Queenslander interior colour schemes

If you’ve ever taken a drive down Brisbane’s wide, tree-lined streets, you know first-hand just how spectacular a Queenslander home can be. Set up high and adored with Federation-style details, they are as pretty as dolls’ houses. Step inside, and you’ll be met with soaring ceilings, picture rails, decorative cornices, and iconic VJ walls. 

If you are renovating or redecorating your Queenslander home, the question begs: How do you do the stunning, character-filled features justice? How do you select a colour scheme that retains old-school charm while catering to modern-day preferences? 

As Brisbane painters, we’ve painted our fair share of Queenslander homes, and we know a thing or two about selecting an interior and exterior colour scheme for Queenslanders. 

This article is all about the great indoors – here are four Queenslander interior colour schemes.

1. Traditional interior colour scheme for Queenslanders

Traditional colour schemes (as shown in the home we painted above) have stood the test of time for a reason – they are versatile, classic, and provide a no-fuss backdrop to just about any style of furniture and décor. 

If traditional is your preference, we recommend an off-white shade like Antique White USA, Fair Bianca, or Hog Bristle – all from Dulux. If these shades are a little too creamy, both Fair Bianca and Hog Bristle come in half-strengths, which will show up lighter and brighter on your walls. 

The beauty of an off-white is the warmth it gives off, which plays beautifully against the original honey-toned hoop pine flooring many of these homes feature. You can also enhance the look of decorative breezeways and picture rails by contrasting the off-white with a stark white like Dulux’s Vivid White.

2. Grey colour schemes for Queenslanders

Year after year, grey proves itself to be a favourite trend among design-savvy homeowners. A crisp, contemporary alternative to white, grey evokes a certain sophistication and modern edge in a Queenslander home. 

Take a look at the photo at the top of the article as an example. The owner of this gorgeous home – which we had the honour of painting – opted for a soft grey complemented by a bright white. The end result stays true to the heritage of the home while adding personality and interest. 

Popular warm-toned greys by Dulux include Silkwort and Dieskau, and favourite cool-toned greys include Accord and Chanson.

3. Bright white colour schemes for Queenslanders

White on white on white – there’s nothing fresher, airier, or brighter than an all-white colour scheme, making it a fantastic option for those looking to modernise their Queenslander home. 

To achieve an ultra-sleek finish, you’ll want to use a cool-toned or neutral white by Dulux, such as Vivid White, White on White, or even a half- or quarter-strength Lexicon (which is one of the most popular whites among our clients). 

4. On-trend colour schemes for Queenslanders

Images: Dulux 2021 Colour Forecast

There’s more to interior design than cream, white, and grey, and if you’re the kind of person that loves experimenting with bolds, brights, and pastels, turn to the latest colour trends for inspiration. Here are three on-trend colour schemes we are loving:

• Earth tones – while not traditional in a Queenslander, earthy clay, ochre, terracotta, dusty rose, and olive green add refined character and a touch of playfulness. 
• Pastels – uplifting colours are the perfect antidote to the events of times past, and pretty pastels lend themselves perfectly to a Queenslander’s dainty charm.
• Blue steel – not quite grey and not quite blue, these steely, rainy-day cool-toned hues are taking the interior design world by storm. No pun intended.

If you’re not ready to commit fully, try a feature wall or install wallpaper.

Work with interior painters that specialise in Queenslanders

Queenslanders are as unique as the people who live in them, and our team have years of experience navigating the intricate details of hundred-plus-year-old properties. We can also repair any damage (including water damage) to ensure your refreshed interior looks as good as new.

We also give our customers complimentary access to an expert colour consultant. 

If you’d like a fast and accurate quote, don’t hesitate to give us a call on 07 3829 5735 or fill out the form on this page. We’d be more than happy to assist.