Dulux is celebrating a major milestone with the 40th anniversary of the Dulux Colour Awards, an annual program that recognises the creative and innovative use of colour across architecture and design.
Now open for 2026 entries, the awards invite architects, interior designers, specifiers and students from Australia and New Zealand to showcase their most inspiring projects.
Dulux colour and design manager Lauren Treloar says the 40-year milestone is a chance to reflect on the impact of colour within the built environment and the influence of past entrants and judges.
“As one of Australia and New Zealand’s longest-running design awards programs, the Dulux Colour Awards pay tribute to thousands of bold and transformative projects,” she says.
“The creativity and innovation of these designers have shaped generations of professionals, showing how colour can transform the form, feeling and function of a space.”
Five of Australia and New Zealand’s most accomplished designers and architects will judge entries for innovation, expression, and execution of colour. The 2026 panel includes Simone Haag (Simone Haag Interior Decoration), Ben Peake (Carter Williamson Architects), Buster Caldwell (Wonder Group), Sarah-Jane Pyke (Arent&Pyke) and Alix Smith (Hassell).
Judge Simone Haag says the Dulux Colour Awards are an exciting opportunity to recognise the skill and creativity within the Australian design community.
“Anyone can use colour, but to apply it with restraint and purpose to enhance the design experience is a real skill,” Simone says.
“I’m thrilled to join the judging panel as the program celebrates 40 years of inspiring design.”
The 2026 awards are open to individuals, collectives and practices of all sizes, with categories spanning residential, commercial and public spaces, as well as temporary installations and student work. Each major category winner will receive $1,000, with Australian and New Zealand Grand Prix winners receiving $5,000. Eligible projects must have been completed between 1 September 2024 and 31 December 2025. Finalists will be announced on 9 April 2026, and winners will be revealed at a special 40th Dulux Colour Awards ceremony on 27 May 2026 at Bennelong, Sydney Opera House.
