Bathroom colour schemes – create tranquil retreats and standout schemes

For a cosy, cocooning feel, grey bathroom ideas literally make the walls feel like they are closing in on you. Painting the bath in a paler grey and adding wooden accessories will give an added dimension and prevent the grey walls becoming overbearing.

Creating a panelled effect in the bathroom will not only add character, but it also breaks up a flat area of painted grey wall – light will hit the panelling at different points and change its shade and tone, therefore adding interest.

” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/abQEaPzYdI1I25bvT.jw5w–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/a446537ad3646621e49d995af54cfcd0 class=caas-img data-headline=”Work with shades of grey”> Mix greys, off-whites and browns with touches of shell pink to create neutral bathroom colour schemes with a pretty edge. Pair up opposites for a look that’s inspired by nature but sophisticated, too. Team slate floor tiles with pretty polished-stone mosaics; tough concrete-grey walls with soft pink towels; smooth wood with rustic wicker.

Finish the look by adding a floating shelf painted in the same colour as the wall and use to display toiletries together with beachcombing treasures.

” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/i3xf7V0NUY1oUTldWcsDtA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/3bac28a74ff0683ce5231244b28aeae7 class=caas-img data-headline=”Mix pebble and stone”> Evoke a summery image of bright skies and deep sea by teaming Azure blue walls with a fresh white bath. This simple nautical bathroom creates a relaxed yet confident scheme by boldly mixing a Mediterranean palette with touches of globally-inspired prints, such as mosaic and trellis designs on blinds and towels.

Accessorise using texture with the addition of wooden and woven pieces.

” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/22sFnLnu_dxp2cMfTtueRQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/62e832002053e42d95d919a4566f64a3 class=caas-img data-headline=”Choose nautical blues”> We’ve seen plaster pinks take the interiors world by storm and it’s great for bathroom colour schemes, creating a relaxed, laidback feel. Here, the plaster-pink walls have been teamed with vintage-style accessories, from lace embossed tiles and a flourish of pretty pre-loved accessories to complete the look.

If it is a small bathroom or cloakroom, paint all walls (including the ceiling) in the same colour for a super immersive feel and choose an off-cut of scalloped-edged lace to dress the windows, too.

” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/QnxTk3A0i31nmM9OAUXk_g–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/96cdd9aa9a459f814a1c7f92f389b376 class=caas-img data-headline=”Pick plaster pink”> We showed you black and copper, but you could also consider black and gold for new bathroom colour schemes. Add drama by painting the walls jet black – and do the ceiling too, to give the room an immersive feel and help ‘smooth’ out the lines of a sloping roof.

Add designer touches by choosing statement tiles and brass clad units for a real touch of luxe. The gold brassware echoes the glamorous feel of this bathroom whilst the addition of fauna and foliage keeps the look grounded.

” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/3ZsPzM1trldF5sof0DUGHA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/b051af227411924719d7bcfc7bda5e62 class=caas-img data-headline=”Be bold with black and gold”> Blousy florals and pretty shades don’t have to be kept solely in the bedroom, give your bathroom a touch of ‘designer Downton’ with a flower bouquet print in shades of yellow and lilac.

Team with clever wall panelling – this design is painted in a complementary shade of purple. Finish with painting the bath in a matching lilac. Freshly cut flowers, or cologne filled glass bottles creates a summery mood.

” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/SceleEbd79nxfFInOfsMtA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/4c068d7af78c5fff64fce98c96718d3b class=caas-img data-headline=”Try lilac and primrose yellow”> You don’t need bright colours to make a statement in a bathroom. This scheme has stuck to a beautiful neutral palette of beige, white and putty and it’s still an eye-catching bathroom colour schemes. The striking tiled wall introduces pattern to transform these traditionally safe shades. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/dBxMHyws5ifp0QKLccp8eQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/b25b803120094d668096a227fd72f128 class=caas-img data-headline=”Make a statement with neutrals”> Yellow and grey are a surprise colour match made in heaven. Make the duo work in your bathroom with a two-tone wall like this one.

Keep the grey to the bottom half and match with grey accessories to ground the room. The yellow shade is the cherry on top, brightening up the entire space.

” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/BuRpFFaUS3paElyTtpEorg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/05c53f9d6114464b9e47e9433d05cfb9 class=caas-img data-headline=”Pair yellow and grey”> Black interiors are a trend that shows no signs of ebbing, but if it’s a little too bold for you or you think your small space might feel even smaller, dip your toe in the trend with black fittings instead.

Here, a bath and wall panel are in black, while the rest of the room is kept bright and breezy in white and wood.

” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/fFEHLBi6ZMpfxPeCfABEDQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/2a901db2a8d569b4fb9d505a79b3ac33 class=caas-img data-headline=”Turn to the dark side with black fittings”> Pink is everywhere at the moment, but if you’re thinking of fluffy candy-floss colours then this strong earthy take on the shade will change that.

Add the warmth of pink into your bathroom with terracotta shades and copper fittings. The deep earthy colours perfectly complement the exposed brick wall, softening the industrial look.

” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/V3ZSrE1HqWHUCBENM704uw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/1594e47f894b68f72014734fbe4124cb class=caas-img data-headline=”Stick to earthy terracotta and copper”> White is a classic colour scheme in the bathroom for a reason. It is bright, airy and the perfect match for a porcelain sink and bath. Contrast the shine of the white marble tiles with matt monochrome accents. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/GsEi_J5aMrDR3SQS_2J3gA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/16e6041d42e735a01ba25009656efe8b class=caas-img data-headline=”Keep it simple with white”> It’s an oldie but a goodie: use a stronger colour on the lower part of the wall to stretch the height of the room (an optical illusion, of course). This simple trick helps to break up the wall and create the feeling of space – ideal for use in smaller bathrooms.

In this stylish example, a sophisticated shade of green is used on wood panelling to add definition to the colour break. A brilliant white above helps to elevate the colour contrast. Smart walnut cabinetry and touches of monochrome add a touch of characterful elegance to the look.

” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/_ZJPbW0oZagKAdk9dNp1CQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/91366e344fc1e5c617a32044f6ad7eba class=caas-img data-headline=”Add height with a split colour scheme”> All tiled everything works a treat in this chic bathroom space. The simplicity of pairing neutral shades and diluted pastels in different tile choices helps to add interest, while allowing the scheme to remain fresh and unfussy.

The paired-back nature of the lime wood cabinetry helps to keep the feel light and airy. The fresh colour scheme welcomes metallic touches to stand out, just enough without looking too gaudy.

” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/4OOSwoBtjSsgioBYUneakw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/62f73c9befc73166a6a26b02f6f90a55 class=caas-img data-headline=”Keep it fresh with pastels and off-white”> Colour has a huge impact on mood, and bathrooms have a tendency to sidestep polarizing hues in favour of pale neutrals and whites, which are refreshing and easy to live with.

At the opposite end of the spectrum, darker shades of grey including slate, are also popular for creating a cocooning effect. Brooding dark shades provide the perfect backdrop for rich metallics, such as gold or brass.

” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Jb9.91Zan3mBgouFDqpTBQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/ebfbfed1f454351f00a2851cfebf60ac class=caas-img data-headline=”Go dark and dramatic with grey”> If clean white is working in your space but you wish to add a hint of interest – perhaps it’s a budget bathroom idea or update – why not go half and half? This bathroom boasts brilliant white walls above a line, that has been perfectly measured and taped to form the illusion of a dado rail.

The bottom half in complete contrast is a combination of a thing stripe in turquoise blue and a block of rich navy below.

” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/5_sv2nYqFUuNtNhWhfhOlQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/2a9e9958f30e062e29341f4f4576d7b1 class=caas-img data-headline=”Work a characterful two-tone contrast”> If you’re a lover of ombre, why not incorporate a graduated paint effect into your bathroom? Often reserved for modern designs, it can look equally as stunning in a country scheme. If you have a south-facing room, it’s a good idea to invest in a cooler palette – this pale, sea blue has a tranquil, peaceful aura ideal for a room that receives the sunlight all day. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/EtK9iQo3P8Xg2Rwyc9WoEA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/7962840ff8e24fcd999a1ea17d7ef859 class=caas-img data-headline=”Opt for colour in an ombre style”> Bask in the glow of metallics and shiny surfaces. Add a heady, intoxicating note to a bathroom with a reflective copper bath to enhance rich bramble wall tones. Accessorise with comforting fluffy towels and a toe-warming mat and work in a few nature-inspired accessories for good measure. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/KKpPFH.IajWH6WNG7Cq8ug–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/b766a8b55e784bd142e14119199f3da2 class=caas-img data-headline=”Create ambience with rich purple tones”> Pep up a white room with a vivid colour like this fresh green and you won’t regret it. Push the boundaries of your colour barometer and go for the brightest blast you can muster.

In this scheme, mixed-pattern mosaic tiles in dark and light green adorn the walls and window, giving this modern scheme colourful style.

” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/foJG.Z_g5tJcMRPHVtmBYQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/a58d391c4063fed8754615f60cd8d500 class=caas-img data-headline=”Go for invigorating light green”> Give a monochrome bathroom a new lease of life with a burst of vibrant colour. If the thought of bright walls fills you with dread but you still want to incorporate colour without taking drastic action, then consider introducing a few zingy accessories and soft furnishings instead.

Easy to change and cost-effective, you won’t need to strip your walls bare if you decide that this look isn’t for you, or you just fancy a change. Sunshine is just the thing to make you feel happy every time you use the space.

” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/wkRczVwQgLkO9wh7QV62.w–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/071c709facda01dd8f912cc3874cb1a6 class=caas-img data-headline=”Accessorise with sunshine yellow”> Choosing a monochrome colour scheme always helps to create a striking finish, without overpowering with accent colours. In this sleek bathroom, the walls and furniture choices are black, while the freestanding bath and metro tile surround are kept classic in white.

The patterned flooring helps to marry the shades and add further character to the scheme.

” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/3mh57hJwm5czfVpQBPBhSQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/329e994f2a655804c58f96074e0a882a class=caas-img data-headline=”Strike a balance with monochrome”> Decorate your space with coloured tiles. For a look that is highly contemporary and original, lay wall tiles, in contrasting hues, chevron style to create a bespoke space, as per this bathroom tile idea. A mix of blush pink, teal green and black combines well to enhance the modernity of this bathroom.

Remember, less is more, so think petal pinks as an accent and include no more than three tonal shades in your palette. Use black as the base. Like white, it’s the colour that sets off any pink to its best advantage.

” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/BcbeIlQcJA.L2Ky3T8JKeg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/8deb90ca1d5556601694bd74629b8880 class=caas-img data-headline=”Add interest with contrasting coloured tiles”> Look to the earth for inspiration. This taupe and limestone colour combination has a beautifully grounded feel to it, ideal for a space to relaxing and enjoy some timeout.

The neutral colour palette across all the tiled surfaces and the furniture helps to create a feeling of serenity, like that of a natural spa. The stone and putty colours are perfectly matched with mint green accessories to add a hint of uplifting colour in contrast.

” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/NyfZbG0sA8IlZtsD0T85Lg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/ca014e8d86f83a43bd227f3f99023dd6 class=caas-img data-headline=”Keep things natural”> Add interest to a white scheme with accent tiling in a host of rainbow colours. Line recessed shelves with colour-coded tiles to turn them into a design feature in their own right. To create recessed shelving, you’ll need to build a false wall, which can also be used to keep plumbing out of sight. Finish off the look with a bold, yellow rubber floor, which is unashamedly loud and proud. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/69Wo2m0ILTcsAboSGytDwg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/b3ebcc7eb36ea4f8b4d8e86ef521f093 class=caas-img data-headline=”Go for a rainbow effect”> Transform your shower into an elegant feature with a burst of red brought in from the wall tiles. This cheerful, vibrant colour is used inside the shower cubicle, with small hints of it elsewhere in the room. Strong, durable and easy to clean, porcelain tiles offer a floor covering that’s ideal for a bathroom environment. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/3mp8X2n9E9ymsR_VReer.w–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/a724e537e02ce0a58ae5139b06a49dfd class=caas-img data-headline=”What colours are best for bathrooms?”>