What Is Colour Drenching in a Bathroom? And Should You Try It?
Colour drenching is a design trick that’s been popping up more and more — especially in stylish bathrooms that feel custom and curated. If you’ve ever seen a space where the walls, ceiling, and trims are all painted the same colour and thought, “Why does this look so good?” — colour drenching is likely the reason.
So what is it? And how can you use it effectively in your bathroom?
Let’s break it down.
What Is Colour Drenching?
Colour drenching is when you use the same paint colour (or tonal variations) across all the surfaces in a room — including:
Walls
Ceiling
Cornices
Skirting boards
Doors and trims
Even cabinetry, powerpoints, and vent covers
In a bathroom, we like to acheive this by matching the ceiling paint to the colour tone of the wall tiles! This creates a seamless, high-end look — the kind you often see in boutique hotels or designer homes. It can make the room feel calm, cohesive, and immersive, which is exactly the feeling you want in a beautiful bathroom retreat.
Why It Works So Well in Bathrooms
Bathrooms are often small, enclosed spaces — and that’s exactly where colour drenching thrives. Rather than contrasting white ceilings and trims (which can visually "chop" up the space), drenching creates a soft, wrapped-in-colour effect.
Some benefits include:
Makes ceilings feel higher by removing harsh lines between wall and ceiling
Hides imperfections in corners, cornices, or bulkheads
Adds a moody or cocooned feel (perfect for deep colours like charcoal, clay, or navy)
Elevates even a small bathroom to feel more designed and intentional
How to Do It Right — Especially in a Bathroom
Here’s what to consider if you want to try colour drenching in your bathroom renovation:
1. Choose a colour with intention
Stick to tones that suit your tile and stone choices — for example:
Warm beiges or taupes if you’re using creamy travertine or limestone tiles
Soft greys or off-whites for cooler palettes
Deep charcoal or forest green for dramatic, moody spaces
💡 Pro Tip: Paint colours always appear darker in small spaces — test samples in your bathroom’s natural and artificial lighting before committing.
2. Use the right paint finish
In bathrooms, you need a paint that can handle moisture and steam.
Satin or semi-gloss finishes are best for walls and ceilings (they’re easier to clean and more water-resistant).
If going matte for style, make sure it's a washable, bathroom-approved formulation.
3. Don’t forget the ceiling, trims — and the fixtures!
To really pull off the colour drenched look:
Paint your ceiling in the same tone as your tiled walls
Continue the colour across doors, trims, cornices, and skirting
For a seamless result, spray paint your downlight rims and exhaust fan cover to match the wall colour
(Tip: Use heat-resistant spray paint and always consult your electrician or painter first)
These little details take the space from "nicely painted" to magazine-worthy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using the wrong undertone. Make sure your paint tone works with your tiles and fittings. A cool grey on the walls with warm floor tiles can feel “off.”
Leaving fixtures white. A bright white ceiling or fan cover can ruin the effect — aim for everything to blend.
Not testing first. A small sample painted on-site will look very different than a swatch at the store. Always test in your actual bathroom.
Will Colour Drenching Date?
Like all design choices, trends shift — but colour drenching done in timeless neutrals or earthy tones doesn’t date quickly. In fact, it often feels classic when paired with natural stone, brushed metal, or timber accents.
The secret is to choose colours that complement your fixed materials, and avoid over-styling with trend-heavy accessories.
Colour drenching in bathrooms is a smart design choice that adds depth, softness, and sophistication — especially in small or awkward spaces. Whether you're going moody and dark or soft and neutral, this approach is a powerful way to create impact without needing expensive finishes.
And if you’re stuck choosing paint colours or pulling it all together? Our Bathroom Design Services are open this month — Corey and I personally review every layout and design submission to help homeowners get it right the first time. Limited spots available — so book in early if you’d like help bringing your bathroom to life!
P.S We know planning a bathroom renovation can be overwhelming!
Stay organised, save money, and avoid costly mistakes with our all-in-one renovation template!
