The most misunderstood of all, the monochromatic colour scheme is 

 101 It uses one colour in a variety of tones, tints, and shades—rather than just black and white (though a monochrome colour scheme 

be black and white. More on that later). It comes from the Greek 'mono' meaning one and 'khroma' meaning colour. It's an easy-to-use option as you're only working with one segment of the 

, so it's difficult to get it wrong, yet the effect is cohesive and harmonious.

The most misunderstood of all, the monochromatic colour scheme is \ncolour theory\n 101 It uses one colour in a variety of tones, tints, and shades—rather than just black and white (though a monochrome colour scheme \ncan \nbe black and white. More on that later). It comes from the Greek 'mono' meaning one and 'khroma' meaning colour. It's an easy-to-use option as you're only working with one segment of the \ncolour wheel\n, so it's difficult to get it wrong, yet the effect is cohesive and harmonious.

 as an example, working our way along each of its iterations. By adding white, you get pink, a 'tint' of red. Add black, and you get maroon, a 'shade' of red. And there you have it: a monochromatic colour scheme of pink, red, and maroon. The terminology is not important; you've simply got to use your eyes. Told you it was simple.

Let's take \nred\n as an example, working our way along each of its iterations. By adding white, you get pink, a 'tint' of red. Add black, and you get maroon, a 'shade' of red. And there you have it: a monochromatic colour scheme of pink, red, and maroon. The terminology is not important; you've simply got to use your eyes. Told you it was simple.\nShop our \nlight to dark pink paint\n

Another example of a red monochromatic scheme, this one transitions from a darker shade of red, 

 tints. It's a very sensual combination, ripe for a boudoir.

Monochromatic colour schemes we love\nRed monochromatic scheme\n\nAnother example of a red monochromatic scheme, this one transitions from a darker shade of red, \ndark Purple 03 paint\n, to a tonal \nRed 03\n, incorporating the lighter \nPink 03\n and \nWhite 06\n tints. It's a very sensual combination, ripe for a boudoir.

, is a fun and playful example of a successful red monochrome scheme. The red accents break the rules and make it pop whilst white bed covers and curtains soften, adding an air of serenity

This room, painted in bubble-gum \nPink 03\n, is a fun and playful example of a successful red monochrome scheme. The red accents break the rules and make it pop whilst white bed covers and curtains soften, adding an air of serenity

Pink 03

Matt / 2.5L / Interior

Eggshell / 2.5L / Interior

Matt / Sample / Interior

Blue can be a very mentally soothing colour, and this pairing of 

 is no exception. It would work well in a bedroom, living room or even a study... Just make sure to check your room's orientation so it doesn't appear too cold. Ideal for a south-facing room. 

Blue can be a very mentally soothing colour, and this pairing of \nBlue 02\n, \nBlue 04\n, \ndusky Blue 10 paint\n, with \nBlue 111\n is no exception. It would work well in a bedroom, living room or even a study... Just make sure to check your room's orientation so it doesn't appear too cold. Ideal for a south-facing room. \nLearn how to tell your room's direction in our handy guide\n

And so onto monochrome as many of us know it. A top tip for avoiding looking like you live in Cruella de Vil’s lair: if you decide to opt for a monochrome scheme then texture and pattern are everything. Think big fluffy rugs and tactile cushions. Avoid trying to be too ‘matchy’ by using the same tone and colour on your walls and furnishings and you’ll prevent your scheme looking bland. We think 

Black & white monochromatic scheme\nAnd so onto monochrome as many of us know it. A top tip for avoiding looking like you live in Cruella de Vil’s lair: if you decide to opt for a monochrome scheme then texture and pattern are everything. Think big fluffy rugs and tactile cushions. Avoid trying to be too ‘matchy’ by using the same tone and colour on your walls and furnishings and you’ll prevent your scheme looking bland. We think \nBlack 02 wall paint\n and \nWhite 01\n go together like peas and carrots.

White 01

A monochromatic colour scheme is a great option if you're a novice decorator or you're not too sure on your design style yet.  If you are looking to add multiple colours into your space, then a 

 might be a better match. If all this choice has got your paintbrush in a twirl, then take a look at our 

 or you can always get in touch with one of our colour specialists and book in for a 

A monochromatic colour scheme is a great option if you're a novice decorator or you're not too sure on your design style yet.  If you are looking to add multiple colours into your space, then a \ncomplementary colour scheme\n (involving \ncolours that are complementary on the colour wheel\n ) or \nanalogous colour scheme\n might be a better match. If all this choice has got your paintbrush in a twirl, then take a look at our \nrange of paint colours\n or you can always get in touch with one of our colour specialists and book in for a \nvirtual colour consultation\n with one of our specialists.

Learn the meaning of monochromatic colour schemes and discover how to use monochromatic colours in your home with help from Lick.

Understanding monochromatic colour schemes

WordsMegan Lambert

Monochromatic colour schemes we love

Red monochromatic scheme