Paint Trends
That Feel Expensiveπ¨
Colours, finishes, and the tiny details that make a room look like you planned it.
Even if you didn't β¨
What's Hot in Interior Paintπ₯
Warm whites (not hospital whites)
The vibe is 'soft daylight', not 'dentist waiting room'. Creamier off-whites are dominating Aussie interiors.
Pro Tip: Dulux Natural White and Haymes Greyology are safe bets. Avoid anything with 'brilliant' in the name.
Moody feature rooms
Deep greens, inky blues, and charcoal accents are back β especially in bedrooms and studies.
Pro Tip: One wall, not four. Moody everywhere = cave. Moody accent = sophisticated.
Limewash and mineral finishes
Texture is the quiet flex. Matte, slightly imperfect walls that look expensive even when the furniture is⦠evolving.
Pro Tip: Limewash is NOT DIY-friendly. Get a pro or accept a learning curve (and wasted product).
Ceilings get attention
Ceiling colour (or a subtle tint) is trending because it instantly makes a room feel designed.
Pro Tip: Go one or two shades lighter than walls for cohesion without drama.
Low/zero VOC paints
People are choosing healthier paints without sacrificing coverage. The 'new paint smell' is officially cancelled.
Pro Tip: Dulux Wash&Wear, Haymes Expressions, and Taubmans Endure all have low-VOC options.
Colour drenching
Same colour on walls, ceiling, trims, and doors. It sounds chaotic but creates a cocooning effect that's very 2026.
Pro Tip: Works best in smaller rooms (powder rooms, studies). Big spaces can feel overwhelming.
The 2026 Colour Paletteπ¨
Warm Whites
Natural White, Antique White USA, Lexicon Quarter
Safe, bright, works with everything
Greige
Dulux Limed White, Haymes Organic
Neutral but warmer than pure grey
Deep Greens
Dulux Enchanted Ivy, British Paints Deep Forest
Moody, luxe, great for feature walls
Inky Blues
Dulux Mysterious, Haymes Midnight
Dramatic, calming in bedrooms
Terracotta/Clay
Dulux Terracotta Chip, Haymes Clay
Earthy, warm, Mediterranean vibes
What You'll Actually Payπ°
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| DIY (per room, paint only) | $150 β $400 |
| Pro painter (per room) | $400 β $800 |
| Feature wall (limewash) | $500 β $1,200 |
| Whole house repaint | $3,000 β $8,000+ |
| Ceiling repaint (per room) | $200 β $500 |
Quick Win Checklistβ
- Sample pots in morning + night lighting β colours shift dramatically
- Choose washable matte for high-traffic areas (kids, pets, life)
- Do trims/doors in a slightly deeper tone for definition
- Patch and sand first β paint doesn't fix bad vibes or bad walls
- Limewash and textured finishes = call a pro. It's an art.
Ready to Transform Your Space?π
Get quotes from verified local painters who know their Dulux from their Haymes.