Bathroom colour ideas
Selecting the right colour for your bathroom can significantly impact its overall feel and aesthetic. Whether you're aiming for a tranquil retreat or a vibrant statement, understanding the principles of colour theory and current trends can help you make informed decisions. We've put together some information on helpful bathroom colour ideas to get you started.
• Cool tones like blues and greens are perfect for a spa-like feel, while warm pinks and yellows add energy.
• Create a timeless backdrop with neutral grey, white, and beige tones to make small bathrooms look much brighter.
• Add instant colour with patterned shower curtains and decorative items if you aren't ready to paint the walls.
Understanding colour psychology in bathrooms
The colours you choose can evoke specific emotions and perceptions within a space.
Cool tones - blues, greens, purples
These colours are associated with calmness, serenity, and nature. This makes them the best colour for bathroom spaces if you want to create a spa-like feel.
Warm tones - reds, oranges, yellows
While less common for entire bathrooms, these colours can add a touch of energy, warmth, or luxury when used as accents or in specific design elements.
Neutrals - greys, whites, beiges
These versatile colours provide a timeless and sophisticated backdrop, allowing for easy updates with accessories and textiles. They can also make small bathrooms feel larger and brighter.
We think you'll like...
Popular bathroom colour schemes
Here are some popular and effective colour schemes for bathrooms:
Coastal serenity
Soft blues, sandy beiges, crisp whites
Best suited for creating a tranquil, airy and refreshing feel to your bathroom. You can pair these colours with nautical décor for a seaside style.
Monochromatic elegance
Various shades of a single colour, often grey or white.
Best suited for a sleek, sophisticated and minimalist aesthetic for modern homes.
Natural retreat
Earthy greens, warm browns, and stone textures.
Best suited for promoting relaxation and wellbeing by bringing tones of the outdoors in.
We think you'll like...
Bold & dramatic
Deep jewel tones such as emerald greens or deep blues, or alternatively charcoal grey with metallic accents.
Best suited for a luxurious and opulent space. You can easily build a striking, colourful bathroom to make a statement. Pair with a freestanding or whirlpool bath for a spa-like feeling.
Soft pastels
Mints, lavenders, pale pinks, and light blues.
Best suited for a gentle, soothing and inviting atmosphere, particularly in smaller bathrooms.
Tips for choosing your bathroom colour
Consider the size of your bathroom: lighter colours can make a small bathroom appear larger, while darker colours can add depth and intimacy to a spacious bathroom.
Think about lighting: natural light can significantly alter how bathroom wall colours appear in your home. Before deciding what colour to paint bathroom walls, test paint samples on your walls to see how they look at different times of the day.
Coordinate with fixtures and finishes: ensure your chosen colours complement your existing tiles, vanity, and hardware (or even choose new bathroom furniture to complement your new colour).
Don't forget the ceiling: painting the ceiling a lighter shade than the walls can make the room feel taller.
Use accessories to introduce colour: if you're hesitant about painting the walls a bold colour, you'll want to know how to add colour to bathroom spaces easily. Introducing pops of colour through towels, shower curtains, artwork, and decorative items allows for easy, affordable updates.
Get inspiration: visit our in-store showrooms and browse our brochures to gather ideas for inspiration and to visualise different colour combinations.
By carefully considering these factors, you can create a bathroom that not only looks stunning but also reflects your personal style and enhances your daily routine. If you’d like to see our practical guides on how to make the bathroom of your dreams, check out our bathroom how-to guides.
What is the best colour for a small bathroom?
How can I add colour without painting my bathroom?
What colour goes with beige bathroom tiles?
More inspiration
Bathrooms by colour
Discover more tips on bathroom colours with our dedicated guides to the most popular bathroom colours.
Learn more
Bathroom trends
Looking to pair your new bathroom colour with trending style options? Be inspired with this guide.
Learn more
Bathroom accessory ideas
Accessories can also play a crucial role in adding colour to your bathroom - find out more here.
Learn more