2021's Hottest Hues

Brave, gentle, urbane, smooth, illuminating – these are just some of the words that describethe shades predicted to be popular in 2021 by leading global authorities on colours. Also, the one thing all seem to agree on is that one should choose colours that are soothing and grounding to create a sanctuary at home.

BRAVE GROUND

Described as a warm, natural and neutral shade that reconnects us to nature and the simple things, Brave Ground from Dulux’s Colour Futures 2021 is its Colour of the Year. It chose this shade after months of working with paint company AkzoNobel, trend forecasters, design specialists, editors and architects from across the globe.

“Empowering and earthy, the colour provides a firm foundation for living,” says Oscar Wezenbeek, managing director of AkzoNobel Decorative Paints in South-East & South Asia, about the psychological effect of the colour. “Evoking a sense of security, growth and potential, it helps create environments that give us the courage to embrace change.”

A neutral shade like Brave Ground can play the leading role and the supporting role in our space. Dulux has curated four complementary palettes to bring out its different qualities.

Energising Expressive pairs the colour with reds and pinks. Trust offers tone-on-tone companion neutrals like clay and chalk. Timeless injects contemporary freshness by pairing it with yellows and ochres. Finally, Earth puts it with the cool shades of the sea, sky, and forest to bring out its restorative effect.

URBANE BRONZE

American paint company Sherwin-Williams’ 2021 Colour of the Year, Urbane Bronze SW7048 is a sophisticated grey with a bronze undertone. “Urbane Bronze is a comforting colour, drawing from nature for a feeling of relaxation and serenity,” says Sue Wadden, director of colour marketing.