Let’s start with a colour that has been the darling of the interior world for years… and while we might be tired of it just now, it deserves that popularity. This cross between grey and beige is welcoming and cosy, adding warmth to a room yet keeping it sophisticated. Just don’t let it slip too far towards coffee or latte tones or you’ll just have… well, brown. For the right greige, let nature guide you – stone, pebbles, animal fur, barks; there are many examples of complex grey-brown tones to inspire you. 

Light greys can look quite silvery, and will lighten and brighten a room, and add a sense of calm. Deepened just a little, dove greys and french greys are stunningly on-trend. Pair them with bone whites, pale timbers and black accents for a Scandi look, with whitewash timber and rustic textures for a beachy or country look, or with brighter accents for a fun contemporary twist. 

This moody tone can be sleek, or grunty and industrial. It can turn a characterless room into something intriguing. With its cocooning properties, it’s great for bedrooms and studies, and is a handy alternative to pure black. Make sure to add texture and paler or bright colours to keep charcoal from getting too claustrophobic.

While current trends tip towards warm metallics like copper and brass, silver and pewter can add sparkle to a room as either a feature wall, or an accent. Resene has many subtle variations of these in its Resene Metallics and Special Effects range. 

Greys with blue undertones are steely and cool. Treat with caution and consider your accents and placement. Green-tinged greys are much more forgiving and warm, and go well with many timbers and natural materials. Greys with purple or lavender undertones are feminine and warm.