Will colour capping be the next biggest decorating technique of 2026? After colour drenching encouraged many to abandon traditional décor ‘rules’, including the idea that skirting boards and doorframes must be white, it was only a matter of time before another approach emerged.

One of the biggest appeals of colour capping lies in its versatility, as it works across different rooms and colour schemes, making it a technique suited to a wide range of aesthetics and home types.

What is colour capping?

The technique involves layering different shades of the same colour throughout the room, creating a noticeable gradient that gradually deepens as it reaches the ceiling.

We suggest using at least three to four shades from the same colour family to achieve this look. Similarly to colour drenching, make sure to include the skirting boards and coving to ensure cohesion throughout the room.

What colours work best?

When it comes to deciding on a colour, it’s your home, your choice, your vision. The fun part about colour capping is that you can use almost any shade, whether it's primary colours like blue, green, or red, or neutral shades such as browns, greys, or creams.

It may be a bold colour technique, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be created with softer, more neutral tones too.

How to style

Although paint may be the first thing people think of when adding colour to walls, you can also introduce shades through other means, such as wallpaper or panelling. Choosing panels in the same colour, plain or patterned, will add interest to the room if using the same tones throughout begins to feel slightly repetitive.

As well as layering different shades of the same colour on the walls, lean into texture. Add interest through decorative items and furnishings in the same palette to ensure the use of colour feels clearly intentional.

Feeling inspired? Whether you go bold or stick to neutrals, layering shades from the same colour family can completely change the look and feel of any room.