Offering a collection of sophisticated shades, experimental colour combinations and accents, 'Infinite Worlds', 'Bio Fragility', 'Retro Remix' and 'Future Past' are the themes of the four expertly curated palettes comprising the 2016 Dulux Colour Trends called 'Design Age'.

With continuous advances in science and technology uncovering opportunities to explore the unknown, there is an increasing attraction to our universe and a growing focus on space research and travel. Inspired by this lure of unexplored galaxies, the deep colours featured in the 'Infinite Worlds' palette will be especially prominent next year.

"Dominant hues predicted to inspire interiors next year include moody ocean blues such as Dulux Night Life and dark purples such as Dulux Russell," says Dulux's Brand Manager for Colour, Davina Harper. "We're also likely to see deep blue greens such as Dulux Winter Waves."

The collection of moody hues is juxtaposed with splashes of acid colours, such as pops of pink using Dulux Napier which emulate glowing stars and planets against a dark night.

Emphasising the importance of design and inference to specialisation, Dulux also debuts unique Colour Trends collaborations with 'The Makers', four distinctive designers and creators who have crafted bespoke pieces inspired by each of the Design Age trends.

Under the creative direction of Australian stylists Bree Leech and Heather Nette King, 'Bio Fragility' is showcased with the Porcelena bowl by Porcelain Bear. 'Retro Remix' features the David ottoman and Bowie side tables by Grazia & Co, and 'Infinite Worlds' is presented with a bespoke version of the Pile High Club floor cushion by Elise Cakebread.

The company also predicts browns will continue to be influential in 2016. "Browns are becoming increasingly popular and are currently a very big trend in Europe which will continue in the coming year," says Harper.

Reflecting this trend, the 'Future Past' palette presents decadent muted and caramel browns such as Dulux Miramar and Loose Leather, as well as heritage and earthy greens and royal blue. Inspired by a fusion of modern and heritage, the traditional colours are reinvigorated with the addition of mustard and salmon hues.

For those brave enough to make a bold statement, the 'Retro Remix' palette inspires colour experimentation. Representing a new retro movement, acid brights such as orange clash with faded, muddied colours such as reddish browns, olive greens, mustard and ochre, creating a fun and playful theme.

'Bio Fragility' has a more subtle offering which takes its cues from natural and living elements. Influenced by flesh tones, lichen, moss and stone, the palette combines pastels, greys, dirty pinks and nudes, as well as natural greens, resulting in a softer collection of colours inspired by nature.

About Dulux New Zealand

Dulux is New Zealand's largest manufacturer of premium decorative paint products that protect, maintain and enhance the spaces and places in which kiwis live and work. Dulux has proudly been part of the New Zealand community since 1939. Throughout their history they've led the way, creating products for New Zealand's unique conditions, formulated using only the highest quality materials. Their decorative paints enrich people's lives by bringing colour and lasting care to their surroundings.

About Dulux Colour Forecasts

Dulux colour experts study trends around the world to develop their forecast, attending trade fairs in Europe, studying product and design innovation, colour and finishes, and emerging global designers. They source information from overseas agencies, which analyse global influences such as fashion, media, world events, technology and science, social fundamentals, financial economics and politics.