Colour Drenching

In the ever-evolving world of interior design, a striking new trend has emerged – colour drenching. Colour drenching is the practice of using one dominant colour throughout a space to create a seamless, monochromatic look. Unlike traditional accent walls or pops of colour, this technique embraces full saturation, eliminating contrast and allowing the chosen hue to take centre stage. The approach can make a room feel more expansive, sophisticated, or even cocoon-like, depending on the shade used.

Several factors have contributed to the rise of colour drenching in interiors. After years of neutral, minimalist palettes dominating our interiors, there is now a shift towards bolder styles with homeowners and designers embracing colour in more daring ways. Certain shades, especially deep or earthy tones, can create a sense of warmth and security, offering a haven-like feel. This desire for comfort has catapulted this trend into the limelight. And platforms like Instagram and Pinterest have popularised high-impact interiors, inspiring homeowners to experiment and be braver with adventurous design choices.

Colour drenching eliminates jarring transitions and visual clutter, resulting in a refined, harmonious space. The cohesive look is appealing because it reduces the number of choices being made. Instead of choosing a different paint tone for the walls, ceiling and woodwork, there’s just one choice to make – job done!

If you’re looking to try colour drenching in your home, consider the mood you want to achieve. Deep blues and greens like Hicks Blue or Livid by Little Greene Paint Company, evoke a sense of calm and sophistication. Warm terracottas and mustards such as Farrow and Ball’s Bamboozle or Paint and Paper Library’s Muga, bring warmth and a contemporary edge to your scheme. Create a cosy, inviting atmosphere by using soft pinks and muted reds. Sanderson’s Light Rose or Amanpuri Red, each work well for drenching. Monochromatic neutrals offer a chic, understated elegance. Experiment with Polished Cement, Dawn Mist and Pale Graphite from Designers Guild.

Extend the paint beyond the walls. For a true colour-drenched effect, paint ceilings, woodwork, and even furniture in the same shade or varying tones of the chosen colour. Introduce different finishes, try matte walls, glossy trims, and textured fabrics—to add depth and interest. You can use slightly different shades of the same colour to prevent the space from feeling flat, and as artificial lighting will impact how the colour appears, test swatches in altering light conditions to be certain you’re making the correct choice.

Colour drenching is more than just a passing trend – it’s a powerful design statement that allows homeowners to embrace creativity and personal expression. Whether used in a small nook or an entire living space, this immersive technique transforms interiors with confidence and flair. As more people seek bold yet harmonious aesthetics, colour drenching is set to remain a prominent force in the world of interior design.