You might adore a crisp white wall and appreciate the calm of a neutral palette… but if you’ve been feeling the urge to turn up the colour dial at home, you’re not alone. The good news is you don’t have to go full technicolour dreamcoat to make a statement.

A baby girl's nursery by Three Birds Renovations with walls and ceiling painted in Dulux Terra Rose dark pink, brass got and white armchair with cushion — The nursery at House 17

A little colour can go a long way - perhaps a hint of blush in the bathroom, sage green cabinetry in the laundry or maybe as safe as some new coloured cushions on your couch. Done right, colour doesn’t just brighten a space, it changes the whole feeling.

So if your home’s been feeling a little beige (literally or metaphorically), consider this your gentle nudge to mix things up. From safe pops to bold statements, here are 5 ways to turn up the vibrance.

5 WAYS TO ADD COLOUR (WITHOUT THE FEAR FACTOR)

So, you’re ready to step into the wonderful world of colour? Whether you’re going big and bold or keeping it soft and simple, these five easy ideas will help you layer colour like a pro. Each one adds its own personality and energy, shaping the mood and style of your space, and making your home feel even more you.

And, spoiler alert, paint is not the only way to do it! Let’s jump in…

1. Interior Paint Colours That Pack a Punch

Painting your interior walls is the fastest, most affordable way to refresh a space. Whether you’re painting a feature wall or going full monochrome, the right colour can transform your home.

If you’re just starting out, paint one wall, a fireplace or even a ceiling to test the waters. Using black or another dark colour as a bold feature wall or accent can create a sophisticated statement and add dramatic contrast.

If you’re feeling bold, try painting everything - walls, ceiling and trims - in the same shade for a cosy, cocoon-like effect. Choosing the right trim colour is essential, as it can enhance your main shade and define the overall aesthetic.

Top tip: Use Dulux Wash & Wear paint to help keep your colourful walls looking fresh. It’s easy to clean, so marks and messes wipe away without taking the colour with them.

2. Cabinetry That Speaks Volumes

Think beyond walls. Your kitchen island, bathroom vanity or laundry cupboards are all prime spots for colour. If you’re feeling bold, try a deep warm grey, navy or olive green - colours that feel rich but still timeless.

👉 If you're still experimenting with colour and not quite ready to go all in, try dipping your toe in with just one feature. A coloured island bench or a pop on the lower cabinets is a fab way to bring the vibes without the full-blown commitment.

3. Tiles That Make a Statement

Not all colour has to come from paint. Tiles are another fabulous way to add colour, especially in bathrooms, laundries and kitchens.

If you’re colour-shy, the laundry is a great spot to dip your toe in. It’s a hardworking space that’s not in your line of vision all day, so you can afford to have a bit of fun with coloured tiles without it feeling overwhelming.

Softer tones like sage, blush or muted greys add colour without stealing the show. Want to go bolder? The tile world’s your oyster! Honestly, the hardest part will be narrowing down your selections - there are SO many good ones to choose from these days.

Terracotta diamond delight at House 16

Bold blue ensuite at House 13

Glorious green at House 9

Pretty in pink at House 12

4. Wallpaper with Wow Factor

Wallpaper is having a moment, and we are here for it! While traditional wallpaper styles often feature classic patterns, rich colours, and ornate details that evoke timeless elegance, today's modern options offer fresh designs and innovative materials that set them apart. Whether it’s soft florals, bold patterns or subtle textures, wallpaper brings colour, interest and personality into your home.

In House 12, our Contemporary Cottage, we wallpapered the ceiling in a child’s bedroom to create a cosy, cocoon-like vibe. It added a layer of interest up top and made the space feel extra special - and proof that ceilings don’t always have to be white! In House 9, we used wallpaper in the bar, instead of paint, for an unexpected finish in a small suburban home, which really upped the elegance.

And the best bit? Modern peel-and-stick wallpapers are renter-friendly, commitment-free and surprisingly easy to use. It’s giving an instant upgrade with none of the fuss.

Elevate the elegance

Create a cosy cocoon-like feel

Stripes are always a good idea

Powder room palms - yes, please!

5. Styling Items That Pull It All Together

Still colour-shy? Start with your styling. Cushions, rugs, art, ceramics and throws are the easiest way to add colour and you can swap them out as your mood (or the seasons) change.

Styling is your low-risk way to experiment with colour, mix and match palettes, and let your personality shine through.

Colourful table settings are always a winner

Pop some fun linen on your bed & a rug on the floor

Art is one of the easiest way to introduce colour to a space

Mix & match linen for a pop of colour in the bedroom

Colour can be as simple as a leather occasional chair!

It's all fun & games with some coloured pieces on your table

Living room at Three Birds House 17, large rust coloured modular sofa, high ceilings, big windows looking to the outdoors and a view of the kitchen and dining area — Living Room at House 17

UNDERSTANDING THE COLOUR BASICS (COOL WHITES, DARK GREYS + MORE)

Before picking paint in the perfect hue for your home, it's important to get comfy with colour basics. Your interior colour choice can totally transform a space, but the secret lies in tone. Understanding these basics is key to achieving a cohesive look throughout your home.

Warm greys create a snug, welcoming feel, while cool whites (like Dulux Vivid White) offer a clean, fresh look. Dark greys and greens add drama and depth. While soft beige is timeless, versatile and pairs well with most colour schemes, enhancing the overall aesthetic.

Choosing a colour scheme doesn’t have to be hard, but a few rookie errors can throw off your whole look.

Always test your paint colours on your actual wall (not just the colour card).
Look at the colour throughout the day to see how it shifts with light.
Choose a paint finish that suits the space - decide where you’ll use matt and gloss.
Create a colour chart with samples before committing - it’s easier to visualise the full scheme.

COLOUR YOUR WORLD

If you’re ready to bring a little more personality into your home, colour is a great place to start. From soft, soothing tones to bold, mood-boosting moments, colour can completely change the feel of a space.

Whether you're painting walls, choosing cabinetry, tiling walls and floors or shopping for colourful furnishings, let this inspo spark some ideas for your own home - no matter how big or small the change.

Three Birds HQ - where the magic starts! ✨

Checkerboard bathroom heaven

Spot the skirting board...

Shower in serenity

Striped walls bring the wow

A statement sofa is always a good idea

A feature ceiling? Don't mind if we do!

Neutrals are colours too!

READY TO SHOW YOUR TRUE COLOURS BUT NEED A LITTLE HELP?

Adding colour to your home doesn’t have to be scary. Whether you're picking paint colours, choosing cabinetry, or styling with colourful furnishings, it all starts with a colour palette that feels like you.

Inside Three Birds Styling School, you’ll learn how to use colour with confidence - from understanding the Elements and Principles of Design to mixing pattern, texture and shape, so you can style your home with ease and in a way you truly love.

We’ll help you make colour choices that feel thoughtful, balanced and totally intentional. We can’t wait to meet you!