The bathroom is a sanctuary. It’s a place to unwind after a long day or get energized for the morning ahead. The right paint color can set the tone for this crucial space, creating a calming spa-like aura or an invigorating, modern vibe. 

So, before you grab a gallon of your favorite hue, consider how paint color can truly transform your bathroom remodel.

Tip #1: Consider the Size of Your Small Bathroom

Square footage plays a big role in choosing the perfect bathroom paint color. For small bathrooms or powder rooms, light and neutral colors are your best friends. They visually expand the space and create a feeling of airiness. 

Bathroom color ideas from online resources can help in choosing the right colors for small bathrooms to achieve the desired ambiance. Think soft shades of white, beige, or calming gray. These versatile neutrals pair beautifully with a variety of fixtures and accessories, allowing you to personalize the space without overwhelming it.

Color experts often recommend whites with warm undertones to create more warmth and a bright and inviting atmosphere. Cooler tones, like a soft shade of blue or green, can also work well in smaller bathrooms, especially those with warm lighting.

Tip #2: Think About the Lighting

Don’t underestimate the power of lighting when it comes to bathroom paint colors. Natural light plays a huge role in how paint is perceived.

A north-facing bathroom with cool, indirect light might benefit from warmer paint colors, like a soft peach or a light yellow. Conversely, a south-facing bathroom bathed in warm sunlight might feel more balanced with a cooler paint color, like a pale blue or a light green.

When considering paint colors, grab a few samples and paint them on different walls in your bathroom. Observe how the color looks throughout the day under different lighting conditions. This will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises once the entire room is painted.

Tip #3: Find Inspiration for Bathroom Paint Ideas

Feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of bathroom paint color options? Don’t fret! There’s a wealth of inspiration readily available to spark your creativity. Flip through design magazines or browse online resources for trendy bathroom color palettes.

Popular trends include spa-inspired colors like serene blues and calming greens, or monochromatic looks that create a sleek and sophisticated feel. Pink hues are also incredibly versatile, creating chic and gentle color schemes perfect for bathrooms. For a truly unique powder room, consider playful wallpapers or bold, saturated hues that add a touch of personality to this often-overlooked space.

Tip #4: Match Your Style: Traditional vs. Modern

When it comes to bathroom paint colors, your personal style should be the guiding light. For a timeless and elegant bathroom, traditional colors like crisp white, creamy beige, or soft gray are always a safe bet. These neutral tones provide a clean slate for classic fixtures and finishes, creating a sense of tranquility. 

On the other hand, if you crave a bathroom that reflects your modern sensibilities, don’t be afraid to experiment with bolder colors. Deep, saturated hues like emerald green or navy blue can create a dramatic and luxurious feel, especially when paired with sleek fixtures and metallic accents.

For a truly modern touch, consider unexpected pops of color, like a vibrant yellow accent wall, or even graphic patterns that add a touch of playful energy to the space.

Tip #5: Don’t Forget the Powder Room!

The powder room, often the smallest room in the house, deserves some design love too! While the best bathroom paint colors for small spaces typically follow the light and neutral recommendations, powder rooms offer a unique opportunity to experiment. 

Since they’re typically used for quick visits, you can get away with bolder colors and playful patterns that might feel overwhelming in a larger bathroom. Think jewel tones like emerald green or sapphire blue, or even a fun wallpaper with a floral or geometric design. 

Just remember, since powder rooms are typically small, avoid using colors that are too dark or saturated, as this can make the space or small bathroom feel even smaller. Opt for a high-quality matte paint finish, which is easier to clean and creates a more sophisticated look than traditional eggshell or satin finishes.

Tip #6: Opt for Neutrals

Neutral tones are a popular choice for bathrooms for a reason. They offer a clean and versatile backdrop that complements a variety of design styles, from traditional to contemporary. But don’t be fooled by the term “neutral” — there’s a world of color waiting to be explored within this category. 

Color experts recommend whites with warm undertones for a bright and inviting atmosphere. For a cooler, spa-like feel, consider shades of gray with blue or green hints. Beige is another great neutral option, and comes in a variety of shades, from soft and creamy to slightly darker and richer. 

Neutrals are also incredibly forgiving, making them a perfect choice for homeowners who might repaint frequently. Since they provide a clean slate, you can easily switch up the look of your bathroom with new towels, artwork, or other accessories.

Tip #7: Embrace Boldness with Dark Colors

Don’t be afraid to ditch the light and airy vibe and create a dramatic bathroom experience with dark paint colors. Rich, saturated hues like charcoal gray, navy blue, or even a deep emerald green can add a touch of luxury and sophistication to your bathroom. Dark colors can create a luxurious feel in a primary bathroom, especially when paired with lighter elements.

When using dark colors, it’s important to consider the size of your bathroom and the amount of natural light it receives. Dark colors can make a small space feel even smaller, so they’re best suited for larger primary bathrooms.

When using dark paint colors, choose a matte paint finish to avoid the starkness that can sometimes come with glossy paint. A matte finish helps absorb light and creates a more inviting ambiance. To prevent the space from feeling cave-like, pair dark walls with lighter elements, like white fixtures, a large mirror, or a whitewashed ceiling.

Tip #8: Let Your Fixtures Be Your Guide

Your existing bathroom fixtures can be a great source of inspiration when choosing a paint color. Consider the colors and finishes of your vanity, tile, and flooring to create a cohesive look. 

For example, if you have a beautiful marble vanity with cool gray veining, a soft blue or green paint color might be a perfect complement. 

On the other hand, if your bathroom boasts warm tones like wood vanities or brass fixtures, consider a paint color with warm undertones, like a light beige or a soft peach. 

Don’t be afraid to use color theory tools to guide your choices. Complementary colors, which sit opposite each other on the color wheel, can create a vibrant and energetic feel, while analogous colors, which are next to each other on the color wheel, create a more harmonious and calming ambiance.

Tip #9: Sample, Sample, Sample!

With so many amazing bathroom paint color options available, it can be tempting to rush into a decision. But before you grab a gallon of your favorite hue, take a step back and sample, sample, sample! 

Paint samples are your best friend when it comes to choosing the perfect color for your bathroom. They allow you to see how the color will look in your specific space under different lighting conditions. 

Here’s how to do it right: Pick up a few paint samples in colors that catch your eye. Apply them to different walls in your bathroom, making sure to paint a swatch that’s large enough to get a good feel for the color. 

Live with the samples for a few days, observing how the color looks throughout the day in natural and artificial light. This will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises once the entire room is painted.

Tip #10: The Finishing Touches

Once you’ve chosen the perfect paint color, it’s time to tie the whole look together with towels and bathroom accessories. These finishing touches can elevate your bathroom design and add a touch of personality. 

For a bathroom with a serene spa-like vibe, consider plush towels in soft shades of white, beige, or gray. You can also incorporate natural elements like bamboo bath mats or woven baskets to enhance the calming atmosphere. 

If your bathroom boasts a bolder paint color, use towels and accessories to create contrast. For example, a bathroom painted in a rich emerald green might look stunning with crisp white towels and chrome fixtures. 

Don’t be afraid to experiment with textures and patterns. Woven throws, decorative candles, and framed artwork can add depth and visual interest to your space. Remember, the best bathroom paint colors are those that you love and that create a space that reflects your unique style and personality. 

So have fun, experiment, and don’t be afraid to express yourself through color!

Wrapping Up

Choosing the perfect paint color for your bathroom remodel doesn’t have to be daunting. By considering the size of your space, the existing fixtures, and the overall ambiance you want to create, you can narrow down your options and select a color that you’ll love for years to come. 

Ready to turn your dream bathroom into a reality?  Creative Concepts Kitchen & Bath Design can help you navigate the entire process, from choosing the perfect paint color to our design expert selecting stunning fixtures and finishes. Contact us today for a free consultation and let our experienced designers bring your vision to life!