Ruth’s Guide to Double Drenching

To create your ‘Double Drench’ palette, select a Little Greene colour, then look at the related shades that are seen near or next to it on our colour card. This could mean choosing shades that are just as bold as each other, but that have varying undertones.

For example, Tivoli, Woad and Blue Verditer are all slightly different blues that create a captivating contrast when used together. You can use these shades to paint different elements – walls, skirting, radiators, doors, window frames – and completely drench your room in colour.

Request a free colour card to begin choosing your palette.

A sumptuous deep blue bedroom scheme

Ruth writes: “Dark blues are a fantastic choice for bedrooms, they create depth and intimacy which is perfect for a cosy and soothing space in which to retreat and relax. Using different blue hues on various elements with a ‘Double Drenching’ approach brings design interest to a bedroom, drawing the eye to architectural details whilst remaining calming and harmonious.

Pair the rich Royal Navy on walls with a related blue such as deep indigo Dock Blue on the ceiling, and a pop of striking, vibrant blue, Smalt, on the window frame or door for a sophisticated, layered scheme. The subtle contrasts provide visual interest without being overwhelming. Each shade complements the other, creating a balanced and serene environment, conducive to relaxation and sleep, whilst retaining character and personality.”

A statement red dining room scheme

Ruth writes: “Dark reds such as Bronze Red exude warmth and a sense of luxury, making a room feel cosy and inviting. Perfect for spaces where you want to create a sense of comfort, such as living rooms, dining rooms or bedrooms. For a ‘Double Drenching’ scheme, combine Bronze Red with other red hues – deep plums, burgundy hues or muted reds like Arras.

Avoid using white and instead drench your space with colour, incorporating related hues on every surface, from ceilings to walls and woodwork. If you wish to choose a lighter colour for woodwork, opt for neutrals with a hint of red, such as Mushroom. This gentle neutral contains a hint of red oxide for warmth, creating both contrast and cohesion with the deep and dark reds.”

A vibrant blue-green bathroom scheme

Ruth writes: “‘Double Drenching’ is a more sophisticated evolution of the ‘Colour Drenching’ approach. Rather than enveloping a space from ceiling to skirting in one single colour, Double Drenching utilises two or more related colours to drench an interior. More complex to achieve, the Double Drenching approach works best when you use equally powerful colours that vary in hue, rather than tone.

Mid Azure Green is a splendid, sophisticated green-blue colour that can be combined with vibrant Deep Space Blue and indulgent Dock Blue – a slightly greener shade than a traditional navy. This balanced colour palette feels both lively and calming, perfect for an engaging and tranquil bathroom reminiscent of forests, deep water and blue sky. For a vibrant layered finish, add a pop of unexpected colour, such as a painted chair in Bronze Red or Mischief.”

An inviting pink living room scheme

Ruth writes: “In a ‘Double Drenching’ approach, it works well to use a lighter shade for larger areas, such as walls, to keep the space feeling open and airy. Then consider incorporating a darker shade on the ceiling to add interest and depth.

Often reserved for bedrooms, soft pinks are an inviting, charming colour to use in living spaces. They provide a warm, elegant atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing or entertaining. For a refined and creative scheme, use the delicate, powder-like hue, Masquerade, on the walls, woodwork and skirting, combined with the muted rosy-pink, Blush, on the ceiling. Highlight the window frame in a delightful yellow like Light Gold, which will bring a surprising design detail to a pink-hued space.”