Faced with global uncertainty, life as we know it is on hold. Cut off from our normal freedoms and routines, home is now the epicentre of our lives where many of us work, study, eat, sleep and relax.
Technology has become more important than ever before as we rely on connection with the outside world. Yet at the same time we yearn to switch off so we can take a moment to ground ourselves, reflect and recharge.
“This global crisis has changed our relationship with our homes―not just on a practical level, the lines between our work and home have blurred beyond recognition,” says Andrea Lucena-Orr, Dulux colour and communications manager.
Dulux Colour Forecast 2021– Reset palette. Stylist: Julia Green. Photographer: Armelle Habib
“This also affects us on an emotional level. We need flexible spaces that can multi-task as spaces to conduct our professional lives and perform household tasks, however, at the same time we need our homes to provide balance, calm and a sense of comfort and security.”
In response, design trends for 2021 will reflect our desire for reassurance and strength, with nurturing palettes drawn from nature and furniture and décor that speaks of familiarity and comfort. At the same time, expect to see unpredictable material and colour combinations creeping in that encourage us to adapt our homes to new ways of living and working.
The Dulux Colour Forecast for 2021 comprises of three soothing palettes, inspired by nature along with moments of stronger colour to lighten the mood and brighten our outlook.
“Surrounding colour can be a remedy for the soul in challenging times,” says Lucena-Orr. “This year’s soft, earthy neutrals, muted greens and gentle mauve-greys provide a reassuring connection with nature, whilst richer and brighter hues, such as coral and stormy blue awaken our senses and allow for moments of optimism.”
Retreat is a palette of warm whites, brown-based neutrals and dusty blues that conveys a sense of a soft luxury, alongside vintage-inspired tones of burgundy and deep ocean blue.
“The Retreat palette feels tranquil and sentimental―reminiscing tradition, whilst hinting at better times to come. It speaks of renewal and growth. As work-life boundaries blur, we look to style our interiors to be hybrid and high-functioning; spaces are mindfully curated with versatile pieces in authentic designs and materials, and art and decoration that has personal meaning.”
Dulux Colour Forecast 2021– Retreat palette. Stylist: Julia Green. Photographer: Armelle Habib
With gentle, buff neutrals and touches of tan, soft olive and muted ochre, the Nourish palette captures our renewed appreciation for natural beauty.
“These colours allow for moments of stillness and quiet; an opportunity to reduce the stress and digital fatigue we’re currently experiencing,” says Lucena-Orr.
“Use them to delineate areas in your home where you can switch off and ground yourself in the moment. Pair them with simple, handcrafted pieces with raw textures and matte finishes.”
Reset is an uplifting and optimistic palette of enriching and brighter hues; rich blue and coral, warm rust and playful mash-ups of pink and terracotta hint at 70s nostalgia and evoke memories of travel and fun.
“As we retreat indoors, fond memories of past adventures and discoveries inspire our home spaces,” she says. “Life may be slower, but there’s joy to be had in a less frantic pace. We draw closer to family and our local community, building new connections with those around us. There is much to be grateful for and building resilience is our latest attribute.”
Styling is eclectic and inviting; old and new sit side by side, furniture is durable and generously proportioned, and soft furnishings are tactile and forgiving―think boucle and quilting.
Dulux Colour Forecast 2021– Nourish palette. Stylist: Julia Green. Photographer: Armelle Habib
Top image: Dulux Colour Forecast 2021– Reset palette. Stylist: Julia Green.Photographer: Armelle Habib
