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A guide to colour blocking

What is colour blocking?

Colour blocking is a design technique that involves pairing solid blocks of different colours, these can contrast or complement each other. In the home, this can be used on walls, furniture or entire rooms using paint. If you fancy incorporating this striking and bold look into your home, our experts have put together this guide to help you.

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What does colour blocking do?

Colour blocking can add many different aspects and dimensions to a room depending on the colours and shapes chosen, including:

  • Highlighting features - By painting a part of the wall or room a different colour, you draw attention to it, making the space dynamic and interesting. This can be to shift focus onto architectural features like archways, trim, mouldings or columns. 

  • Personal style - It's your home, so put a bit of yourself into it! From showcasing your favourite colour to creating a unique space that's entirely yours.

  • Accentuating decor - From brightly coloured fireplaces to built-in shelves, by using the colour-blocking technique you can make furniture and decor pop, becoming the centrepiece of your space. 

  • Changes room dimensions - Colour blocking can entirely change the feel and shape of a room. For example, if you utilise the ceiling as a ‘fifth wall’ you can create an illusion that changes the height of the room. Painting the ceiling a darker colour can create the illusion of a lower ceiling, while a lighter colour can make the room feel taller. 

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Choosing the right colours

You can choose between complementary and contrasting colours for a vibrant colour-blocking effect. Use the colour wheel and colour theory to identify colours that complement each other (ones opposite), whilst similar colours are found next to each other on the wheel. 

Think about the atmosphere you want to create in the room. Colour blocking with blue and other cool colours like green and grey will create a calming mood. If you want to invoke energy in your room, then try colour blocking with red or orange and other bold shades.

If you’re unsure what colours to choose to suit your space, use testers to try out different shades and combinations to find your favourite.

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Colour blocking in small spaces

If you have a small room you can use colour-blocking to make the space appear bigger and add visual dynamics. Use light and bright colours to make the room appear larger, as they’re reflective. Steer away from using too many colours in a small space and use vertical colour blocking to draw the eye upward and create the illusion of higher ceilings, making the room appear taller.

No matter how you choose to incorporate colour blocking into your home, check out our guide on how to paint a wall two colours. You’ll soon be on your way to creating your dream living space!

Looking for more paint inspiration? We’ve got plenty of painting and decorating ideas and advice, from green bedroom ideas to creative feature wall ideas. And if you need some help starting your decorating project, check out our guide on prepping your walls for painting, and learn how to paint like a pro.