17 Unique Ideas For A Bold & Colourful Bathroom
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Whether you prefer a subtle pop of colour or a full-on rainbow explosion, there’s something on this list for everyone.
And it’s not just us who think you should brighten up your bathroom design either!
Liv Wallers, co-founder of Yellow London, encourages the use of bold colours in bathrooms: “Bathrooms are a place to relax but also a space that you use to make yourself look and feel good, so it is important to create an uplifting space. We love using vibrant greens, reds, and blues which offset well with a paler marble to break the space up and make it not too overpowering”
So, why settle for a dull and uninspired bathroom when you can have a dopamine-boosting space that’s full of life and personality?
Let your imagination run wild with these 17 bold and colourful bathroom ideas that will take your bathroom from drab to fab.
1. Quirky Bath Mats
Image | Coming Soon New York
Well, if this isn’t bold and colourful then I don’t know what is! Want a bath mat that says body confidence, self-love, and body positivity? This is it!
In fact, you’ll be surprised just how many colourful funky-designed bath mats are out there, do a simple search online and you can find anything from a cherry-shaped bath mat to a tiger-shaped bath mat at very reasonable prices too.
The great thing about bath mats is that if you were to get bored with them, they can easily be changed.
2. Mix & Match
Image | Deco Martini ‘arsenic’ Wallpaper from Divine Savages
Mixing and matching wall and floor tiles in a bathroom enhances aesthetic appeal and functional zoning.
For instance, using a bold pattern like art deco bathroom tiles on the floor can delineate the shower area from the rest of the space, providing both functional and aesthetic separation.
Additionally, choosing slip-resistant tiles for the floor and glossy, easy-to-clean tiles for the walls ensures both practicality and durability.
This approach also offers creative freedom and visual balance. Experimenting with different combinations allows you to balance bold and subtle elements, avoiding an overwhelming look.
Contrasting tiles can highlight architectural features or fixtures, drawing attention, and creating a focal point to specific areas like behind the vanity or around the bathtub.
3. Brighten Up The Sink
Have you ever seen a basin this gorgeous? Me neither!
Basins come in all types of materials and sizes, but what about colours and finishes? I’m sure you’d agree that we’ve been there and done that with boring white ceramic basins—time for something exciting!
Luckily, there are so many extraordinary basins out there that you wouldn’t find in the average home, all of which have enough wow factor to spruce up your bathroom all on their own.
4. Create A Gallery Wall
Image | Andrea Posadas / Honestlywtf
Art doesn’t have to be reserved for the bedroom and living room. The bathroom is a great place to hang colourful art whether it’s framed or unframed—just remember to opt for waterproof bathroom art, especially if your bathroom’s ventilation isn’t the best.
A gallery wall in the bathroom moves the vibe away from being just a functional space, to one that can invoke thought and reflection, or simply just lift your spirits while having a soak.
The typical bathroom wall is bare and could do with a bit of love and excitement just like any other wall in the home.
5. Revamp The Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring designs have evolved significantly over the years and this means that you can find very unique and vibrant vinyl flooring for your bathroom that won’t cost the earth!
Bathroom flooring is available in many materials including stone, wood, laminate, and concrete, but, if we’re talking warmth and the easiest flooring to change if needed - vinyl flooring wins by a mile.
So, not only does this mean that you get a softer and warmer feel underfoot, but it also means there is a wider range of designs at a more affordable cost compared to many other materials.
6. Work It With Wallpaper
Image | Aquarium Lush Wallpaper
Can you really wallpaper a bathroom? The answer is YES!
Wallpaper for the bathroom has to be moisture-resistant so it is best to get vinyl wallpaper, however, if you have your heart set on a particular wallpaper that isn’t vinyl, it’s recommended that the wallpaper is sealed with a strong varnish after the wallpaper has dried, giving it a layer of protection against the humid conditions of a bathroom and prevent moisture ingress.
Try Decorator Varnish by Polyvine. This durable overcoat is available in dead flat, gloss, and satin.
7. A Colourful Vanity
Image | @liznylon / Instagram
Vanity units are an effective storage solution for the bathroom and an equally good way to hide the ugly pipework underneath a sink.
These days you can find all sorts of vanity units, traditional or modern ones, floor-standing or wall-hung ones, and double or single ones, but rarely do we see colourful ones.
Not often do we see vanity units in a bright colour or pattern so why not inject some personality into the bathroom with an eccentric piece of furniture?
8. Team With Terrazzo
Image | ume illus / Getty Images
Terrazzo is a composite material made from marble, quartz, glass, and granite.
It originated in Italy 500 years ago by Venetian mosaic workers as a way to use up the scrapped rock to create sustainable flooring around their living quarters.
Terrazzo has grown so much in popularity as a tile option for the kitchen and bathroom, that it’s even compared with the likes of marble.
The terrazzo print became a neglected design in the 70s, but it seems to have taken centre stage again bursting into modern homes.
You can find the terrazzo print almost anywhere and on anything including wall art, lampshades, phone cases, throws and wallpaper as well as flooring.
9. A New Splash Of Paint
Image | Chango & Co
Aside from accessories and furniutre, a fresh coat of paint is one of the most affordable ways to revive your bathroom.
Here’s what it can do:
Create a Focal Point: Painting one wall in a striking colour, such as emerald green or deep blue, can serve as an eye-catching focal point. This technique adds depth and interest to the room, making it feel more dynamic and stylish.
Enhance Mood and Atmosphere: Bold colours can significantly impact the mood of the bathroom. For example, green hues evoke a sense of nature and tranquillity, while rich blues and reds can add a luxurious and calming feel. These colours can help transform the bathroom into a relaxing oasis.
Add Visual Interest with Patterns: Combining vibrant colours with patterns, such as geometric shapes or floral designs, can create a unique and lively atmosphere. This approach can break up the monotony and make the space more engaging.
Complement Existing Features: A bold paint colour can highlight and complement existing features like tiles, fixtures, and accessories. For instance, pairing a bright wall colour with neutral tiles or metallic fixtures can create a balanced and cohesive look.
10. Bold New Tiles
Tiles are essential in a bathroom, particularly behind the sink.
They protect your walls from water damage, toothpaste and make-up smudges, but that doesn’t mean they should be dull, they can be very decorative too, so make a splash!
You can choose to tile the entire space or create a colourful backsplash behind the sink or bathtub.
Try tiles with unique patterns, vivid colours, or unconventional shapes like the Corsica Hex tiles by Porcelain Superstore that form a fun honeycomb pattern together.
11. Get Greenery In
There’s no denying that plants have the power to enhance any room of the home, however, we often forget that plants can have a place in the bathroom as well.
Here are a few good reasons to have plants in the bathroom:
Surround yourself with nature while bathing
Accentuate other bold colours in the room
They are energising and boost positive emotions
Some of the obvious concerns about having foliage in the bathroom are low light, and too much humidity and warmth, but there are actually quite a few plants out there that thrive in these conditions.
According to Gardening Know How, some of the best plants for the bathroom are Aloe Vera, Lucky bamboo, Orchid, Snake plant, Spider plant, Begonia, Cast iron plant, and Boston fern.
RELATED: 12 Best Plants For The Bathroom
12. Paint The Wall Panelling
Image | @anajulia.arq / Instagram
It’s easy to find wall panelling inspiration for the bedroom and living room, but they are not as common for the bathroom and yet they have so many benefits for a bathroom.
Here are a few benefits of having panelling in a bathroom:
Water Resistance: Bathroom panelling, especially if it’s made of materials like PVC, fibreglass, or acrylic, is resistant to water. This helps prevent damage from moisture, reducing the risk of mould and mildew growth.
Easy to Clean: Paneling typically has a smooth surface that is easy to wipe down, making cleaning a breeze. Unlike tiles, there are no grout lines to scrub, which can be a breeding ground for mould and dirt.
Aesthetic Appeal: Bathroom panelling comes in a variety of styles, colours, and textures, allowing you to achieve the desired look for your bathroom. Whether you prefer a modern, sleek appearance or a more traditional, rustic feel, there’s panelling available to suit your taste.
Insulation: Some types of panelling can provide additional insulation for your bathroom, helping to maintain a comfortable temperature and potentially reducing energy costs.
13. Bathe In Colour
Image | Little Greene
If you could nose around 100 homes and check out their bathrooms, how many non-white bathtubs do you think you’d see?
Not very many I’d imagine, and yet they are just perfect for a modern and exciting bathroom.
A bright-coloured bath can enhance a bathroom in several ways:
Visual Focal Point: A brightly coloured bath immediately draws attention and becomes a focal point in the bathroom. It can serve as a statement piece that anchors the entire space, adding personality and character to the room.
Injecting Vibrancy: Bright colours have the power to inject vibrancy and energy into a space. In a bathroom, where functionality often takes precedence, a pop of colour can breathe life into the room, creating a more inviting and lively atmosphere.
Optical Illusion: In smaller bathrooms, a brightly coloured bath can create an optical illusion of space, making the room feel larger and more open. Lighter colours, in particular, reflect more light and can visually expand the perceived size of the bathroom.
14. Radiant Radiators
Image | Orion Radiator from DQ Heating
In the past, radiators were just about practicality, providing the home with a source of heating, but as time has gone on, they have evolved into being both a statement of aesthetic appeal and practicality, especially for radiators in the bathroom.
These days you can find matte to mirrored, vertical to horizontal or multi-column radiators to tubular radiators, and the default white radiators that we are used to seeing, are slowly being faded out by the growing demand for colourful radiators.
Luckily, a good selection of shops including Big Bathroom Shop, BestHeating, and Designer Radiators Direct offer a wide range of colourful radiators to help you add a touch of glam to your bathroom.
15. Bright Towels & Curtains
Hendaye Striped Shower Curtain from La Redoute
Adding a splash of colour to your bathroom doesn’t have to be a big commitment.
You can bring in some vibrancy and style by choosing towels and curtains with fun patterns or bold colours.
These simple accessories can really change up the vibe of the room. Whether you want to go all out with bright shades or keep it subtle with softer tones, you have the freedom to make the space uniquely yours.
Plus, when you pick towels and curtains that match or complement the colours you already have in your bathroom, everything comes together in a cohesive way.
It’s that finishing touch that pulls the whole look together and makes your bathroom feel complete.
16. Accent Wall
Image | Sincerely, Sara D
When we consider adding an accent wall to our home, the bathroom might not be the first place that comes to mind.
After all, it’s often the smallest room in the house, and we tend to focus more on functional aspects rather than design.
However, in recent years, the idea of creating an accent wall in the bathroom has gained popularity, and for good reason.
Imagine walking into your bathroom and being greeted by a bold, eye-catching wall that immediately commands attention. It’s a daring choice, no doubt, but it can also be incredibly striking.
This simple addition has the power to completely transform the space, elevating it from mundane to extraordinary.
Not only does an accent wall serve as a focal point, but it can also tie the room together by anchoring key elements of furniture or fixtures.
17. Continue The Tiles
Seamlessly matching the floor and wall tiles together creates an uninterrupted flow of space that tricks the eye into perceiving the room as larger than it actually is.
If you’re someone who enjoys the luxury of a wet room, this coordinated tile scheme becomes even more appealing.
The continuity of design not only amplifies the sense of spaciousness but also adds a touch of elegance to the wet room experience.
The featured Alalpardo green porcelain tiles from Bert & May perfectly balance colourful with neutral.
The lush green hue injects just the right amount of colour to invigorate the space, while their white stripes ensure that the overall atmosphere remains balanced and sophisticated.
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When it comes to choosing colours for a bathroom, it’s important to create a harmonious and visually appealing space.
The right colour combination can have a significant impact on the overall atmosphere and ambience of the bathroom.
Here are a few colour combinations that work well together in a bathroom:
Neutral and White: A classic combination that never goes out of style, using neutral colours like beige or grey along with white can create a clean and timeless look in the bathroom. This combination is versatile and can be paired with any accent colour to add a pop of interest.
Blue and White: Blue is often associated with water and tranquillity, making it a popular choice for bathrooms. Pairing different shades of blue with white creates a fresh and calming atmosphere. Light blue walls with white cabinetry and accessories can give a sense of serenity and relaxation in the bathroom.
Gray and Yellow: For a modern and vibrant look, combining shades of grey with pops of yellow can create a visually striking bathroom. Gray provides a neutral base while yellow adds a cheerful and energetic element. This combination works well in both small and large bathrooms, adding a touch of warmth and brightness.
Green and Brown: If you want to bring a natural and earthy feel to your bathroom, combining shades of green with brown can achieve that. Green is often associated with nature and growth, while brown brings a sense of warmth and grounding. Consider using green tiles or wallpaper with brown wooden accents for a spa-like atmosphere.
Pink and Gold: For a luxurious and feminine touch, pink and gold is a winning combination. Soft shades of pink paired with gold accents can create a glamorous and elegant bathroom. Consider using pink tiles or paint on the walls and incorporating gold fixtures and accessories for a touch of sophistication.
Remember, these are just a few examples, and the right colour combination ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired mood for the bathroom.
It’s also important to consider factors such as lighting, size, and existing fixtures when choosing colours.
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Light and neutral colours are generally recommended as they tend to create an illusion of openness and airiness. These colours reflect light and make the room feel more spacious.
On the other hand, dark colours can make a bathroom feel smaller and more confined.
Some popular colour options that can make a bathroom look bigger include:
White: The classic choice for creating a spacious feel, white reflects light and gives the impression of a larger space. It also provides a clean and fresh look, making the bathroom feel more inviting.
Light Pastel Colours: Soft shades of pastel colours, such as light blue, pale pink, or mint green, can create a calm and airy ambience. These colours work well in small bathrooms, making them appear more open and expansive.
Beige or Light Grey: These neutral colours are versatile and can create a sense of sophistication while maintaining a bright and spacious atmosphere. Beige tones can warm up the space, while light grey can add a modern touch.
Soft Yellow: A pale yellow can add warmth and brightness to a bathroom, making it feel more welcoming and open. It is important to choose a soft shade to avoid overpowering the space.
Light Green: Shades of light green, such as sage or celadon, can create a soothing and natural environment. This colour is also associated with relaxation and can make the bathroom feel more spa-like.
Remember, it’s not just the wall colour that can make a bathroom appear bigger.
Combining it with light-coloured flooring, cabinetry, and fixtures can further enhance the illusion of space.
Additionally, ample lighting, mirrors, and decluttering will also contribute to creating a more expansive feel.
