Says Harper, “During times of instability, such as the current cost-of-living crisis and ongoing overseas conflicts, reduced consumer sentiment tends to see colour trends shift less dramatically. However, colour can be a powerful antedote to lift spirits and provide a sense of comfort and warmth, which is evident with this year’s colour palettes.”

The rise of AI, and continuous decent into the digital world adds to the feeling of instability and fosters a need for familiarity. Harper adds, “There is a sense to slow down and appreciate life’s everyday moments, to look for joy in our surroundings and find comfort in reminiscing about times when we felt safe and secure. These shifts have informed the three Colour Forecast palette trends for 2025 in a way that’s relevant for New Zealand interiors.”

The three distinct palettes, Still, Recollect and Emerge, demonstrate how colours with warm brown undertones evoke the feeling of being uplifted and nurtured. Dulux predicts that rich burgundies and wine hues will become more prominent throughout residential interior design in 2025, alongside an increased use of green including olive, sage and vibrant yellow-green.

Dulux Still

Dulux Still, is a subdued palette made up of soothing, muted colours. The palette features a mixture of warm greys against yellow based neutrals, greens, and cool blues. These colours reflect the calm of nature, a safe-space from the fast-paced and often artificial world around us. “Dulux Still is a palette that is likely to prove popular with home enthusiasts as it features beautiful warm neutrals” Harper explains.

Still was designed with natural materials and traditional craftmanship in mind. Undyed textiles such as wool, shearling, cotton and linen alongside traditional materials such as stone, ceramic and lava stone; metal accents against paper, cord and leather are textures that compliment this palette.

In this palette: Dulux Epsom, Dulux Kauri Cliffs Half, Dulux Kaikorai Valley, Dulux Clay Pipe, Dulux Clay Court, Dulux Boggyburn, Dulux Shelly Beach, Dulux Darfield, Dulux Te Aroha, Dulux Bruce Bay, Dulux Urenui and Dulux Mangamahoe. 

Dulux Recollect

Recollect is a moody palette, designed to evoke nostalgia and reflection. Dulux Zingiber and Dulux Olive Blend are sophisticated yellow-based greens and deep olive shades that pair with rich wine shades such as Dulux Plum Sauce and Dulux Danseys Pass. The palette reflects how reminscing through the use of classic design and vintage furnishings can be an uplifting experience during times of economic uncertainty.

Patterns and materials popular in the 1950s to the 1990s inspired the colours chosen for Recollect including crushed velvet, chenille and damask in bold clashing patterns — stripes, diamonds, checks and nostalgic florals. 

Harper adds that vibrant shades of plum, red and burgundy will be seen more of in 2025 compared to 2024. “Colours such as Danseys Pass have gained a much bigger personality, adding both energy and a feeling of cosiness we’re searching for.”

In this palette: Dulux Remuera, Dulux Tidal Green, Dulux Zalatown, Dulux Zingiber, Dulux Earnscleugh, Dulux Bucklands Beach, Dulux Auburn Flair, Dulux Olive Blend, Dulux Black Water, Dulux Danseys Pass, Dulux Plum Sauce and Dulux Devils Staircase. 

Dulux Emerge

Dulux Emerge features soft mid-tones and pastel greens, mauves, and purples — optimistic colours that uplift the senses. The palette is inspired by communal initiatives like environmental stewardship, clothing swaps, and shared-housing arragements while still supporting self expression. Harper explains “Dulux Emerge embodies individuality, inclusivity, collaboration and empathy, reflecting an expressive and eclectic style that celebrates connection.”

Soft rounded forms, glossy surfaces, pearlescent finishes and free-flowing lines add to the whimsical atmosphere of the trend. Tactile fabrics such as coloured boucle, soft velvet and buttery suede creates a cosy mood when paired with Emerge colours.

In this palette: Dulux Waiau Bay Quater, Dulux Hagley Park, Dulux Kereta, Dulux Piglet, Dulux Mechanic Bay, Dulux Nile Street, Dulux Cornstalk, Dulux Mokai Canyon, Dulux Puhoi Half, Dulux Lake Tarawera, Dulux Vintage Lilac, and Dulux Ripe Rhubarb.

View all colours in the Dulux 2025 Colour Forecast palettes here.