Laminex colours: Elevate your home with timeless style

by Jess Hodges, Interior Design Manager


30 Jan 2025

Trend Alert: 2023 Laminex Colour Collection is Here!

Explore the Laminex colour range for your perfect design

When it comes to designing a home that’s both stylish and functional, the right finishes can make all the difference. Known for its durability, versatility, and impeccable style, the new colour collection from Laminex offers an array of options to suit every aesthetic. From sleek, modern looks to warm and inviting spaces, the globally inspired Laminex colours have something for every taste and home design. 

As interior design experts, we’ve used these popular finishes to create stunning interiors that combine practicality with beauty. Whether you’re reimagining your kitchen or selecting materials for a new build, the new Laminex colour collection delivers exceptional quality and endless possibilities.

In this guide, we’ll explore how these colours and finishes can transform your home:

  • Why we love these finishes: Insights into what makes them a top choice for interior design.
  • How to style your colours: Expert advice on choosing shades and textures to enhance your space.
  • Top colour collections and combinations: A look at standout options, from vibrant hues to timeless woodgrains. 
  • Design inspiration: Creative ideas for incorporating these finishes into your home.

Ready to bring your vision to life? Let’s dive into the endless potential these designs offer.

Trend Alert: 2023 Laminex Colour Collection is Here!

Featured colours from the Laminex Living Pigments collection. 1 Laminex Coastal Sunrise Natural, 2 Laminex Otway AbsoluteMatte on cabinetry and PaperBark on the benchtop, 3 Laminex Golden Wattle on the display wall, and 4 Laminex Portsea on cabinetry.

Explore the Laminex Living Pigments collection

The Laminex Living Pigments collection introduces four striking colours inspired by the natural environment of Australia's flora and fauna. These tones are bold yet versatile, perfect for making a statement in kitchens, bathrooms, or feature joinery.

Otway

Otway is a deep, blackened green that exudes depth and sophistication. This rich hue works beautifully in moody kitchens or spa-like bathrooms, offering a sense of calm and groundedness. Pair it with natural stone benchtop materials and brushed brass hardware for a contemporary finish. We’ve found Otway adds character when used as a feature colour, especially in homes looking to create a connection with nature.

Golden Wattle

This soft, organic yellow is reminiscent of sunlit mornings, bringing warmth and cheer to any space. It’s perfect for children’s playrooms, breakfast nooks, or kitchen cabinetry. We love pairing Golden Wattle with light oak or neutral tones for a look that’s effortlessly inviting. The finish is durable, low-sheen, and feels wonderfully soft to the touch—ideal for high-use areas that need a touch of charm.

Coastal Sunrise

Imagine the golden glow of a sunrise on the horizon—that’s Coastal Sunrise. This yellow-orange decor radiates energy and positivity, making it ideal for bathrooms, bedrooms, or accent joinery in shared spaces. Pair it with white walls and timber finishes for a fresh, beach-inspired look. For added vibrancy, use it alongside decorative tiles or terrazzo flooring.

Portsea

Inspired by the ocean’s depths, Portsea is a full-bodied, oceanic blue that feels both grounding and invigorating. It pairs beautifully with mid-tone timber or brass accents, making it an ideal choice for kitchen islands or cabinetry. We’ve seen it used with dramatic effect in dining areas, where it brings a touch of bold sophistication.

Trend Alert: 2023 Laminex Colour Collection is Here!

Featured finishes 1 Laminex Spinifex AbsoluteMatte, 2 Laminex Chestnut Woodland, 3 Laminex Spinifex AbsoluteMatte on cabinetry, Laminex Chestnut Woodland used for internal cabinetry and shelves.

Discover the Laminex AbsoluteMatte collection

For those who appreciate understated elegance, the Laminex AbsoluteMatte collection delivers with six nature-inspired tones. These super-matte finishes are not only sleek and tactile but also fingerprint-resistant—perfect for modern family homes. Laminex AbsoluteMatte is an excellent choice for creating a minimalist environment.

Aries

Aries is a versatile greyed-off white that offers timeless appeal. Ideal for kitchens or bathrooms, it provides a neutral canvas that works well with almost any palette. Pair it with cabinetry in Laminex to create a cohesive and contemporary look.

Spinifex

This gentle green-blue is both calming and contemporary, bringing a sense of nature indoors. Spinifex is perfect for creating serene bathroom spaces or laundry rooms. Its soft tone pairs beautifully with white tiles and natural timber finishes, making it a go-to for modern Australian interiors.

Paper Bark

Mid-grey with a green undertone, Paper Bark offers a modern, understated aesthetic. This versatile shade works particularly well in kitchens, lending a fresh, natural feel to cabinetry and splashbacks. We’ve seen it paired with matte black fixtures for a sophisticated, on-trend look.

Moroccan Clay

Rich and earthy, Moroccan Clay is perfect for spaces where you want to add warmth and texture. Use it in dining rooms or family rooms for a cozy, intimate feel. Combine it with matte black or brushed brass finishes for a contemporary edge that still feels grounded.

Kalamata

This bold burgundy is all about making a statement. Whether used on a kitchen island or a feature wall, Kalamata brings vibrancy and personality to your home. Pair it with pale marble benchtops or terrazzo flooring for a luxe, high-fashion look that commands attention.

Otway

Also featured in the Living Pigments range, Otway’s deep, blackened green fits perfectly into the AbsoluteMatte curated collection. Its tactile, fingerprint-resistant finish makes it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas, such as kitchen cabinetry or bathroom joinery.

Trend Alert: 2023 Laminex Colour Collection is Here!

Featured Woodgrains include 1 Laminex Calm Oak featured on cabinetry and 2 Laminex Calm Oak Natural.

Laminex Woodgrains: Nature-inspired tones for a timeless look

The Laminex Woodgrains range features four authentic timber-inspired finishes that bring warmth and character to your home. Perfect for joinery, cabinetry, and feature walls, these decors effortlessly complement modern, Scandinavian, or industrial interiors.

Calm Oak

A light and classic oak, Calm Oak is a favourite for creating warm, inviting spaces. Its versatile tone works in kitchens, bedrooms, and living areas, pairing seamlessly with neutral decor or bold bespoke furniture to elevate the space.

These renowned Laminex collections offer an incredible range of colours and finishes, each with its own unique appeal. Whether you’re creating bold statements or timeless designs, Laminex provides the versatility and quality to bring your vision to life.

How to choose the perfect Laminex colours for your home

Selecting the right Laminex colours can feel like a daunting task, but with a little guidance, it becomes an exciting part of the design process. We’ve worked on countless projects and learned that the key is balancing style, practicality, and personal preference. Here’s our expert advice to help you make the perfect choice for your space.

Consider the mood you want to create

Colours have the power to set the tone of a room, so it’s important to think about the atmosphere you want to achieve.

  • Warm and inviting: Rich woodgrains like Chestnut Woodland or Weathered Ply bring warmth and depth to living spaces, creating a cozy yet elegant feel.
  • Light and airy: Neutral tones like White Linen or Classic Oak create a bright and welcoming base for your aesthetic.
  • Bold and dramatic: Vibrant shades like Portsea or Kalamata make a striking statement in kitchens or feature walls.

Think about how you want each room to feel and choose colours that evoke the desired emotion.

Match colours to your existing design elements

Your Laminex selection should complement other elements in your home, such as flooring, benchtops, and wall colours.

  • Pair muted tones like Seed or Possum with contemporary interiors for a cohesive, understated look.
  • Contrast vivid shades like Moroccan Clay or Coastal Sunrise with lighter furnishings for a dynamic pop of colour.
  • Combine woodgrains with natural stone or metallic accents to create a luxurious finish.

Think about functionality and durability

Your home isn’t just a showpiece—it’s a space you live in every day. Laminex finishes are designed to withstand the demands of daily life, but it’s worth thinking about how they align with your values. Laminex offers finishes that balance style, durability, and sustainability, allowing you to create a home that’s as eco-conscious as it is beautiful.

  • Opt for fingerprint-resistant finishes like AbsoluteMatte for high-touch areas like kitchen cabinets.
  • Choose low-maintenance surfaces for busy family spaces, such as Laminex Woodgrains or the durable Living Pigments range.
  • For areas prone to wear and tear, pick darker hues or textured finishes that disguise minor scuffs.

Take your time with samples

Seeing is believing when it comes to choosing colours. We always recommend ordering samples or visiting a showroom to experience the finishes in real life.

  • View samples in natural and artificial light to see how the colour changes throughout the day.
  • Hold them next to your flooring or walls to check for harmony and contrast.
  • Don’t rush—taking the time to find the right shade ensures you’ll love the final result.

By focusing on these elements, you’ll not only find a colour palette that works for your home but also create a space that feels uniquely yours.

 

Expert styling tips to bring Laminex colours to life

Once you’ve chosen your Laminex colours, the next step is styling them in a way that maximises their impact. Whether you’re using soft neutrals, bold pigments, or elegant woodgrains, our expert advice will help you create a cohesive and polished look throughout your home.

Pair with complementary materials for a designer finish

Laminex finishes shine when paired with the right materials, creating layers of texture and depth in your interiors.

  • Natural elements: Combine Laminex woodgrains like Calm Oak or Chestnut Woodland with stone benchtops or terrazzo tiles for a timeless look.
  • Metallic accents: Add brushed brass or matte black fixtures to elevate colours like Otway or Kalamata, giving your spaces a modern edge.
  • Soft textiles: Pair warm tones such as Moroccan Clay or Weathered Ply with linen upholstery or wool rugs for a cozy, inviting feel.

Balance bold colours with neutrals

Bright shades like Golden Wattle or Portsea make a statement, but it’s important to balance them with more subdued tones for a harmonious design.

  • Use bold colours sparingly as accent features—think cabinetry, splashbacks, or feature walls.
  • Pair with neutrals like White Linen or Aries to keep the space feeling fresh and open.
  • In open-plan layouts, tie in colours with subtle accessories like cushions or artwork to create visual flow.

Let the light guide your choices

Lighting plays a crucial role in how Laminex colours appear. By considering your home’s lighting conditions, you can ensure the colours look their best throughout the day.

  • In brightly lit spaces, deep hues like Otway or Aged Walnut create contrast and warmth.
  • For darker rooms, stick to light-reflective colours like Classic Oak or Possum to brighten the space.
  • Use LED strip lighting under cabinetry or open shelving to highlight the texture and finish of Laminex materials.

Embrace colour zoning for cohesive interiors

Colour zoning is a simple yet effective way to define areas in your home while maintaining a cohesive look.

  • Use Laminex AbsoluteMatte in soft shades like Spinifex or Paper Bark to create calm, neutral zones in bedrooms or bathrooms.
  • Contrast these with bold Living Pigments colours in high-energy areas like kitchens or playrooms.
  • Tie the look together by repeating key colours in smaller details, such as desk drawers and shelves in Laminex laminate.

Add personal touches with accessories

Your Laminex selections create the foundation, but accessories bring your personality into the space.

  • Style woodgrain finishes with woven baskets, greenery, or earthy ceramics to enhance their organic appeal.
  • Complement bright colours with decor in contrasting tones or patterns for added vibrancy.
  • Incorporate layered textures like velvet cushions or textured throws to make the space feel warm and inviting.
  • Complement bold colours with contrasting decor or paint to add depth and vibrancy.

By following these tips, you’ll bring out the full potential of your Laminex finishes, creating interiors that are not only stylish but uniquely yours. Whether you prefer a bold statement or a soft, understated look, there’s a way to style Laminex that perfectly suits your home.

Let’s bring your interior design vision to life

Choosing the perfect Laminex colours for your home is an exciting step in creating a space that reflects your style and personality. At our Spectra Showroom in Mulgrave, Victoria, you can explore any Laminex product up close—seeing the textures, admiring the colours, and experiencing how they’ll bring your design vision to life.

Our showroom features over 3,500 of the latest products from leading home-design brands, including the Laminex colour collection as well as a larger range of laminates, displayed in full-size room settings for added inspiration. Whether you’re designing a sleek modern kitchen, a cozy retreat, or a bold statement piece, we’re here to help you make it happen.

Visit us today to discover how Laminex’s timeless colours and finishes can transform your home in Australia into a space you’ll love for years to come.

 

 

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Jess Hodges

Interior Design Manager


Jess' eye for design and versatile skill set have led to multiple industry award wins for Carlisle Homes, showcasing her ability to deliver high quality and tailored interior solutions.

Learn more about Jess Hodges

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