Colour Drenching: The Bold Trend in Interior Design

Back in December I wrote a post on Instagram about Colour Drenching. Now I’m not one for “trends” per se but I have been using colour drenching for years, especially in bathrooms to give them that spa like feel. Then the February 2024 issue of Elle Decoration UK lands on my desk and what is on the front cover? “Extreme Colour Drenching”.

Interior design in the UK has always been an eclectic mix of tradition and innovation. The colour drenching approach involves saturating a room with a single colour, creating a vibrant, cohesive, and incredibly stylish space. Let’s explore and see how you can incorporate it into your home.

Different tints, tones and shades create a minimal contrast and an immersive experience.

Image: Elle Decoration - France

What is Colour Drenching?

Colour drenching is the practice of choosing one colour and applying it across multiple surfaces and elements in a room, using different tints, tones and shades to add minimal contrast. This includes walls, ceilings, doors, and even furniture and accessories. The result is a room that feels completely immersed in one colour, offering a unique and immersive experience.

Why Colour Drenching?

The appeal of colour drenching lies in its simplicity and the dramatic impact it can create. It's a bold statement, a rebellion against the more traditional, neutral palettes that have dominated interior design. Colour drenching can make a small space feel larger and more coherent, or give a large room a more intimate, enveloping feel.

Create a space of energy and warmth with yellows and oranges.

Image: archsirizanelli via Instagram

Choosing Your Colour

The key to successful colour drenching is selecting the right hue. Consider the mood you want to create:

• Blues and Greens: For a calming, serene atmosphere.

• Yellows and Oranges: To create a sense of energy and warmth.

• Pinks and Purples: For a touch of romance and luxury.

• Neutrals: If you prefer a subtler approach but still want the impact of colour drenching.

Implementing Colour Drenching

Start with the Walls: This is your canvas. Choose a paint finish that complements the room's function – perhaps a washable finish for high-traffic areas.

Don’t forget the Ceiling: Extending the colour to the ceiling will enhance the immersive effect. A matte finish here can add depth and sophistication or go wild and use a gloss!

Furniture and Fabrics: Select pieces that match or complement your chosen colour. This doesn't mean everything has to be the exact same shade; varying tones will add depth and interest.

Accessorise Wisely: Cushions, rugs, and artwork in your chosen colour will tie the room together. However, a few carefully selected contrasting or complementary pieces can also add a dynamic edge.

Lighting: The right lighting is crucial. It can alter the appearance of colours, so choose light sources that enhance and not distort your chosen palette.

Contrasting or complementary pieces can also add a dynamic edge.

Image: Decoholic via Pantone’s colour of the year Peach Fuzz

Challenges and Considerations

• Balancing Act: Too much of one colour can be overwhelming, it is very important to balance it out with different textures and shades.

• Room Size and Natural Light: Remember, dark colours can make a small, poorly lit room feel smaller. Use mirrors and good lighting to counter this effect.

• Longevity: While trendy, consider how long you’ll love the colour. It’s a significant commitment compared to more neutral schemes!

At the end of the day, colour drenching is more than just a design trend; it’s a bold statement about personal style and confidence. It's about creating a space that feels entirely yours, enveloped in colours that bring you joy. Whether you choose a vibrant yellow or a soothing blue, colour drenching can transform your space into a truly extraordinary place.

This is one “trend” I welcome with open arms! Keep an eye out for one of our recently completed London projects, where we have colour drenched the Hallway (images coming soon!).

Embrace the boldness, and let your favourite colour envelop your world! Are you brave enough?

Check out my Pintrest board for more Colour Drenching inspiration.