Finalists for the programme, now in its 34th year, were chosen from across six categories: Commercial Interior: Public and Hospitality (23 finalists); Commercial Interior: Workplace and Retail (21 finalists); Commercial and Multi-Residential Exterior (15 finalists); Residential Interior (27 finalists); Single Residential Exterior (10 finalists); and Student (11 finalists).

“Architects and designers have set a new precedent with this year’s awards programme submissions,” says Davina Harper, Dulux Colour Specialist. “They have exhibited original and masterful use of both colour and texture in their design approach, creating sophisticated interior and exterior spaces.”

“There has been a shift away from cooler whites and neutrals, which have previously dominated both residential and commercial interiors, with rich brown-based hues, such as soft terracotta, beiges, earthy greens and warm greys coming to the fore,” says Harper.

“We have seen the emergence of textures, such as concrete effects, patinas, French wash and suede effects in both commercial and residential spaces. Repetition of these textures paired with unexpected tones was apparent, such as yellow, red and coral in the form of accent walls, cabinetry, doors, skylights and trims; not to mention the use of murals and graffiti walls in commercial settings to promote creativity and clever ways to minimise paint wastage.”

Harper says that many briefs discussed the need for the space to be conducive for rest and to offer a connection to nature, which saw the employment of botanicals and natural materials, such as timber in both interiors and exteriors.

“The student submissions were also impressive,” adds Harper, “delivering fearless and original colour concepts and applications.”

The judging panel will select winners and commendations across the six categories. New Zealand entrants will have the chance of taking home the New Zealand Grand Prix title and NZD $5000. All other category winners (excluding the Student category and New Zealand entrants), have the chance of taking home the Australian Grand Prix title and AUD $5000.

The judging panel includes Toni Brandso, Director of New Zealand’s Material Creative, Adele Winteridge, Director of Foolscap Studio, Jean-Pierre Biasol, Director of Biasol Design Studio, Jonathan Richards, Director of Richards Stanisich Architecture and Kathryn Robson, Director of Robson Rak and Architects & Interiors.

Winners of the 34th Dulux Colour Awards will be announced in the coming months.

New Zealand finalists:

O-Studio by Establish Studio – Commercial Interior: Public and Hospitality

Vish. by RCG – Commercial Interior: Workplace and Retail

Ohope Beach School by Ignite Architects – Commercial and Multi Residential Exterior

South Frame Bleachers by LandLAB – Commercial and Multi Residential Exterior

Social Housing Development Rangiora by Rohan Collett Architects – Commercial and Multi Residential Exterior

Grey Lynn by Dessein Parke – Residential Interior

Split House by Pac Studio – Single Residential Exterior

The Lyttelton Boat Shed by Partner in Creativity – Single Residential Exterior

Common Ground by Jennifer Low, Auckland University of Technology – Student (1-6 Years)

See all the finalists across Australia and New Zealand at dulux.co.nz/colourawards.