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Between The Walls
A podcast by the Architecture + Design Library
Step Between the Walls and into the world of design, creativity, and connection. Brought to you by the Architecture + Design Library, this podcast explores the stories, ideas, and collaborations shaping New Zealand’s built environment — and beyond.
Join us as we talk to architects, interior designers, builders, makers, and industry leaders about their processes, challenges, and the spaces that inspire them. Whether you're a seasoned professional or simply design-curious, Between the Walls offers honest conversations, fresh insights, and a look behind the scenes of the creative industries.
Welcome to your new favourite place to listen, learn, and be inspired.
Between The Walls
Dulux: The Future in Colour — Inside the 2026 Colour Forecast
This week, Janey and Verity sit down with Davina, Colour Specialist at Dulux New Zealand, to talk all things colour — and take a peek inside the 2026 Dulux Colour Forecast.
From the grounding calm of Elemental to the dreamy optimism of Ethereal and the eclectic confidence of Evoke, Davina walks us through the three palettes set to influence our homes and spaces in the coming years.
We chat about what goes into predicting the colours we’ll love next, why we’re seeing a shift towards bolder, mood-driven design, and how global trends are filtering into the way Kiwis are styling their homes.
What we cover in this episode:
• How Dulux puts together its annual colour forecast — from Milan Design Week to local insights
• The story behind the three 2026 palettes: Elemental, Ethereal, and Evoke
• Why chrome, metallics, and high-shine finishes are having a moment
• Colour drenching — what it is and why designers are obsessed with it
• Why New Zealanders are becoming braver with colour in unexpected spaces
• The emotional impact of colour and how it shapes the way we feel at home
Listener Q&A
How do I choose the right colour palette for my home?
- Think about the mood you want the room to create
- Pay attention to undertones — they make all the difference
- Mix grounding neutrals with bolder accents for balance
Reflections from the conversation:
“It’s not the colours themselves — it’s the combinations that make them feel fresh and exciting.” – Davina
“Colour drenching transforms a room. It’s modern, cohesive, and creates a real mood.” – Verity
“People are starting to embrace more colour. Whites will always be popular, but we’re seeing bolder choices popping up in unexpected spaces.” – Davina
Featured Guest
Davina — Colour Specialist, Dulux New Zealand
Explore the Dulux 2026 Colour Forecast → dulux.co.nz