Feature article
Goodbye, colour rules: 2026 is all about 'ugly-pretty' palettes
New Zealand's top designers are embracing chaotic colour combinations that tell a real story.
AI summary
Forget colour rules. The Dulux Colour Awards highlight a shift to personal, story-driven palettes for 2026. Designers are embracing "ugly-pretty" combinations—unexpected pairings like volcanic red and peppermint that create a unique feel.
This move away from polished "Instagram homes" uses richer, grounded tones. Expect to see cohesive colour schemes that connect a home's exterior and interior, using deep greens, charcoals, and clay tones to create a seamless, organic experience.
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Dulux Colour Forecast 2026 - Elemental palette. Photography: Lisa Cohen, Styling: Bree Banfield
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Waka Huia interiors layer pinks, apricots, and timber for a warm, cohesive feel.
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Rocket’s House uses desert tones and capsicum red to give each room its own distinct personality.
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