The Paint Color Trend That's Replacing Neutrals In Smaller Spaces

There's a tendency to avoid bold colors in small rooms out of a fear that they'll look even tinier. But neutrals can be a bit vanilla, no matter the space. It looks like the popular color drench paint trend is ready to go another round in 2026, but a room saturated in a bold color can seem risky. Will it be overwhelming? What if the color isn't what you imagined? Don't bite off more than you can chew if you're feeling trepidation. Drenching a small room or a niche within a larger one is a lower-risk way to soak a space in an in-your-face hue — and is certainly more exciting than coating it in greige.

Take a tiny corner of your home to try out an adventurous color. Smaller spaces are among the best areas in your house to try this tricky tone treatment. A powder room, breakfast nook, hallway, or a recessed area in a larger room all have raised their hands for a go at an otherwise nerve-wracking paint commitment. Other top candidates are unique architectural features like phone nooks, a dormer window, the area under an open staircase, built-in storage units, or any small spot with under-appreciated design potential.

However, don't just make a beeline for any paint that catches your eye. The right shade and sheen are both crucial if you want the paint truly to enhance your space rather than give it a cavernous look or convert it into an eyesore.

So, you've decided upon a guinea pig space to drench in boldness. Consider both the color and finish when deciding on a paint for your small space. If you're feeling stuck on which color to go with, check out these guidelines that help designers pick the perfect shade of paint. Is your target area part of a room or its own separate space?

If it's a spot carved out from a larger room, make sure that your color choice complements the feel of the room so that it becomes more of an accessory than just a stand-out attention getter. Darker tones will give nooks in a larger room a more recessed look, while brighter ones will make them stand out. A glossy sheen in this corner of the room contrasting with a matte or eggshell finish walls in the majority of the space is a stylish way to create even more visual distinction. 

For separate tiny rooms itching for a makeover, color drenching can actually make the room feel larger, especially if it's a brighter tone. But varying the finish on different surfaces can help unify the room, too. Try flat paint on the ceiling and eggshell on walls. Top trim, doors, and built-ins with semi-gloss or glossy paint for subtle contrast.