Plenty of people would agree that the year 2021 was in many ways more difficult than 2020, with on and off lockdowns, border closures and constant restrictions, it hasn’t been an easy ride.
As we look forward to 2022, the world has significantly changed and our outlook has changed with it. What do we really need to live well and what could we happily live without?
Living through a pandemic has made us feel even more connected to our homes, says Andrea Lucena-Orr, Dulux colour and communication manager.
“When it comes to future trends, comfort is key,” she says.
“We want our living spaces to calm and nurture us, so we can process everything we’ve experienced over the last year, and at the same time, help us rediscover our zest for life looking forward.”
Dulux Colour Forecast 2022 – Restore palette. Styling: Bree Leech. Photographer: Lisa Cohen.
After months of restrictions, there’s a desire to be bold, expressive and try new things. At the same time, the lingering sense of uncertainty around what the future holds makes us seek comfort and security from our homes. With prolonged days indoors, we have a new appreciation for good design and functionality and look to surround ourselves with things that are not only beautiful but also enhance our wellbeing and improve our quality of life.
“Having spent so much time isolated and on devices, we find ourselves craving authentic connection. In our homes, we desire textured, natural materials and finishes that ground us and provide those tactile experiences we’ve been missing. We are excited to spend time with friends, family and colleagues, and find ourselves viewing the simple and mundane parts of life―things we once took for granted―with a new sense of wonder and excitement,” says Lucena-Orr.
Indeed, Dulux Colour Forecast 2022 palettes will reflect our desire to simplify our lives and boost our connection with nature and the people and experiences that matter most.
Dulux Colour Forecast 2022 – Restore palette. Styling: Bree Leech. Photographer: Lisa Cohen.
The Restore palette consists of gentle, earthy neutrals alongside more rugged, natural tones―buttercream, pumice, airy blue, clay, rich forest green, moss and purple-black. Furniture is chunky and reassuring, with curves that follow the lines of the body, accessorised with simple, handmade décor pieces in interesting and often imperfect shapes. Detailing is kept to a minimum, with the focus firmly on form and function.
“This palette is inspired by our innate need for authentic connection and experience,” says Lucena-Orr.
“Interiors have become our cocoon and a place where we can practice wellness and self-care rituals. We’re choosing less, however, focusing on more quality items that last and provide comfort above all else.”
Dulux Colour Forecast 2022 – Flourish palette. Styling: Bree Leech. Photographer: Lisa Cohen.
With ripe, bolder colours such as petrol blue, desert red and dusty rose alongside pops of vintage gold, the Flourish palette captures our new-found sense of adventure and passion for life. Interiors are layered, expressive and unapologetically individual, with decadent fabrics such as velvet, silk and buttery-soft leather, paired with one-off vintage finds. Furniture with exaggerated curves evokes a 70s disco vibe, whilst luxe marble nostalgically adds an unexpected elegance.
“It’s a look for those who want to re-write design rules,” says Lucena-Orr.
“As we move towards more freedoms, these colours enrich our feelings of empowerment and spark our imagination. With this comes unrestricted expression, inclusivity and a celebration of the diversity in our community.”
Dulux Colour Forecast 2022 – Flourish palette. Styling: Bree Leech. Photographer: Lisa Cohen.
Wonder is a palette of unbridled joy, featuring light pastels and playful, summery hues such as cornflower blue, lilac, lemon, green quartz and rose gold. Together, they evoke a cheerful and optimistic feel with a strikingly clear message: better days lie ahead.
“These colours set the stage for regeneration and growth, with unexpected tones drawn from the natural world around us,” says Lucena-Orr. “As we add more colour to our interiors, our imaginations are rekindled.”
Think quaint florals with eclectic colours and checks paired with sleek, contemporary furniture; needlepoint cushions and fluted glass; or woven rattan furniture set against a wall of candy stripes. Furniture is sustainably sourced or made from recycled materials, underpinning the belief that we all share the wonders of our beautiful planet with a hopeful vision.
Main and above image: Dulux Colour Forecast 2022 – Wonder palette. Styling: Bree Leech. Photographer: Lisa Cohen.
