Dulux has announced the 105 finalists for its annual Dulux Colour Awards from a pool of 437 entries.

The Awards aim to show off the projects that exemplify an innovative use of colour in the built environment. The finalists are chosen by a panel of design industry experts from Australia and New Zealand and are split across six categories.

Now in its 35^th year, the Dulux Colour Awards categorises entries into Commercial Interior: Public and Hospitality (25 finalists); Commercial Interior: Workplace and Retail (20 finalists); Commercial and Multi-Residential Exterior (13 finalists); Residential Interior (27 finalists); Single Residential Exterior (9 finalists); and, Student projects (11 finalists).

Dulux Colour and communications manager Andrea Lucena-Orr says the finalists are particularly given the current uncertain times: “We can’t help but view this year’s projects through a slightly different lens. While our focus is always on recognising innovation and excellence in the use of colour, our appreciation of the quality of work is heightened given the challenging climate in which these projects were created and completed.

“Undoubtedly, this has contributed to the increased use of biophilia in design, and a resulting swing towards more nurturing tones and natural finishes,” she says.

“The prevalence of concrete, stone and timber, as well as warm metals, paired with warm earthy hues and deep greens and blues, indicates the need for a return to nature and its grounding effect in chaotic times.”

Andrea added that this year has seen a return to timeless treatments as the classic black and white colour scheme.

“Externally, we noted the increased use of natural tones to blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment, particularly in commercial categories,” she explains.

“Yet, despite these tendencies to earthy, natural tones, there is still an evident willingness to be playful with the use of colour, in unexpected highlights and accents. We commend designers and architects on their capacity to remain highly creative and to lead their clients to embrace innovative concepts when faced with such challenging and extenuating circumstances.”

All winners (excluding the Student category and New Zealand entrants) eligible for the Australian Grand Prix title and prize money of A$5,000. New Zealand entrants will have the chance of taking home the New Zealand Grand Prix title and NZ$5,000. Each category winner will receive A$1,000 in prize money (winners of the Student category will receive A$500).