Feature article
Goodbye, colour rules: 2026 is all about 'ugly-pretty' palettes
New Zealand's top designers are embracing chaotic colour combinations that tell a real story.
AI summary
The latest 2026 colour trends are all about breaking the rules, as seen in the Dulux Colour Awards. Designers are embracing "ugly-pretty" palettes—unexpected combinations like burnt red and peppermint green that tell a personal story.
This shift rejects polished "Instagram homes" in favour of richer, earthier tones like sage, clay, and ochre. Expect to see a cohesive experience, with deep exterior colours flowing seamlessly into the interior for a unified home aesthetic.
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Dulux Colour Forecast 2026 - Elemental palette. Photography: Lisa Cohen, Styling: Bree Banfield
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Waka Huia interiors layer pinks, apricots, and timber for a warm, cohesive feel.
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Rocket’s House uses desert tones and capsicum red to give each room its own distinct personality.
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