Dulux introduces its 2026 Forecast – a Rhythm of Blues

Dulux showcases a dynamic family of blues for the first time, offering more choice than ever before.

It’s time to dance to the Rhythm of Blues^™ and celebrate AkzoNobel’s Colours of the Year 2026 – an upbeat and versatile colour family that’s calming, connecting, and creative. Be Inspired by Dulux SA.

There’s a trio of shades for next year – the light blue Mellow Flow^™, the dark blue Slow Swing^™, and the vibrant Free Groove^™ – so everyone can find a style that works for them. The harmonious collection of signature indigos is just what we need in our homes, according to the results of the company’s extensive annual trend research from AkzoNobel’s Global Aesthetic Centre.

“AkzoNobel’s Global Aesthetic Centre has been translating trends into desirable colours for more than 30 years. Its annual ColourFutures™ trend forecast meeting brings together in-house experts, international architects, designers, and journalists to share insights into how our reactions to the world around us impact our colour choices,” says Palesa Ramaisa, Dulux Colour Expert.

“With everything that’s happening in the world, we see that people are reacting in various ways,” explains Heleen van Gent, Creative Director of AkzoNobel’s Global Aesthetic Centre. “They’re either slowing down and recharging their batteries, wanting to feel in tune with others, and celebrate kinship. Or they’re choosing to be bold, have fun, and feel carefree.”

She adds that the three colour palettes will help create living environments that fit everyone’s individual decorative needs. “To reflect these various moods – and because we understand that colour is emotion and therefore personal – we’ve chosen a family of colours for 2026. They’re centered around three different rhythms that offer endless scope for changing the pace of your space.”

Slow Colour Story

A wholesome, human space that feels restorative. Somewhere we can reflect, refocus, and recharge our batteries. Simple and peaceful, it’s where we can find ourselves and get ready to face the world.

Flow Colour Story

A friendly and connected space that feels in tune with the world. Somewhere, we can come together and bond with the natural networks of life: our families, our communities, and the earth around us.

Feel Free Colour Story

A boundary-breaking space that feels upbeat and carefree. Somewhere, we can think outside the box, embrace our inner child, and find the freedom and energy to play, experiment, and dream.

The colours, textures, and special effects that take centre stage in the Rhythm of Blues collection have been designed to resonate with a wide range of markets. Along with decorative paints, inspirational palettes have also been created for the aerospace, automotive, consumer electronics, metal furniture, lighting, cabinetry, flooring, building products, and architecture markets.

“We pride ourselves on setting the tone together with architects, interior designers, trend specialists, and product developers – who all make important contributions to our in-depth research. Our Rhythm of Blues family is perfectly in tune with evolving trends in various industries and will help us deliver market-specific solutions to customers so they can more confidently apply their own style to their projects,” adds Nathalie Sweeney, Marketing Director for Dulux Paints, Sub-Sahara Africa.