February 27, 2026
A bold interior painting trend transforming homes across Des Moines, Ankeny, and West Des Moines.

Color Drenching: The Bold Interior Painting Trend Taking Over Homes in Des Moines, Ankeny, and West Des Moines 🎨
If you have been browsing design magazines or scrolling social media lately, you have probably noticed a growing trend called color drenching. This bold interior painting style is quickly becoming popular with homeowners who want a dramatic, modern look without major renovations.
At Harmony Painting, we are seeing more homeowners in Des Moines, Ankeny, and West Des Moines choosing this design technique to completely transform a room with color.
Let’s break down what color drenching is and why it is becoming one of the most requested painting trends.
What Is Color Drenching? 🏡
Color drenching is a design technique where one paint color is applied across multiple surfaces in a room.
Instead of painting only the walls, the same color is used on:
• Walls
• Trim and molding
• Doors
• Baseboards
• Built ins or cabinetry
• Sometimes even the ceiling
The result is a rich, immersive space where the color surrounds the room and creates a cohesive design.
This technique removes visual breaks between trim and walls, making rooms feel intentional, sophisticated, and modern.
Why Color Drenching Is Trending 🌿
Homeowners across Central Iowa are embracing this style for several reasons.
Creates a Designer Look
Color drenching gives rooms the same polished feel you see in high end interior design magazines.
Makes Trim Details Pop
Even though everything is the same color, architectural features like crown molding and built ins actually stand out because of shadows and depth.
Makes Small Rooms Feel Cozy
Many homeowners in Des Moines and Ankeny are using color drenching in:
• Home offices
• Dining rooms
• Powder bathrooms
• Reading nooks
The consistent color creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
Simplifies Color Decisions
Instead of choosing multiple colors for walls, trim, and ceilings, one carefully selected shade creates the entire look.
Popular Color Drenching Colors in Central Iowa 🎨
Homeowners in West Des Moines, Ankeny, and Des Moines are leaning toward rich and calming tones.
Some popular options include:
🟢 Deep greens
🔵 Moody blues
🤎 Warm taupes
⚫ Charcoal gray
🟣 Dusty plums
These shades create a dramatic but elegant look that works well in both historic homes and modern builds.
Where Color Drenching Works Best
This technique works beautifully in spaces that benefit from strong design personality.
Great rooms for color drenching include:
• Dining rooms
• Libraries or offices
• Bedrooms
• Built in shelving areas
• Statement living rooms
Many homes in Des Moines historic neighborhoods and newer Ankeny builds use this approach to highlight architectural features.
The Importance of Professional Preparation 🔧
Color drenching looks simple, but achieving the perfect finish requires professional preparation.
Because the same color is applied across walls, trim, and doors, the surfaces must be perfectly prepped and finished so everything blends seamlessly.
Professional painters will:
• Properly sand and prep trim
• Fill nail holes and imperfections
• Apply the correct primers
• Use smooth finishing techniques
• Ensure consistent sheen levels
The result is a clean, cohesive space that feels professionally designed.
Ready to Try Color Drenching in Your Home?
If you are looking for a bold way to refresh your home, color drenching is one of the most exciting interior painting trends today.
The experienced painters at Harmony Painting help homeowners throughout Des Moines, Ankeny, and West Des Moines create beautiful interiors with expert painting and detailed surface preparation.
📞 Schedule your free interior painting estimate today and discover how color drenching can transform your space.
515-210-7663






