The Struggle is Real
As an interior designer, I’ve had countless clients come to me, completely overwhelmed by the prospect of choosing bathroom paint and tile. It’s a daunting task, especially when you’re dealing with a small, windowless space that’s notoriously tricky when it comes to lighting and color. But fear not, my friends – I’m here to share my best tips and tricks to help you navigate this design dilemma with confidence.
Lighting and Undertones are Key
The first thing to understand is that lighting has a huge impact on how paint colors will appear in your bathroom. If you’re dealing with a space with minimal natural light, the paint colors you choose will tend to look more intense and saturated. Conversely, a bright, airy bathroom will make those same colors appear lighter and more muted.
Additionally, it’s crucial to pay attention to undertones – those subtle hints of color that exist beneath the main hue. A color that may look perfectly neutral in the store can suddenly take on warm, cool, or even slightly purple/blue tones once it’s on your walls. This is why it’s so important to test out paint samples in the actual space before committing. [1]
The Importance of Tile
Another key factor in choosing the right bathroom paint is the tile you select. Your wall color should complement the undertones in your tile, flooring, and fixtures to create a cohesive, harmonious look. [2] If you have warm-toned tile with hints of beige or pink, you’ll want to steer clear of cool, blue-gray paints. Conversely, a crisp white or gray tile pairs beautifully with a softer, more muted wall color.
My Favorite Neutral Palettes
Now, let’s talk about some of my go-to neutral paint colors that work beautifully in bathrooms. One of my all-time favorites is Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray – a warm, versatile gray that has just a touch of beige to it. It plays nicely with both cool and warm-toned tiles and fixtures. [3]
Another great option is Benjamin Moore’s Decorator White, a clean, classic white that’s perfect for brightening up a small space. And if you’re craving a bit more depth and interest, consider a soft, blue-gray like Pigeon Gray by Benjamin Moore. [4]
The key is to sample these colors in your bathroom, alongside your tile and fixtures, to see how they interact with the lighting and other elements in the space. Don’t be afraid to try out a few different options before landing on your perfect palette.
Contrast is King
One of my favorite tricks for creating a visually stunning bathroom is to play with contrast. Rather than painting the walls and cabinets the same color, try going for a bold contrast instead. For example, you could do a dark, moody gray on the walls and then paint the cabinets in a crisp, clean white. [5]
This contrast not only adds visual interest, but it also helps to offset the often poor lighting in bathrooms. It draws the eye and creates the illusion of a more spacious, open feel.
Putting it All Together
When it comes to pulling the whole look together, don’t forget about those all-important finishing touches. Choose tile, fixtures, and hardware that complement your paint colors and create a cohesive, polished design. [6]
And remember, while it may seem daunting at first, the joy is in the process. Experiment, have fun, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. With a little creativity and the right guidance, you can transform your bathroom into a serene, stylish oasis. [7]
So, what are you waiting for? Grab those paint chips, start scouring those tile catalogs, and get ready to create the bathroom of your dreams. I can’t wait to see what you come up with!
References
[1] https://thediyplaybook.com/paint-color-for-bathroom-with-no-windows/
[2] https://www.thecreativityexchange.com/2014/01/choosing-bathroom-wall-and-cabinet-colors-paint-it-monday.html
[3] https://thediyplaybook.com/dark-gray-paint-color/
[4] https://www.hamptonredesign.com/how-to-choose-the-best-neutral-paint-colors-for-bathrooms/
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/DesignMyRoom/comments/ptxz8s/help_choosing_bathroom_colors_and_design_ideas_to/
[6] https://www.joanbissdorf.com/blog/2023/2/18/how-to-remodel-a-bathroom-a-step-by-step-to-bathroom-gut-renovation
[7] https://thekaysplace.com/pick-perfect-floor-tile/