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A painter dressed in white clothes uses a roller to paint a white room
Here’s a sneak peek at the wall paint colours and finishes your clients will be asking for next, according to two experts.

 

Knowing which interior spring painting colours are trending this season keeps you one step ahead when talking to clients, and these are the shades you need to pay attention to as the weather heats up.

According to colour experts at Dulux and British Paints, expect a shift away from earthy neutrals toward playful pastels and bolder pairings that bring more warmth, light and personality into homes. Finishes are getting smarter, applications more creative and homeowners are craving schemes that feel fresh and uplifting. If you’ve got spring painting jobs on the agenda, here’s what’s coming up – and how to bring them to site.

Tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves and a mask, for example) when required on the job. Always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

 

Warmer spring painting tones are trending

Say goodbye to cool whites and sage greens – spring 2025 is all about warmth. “We’re seeing warmer tones trending,” Rachel Ryan, Senior Brand Manager at British Paints, says. That includes richer hues, including terracotta, burgundy and coral, plus creamy whites and greige (a grey-beige) replacing icy tones. Even classic greys are warming up, shifting into greige territory. For something punchier, full-bodied shades, such as plum, are also gaining momentum – it’s rich, but still bright enough to energise a space.

A tradie stands in the painting accessories aisle at Bunnings Warehouse holding an All Purpose branded paint roller tray kit 

Creamy whites will be popular

Colour might be having a moment, but plenty of clients will still lean neutral – and that’s not changing anytime soon. What is changing is the kind of white they’re after. “We’re seeing whites with creamy undertones,” Rachel says – think raw linen, chalk and soft clay, rather than fridge-door white. These warmer whites add softness, and they’re far easier to live with than cold, clinical shades. They’re a top pick for Hamptons-style, mid-century and country homes.

A dining area with mauve chairs, two blue hanging lights and a terracotta feature wall in the background

Light and bold interior paint contrasts are in

This spring, it’s all about contrast. “We’re seeing a rise in soft, pastel-inspired tones paired with deeper, bolder colours,” Andrea Lucena-Orr, Dulux Colour and Communications Manager, says. Think pale greens, peaches and light blues teamed with rich hues, like burgundy, mustard or charcoal. The soft shades bring calm and lightness, while the darker ones add depth and cosiness. Together, they create interiors that feel both vibrant and inviting – ideal for living rooms, bedrooms or anywhere you want atmosphere and balance.

Same colour, everywhere

Want a quick way to wow a client? Suggest colour drenching. This is where you paint the walls, ceiling and trim in the same look-at-me hue – picture stormy blue or deep ochre. “It gives a bold, immersive feel and works especially well in small or dramatic spaces,” Andrea says. This might be a dining room, powder room or home office. It’s a statement-maker that is moody and on-trend.

Splashes of colour

You don’t have to go all-in on colour to make a space pop. Statement shades are starting to turn up in clever ways: a deep red front door, ochre trims or a plum ceiling with white walls. “These brighter hues add so much personality, even in small doses,” Andrea says. They are perfect for clients who want something a little different without overcommitting. Try it in a hallway, a child’s room or on kitchen cabinetry.

Creative finishes

Homeowners today want something unique, and texture delivers. “Brushed and limewash finishes are trending,” Andrea says. “Murals and colourful trims are also on the rise.” These techniques give depth to walls without the need for feature tiles or wallpaper. They’re also a smart way to give a space a bespoke look without the big spend. Expect to see more textured wall finishes included in wall paint trends this season.

Clean and classic outside

Freshening up a home façade this spring? Simple and timeless is the go-to look, Rachel says. Monochrome colour combos are big – think tonal charcoal or warm whites using different shades to create interest. Greige and taupe are also gaining traction. These combos work across the board, from modern builds and coastal cottages to dated brick homes needing a lift. For a seamless result, choose colours that match or complement the roof, guttering and fencing.

Paint the ceiling (yes, really)

Don’t overlook the fifth wall. Painting the ceiling is back and it’s a quick way to make a room stand out. “Adding a splash of colour to the ceiling, while keeping walls neutral, makes a room feel fresh and unexpected,” Andrea says. It works best when the ceiling contrasts with light walls. Try sky blue, warm terracotta or charcoal overhead for a moody edge. It’s a simple upsell that gives any room a custom feel, especially in teen bedrooms, powder rooms or entryways. Ceiling colour is set to become one of the more adventurous wall paint trends this spring.

A sunlit living room using creamy white and light colour tones with a lounge, cafe table, fireplace and some green plants

Keep in mind …

  • When painting, always wear safety equipment (eye protection and mask) and ensure the room is well ventilated. Keep all paint and chemicals out of reach of children and pets.
  • Paint colours may vary upon application.

After interior and exterior building inspiration?

Be inspired by this beauty and learn how the builder got the bulk of their supplies in one place.

 

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.