome job!
I love the future past colours. Would anyone know what brand the lamp with the 2 bulbs is?
After doing a quick search for Dulux — it doesn’t appear the brand is available in the US? Is this true? Maybe I am missing something obvious. I would love some help finding Future Past color Punga Cove! An absolutely beautiful color! Thank you for this article!
Hi Kelly,Dulux is part of the AkzoNobel group. Check out in your region what’s the company’s name there. It changes from country to country.
😘 thank you!
Kelly D…. Any luck finding this paint in the states?
You need to check Akzo Nobel and what’s the paint name/brand in the US is. They have different brands on their markets.
Fine variety of design and color. Bold, modern, subtle and retro paint choices – Very nice! Great presentation pics as well. Thanks for sharing!
Brilliant article! Modern and bold works best!
Beautiful colors!
Samantha
http://gardening-directory.com/
We love bold and modern looks!