Painting your home: the hot shades you need to know about before you pick up a brush this weekend

A lick of paint is one of the easiest - and cheapest - ways to transform your home. We find the most versatile shades to transform your summer home for the cosy months ahead.
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Whether you're planning full-scale DIY renovation projects or experimenting with a bold feature wall this weekend, it's important to consider which colours will work best in your space before picking up the masking tape and brush.

Sun-drenched yellows, shocking pinks and marigold brights may seem slightly out of place if - and when - the weather turns next month, with the autumn previews promising warm coral tones, soothing greys and inky blues.

Marianne Shillingford, creative director at Dulux, says: "The colours that have lasting appeal are ones that are inspired by natural materials and nature. Earthy shades of of clay, sand and stone, along with atmospheric blues, greys and gentle greens are all soothing and familiar."

Dulux's Bitter Chocolate and Gipsy Room work with hints of gold to make spaces feel warmer, perfect for the changing seasons.

"Two key paint trends to look out for in Autumn/Winter 2016 are muted autumnal colours, such as soft pinks and earthy tones, followed by the return of monochrome – simple yet stylish greys and blacks – as we move into winter," says Neil Edwards, Category Manager for Paint at Wickes.

A pinky hue from Wickes called Eastern Promise, and Sanderson's Coral Shadow, can be paired with white for contemporary interiors, or teamed with greys to take on a more masculine look that's perfect for adding warmth to hallways and living rooms when the days start getting shorter.

Farrow and Ball's Inchyra Blue has a moody, smoky hue with blue and grey tones that create an effortless industrial-luxe feel.

Similarly, Zoffany's deep Ink colour adds intensity to any room. When combined with white, the whole room is lifted, while sea-greens and rich golds add warming tones and enhance the dramatic effect.