A textured approach to interiors with Dulux

For those naturally drawn to white interiors, adding warm, earthy hues with texturally inspired finishes might not seem like the most obvious way to update your home.

But a subtle injection of colour through paint can have a substantial impact on a space, especially when harmonised with the other decorative elements in the room.

“Adding colour and textural statements is something many homeowners shy away from. Although white interiors are considered timeless, colour can be just as appreciated when used in the right way,” Dulux colour and communications manager, Andrea Lucena-Orr said.

To show would-be renovators how to lean into colour, leading interior styling expert and lifestyle presenter Kerrie-Ann Jones updated the master bedroom of her Sydney home using the Connect palette from the Dulux Colour Forecast 2023.

“Originally, our master bedroom was white – from the walls to the decor – and it consequently felt flat, so it was time to bring it to life with colour,” Kerrie-Ann said.

“For anyone wanting to refresh a tired or blank space in their home, and in need of a bit of uplifting inspiration, look to the Dulux Colour Forecast. Made up of three emotive palettes – Revive, Balance and Connect – there’s every chance you’ll find a colour you love which will completely transform your space.

“I love warm neutrals, so I had a natural affinity to the Connect palette – with its earthy tones of moss, wasabi, sandstone, muddied yellowgreen and burnt charcoal.”

Kerrie-Ann explored how she could subtly incorporate these colours into her home while still honouring her signature style, which favours white walls and pared-back interiors, and painted the trims of the bedroom as well as the French doors leading into the neighbouring ensuite.

“People overlook the impact that painting their trims and doors can add to interiors, feeling they need to paint the walls to enhance a space. Often, it can be done by simply accenting certain elements of your home with colour, which is exactly what we’ve achieved here.”

When it comes to selecting colours for your space – be it your doors, trims, ceilings or walls – Kerrie-Ann says it’s important to find balance using a spectrum from light to dark.

“Sometimes we can be drawn to only the lighter or darker scale of a colour, which can make a space feel unbalanced; either too light or too heavy,” Kerrie-Ann said.

“To achieve a sense of harmony, I used Dulux Wash&Wear in Dulux Whisper White on the walls and Dulux Aquanamel in Dulux Wasabi for the French doors and trims.

“To balance everything, I added depth through furniture and decor, by using dark shades of walnut timber in the side table and a midtoned brown for the statement chair, rug and art – which all referenced shades from the Connect palette.

For texture, Kerrie-Ann layered the bed with a white valance, a natural stone-coloured duvet by In Bed, and paired it with a beautiful long cushion and throw from Saarde.

“Incorporating colour into your home through textural pieces is a great way to add interest and depth. Just make sure your assortment of colours and textures are evenly balanced to create harmony and visual interest, without going overboard.”

Styling tips from Kerrie-Ann:

Adding colour to your home can be transformative, so don’t be afraid to experiment and explore. If you aren’t sure where to start, purchase swatches, colour stickers or sample pots online or from your local paint shop to accurately test the colours around the room and view at different times of the day. That way, you’ll feel assured you’ve selected a colour or colours you’ll love

Colour evokes emotions, so it’s best to consider how certain hues make you feel – while you may love a bold red, living with a whole room of it may be overwhelming. The good news about paint is, if you don’t love it, you can always paint over it. If in doubt, ask a friend or get a second opinion from a trade specialist – they are there to help

Don’t be afraid to mix the old with the new and use bolder hues as accents rather than solid colours en masse to avoid being too overpowering, and

When decorating, always start with a blank canvas and add one piece at a time to ensure the balance is right. Sometimes how you edit your space can be more important than adding the homewares itself, so go slow.Although white interiors are considered timeless, colour can be just as appreciated when used in the right way.