Summer Colour Trends 2026
After a long and gloomy winter, Australians are looking to invite warmth, lightness, and optimism back into their lives – starting at home. This summer, Dulux Colour Forecasters predict a move toward romantic tones and airy pastels that promise to uplift, soothe, and spark a more hopeful outlook. Dulux Ethereal - one of three palettes from the Dulux Colour Forecast 2026 - offers a dreamy combination of colours that can be layered and combined to restore joy in our homes this summer.
1. Transform a space through colour drenching
Colour drenching is such a powerful way to uplift a space and make it feel both interesting and unified. Colour drenching the bedroom walls and ceiling in Dulux Mask, a moody, romantic pink, completely transformed the space. Going from plain white to this deep, embracing pink has given the room such a dreamy, elegant feel.
TIP transform a space through colour drenching: Painting the walls, trims and doors all in the same shade is budget-friendly, DIY-friendly and completely transforms a room. Start with a soft shade like Dulux Aroma or Dulux Silver Thaw, then build your confidence with deeper tones in the next room.
If you're feeling stuck, gain colour confidence with personal guidance from the Dulux online Colour Advice team or an book an In-Home Colour Design Consultation.
Colours can look totally different depending on the time of day, so order some A4 Colour Swatches or Sample Pots to see how they look in your natural light.
Dulux Ethereal Palette - Colours to inspire joy and whimsy
Designed with summer living in mind, the Ethereal palette is soft, feminine and whimsical, evoking a sense of serenity through delicate pastel tones. Lighter shades such as Dulux Blue Shell and Dulux Soft Fresco are ideal for smaller rooms, helping to create the impression of a more open, airy space. Pinks and greens pair beautifully together, with Dulux Silver Thaw working as a warm neutral alongside the depth of Dulux Tiamo for a grounded, calming effect. For those seeking a soft, tonal scheme, Dulux Aroma and Dulux Mask layer seamlessly to create a serene, harmonious look
Dulux Seasonal Colour Trends
Colour Forecast 2026
Explore the latest in colour and interior trends with three new colour palettes designed to soothe and connect.
Explore the Colour Forecast -->Autumn/winter colour trends
This season embrace subtle luxury and calming, grounded tones with the 2025 Dulux Colour Forecast Still palette.
Autumn/winter colour trends-->Dulux Ethereal Palette
Dulux Ethereal invites a soft form of escapism, creating playful and whimsical spaces filled with serenity, tenderness, and a dreamlike sense of calm.
Discover the Ethereal Palette-->Disclaimer
Images: Photographer Lisa Cohen, Stylist Bree Banfield.
Colours displayed should be used as a guide for your colour selection. To ensure best accuracy, test your colour choice at home by ordering Dulux sample pots and A4 colour swatches.
