No more mindless monochrome – earthy neutrals are taking over

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.

Lago by Canaan PD in Como, Western Australia. Picture: realestate.com.au

REA Group research found 51% of new home buyers feel established properties often have more character and uniqueness. For builders and developers, this could be an opportunity to lean into distinctive styles, making new builds feel just as engaging.

Architectural features, integrated cabinetry and bespoke shelving, combined with warm earth tones, can give a property that sought‑after personality.

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. Picture: realestate.com.au

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.

In WA, Canaan PD’s Lago development embraces a minimalist aesthetic that blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living.

Open‑plan living areas feature engineered timber flooring, rattan weaves and natural stone to create a relaxed environment, while recesses with chamfered corners work seamlessly with textured cabinetry panels.

In Zetland, NSW, Bridgehill Group’s ALBA development uses textured terracotta masonry inspired by Green Square’s industrial heritage.

A bright bathroom in Bridgehill’s Group ALBA development. Picture: realestate.com.au

Inside, flexible floorplans, light‑filled interiors and smart layouts make the most of natural elements like sunlight and breeze.

Making earthy neutrals your own

If you’re looking to refresh or renovate, small updates can easily bring the warmth of earthy neutrals into your home.

• Feature walls: Red terracotta shades such as Dulux’s Red Terra or Taubmans’ Café Royale deliver high impact with minimal effort.

• Furnishing: Cushions, throws and rugs in caramel or sandy tones add warmth and complement painted surfaces.

• Natural materials: Timber flooring, stone benchtops and linen curtains complement earthy palettes.

These changes can make your home feel more inviting, whether you’re styling a brand‑new build, refreshing a single room or undertaking a full renovation.

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