Colour alert: The essence of February

Essence is a bold reimagining of blue, emerging as the EU Main Key Colour for 2025. With red undertones adding vibrancy and depth, this progressive hue moves beyond traditional calming blues to symbolise energy, modernity and innovation.  

Its dynamic presence makes it ideal for designers looking to create forward-thinking spaces – whether as a striking accent in contemporary homes, a statement wall in commercial projects or a refined touch in high-tech environments. Essence offers a fresh take on a familiar colour, blending trust with transformation to shape the future of design. 

Here are two ideas for this colour trend using Resene Decadence and Resene Wallpaper Collection PICTAGA102 that you can try in your next project:  

This is a hue that stands out all on its own. You don’t need to paint your entire wall, just add pops of colour in accessories like this vase painted in Resene Decadence. The left wall is painted in Resene Kamikaze with panels in Resene Blue Night edged in Resene Just Right, right wall in Resene Just Right, floor in Resene Coral, small vase in Resene Snow Drift and box in Resene Summer Green. Chair from Bauhaus. Project by Laura Lynn Johnston, image by Bryce Carleton.  

Find the bold blue of Essence in Resene Wallpaper Collection PICTAGA102 paired with gold tones for a sophisticated and elegant feel.  

Try other hues in similar colourways like Resene Chetwode Blue, Resene Governor Bay, Resene Torea Bay and Resene Space Cadet.  

For more advice on choosing colours, contact your Resene representative, visit your local Resene ColorShop or Ask a Resene Colour Expert online today.