How to create illusions with colours

Ever heard of trompe-l’œil? It means “deceive the eye” in French. This artistic technique is designed to capture realistic three-dimensional objects or scenes on a flat, two-dimensional surface.

Used for centuries, trompe-l’œil remains a powerful tool in modern interior design. When applied thoughtfully, it can transform ordinary rooms into immersive visual experiences — turning plain walls into something far more dimensional and engaging.

And while you might associate it with intricate mural painting, colour is actually one of the most accessible and effective ways to introduce this technique into your space.

How? Through the strategic use of light and shadow, contrast, and tonal variation, you can create depth, simulate texture, or suggest architectural features — even when none exist. So, let’s set aside the flat feature wall for a moment and explore something a little more imaginative.

shadows and highlights

By applying darker and lighter shades of the same colour, you can suggest recesses and protrusions — such as faux panelling, columns, or even windows. A painted archway with a subtle inner gradient can appear convincingly real when executed with well-blended tones.

photo credit Pinterest

cool vs warm tones

Cool colours like soft blues and greys tend to recede, while warm tones such as ochres and terracottas come forward. By applying this principle, you can make a flat wall appear to have niches or alcoves simply by “pushing” and “pulling” areas with contrasting temperature tones.

photo 01 & 02 Pinterest

simulating materials

Want the look of marble, brick, or stone without the cost? Trompe-l’œil painting techniques — using layered colour washes and subtle veining — can convincingly replicate these textures. Pair with satin or matte finishes to enhance surface realism.

photo 01 Eva Ferrari Restauri
photo 02 Contemporary Industrial Bookshelf by Nam for Stylish Home Storage
If you are wondering where you can use this technique, the answer is basically everywhere:

Ceilings

Paint a skylight, beams, or even clouds to open up a low room.

Walls

In smaller homes, trompe-l’œil is one of the best space-saving visual tricks. For example, to create the illusion of height, paint picture rails in a brighter, bolder colour than the wall. No picture rails? Just fake them — that’s what trompe-l’œil is all about.

Doors and cabinets

Add depth with painted shadows or whimsical designs like bookshelves or hidden passageways.

Hallways

Elongate or widen narrow spaces by using perspective lines and colour fades.

A few basic rules to keep in mind:

Use matte finishes

Glossy paints can ruin the illusion by catching light inconsistently.

Test in natural light

Shadows and illusions shift with the day. Always sample your effect under the room’s real lighting conditions.

Basic science of colour

Dark colours advance, whereas pale colours recede. If you want to make the beading on that bedside table pop, use warmer tones to make it advance. Cooler shades, on the other hand, should be reserved for making something recede, such as the outlines on that recessed wardrobe panelling. Darker cool tones are especially useful for adding depth to alcove shelving.

Whether you’re looking to bring an authentic feel to a historic house or add texture to a more modern home, trompe-l’œil is a brilliant ‘trick of the eye’ technique for creating head-turning, impactful spaces. If you’re thinking about decorating a little differently and bringing a new dimension to your interior design, this might be the perfect moment to try something new!

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