No more mindless monochrome – earthy neutrals are taking over
Vivien Topalovic, Property Journalist | realestate.com.au
The reign of grey is over. Facades, as well as interior spaces like kitchens and bathrooms, are saying goodbye to stark white and grey in favour of more natural palettes.
When it comes to choosing the right colour for your home, cool greys and stark whites have defined Australian interiors for years. But there has been a clear shift towards warmth, with earthy neutrals taking centre stage. In Australia’s new homes, designed by some of the nation’s most in-tune design and architecture firms, a distinct change is on the way.
How homes are warming up
Warm tones are on the rise in new builds, particularly in areas such as the kitchen and bathroom, with designers embracing styles that turn heads. Nature‑inspired palettes bring depth and character, pairing well with timber, linen and stone.
White may still be the wall colour of choice, but even here, the hue is trending warmer, and taking on an overall more earthy feel thanks to accompanying finishes.
Pierce Property’s Adorn in Cremorne, NSW, takes this approach with a natural palette inspired by its surroundings.
An example of Adorn’s neutral palette in the kitchen.
With interiors by DKO Design, this collection of 13 residences draws from the area’s art deco heritage, according to DKO senior associate Emma Greenstein.
Warm timbers and natural stone feature prominently in spaces like the kitchen, subtly referencing Adorn’s setting.