Let colour be the star of the show

If you’re still clinging to neutrals and nervous about dipping your toe into a technicolour world, help is at hand.
PA Photo/Handout.PA Photo/Handout.
PA Photo/Handout.

Greeny-blue teal is set to star in decor, and it’s a colour that could tempt even the most timid to break free from bland, and splash on a shade that’s a sure-fire winner.

Chosen by Dulux as its colour of the year, with Britain’s Got Talent judge Alesha Dixon launching its campaign to put the shade on the map, it truly has the power to be transformative.

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It’s easy on the eye, and harmonises beautifully with the brown hues of natural materials, like wood and stone.

“This top trend colour for 2014, which hot-off-the-fashion-catwalk is already making a mark on Hollywood’s red carpets, perfectly combines the natural harmony of green with the tranquillity of blue to symbolise balance,” says Rebecca Thompson, Dulux’s senior colour and design manager.

“Deeper and more sophisticated than turquoise, teal has a subdued richness. This influential colour has a mysterious quality which captures the grandeur of vast lakes and undiscovered forests.”

It’s an alluring description and Dulux has been inspired by sea life, with the brand dubbing its interpretation Sea Urchin 1. A classic muted teal, rich in deep green and blue hues, this paint shade really is what it says on the tin.

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“Teal’s one of those colours that encourages even the most timid of budding interior designers to make bold choices, because even in its strongest tone, it still feels calming and comfortable,” agrees Nichola McFall, brand manager at the Fabric Box.

“Unlike some green-blue tones, such as turquoise, teal transcends all seasons and suits a range of interior styles, from modern to traditional.”

While it’s dark, definite and undoubtedly makes a statement, teal is surprisingly versatile and works well with a variety of colour combinations, says Thompson.

“To create the latest look, combine with other tones of teal, green or blue to create a tone-on-tone effect,” she suggests. “For an an oceanic feeling; cool, dynamic and welcoming, layer teal with indigo, denim or navy.”

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To warm a scheme, contrast teal with details of coral or delicate blush tones, mustard yellows and burnt orange.

“This will make this beautiful colour sing, and to add balance, use neutral tones, natural wood and crisp white paintwork.”

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