For decades, the formula for a beautifully finished room seemed almost nonnegotiable: white trim, white doors, and walls that carried all the color. It was safe, timeless, and nearly universal. But design trends have a way of evolving, and homeowners are beginning to embrace a richer, more immersive approach to color.
Enter color drenching, the growing design movement that treats doors, trim, moldings, and walls as one cohesive canvas. Instead of framing a room in bright white, designers are now wrapping entire spaces in a single hue, creating interiors that feel warmer, moodier, and unexpectedly sophisticated.
Color Drenching vs. Painting Doors and Trim
If you’re looking to bring more color and personality into your home, painting the walls alone may no longer be the most interesting option. One of the biggest trends in interior design right now is color drenching, the practice of painting an entire room, including walls, trim, doors, and even ceilings, in the same hue.
The effect can be surprisingly dramatic. Soft colors can make a room feel serene and airy, while darker shades create intimacy, warmth, and a sense of retreat. Rather than treating doors and trim as separate elements, this approach allows the entire space to feel intentional and cohesive.
Not ready to commit to an entirely monochromatic room? Painting just the doors and trim can deliver a similar sense of sophistication on a smaller scale. It’s a simple way to highlight architectural details and introduce color without completely changing the character of a space.
Why Is This Trend So Popular?
The idea of painted doors and trim isn’t new. In fact, some of history’s most admired homes embraced the concept long before it became trendy again. Today’s designers are rediscovering the beauty of creating visual continuity rather than relying on bright white trim to frame every room.
Part of the appeal is emotional. Our homes have become places where we want to feel calm, comfortable, and restored. By allowing the walls, doors, and millwork to blend together, a room feels less busy and more intentional. The eye moves more naturally through the space, creating an atmosphere that is both elegant and surprisingly timeless.
Perhaps that’s why this trend continues to gain momentum. Painted doors and trim offer something many homeowners are craving right now: warmth, character, and a home that feels thoughtfully designed rather than simply decorated.
How to Achieve This Look in Your Home
Before you reach for a paintbrush, remember that the details are what separate a room that feels intentional from one that simply feels painted. Proper preparation matters. Doors and trim take more wear and tear than walls, so taking the time to clean, sand, and prime the surfaces will pay off with a smoother, more durable finish.
Paint Both Sides of the Door
For the most cohesive look, consider painting both sides of the door, including the edges. The effect can be surprisingly elegant, especially in a fully color-drenched room. However, if the adjoining space still features traditional white trim, you may prefer to paint only the side facing the newly designed room. Think about how one space transitions into the next and let that guide your decision.
Don’t Forget the Trim
One of the reasons this trend works so beautifully is that it eliminates visual interruptions. Painting the trim, casings, and even the door edges to match creates a sense of continuity and allows the architecture of the room to speak for itself. The result feels rich, layered, and thoughtfully designed.
Choose the Right Finish
Color is only part of the equation. Sheen matters just as much. Many designers prefer using different finishes of the same color to create subtle contrast. A satin or semi-gloss finish on doors and trim, paired with eggshell or matte walls, adds depth without introducing another color.
And while the traditional rule has been glossy trim and softer walls, don’t be afraid to experiment. Sometimes a higher sheen across an entire room can create a dramatic, almost lacquered effect that feels both modern and timeless.
Is This Trend Right for You?
Trends come and go, but good design is ultimately personal. If painted doors and color-drenched interiors speak to you, don’t be afraid to embrace them. They can bring warmth, character, and a sense of intentionality that traditional white trim sometimes lacks.
Of course, classic white doors and millwork aren’t disappearing anytime soon. Their timeless appeal is precisely why they’ve endured for generations. The real takeaway isn’t that one approach is right and the other is wrong. It’s that homeowners have more freedom than ever to create spaces that reflect how they want to live and feel.
And perhaps that’s what makes this trend so compelling. It isn’t really about paint at all. It’s about giving yourself permission to rethink the familiar and see your home in an entirely new light.
Nestled in the iconic Movie Colony neighborhood of Palm Springs, the Abernathy Residence is now available for sale for the first time since receiving its prestigious Class 1 historic designation. Designed by the celebrated architect William F. Cody in 1961, this estate stands as a masterwork of mid-century modern architecture. The historic designation ensures that this architectural treasure will be preserved for generations, honoring its past while offering an incredible future to its new owners.
A Mid-Century Masterpiece
Known as the James Logan Abernathy residence, this home is a landmark in modern design. Its striking geometric floor plan features soaring pavilions arranged in a unique pinwheel layout, creating distinctive L-shaped wings that house the living areas. The 26-foot-high ceilings finished with sandblasted Douglas fir, expansive glass walls, and sleek terrazzo floors further emphasize the luxurious openness that has become synonymous with mid-century modern homes.
A Star Among Brands
The Abernathy Residence has long attracted attention beyond architecture enthusiasts. Over the years, it has been the backdrop for high-profile campaigns for global brands such as Disney, Mercedes-Benz, Herman Miller, and Louis Vuitton. Its captivating design, blending luxury and minimalism, provides a versatile canvas for photo shoots and events, making it a coveted location in Palm Springs.
Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living
True to the principles of mid-century design, the Abernathy Residence seamlessly merges indoor and outdoor living. Resort-style outdoor spaces provide a tranquil oasis, framed by breathtaking views of the desert mountains. Whether lounging by the pool or enjoying al fresco dining, this home exudes the ultimate Palm Springs lifestyle.
A Kitchen for Entertaining
Recently updated to reflect modern tastes while respecting the home’s mid-century roots, the kitchen features sleek Poggenpohl cabinetry and Gaggenau appliances, making it ideal for both everyday living and sophisticated entertaining. The Abernathy Residence, with its blend of classic design and contemporary amenities, offers a luxurious experience for hosting guests in style.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity
With its unmistakable charm and preserved historical significance, the Abernathy Residence offers an unmatched opportunity to own a piece of Palm Springs history. From its distinctive architecture to its famed role in commercial campaigns, this home is truly a living work of art. For those seeking to invest in a property that embodies the pinnacle of mid-century modernism, the Abernathy Residence is more than a home—it’s a legacy.
In a transaction that underscores the allure of Malibu’s most iconic residences, supermodel Karlie Kloss and her husband, venture capitalist Joshua Kushner, have acquired the famed Wave House, a property once owned by music legend Rod Stewart. This stunning midcentury-modern estate was purchased for $29.5 million, as reported by the Wall Street Journal. Originally listed for $49.5 million last June, the sale represents a significant moment in the luxury real estate market.
The Wave House, an architectural marvel designed in the 1950s by the visionary Harry Gesner, is renowned for its distinctive wave-like design. Gesner, an architect celebrated for his innovative and daring creations, famously conceived this home while floating on the ocean in front of the site, sketching its plans from his surfboard. The property’s unique design is said to have been a source of inspiration for the Sydney Opera House, adding to its historical significance.
Spanning 6,200 square feet, this estate is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a luxurious retreat. The property boasts six bedrooms, eight bathrooms, and a series of features that make it one of California’s most recognizable homes. Among its many amenities are a beach-facing primary suite complete with a sauna, three vaulted “public rooms,” a cozy conversation pit, a hot tub, and a central fireplace that serves as a focal point of warmth and gathering.
In addition to the main residence, the property includes a separate structure currently serving as a garage and guest house, offering versatility and additional space for visitors or personal use. The hand-cut copper shingle-topped facade enhances the property’s unique charm, making it a true work of art in the realm of residential design.
The Wave House has had a distinguished line of previous owners, including the legendary Rod Stewart and, more recently, Mo Ostin, a revered figure in the music industry known for his leadership at Warner Bros. Records, where he signed iconic artists like the Kinks and Jimi Hendrix. Ostin’s passing in 2022 at the age of 95 led to the sale of this extraordinary property by his estate.
Representing this prestigious listing were Dena Luciano of Douglas Elliman, along with Chris Cortazzo and Zen Gesner—son of the architect Harry Gesner—of Compass, and Drew Fenton of Carolwood Estates. Luciano aptly described the property as “awe-inspiring,” noting its capacity to evoke a deep sense of relaxation while standing as a testament to Gesner’s artistic vision and enduring appeal in the world of luxury real estate.
For those who appreciate the intersection of architectural brilliance and serene coastal living, The Wave House remains a beacon of Malibu’s unparalleled beauty and history.
Listed for $989,900, it's just money honey, you can't take it with you.
Ready to rock your world? Let us introduce you to 6619 Apache Place, affectionately known as “The Rock House.” This isn’t your run-of-the-mill mountain retreat—it’s a home with a personality as big as the 45-foot high red rock it’s wrapped around! Yes, you read that right. Nestled around one of Colorado’s cherished ancient red rocks (we’re talking a cool 200 million years old), this home is your personal slice of geological history, complete with views that will have you pinching yourself.
A Grand Entrance That’s Anything but Ordinary
Step through the pergola-covered, double custom iron front doors, and you’ll quickly realize this place is far from average. The Rock House doesn’t just blend into nature—it’s practically a part of it. Surrounded on three sides by community open space, this home feels like a private resort, offering you the best of modern mountain living with a side of ancient rock formations.
A Home Updated with Love and a Touch of Magic
The current owners have taken what was already a remarkable home, originally crafted by the previous owner/builder, and sprinkled their own magic over it. The result? A space where comfort meets creativity, and where the great outdoors seamlessly flows into your living room.
But let’s be honest—the real star of the show here is your very own “Garden of the Gods” right in your backyard. Why fight the crowds when you can picnic in your private sanctuary, soak in the hot tub under the Milky Way, and enjoy the kind of peace and serenity that makes you forget what stress even feels like?
A Kitchen That’s Ready to Rock
Now, let’s talk about the kitchen. Whether you’re a gourmet chef or just really good at pretending to be one, this kitchen is ready to meet your culinary aspirations. High-end appliances, granite countertops, and a center island that’s just begging for a spread of charcuterie and wine—it’s all here, waiting for your next dinner party or midnight snack attack.
Bedrooms That Make You Feel Like Royalty
When it’s time to turn in, you’ll find the bedrooms are not just places to sleep—they’re retreats. The master suite? It’s basically a five-star hotel room that you don’t have to check out of. With a spa-like bathroom and views that will have you debating whether to close the blinds or not, this is where you’ll recharge in style.
The Great Outdoors, Right at Your Doorstep
Living at The Rock House means embracing the Colorado lifestyle in all its glory. The large yard is perfect for impromptu games of catch, epic barbecues, or simply lounging around doing absolutely nothing. And when you’re ready to explore, you’ve got hiking trails, parks, and golf courses just a stone’s throw away.
Located in the charming town of Larkspur, you’re far enough from the hustle and bustle but close enough to enjoy a night out in Denver or Colorado Springs whenever the mood strikes. But with surroundings like these, we won’t blame you if you’d rather just stay home.
Ready to Make The Rock House Your Own?
Homes like 6619 Apache Place don’t come around often, and when they do, they don’t stay on the market for long. So, if you’re ready to live the high life (literally, thanks to that 45-foot rock), contact us today to schedule your private tour. Trust us, this is one home you need to see to believe.
