What is colour drenching?

@farrowandball | Calke Green No.34

Where It All Began

Colour drenching didn’t just appear out of nowhere. Its roots stretch back to some of the most iconic design movements. Think of the minimalist vibes of the 1960s and 70s, where clean lines and simple, monochromatic schemes reigned supreme. Designers back then were all about creating serene spaces with just one or two colours, laying the groundwork for what we now call colour drenching.

Making a Statement

Fast forward to the mid-century modern era, when bold colours started making a splash. Designers like Eero Saarinen and the Eames duo weren’t shy about using strong, singular colours in their designs. While they didn’t quite cover entire rooms in one shade, they definitely showed us how powerful colour can be when used thoughtfully. This era was all about experimenting and pushing boundaries, which later paved the way for the all-in approach of colour drenching.

Big, Bold, and Beautiful

Then came the 1980s and 90s—a time of big hair, big personalities, and even bigger design statements. Postmodernism shook things up, encouraging everyone to embrace colour in a whole new way. Designers started playing with colour on a larger scale, sometimes going all out with a single hue to create rooms that were not just spaces, but experiences. It was a time of daring and drama, and colour was at the heart of it all.

@farrowandball | Studio Green No. 93 |  @roserock918

The Trend Takes Off

But it wasn’t until the late 2010s and early 2020s that colour drenching really took off. With social media turning everyone into mini interior designers, the trend quickly gained popularity. People wanted more than just a room—they wanted a mood, a vibe, a statement. And what better way to achieve that than by drenching a space in one stunning shade? It’s bold, it’s beautiful, and it’s here to stay.

Why Colour Drenching is a Smart Choice

Aside from looking amazing, colour drenching comes with some seriously practical perks that make it a smart choice for any home makeover:

Budget-Friendly: One of the best things about colour drenching? You only need one paint colour for the entire room! This means you can save a pretty penny on paint and supplies compared to using multiple shades and finishes. It’s a stylish update that’s also easy on the wallet.

Reduces Prep Work: Say goodbye to the hassle of taping off different areas and stressing over colour overlaps. With just one colour to work with, prep time is cut down, making the whole painting process a breeze. Less time prepping means more time enjoying your refreshed space!

Minimise Waste: Sticking to one colour means you’re less likely to end up with half-used tins of paint cluttering your storage. It’s a more efficient way to paint, reducing waste and saving you money in the long run.

Versatile Application: Colour drenching isn’t just trendy—it’s versatile too! This technique works beautifully in any room and complements a variety of decor styles. It’s a flexible, fuss-free way to make a big impact without needing to overthink your colour choices.

@littlegreenepaintcompany | Little Greene - Silent White - Deep

What paint’s I would recommend for colour drenching
For a flawless colour drenching look, here are some top paint picks to consider: Farrow and Ball's Dead Flat finish for a velvety, seamless finish, Johnstone's Trade Acrylic Durable Matt for a tough yet stylish option, Little Greene's Intelligent Matt finish if you need a washable and practical choice, Crown Trade's Clean Extreme Matt for stain resistance in high-traffic areas, and Zinsser AllCoat Matt for its versatility on various surfaces.

So, if you’re ready to dive into the world of colour drenching, know that you’re joining a long history of design lovers who’ve used colour to create something truly special. And the best part? You’re just getting started! For more info on the colours to use or the rooms that can be colour drenched, have a read of my blog here. And I've also posted about the best products to use for colour drenching. If you do take the plunge, I’d love to see how it turns out. Tag us on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest with a snap of your beautiful room and the colour you chose - I can’t wait to see the transformation!

Helen x