Posted on 27 May, 2025

Every year, just like Pantone, Dulux selects a Colour of the Year that embodies the mood of the moment and shapes interior design choices for residences, offices and public areas. The colour of choice for 2025 is True Joy, a cosy, upbeat hue meant to infuse daily life with a feeling of cosiness and optimism.

True Joy, which was chosen based on expert input and worldwide trend research, represents a growing demand for positive surroundings and emotional connection. This colour provides a harmonious fusion of softness and energy as people continue to look for serenity and inspiration in their surroundings.

The Story Behind True Joy

Dulux’s Colour of the Year is selected through a collaborative process involving international design experts, trend forecasters and colour specialists. Their annual meeting explores emerging global themes in lifestyle, architecture, fashion, and social behaviour to identify the shade that best reflects the year ahead.

For 2025, the result is True Joy—a warm, mellow tone that balances cheerfulness with calm. Its selection is rooted in a desire for positivity and emotional resilience. Following years marked by uncertainty and rapid change, the focus has shifted towards creating spaces that feel supportive, authentic, and emotionally engaging.

The name True Joy speaks to meaningful, everyday pleasures. These include creativity, connection, and a sense of presence. Unlike bold or highly saturated colours, this shade offers an uplifting quality without becoming overpowering. It sits between soft neutrals and muted brights, making it distinctive yet easy to incorporate into different design settings.

Psychological Impact of the Colour

True Joy is not an exception to the rule that colour directly affects mood. Its gentle warmth is associated with sentiments of cosiness, imagination, and hope. In terms of psychology, this colour can promote motivation and vitality while lowering stress.

A balance between calm and stimulation can be achieved by True Joy. It brightens a space without causing eye strain, which makes it perfect for places where people want to unwind or work. It may create a friendly environment in homes that promotes emotional health. It promotes a positive outlook and creative focus in the workplace.

Design Applications in Interiors and Products

In interior design, it works well on feature walls, soft furnishings and decorative accessories. Cushions, curtains and rugs in this colour can introduce a sense of calm and uplift. Smaller details such as vases, lampshades, or framed prints allow for subtle incorporation without the need for a full redesign.

The colour complements a variety of finishes, including warm neutrals, muted greens, and natural materials like wood and stone. It suits living rooms, kitchens, and home offices—spaces where people value both comfort and clarity.

In product and furniture design, True Joy is appearing in ceramics, upholstery and painted timber finishes. Its cheerful quality appeals to consumers seeking character and emotional warmth in their surroundings. 

Commercial and Branding Use

True Joy also holds potential beyond residential design. In commercial spaces such as retail, hospitality and offices, it helps create environments that feel warm, approachable and modern. Used in feature walls, signage or soft furnishings, it can enhance customer experience by making spaces feel more inviting.

For branding it can communicate friendliness, energy and optimism without being overly bold. It is particularly effective for businesses looking to express creativity, care, or emotional connection. When applied to packaging, marketing materials or digital interfaces, it helps reinforce a brand identity that feels human and engaging. Its subtle vibrancy makes it a valuable tool for brands focused on emotional resonance.

Ready to Apply the Colour of the Year to Your Career?

Colour trends like True Joy are more than just an aesthetic choice; they represent broader shifts in design thinking.

For those looking to make their mark in the design world, Careers in Design offers expert support and opportunities. Visit the website today or call 01920 486125 to explore how we can help you advance your career and achieve your design goals.

Posted in: Designers | Tagged: dulux coulour of the year colour of the year 2025 colour dulux's colour of the year dulux's vibrant colour colour design