TRENDS: Feeling more grounded recently? It might be due to the earthy and neutral tones which are dominating interior design colour palettes, as forecast last year by Decor + Design’s star Futurist Victoria Redshaw, of UK Trend Forecasting agency Scarlet Opus.

In a world awash with technology, the 24/7 news cycle and the ping of notifications, many of us are experiencing a need to reconnect to the earth.

Redshaw calls it the “Earthbound” trend. It reflects a need to hark back to the fundamental qualities of being human. Ancient cultures, rustic minimalism and mysticism are interweaved with a colour palette of neutrals, ochres and terracotta – with a touch of metallic to add some zing. We’re also seeing a new shade of cream; a warm white that is often discreetly textured.

Furniture shapes are curved and sculptural, and textile patterns respectfully incorporate the traditional work of indigenous peoples. Aversion to technology and the mass produced is also seen in the new emphasis on crafts.

‘Earthbound’ Textiles. Image: Scarlet Opus

After a year of uncertainty, neutral tones calm and smooth and put us all in a better light. The pink undertones of a hue like taupe flatter all skin tones and throw matte finishes into beautifully stark relief. British paint powerhouse Farrow & Ball’s colour ‘Jitney’ is a brown-based neutral which is perfect for bedrooms.

In addition, the Dulux 2021 Colour of the Year – Brave Ground – is a perfect reflection of the Earthbound trend.

Australia’s natural colour palette and our unique light responds perfectly to the current ochres and sophisticated neutrals such as Brave Ground.

Andrea Lucena-Orr, Dulux’s highly respected Colour and Communications Manager, will be speaking at Decor + Design 2021 in Melbourne on the ‘Science of Australian Colour’, as part of the Seminar Series.

Plus don’t miss Victoria Redshaw’s next Major Design Trends Forecast, which will be our Virtual International Keynote for this year’s Decor + Design show. It will be available to download from 1^st July 2021 – watch it before attending the show from 15 – 18 July at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre. Australian design personality James Treble will be interpreting the trends live at the event with his “Practical Design Trends Tours” around the exhibition.

Entry to the exhibition is free for trade visitors, seminar and tours are available from $55. Register now and start planning your trip to Australia’s No.1 Interiors Trade Event!