Trend alert: make the old new again
Upcycling has proven to be an on-trend, cost effective and sustainable way to modernise tired furniture and accessories around the home, and with more people spending time indoors, there has never been a better time to tackle these DIYs.
If you’re not sure where to begin or what textural effects to choose, one of the biggest home design trends we’ve seen is the return to earthy tones and raw-look finishes in interiors says Dulux colour expert, Andrea Lucena-Orr.
Dulux Australia
“Natural and imperfect finishes, such as stone, concrete and an aged patina effect on rust and copper is ever popular, as we are increasingly aware of the positive effects of nature on our mental and physical health and seek new and innovative ways to bring the outside in,” she explains.
“As such, lush displays of indoor plants, which also lends itself to this trend really pops when offset against planters, side tables and coffee tables in aged copper and natural stone finishes, particularly Dulux Design in Copper and Stone Effects.
Dulux Australia
“If you like a distressed, rustic and imperfect look, but prefer gentle and liveable pastels, try upcycling larger items of furniture such as a wardrobes, buffets or bedside tables in Dulux Design Chalk Effect.
For a touch of luxe, Dulux’s Metallic Effect comes in nine finishes, which allows you to reproduce the look of glimmering metal with minimal hassle and expense―perfect for side tables and bed frames through to decorative accessories, such as vessels and planters.
Dulux Australia
“Not only for interior features, some of the effects in the Dulux Design range can be used outside the home to elevate alfresco areas, pool sides and gardens by way of upcycling outdoor accessories.”
To help mimic natural elements, selected effects in the range such as Copper, Gold, Stainless Steel, Metallic, Pearl, Stone and Suede also offer versatility in finish to suit your individual preference. While the final coat is still drying, choose your desired textural finish by applying a muslin cloth, a roller brush or a paint brush over the surface to create a smooth, rough or random overlapping pattern respectively.
Dulux Australia. Stylists: Bree Leech & Heather Nette King. Photographer: Mike Baker.
Main image: Dulux Australia. Photographer: Amelia Stanwix