When it comes to choosing a color scheme for a bathroom, there are many factors to consider. The color should complement the style of your bathroom, whether it’s contemporary, traditional or something else. It should also take into account the size of the space – a crisp, bright white may look sleek in a large bathroom, but smaller rooms can benefit from warmer, softer hues. Most importantly, the color should appeal to your personal taste and style sensibilities.
Most Popular Bathroom Colors
According to surveys and color experts, here are some of the most popular current bathroom color schemes:
White
A bright, clean white is a perennial favorite for bathrooms. An all-white scheme looks fresh and opens up smaller spaces, allowing them to feel larger. White is easy to keep clean, and pairs well with any color accents you may want to add. The downside is that white can feel cold or sterile if not balanced with other elements like plants, art or warm textiles.
Gray
Gray is another top choice for elegant, soothing bathrooms. There are many shades of gray to work with – from nearly black to silvery gray to greige or taupe undertones. Gray works with any style, and darker grays can hide flaws or wear better than white. Just beware going too dark in a small space. Light to mid-range grays are versatile and calming.
Beige and Neutral Tones
Off-whites, beiges, tans, light browns and other neutral, earthy tones are warm and welcoming in a bathroom. They can create a spa-like ambiance, especially when used on large swaths like walls or flooring. Accent with textures and natural materials for a zen feel. Limit use of darker neutrals in small baths.
Blue and Green
Blues and greens – especially lighter, watery shades – are bold but tranquil choices for bathrooms aiming for a spa vibe. Aquas, sea greens and sky blues complement white tiles beautifully. Deeper emerald greens and navy blues work well too, but stick to smaller doses in tighter spaces.
Factors in Choosing a Bathroom Color
Here are some key considerations when selecting a color scheme:
Bathroom Size and Layout
As mentioned earlier, the size and layout of your bathroom should influence your color choice. Smaller baths feel even smaller with dark colors. Stick to light, bright, airy tones instead. Large open bathrooms can handle deeper, dramatic colors without feeling closed in. For efficient layouts, use lighter colors in spaces meant for utility like toilets or laundry, and save bold colors for create ambiance around tubs or sinks.
Amount of Natural Light
The amount of natural light your bathroom gets should also affect your colors. Well-lit rooms can handle darker shades, while bathrooms with little natural light need lighter colors to keep things airy and open. North facing and windowless baths need light colors and reflective surfaces to compensate for lack of sunlight. Southern exposures can use deeper hues without feeling gloomy.
Personal Style and Taste
While white and gray suit a range of design aesthetics, only you know your personal color preferences. Do you gravitate towards cool tones or warm earth tones? Calming blues or energizing yellows? Classic neutrals or vibrant primaries? Consider your favorite color palette and choose appropriately. Also factor in colors you dislike. No sense choosing a trendy shade that you’ll tire of quickly.
Fixtures, Tiles and Materials
The finishes and materials already in your bathroom influence the color scheme. Is your tile cool-toned marble or warm travertine? Do your fixtures have chrome, bronze or black metal finishes? Pull 1-2 accent colors from existing materials so new hues feel cohesive, not jarring. Neutral backdrops allow bolder color choices in towels, rugs and accents pieces.
Purpose and Mood
Consider the vibe you want your bathroom to exude. Spa-like sanctuaries use blues, greens and stone tones. A vibrant, lively bath could employ vivid yellow or teal as accents. Monochromatic white feels airy and open, while soft beiges or grays create a comforting, welcoming space. Choose colors promoting the mood you desire.
Popular Color Combinations
Some tried-and-true bathroom color schemes include:
| White and Blue | Crisp, nautical, spa-like |
| White and Gray | Clean, elegant, versatile |
| White and Green | Bright, soothing, natural |
| Beige and Brown | Warm, earthy, cozy |
| Black and White | Classic, dramatic, modern |
Keep white tile as a backdrop and use paint, textiles and accessories in accent colors for easy switches over time. Or vice-versa – colorful tile patterns pop against white walls and cabinetry.
Conclusion
While today’s most popular bathroom colors are white, gray, beige and various neutrals, the “best” color for your space depends on several factors. Consider the size and layout, how much natural light comes in, your personal style, the existing materials and finishes, and the overall mood you want to achieve. Many new trends emerge but classic color schemes hold up over time. Combining crisp white backdrops with accent colors in tiles, textiles and artwork is a foolproof approach in any style bathroom.
