Brave Dawn - The Dulux Colour of the Year 2021 that made me eat my words...

🎨You might have heard that the new Dulux Colour of the Year for 2021 ‘Brave Ground’ has been a little controversial (funny that a paint colour could be considered controversial in our current times!).

Much as though I dislike trends, I thought I should really make the effort to pop next door to the Dulux Decorator Centre and see what all the fuss is about.

I have to say I wasn't overly excited when I opened the can.

I’m not a massive fan of beige. And especially not beige paint - it seems so flat and lifeless and really not very ‘brave’.

Being of a certain age, I can also remember the excessive matt beigeness so prevalent in homes in the late 90's and early 00's.

I brushed the paint out onto some paper to see if it looked more inspiring once dry. It's certainly a warm earthy colour, but not really my cup of tea - far too milky! ☕️

Many feel that what we really need right now is a bright and uplifting colour, something that allows us to escape, a fantasy away from the real world. And I have to say that I kind of agree.

But then I noticed that Brave Ground is actually very close to our new Metamorphosis fabric which was also hanging up in our studio!

So, completely by accident we’re on trend! 🤷‍♀️

I might be a little biased but as our fabric is printed on a natural unbleached base it has more texture and colour variation than the paint which makes it look less flat. The addition of Kirsty's bold design in green, gold and grey makes it a little bit brave and of course sustainable as Dulux say the colour should be.

This is what Dulux have to say on the subject:

'What has emerged from our trend forecast this year is that we’re all reassessing what really matters in our lives. We’re taking stock and finding a new and positive way forward by having faith in ourselves, working together, building on the past and planning for the future. It takes courage to embrace change and our homes can help provide a solid and supportive foundation, as well as giving us the scope to be creative.

Dulux Colour of the Year for 2021 is Brave Ground – a warm, natural neutral that’s an enabling and stabilizing colour. It’s also a versatile shade that lets other colours shine.'

Well, I can't argue with that. And I certainly agree that Brave Dawn is a colour that lets other colours shine. I think it might just be the new grey...

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About The Monkey Puzzle Tree

From real cork wallpaper to secretly naughty lace, The Monkey Puzzle Tree creates interiors with a twist and a conscience.

Founded by Charlotte Raffo in 2017, the business collaborates with artists to create unique fabrics and wallpapers, paying a generous royalty to their artists to help provide them with a passive income. The unique designs are manufactured in the North of England, supporting traditional industries and maintaining high environmental standards.