Sitting pretty

W hen choosing colours to decorate your home, it's easy to be overwhelmed by choice. It doesn't seem that long ago when colours were tonal or neutral. Nowadays, the possibilities are endless.

Kathy Demos, director of Colourways, says when choosing colours, there are no right or wrong combinations it all comes down to individual taste.

"A key component of the latest colour palette is the me, me, me' factor, linked to a desire to express our individuality. Choosing colours is about being yourself," she says.

This confidence is expressed in the latest colour forecast for Australian homes, which Demos says is a palette from which you can mix colours and textures.

The latest colour palette is infused with black and white colours which Demos stresses are not placed in contrast with each other.

"Neutral colours have come full circle, resulting in a subtle blending of black and white. This creates a chameleon effect with colour; it can be many things at different times."

Demos says this alchemy is influenced by technology's capacity to produce translucent and pearlescent effects, which will come into our homes through a range of paint finishes and natural materials.

"Texture is the new black. While ecology and the environment have been a focus of our forecasts for some time, translucence and the organic are more important than ever and will come forward in new ways," she says.

This will be reflected in pearlescent finishes on curtains, as well as the use of natural materials, rather than relying on colours to create a focus.

Subtle colour palettes are ideal for long-term investments such as flooring and wallcoverings, as they will not date quickly.

"You can then feed your desire for colour by accessorising with vibrant hues," she says.

Story by: Trendsideas