18-20 October 2024
International Convention Centre Sydney

Colour Psychology

Choosing the Right Palette for Your Kitchen Renovation Project

The kitchen is more than just a place to whip up delicious meals. It’s the heart of the home, a central hub for social gatherings, creative culinary escapades, and, for many of us, a personal haven. Your kitchen’s design has a significant impact on the ambiance and functionality of the space. With colour being a foundational element of design, how you wield the palette can influence everything from the room’s energy to how you experience meal prep. Here’s a deep dive into colour psychology and the best hues for your kitchen renovation, highlighting the 2024 colour trends by Dulux.

Blue Kitchen with blue overhead lights and stools

The Power of Colour in Your Kitchen

Colour, without saying a word, speaks volumes about the character of a space. The challenge lies in harnessing the power of colour to make your kitchen not only aesthetically pleasing but also a place that fosters the atmosphere you desire. Whether you're yearning for a cozy, rustic vibe or a bright and modern look, understanding the psychological underpinnings of each colour can guide your choice.

Red is a colour that energises and stimulates the appetite

A fitting choice for the kitchen. However, it's essential to choose the right red. Bright, bold reds can be overpowering, increasig the sense of urgency and intensity. Balance is key. Opt for a warmer, more subdued tone for your walls, or use red as an accent colour to infuse passion and creativity into your culinary world.

Feelings of joy and optimism evoked through Yellows and Orange

It's a colour associated with sunlight and warmth, making it a great choice for kitchens that lack natural light. A soft, buttery yellow can create a comforting, homely space, fostering an atmosphere of happiness and relaxation—ideal for a room where you start and end your day.

The calming effect of Blue

Light blues can create a serene, spa-like feel, perfect for kitchens that double as a quiet retreat. Darker, more saturated blues can add intrigue and elegance, especially when paired with metallic accents. Consider steering clear of cool, muted blues if you're hoping to create a warm, lively gathering space, as these might dampen the room’s energy.

Green is the colour of nature, symbolizing growth and renewal

It's a versatile choice that can bring the freshness of the outdoors in. Earthy greens can create a grounded, peaceful atmosphere, perfect for homes that seek to align the kitchen with the natural world. Brighter greens can invigorate your space, serving as a beacon of energy and life.

Colour Trends for 2024 by Dulux

Dulux, the renowned paint and colour experts, have launched their colour trends for 2024, offering a palette that reflects shifting global moods and values. This year emphasizes a balance between bold, adventurous colours and calming, organic hues, in line with our desire for both a vibrant and a restful living environment.

The Foundation of 'Solstice'

Solstice draws inspiration from the minimalist Scandinavian design style, infusing it with Mediterranean and desert influences. Evoking the warmth of the Australian outback and the vastness of the African savannah, the palette harmonises warm colours with cool accents, along with intricate details like braiding and primitive sculptural forms.

The Exuberance of 'Journey'

Journey embodies the narrative of an interior space, blending global influences from travel and honoring ancestral history through cherished heirlooms. This trend embraces maximalism with an eclectic palette that mirrors its diverse inspirations.

The Sophistication of 'Muse'

Drawing strong inspiration from the nostalgic essence of the postmodern era, with a special focus on the '70s, the Muse palette commemorates the liberated and expressive styles of bygone days.

Harmonizing Your Home

Colour choice can unify your home design. A kitchen that flows seamlessly into the adjacent spaces can create a harmonious environment. Selecting hues that complement the colours elsewhere in your home can reinforce a sense of cohesiveness and make each room feel like part of a larger, intentional design.


Remember, the kitchen is a personal space, and no one colour fits all. Take into account your family's lifestyle, your use of the kitchen, and the role it plays in your home when selecting your colour palette. Draw on both the science of colour psychology and your personal taste to create a space that is not only beautiful but also a true reflection of you.

With the colour psychology lens and the 2024 trends from Dulux, you are empowered to refresh, revitalize, and reflect through the power of paint. Whether you're starting from scratch with a full renovation or looking to make a few subtle changes, your kitchen's new colour scheme could be the key ingredient for a recipe of design success. Invest in the hue that speaks to you, and watch as your kitchen comes to life with colour.

Image credit: Dulux Australia 2024