How to Colour Drench Your Home 

Colour drenching is becoming increasingly desirable in interior design, and we can see why! Ready to throw convention out of the window? Read on to learn more about this bold, brave trend that’s begging to be introduced into your home.

What is colour drenching?

This monochromatic colour trend is what it says on the (paint) tin: submerging your entire room in the same, or very similar, hue. Now despite the name, you can actually colour drench in any colour whether that be white, cream, brown or you can go bold navy, green gold! Your imagination is the only limitation!

This predominantly refers to walls, ceilings and woodwork, but for a truly decadent colour-drenching experience, expand to doors, storage, and even radiators. 

The benefits of colour drenching

Traditional design dictates you paint ceilings and woodwork a different (likely lighter) colour to the walls. However, this actually draws the eye to the room’s joins.

By immersing an entire room in the same colour, the boundaries become blurred, which comes with a wealth of benefits: 

• Light colours make a room look larger and brighter
• Dark, warmer shades create a cosy, comforting feel 
• Less interesting features, like radiators or storage, can be hidden
• Your personality has permission to shine, through contrasting furnishings and accessories that may have been lost

The look and feel of a colour-drenched room depends on the colour you choose – so select wisely!

Colour drenching tips

Your chosen hue will have a dramatic effect on the room’s mood. Consider what the space is used for and the feelings you want to evoke before going all-in. You can also check out our guide to colour theory for interior design before exploring this specific style.

Tip 1: Don’t be tempted by trends

It’s important your chosen colour fits your personal taste to enable the finish to feel timeless. You want to enjoy spending time in a room that won’t feel outdated too quickly.

Thinking of something that may not stand the test of time? Try it in a smaller, closed-off space, like a library or small bathroom. That way, it can be updated easily as trends change. 

Tip 2: Test colours before committing

Once you’ve chosen your preferred hue, test the colour on a large patch in the room first. This will allow you to see how it looks at different times of the day, in sunlight and under your designer lighting.

If you’re not a fan, pick another colour and repeat.

Tip 3: Mix up paint finishes

Whilst the hue should be the same, using various paint finishes adds depth to the space.

Combine satins, matts and glosses to bring personality. For example, use matt on the walls and gloss on the trims to give definition and visual interest.

A lighter opacity of your chosen colour can also be used on the ceiling to enhance light reflection.

Tip 4: Consider professional help

Colour drenching may sound simple, but to execute it well it’s worth enlisting help.

From planning, through decorating, to furnishing, a pristine and smooth finish is fundamental when it comes to ensuring your colour-drenched room reflects your desired vision.

Our highly qualified and handpicked interior design team are here to help you create your perfect space, from brief to reality.

How to finish a colour-drenched room

There are two main options when it comes to finishing a colour-drenched room: continuation or contrast.

Options for furniture

Picking furniture to complement the monochromatic look encourages warmth and comfort. 

This might be a preferred option for a bedroom design if you want to promote rest and relaxation.

Alternatively, a darker drench might benefit from lighter furnishing, like a cosy sofa, to stop the room from feeling too sombre or gloomy.

Striking lighting

A show-stopping chandelier is striking in its own right – add to a colour-drenched space, and it’ll be all your guests talk about!

Pendant lights and lamps can also be used to support a theme, or contradict it.

Have fun accessorising

When colour drenching, accessories can become the highlight of your space.

Instead of focusing on dimensions, your eye is drawn to the character of your chosen finishes, so items like cushions, throws, rugs and ornaments no longer have to compete with the colour of your walls.

Examples of colour-drenched interior design schemes 

Whether you want a bigger, brighter-looking space, or something brave and bold, below is some inspiration to show how colour drenching can transform your home.

Calm and comforting

A natural, earthy choice is good for encouraging warmth. This year’s Pantone colour of the year would work wonderfully. 

When using an organic hue, furnishing with a similar shade promotes peace and tranquillity.

Bold and bright

Try a statement shade to inject fun and interest into an entertaining space, like a dining room or living room.  

Or, why not welcome guests into a hallway brimming with character?

Light and lofty

Softening the space with pale or low-key hues allows your eye to drift easily around the room, without the distraction of harsh lines. 

A pastel shade is perfect for a soft, snug vibe, for example in a nursery, whilst something light and neutral brings brightness, enlarging spaces of focus, like a home office.

To add character, finish the room with colourful art and furnishings.

Dark and dramatic 

Cocooning your room in a deep, dark shade is a sophisticated choice.

Pick the right hue, and your room will transform into an elegant, relaxation space.

How will you choose to colour drench your home?

Whether your preference is subtle or striking, colour drenching is a luxurious option for maximising a space, bringing character or encouraging comfort. If you need help planning your colour drenched design, speak to our experts.

If you’ve fallen in love with furniture that does not fit your colour scheme, don’t worry! Our bespoke furniture design service enables you to fully customise your favourite items for a unique look reflecting your taste and style. 

There are no limitations when it comes to colour drenching with Julliettes!