But the good news is the rich tones will continue to be the must-have shades as we move into 2015. Haymes’ Black Knight, Coal Mine and Eclipse are part of its rich winter theme of ‘Precious’.

Dulux predicts a warm and earthy palette will help ward off the winter chill. Think rich and moody browns, violets, greys and dusty pinks offset with a spark of colour or metallic tones.

Artist Geoffrey Carran said home decorators could draw inspiration from expressive, decorative periods such as Deco, Baroque and Renaissance, choosing a contrast between dark backgrounds and illuminated highlights.

Shaynna Blaze, Taubmans brand ambassador and colour creative director, agrees.

“I’m seeing a lot of bold and engaging colour palettes used in homes this year, particularly with mixed metal furnishings,” Shaynna says. “Brass and copper side tables, mirrors and lamps paired with aged leather couches give an industrial yet luxuriously comfortable feel to a room. Indigo, black and deep purples work best with this look as they bring out the reflective qualities of the mixed metals.”

Dulux tips its popular wall colours for winter are likely to be Double Bass and Laylock, with accents in Moroccan Leather, Cosmic Aura and Stellar Glow in Design Metallic, “It’s natural to want to hibernate in the winter and this season will bring about contrast of warm and cool colours,” Geoffrey says.

“Bring a sense of solidarity and balance to your space by contrasting a gorgeous metallic hue, such as Stellar Glow, with a contrasting deep charcoal brown, such as Double Bass.

“Then pile on some luscious, textured fabrics with a blend of patterns and surround yourself with your favourite things to create an escape from the bleak weather outside.”

“Be brave in your choice,” Dulux’s colour expert Andrea Lucena-Orr says. “Try painting your architraves or skirting boards in different colours or add a touch of metallic. And always remember that a little ignition of colour helps to liven up your space on a dull and gloomy day.”

Rich and smoky colours such as Dulux Regal Violet or Double Bass can be offset with a contrast of white or stone, or a lighter, brighter shade, such as Cosmic Aura or Stellar Glow in Design Metallic, Andrea says.

Haymes suggests offsetting the more natural earthier tones with accent colours of blues and berries found in gems. Layering colours through the use of cushions, throws and artwork you can create the ultimate in sophisticated spaces and luxurious living.

Taubman's Shaynna Blaze predicts the rich tones will continue into 2015.

“But evolving to create a more sophisticated rather than industrial look,” she says.

marina.williams@fairfaxmedia.com.au