Having a bold and dramatic design aesthetic might not be easy for some, but this year’s interior design trends are challenging us to be a little more playful in our homes. Creating a space that exudes calm and tranquility is one thing, but there’s also something to be said for a home that screams personality and style. You can do both with one of this year’s biggest paint trends: color drenching.
I got the scoop on this bold design aesthetic from Sarah Stacey. Sarah Stacey Interior DesignAnd Mark Schubert, founder and chief designer Philip Harrison Interiors. Read on for expert tips on how to incorporate color into your home, no matter your design preference.
What is color drenching?
This moody, modern paint trend is all about covering yourself in one hue. “Color immersion is all about completely covering a space in color, with minimal contrast and no white,” explains Stacey. “This approach applies color everywhere, from the walls and ceilings to the trim and furniture, creating a cohesive, calming atmosphere.”
This year we’re seeing a surge of color in monochrome spaces. Think of one color. everywhere. This look is anything but boring. A room full of color incorporates a variety of textures to keep the space inviting and comfortable. It can even include different shades of the same color. A room full of color is simply stunning.
How do I know which color to choose?
Painting a room with color is more than just liking a particular shade or hue. Before you choose a color, decide what kind of feel you want to create in the space. “Consider starting with a deep, rich color that matches the mood you want to create, like a calming blue or a dramatic green,” Schubert recommends. “Apply this color not only to the walls, but also to the ceiling, flooring, doors, and even furniture. This uniformity creates a cocoon effect that envelops the space in color.”
Painting your office with vibrant colors like pink or orange can be a great choice for creativity and energy. However, you may want to choose more serene colors like blue or green for your bedroom. The bathroom is a great place to experiment, so don’t be afraid to make bold choices here. It can also be helpful to know what furniture and decor you want to use in the space. Choosing pieces that you want to incorporate and paint colors that complement them will keep your design plan cohesive.
Color Drenching Design Tips
It can be scary to not play it safe. If you’re thinking about trying this paint trend yourself, remember that color draping can evoke a variety of moods and emotions. It all depends on how you style your space. Here are some design tips from the experts.
Layer Shades and Textures
Just because a room is all one color doesn’t mean it’s as easy to create a unified look as painting all the walls. A well-designed room is made up of layers, and Schubert suggests experimenting with different textures and finishes within the same color family. “For a unified look, try matte on the walls, glossy or satin on the trim, and velvet on the furniture,” Schubert suggests. “Subtly incorporating contrasting accents through metallic or wood tones can break up the monochromatic look without diluting the impact.”
He also suggests tonal variations of the same hue through accessories like cushions, rugs, or artwork. Once you’ve decided on a paint color, look for accents that are slightly lighter or darker to give the space enough visual interest and balance.
Consider lighting
An important tip for painting a room is to know what kind of light is coming into the space. Paint can seem to magically change color depending on the time of day or the type of light bulb you use in your lamp. Try a paint sample before you commit to a color and see what happens in the light.
“Lighting plays a big role,” says Schubert. “Choosing a warm color temperature for your lighting fixtures will make the space feel cozy and comfortable. Let natural light interact harmoniously with your chosen colors to enhance the depth and dimension of the space.”
Use timeless patterns
While color-drenching is trendy right now, there are ways to keep your space stylish and timeless. “Choosing patterns and materials that last, like gingham, plaids, floral prints, and even stripes, tends to feel elevated and timeless,” says Schubert. Stacey notes that while color-drenching is trendy right now, it’s not exactly new.
“Color drenching has been around for years, but it’s finally had a name after its recent surge in popularity,” she shares. “It’s exciting to see this concept resonate with so many people.” If you’re still wary that your home will eventually go out of style, stick to smaller spaces like bathrooms or pantry spaces. That way, it’ll be easier to restyle than your kitchen or living room.
Integrate black
Another way to add visual interest to a space full of color is to add black. “Incorporating black elements adds depth and balances out the room without making it feel too sweet,” Stacey shares. “This strategy creates a stronger visual impact and creates a more sophisticated, curated design.”
It’s also worth mentioning that you can absolutely paint it in darker shades. A dark space will make you want to relax and unwind, so a painted bedroom or den is ideal. Navy, charcoal, and even deep green or burgundy are good choices.
Choose an accent color
While color drenching tends to focus on one color, Stacey suggests incorporating an accent color into your design scheme. “This trend often leans toward using a limited range of colors, like all pink, but I recommend layering two or three colors that complement a dominant, more saturated ‘smash’ hue for a fresh, timeless look,” she shares. “When used sparingly, these intense colors add enough energy and interest to make a space feel special without overwhelming it.”
