Dulux Colour Awards 2018: The Winning Projects Revealed

Marking its 32nd anniversary, the 2018 Dulux Colour Awards attracted an unprecedented number of submissions—over 300—from across Australia and New Zealand, many of which were truly remarkable. I’m certain the judging panel, which included industry icons Miriam Fanning, David Flack, and David Hicks, faced a difficult decision before the winners were announced at a gala evening held at the National Gallery of Victoria.

Hawthorn residence by Bagnoli Architects. Photo: Ari Hatzis

Claiming the top prize in the ‘Single Residential Interior’ category was the ‘Percy St’ residence designed by Bagnoli Architects. This project involved renovating and extending an original Victorian cottage, showcasing the most delightful pastel paint hues.

Percy St by Bagnoli Architects – winner of Single Residential Interior. Photo: Ari Hatzis

“Driven by a fresh approach to both concept and execution, this entry radiates a beautiful energy and innocence that truly embodies the spirit of the Dulux Colour Awards. The use of colour is gentle and calm yet assertive, responding to the architecture rather than merely coating surfaces. With greys, blacks, and bursts of colour, the interior palette flows effortlessly to the outdoors, showing how thoughtful colour integration can bring light and depth to a home,” commented judge David Flack.

Percy St Residence by Bagnoli Architects. Photography: Ari Hatzis. Styling: Ruth Welsby

A special commendation was awarded to Fiona Lynch’s ‘Elsternwick House’ project, another grand Victorian restoration. “This elegantly classic and sophisticated home has been stripped back for all the right reasons. The monochromatic scheme suits the architecture perfectly: white and black emphasise structural features and openings, while various shades of grey colour the walls,” noted David.

Elsternwick House by Fiona Lynch – commendation. Photographer: Sharyn Cairn

Another special commendation went to Arent&Pyke’s ‘Amarelo Terrace’ project, a vibrant celebration of blue. “The thoughtful execution of the entire project, fully resolved in composition, style, and design, is clearly visible. Nothing feels forced, resulting in a timeless quality enhanced by clever layering, material finishes, and an intimate approach to colour and design,” said David.

Amarelo Terrace by Arent&Pyke – commendation. Photographer: Felix Forest

The ‘Multi-residential Interior’ category was won by Perth architect Simon Pendal for his bold ‘North Perth Townhouse’ project. “A clear, concise concept at the core of this entry sets it apart. Bold hues cut through a white base, cleverly defining internal spaces, while a mix of gloss and matte paint finishes adds another layer to the form. There’s no subtlety here; instead, an unwavering commitment to contrasting tones delineates the interior,” David explained.

North Perth Townhouse by Simon Pendal Architect – winner. Photographer: Robert Frith

North Perth Townhouse by Simon Pendal Architect – winner. Photographer: Robert Frith

theinteriorsaddict.com