Dark color bathrooms
10 ways to create a dramatic wash space |
(Image credit: Davide Lovati/Mark Scott/Polly Eltes)
One of the advantages of choosing dark bathroom ideas over other designs is that they can create a truly, visually exciting space.
They allow you to really play with contrasts among your bathroom ideas: stunning dark walls with pops of marble, metallics and wood, and don’t forget you can add in accent colors too.
Consider introducing patterns as well, such as with a dark-based wallpaper, or pairing fabulous monochromatic bathroom wall ideas with motif embellished floor tiles.
Dark bathroom ideas
Below, we’ve sourced our favorite dark bathroom ideas to inspire you. Remember, you don’t need to go as dark as you may expect. There are some beautiful shades that will add depth, and balance is key. Break up the scheme with chunky marble, metallic accessories and other, brighter, bathroom color ideas.
1. Mix and match dark shades for variety
(Image credit: Little Greene)
Two dark colors? Yes, why not. As long as you choose two that have the same tone it will work. This means they need to have the same depth of color, like Little Greene’s Vulcan and Livid .
The former is a charcoal gray – an excellent choice if you're looking for gray bathroom ideas – named after the Roman God of fire. It’s a good, solid shade that works well with Livid – a color that sits between blue, green and gray – which is really versatile, as it looks different at various times of the day.
We love how they’re used in this dark bathroom, and you could easily swap them around so the green is on the walls and the gray is on the floor. Just remember to keep them balanced so they work well together.
2. Play with tile pattern for added interest
(Image credit: Stone & Ceramic Warehouse/Kallums Bathrooms)
Dark bathrooms needn’t be dull – in fact, they can be quite the opposite.
The herringbone patterned bathroom tile idea shown above creates an exciting decorative touch with a dark navy.
It’s important to create a balance between the light and dark so you don’t feel like you're bathing in a cave, as Jo Olivier, Director at The Stone & Ceramic Warehouse , explains.
‘Large scale bathrooms provide a great opportunity to go all out on design, and using bold tiles on a feature wall is a great way to introduce color and personality to your design.
'Dark and dramatic tiles look stunning when combined with a contrasting marble effect porcelain finish. This, against the bold navy tiles, creates a sophisticated and luxurious high end bathroom.’
3. Choose accessories that add drama
(Image credit: OKA)
Drama is exactly what Anders Olsson, Head Stylist at OKA , had in mind when he set about creating this statement look.
‘Taking inspiration from paintings by Dutch Masters, the decadent combination of black and gold is incredibly atmospheric,' says Olsson.
'This simple bathroom layout uses only a few key pieces. Each element has been carefully considered: small details like the door handles and wall lights contrast with the dark painted walls, while mirrors and reflective surfaces ensure the natural light is maximized.
’
4. Dark doesn’t have to mean cool colors
(Image credit: Farrow & Ball)
Farrow & Ball’s Paean Black is a red-based black that, depending on the light, can look like a deep plum. It’s a great color to consider when looking for bathroom paint ideas if you don’t want to go as deep as jet black or dark blue.
If you want to lighten it up a little, team it with white or blush pink. The use of white here is a great example of how to create a good balance visually.
The Paean Black has been used on the upper wall and bath, leaving the rest white. The result is stunning, and is a great example of how to create a dramatic feel.
5. Choose a beautiful shade of eggplant
(Image credit: Farrow & Ball)
Called Brinjal – a name taken from the gorgeous deep skin color of the eggplant – this shade from Farrow & Ball is both dark and dramatic.
The beauty of a color like this is that its rich tone is warm and welcoming, making it ideal for a dark bathroom scheme, and it would even work in small bathrooms, too.
Added to a white bathroom, it creates a fresh contrast, or go for an all-over feel and paint the woodwork in the same shade, but with an eggshell finish.
6. Use metallics to add glamor
(Image credit: Bert & May )
Metallics add glitz, and are the perfect foil when you have a dark bathroom scheme. They also help to reflect, which is always a bonus especially if your bathroom is on the smaller side, as you can see with the metallic units in the bathroom picture above.
Gold and brass are the best options as they add warmth, whereas chrome will cool the look – a distinctive choice, but not always what you want to achieve with a dark bathroom scheme.
7. Dark shades can work in narrow bathrooms
(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)
We tend to think that dark colors can only work in a larger space, but they can look great in small bathrooms, too.
When you opt for plain painted walls, create interest with a basin unit that has a weathered feel and team it with patterned bathroom floor tile ideas.
Both will add layers of texture to the scheme, which is what you want to achieve for a visually interesting dark bathroom.
8. Go decorative with bold floor tiles and shades
(Image credit: Living with Lolo/Life Created)
‘We wanted this bathroom to have a moody feel and a fun vibe,’ says Lauren Lerner, Founder and Principal Designer at Arizona-based interior design studio, Living with Lolo ,
‘We used a fun pattern on the floor tile and the Roman shades, and kept everything else pretty neutral to let these patterns play the starring role in this otherwise dark bathroom.’
9. A double helping of jet black
(Image credit: Paint & Paper Library)
If you want to go for black, then choose a warm black. Yes, there are many different ‘shades’ of black: some are blue-based, red-based and yellow-based. Jet Black by Paint & Paper Library comes without the blue undertone, which gives it warmth.
To create an interesting look, consider playing with finishes.
Use a matt black on the walls and team it with glossy black woodwork – it will make for an interesting and exciting design feature.
10. If black feels too dark, go for indigo
(Image credit: Davey Lighting)
Indigo is a beautiful rich blue that works whether your scheme is modern or traditional. More interesting than navy – so we think – it’s a friendlier version that works well with other colors.
The blush, navy and off-white tiles in the blue bathroom shown above are a good example of this, and the overall look is an eye-catching scheme that perfectly balances light and dark tones with a decorative aspect.
Are dark bathrooms in style?
Dark bathrooms are definitely becoming more popular – with deeper shades increasingly considered beautiful, dramatic and elegant, we’re also seeing darker kitchens, too.
Although they aren't for those who love a bright and airy feel, they do have their place in the interior design world.
Yes, you need to be braver than if you were picking a more ‘normal’ shade, but the beauty of trying out dark colors in your bathroom is that it’s the smallest room in the house – if you don’t like it, it’s not the end of world, and is easily rectified. But if you want to make a statement, then go for it!
How do I make my bathroom look moody?
The first step is to choose a color that resonates with you. It might be jet black, deep magenta, a dark navy or a steel gray. If you like green bathrooms, opt for an emerald green. They can all come under the theme of 'dark bathroom ideas'.
Creating a moody feel is about how you apply the color. You could go all in and paint the walls, floor and ceiling in one shade – that will certainly give you a dramatic feel.
Likewise, you could simply go for dark walls but keep the ceiling and floor light for contrast, or add in a second color, like a plummy tone, which will look fabulous with black.
Sophie has been an interior stylist and journalist for over 20 years and has worked for many of the main interior magazines during that time, both in-house and as a freelancer.
On the side, as well as being the News Editor for indie magazine, 91, she trained to be a florist in 2019 and launched The Prettiest Posy where she curates beautiful flowers for modern weddings and events. For H&G, she writes features about interior design – and is known for having an eye for a beautiful room.
Look We Absolutely Love: Dark Colors for the Bathroom
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by Nancy Mitchell
published Apr 4, 2017
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After getting burned by Eisenhower-era pinks and olive greens, we’ve been playing it safe, color-wise, in the bathroom for a long time. Subway tile and white walls dominate modern bathrooms, with maybe a little grey tile on the floor for contrast.
But that may all be about to change. More and more now I’m starting to see bathrooms that embrace the darker, moodier colors that are already so popular in other parts of the house. Take a look at these nine stylish examples.
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The dark walls of this bathroom from Made by Girl contrast beautifully with the brightly colored concrete floor, and makes the bright pink of the towels almost seem to leap off the wall. (You’ll notice, if you look closely, that at least one wall of the bathroom is still painted white — a great way to keep a space from feeling too dark or drab.)
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The dark sink and tub surround set a moody tone in this bathroom from Design*Sponge. They’re especially nice paired with a traditional black-and-white checkered floor and a rich-but-not-too-dark blue.
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This bathroom from West Country Shutters is proof that hunter green and copper are a winning combo.
Also notable: the radiator is painted black, which keeps it from standing out too much and contributes to the room’s moody aura.
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In this bathroom from Godrich Interiors via Decorpad, navy walls set off a unique set of pedestal sinks — and allow the Gio Ponti mirrors to really shine.
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A wainscot adds character and dimension to a black bathroom from House & Home. If you choose to do this in your bathroom, you could paint both halves in the same color, but the wainscot in a slightly higher sheen, for a bit of subtle contrast.
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You don’t have to go all the way black (or navy) to get a moody, stylish look. This bathroom from Frenchy Fancy pairs grey walls with beveled grey subway tile in the same shade. (Searching for colored subway tile? You may find this post helpful. Its focus is on square 4×4 tile, but many of these companies also make colored subway tile as well.
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I really love this not-quite-hunter-green from Hunted Interior — it’s dark and lovely but with just a hint of springtime green.
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From Design*Sponge, another way to get the dark look without painting the whole bathroom black: paint just the wainscot.
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Alternatively, you can use white tile on the lower half of the walls and a dark color on the top, like in this bathroom from Covet Garden via The Blooming Hydrangea. It’s the best of both worlds: clean brightness with a bit of moody glam.
25 dark bathrooms: why are they good
Classic white bathroom no longer pleases you with its usual look? Make it as dark as possible!
An interior in black or another dark color is a bold decision that will not suit everyone. Especially when it comes to the bathroom, which traditionally seems to many, if not white, then still light and bright.
Will a completely opposite interior suit her?
Showing all the charm of dark bathrooms with 25 bright examples - you will definitely have plenty to choose from. nine0003
Modern bathroom interior in black
Black or close to it is an option mainly for modern bathroom design. The room looks strict and elegant, especially if it is decorated in a minimalist style, when there are no unnecessary details. In this case, black becomes the most noticeable, defining the entire interior.
Photo: sallycaroline.com
Choosing a dark finish for the bathroom, you do not give up on white sanitary ware. It’s quite difficult to choose a sink or toilet in black, but a dark bathroom goes well with classic white appliances. Contrast is created, thanks to which it is possible to highlight functional areas against a dark background. nine0003
Photo: grand-design.london
A dark bathroom makes friends with wooden furniture.
The cabinets under the sink will create a warm and cozy atmosphere in low light, as in the photo below. Black finishing tiles will additionally highlight the tree against its background.
Photo: jamiebush.com
Both dark and light shades of wood will do. It doesn't have to be furniture - see how the black tile and wood finishes contrast beautifully. nine0003
Photo: irmaoscadimas.com
Dark decor is ideal for creating a bathroom in the austere Japanese wabi-sabi mood. Such a bathroom will be discreet and calm, which will favorably affect your psychological state.
Photo: julessebastian.com
You can also combine a black bathroom with live green plants to create a calm and peaceful environment. They will bring natural motifs into the interior, which can be supplemented with wooden furniture. On a white background, such a composition is lost, and on a black one it creates a special atmosphere that does not irritate and helps to relax after a hard day.
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Photo: woodmelbourne.com
However, a black bathroom interior can be done in the opposite way - expressive and energizing. To do this, you can add African ethnic notes that look organic with dark finishes: bright decorative masks and animal figurines.
Photo: stefanistein.com
Black is so versatile that it can even be combined with floral motifs in the interior. If you want a discreet and unobtrusive design, white and gray patterns on black wallpaper will do. In this case, it is also better to put the plumbing and furniture in white, so that the palette divides the room approximately equally. nine0003
Photo: creativetonicdesign.com
For a more expressive look, choose wallpaper with a colorful pattern. But make sure that a discreet black interior does not turn into a motley and multi-colored one - choose muted colors. Thanks to this design, the bathroom will become more delicate, but retain the original dark style.
Photo: cmnaturaldesigns.com
Although brightness can also be added. The advantage of a dark finish is that it brings out color accents much better than a light one. nine0003
Photo: homedit.com
Don't like extra patterns, but matte black finishes don't appeal to you either? Pay attention to the black glossy tiles with an imitation of a marble surface. It will give the bathroom a rich and elegant look. And it looks much more original than white marble.
Photo: demurodas.com
Classic interior of a dark bathroom
Let's turn to the strict classic style of the bathroom - a dark finish will also be appropriate here. She will make friends with gold fittings and decor, and you will get a luxurious bathroom that will blend seamlessly with the rest of the classic design of the apartment. To enhance the effect, you can hang a rich chandelier.
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Photo: corian.uk
To create a mood of more pronounced luxury and wealth, add gold: put a carved cabinet with gold handles, a gold shell, lamps. Black matches perfectly with gold - and at the same time contrasts.
Photo: davidcorley.com
In the two previous photos, the mirror plays an important role in the design - it is one of the central elements of the bathroom. The more carved patterns and smooth shapes, the better the style is emphasized. What's with the black trim? The decor is most clearly visible on it, so the design becomes more pronounced. nine0003
Photo: ashlimizell.com
However, gold color is not necessary for lush classics. Paste the walls with black wallpaper with a noble pattern, complement the interior with glass and silver color - and you will get the same result, but in a more rigorous design. Black color in general always makes the room elegant and graceful, this is its plus for the classic style.
Photo: orangecoastinteriordesign.com
What other color can be used for dark finishes
Dark finishes are not just about black. Dark brown is also perfect for her, especially if you want to get a warmer classic interior. Soft subdued light will make the look of the bathroom even warmer and add intimacy.
Photo: wadeweissmannarchitecture.com
By the way, the dark brown finish is no worse than black combined with rich gold decor. Only the appearance of the bathroom again becomes warmer and more comfortable.
Photo: whitewashinteriors.in
Dark brown finishes make friends with artificial stone decor. Such a textured surface near the lamps will create a beautiful play of light and shadow.
Photo: otthonokesmegoldasok.hu
Choosing a dark finish for the bathroom, you can abandon the classic tiles - and use wallpaper with an imitation of a leather surface.
The photo below shows how luxurious it looks.
Photo: jennywolfinteriors.com
The dark finish of the bathroom will not stand out from the design of the rest of the apartment, even if it is light. To do this, just add a common color to all rooms - for example, white, as in the modern interior in the photo below.
Photo: recentspaces.com
White in this case can only be on the floor, in the form of geometric tiles. Plumbing can be installed in black: it will look more elegant and unusual, especially in combination with the already mentioned golden color. nine0003
Photo: catchpoleandrye.com
Dark can also be used in narrow bathrooms. Yes, in a light finish, it would look visually wider and larger, but this effect can be achieved even in black. Just use small tiles that will expand the space with their volume.
Photo: lunchboxarchitect.
com
But if the space is still not enough, you can combine black with gray, which is closer to white and also affects the visual expansion. And install a large mirror. nine0003
Photo: mops.studio
A dark interior can be achieved not only by using black, gray or dark brown. A dark green finish combined with wood and copper shades will do…
Photo: kbbark.com
… Or a blue interior with black fixtures and furniture. This design will add color and expressiveness, but also preserve the dark, peaceful look of the bathroom.
Photo: lwcinteriors.com
35 photos for a stylish interior
Design Features
It's no secret that dark colors narrow spaces and make them visually smaller. And if this is not so important for a spacious living room, then a small bathroom, with the wrong design, will turn into an uncomfortable closet.
To avoid this, you should correctly use dark shades and dilute them with light neutral or pastel colors.
Just because a dark color makes a room look smaller, doesn't mean that a dark bathroom has to be large. Gray, brown, black walls are also acceptable in small bathrooms - but designers advise choosing glossy textures and combining them with wood, whitewashed tiles, light matte surfaces. nine0003
Another important nuance: light. It is he who is able to turn even black into a comfortable and pleasant. On the intricacies of choosing and placing fixtures, read on.
The photo shows a combination of black and salmon
Dark bathroom design best suited to the following styles:
- Modern. A stylish interior is obtained by combining a minimalist bathroom design with deep shades and gold accents.
- Loft. The industrial design direction as a whole is distinguished by its love for dark colors and the bathroom is no exception. The main textures are concrete, brick, wood.
nine0182 - Classic. In black, it looks even more luxurious. To achieve a sophisticated look, add gold, natural stone, baguettes to the walls.
- Hi-tech. In terms of restraint, the finish resembles a modern one, but the design is more technological and minimalistic. Straight shapes, clear lines, almost complete absence of decor - then the black and white gamma will play in a new way.
What colors are best for decorating?
The black color is considered the favorite of the dark palette - it has the maximum ability to absorb light, is universal, and is neutral in its effect. nine0003
If black seems too active and dramatic, dilute it with white until you get the right shade of gray. Coal, wet asphalt, anthracite, marengo, metal - manufacturers offer a huge range of gray finishing materials.
Would you like a dark bathroom to be warm? Give preference to brown tones: delicious chocolate or coffee combine warmth and comfort.
The photo shows a dark loft-style bathroom
Touching the color palette for decorating the bathroom, pay attention to the shades of blue, green, burgundy.
Suitable base options:
- black blue, azure, sapphire, ultramarine;
- emerald, malachite, coniferous;
- wine, cherry, brown, chestnut.
The photo shows a combination of green and brown
How to dilute?
Complementary colors can make a dark bathroom feel cozier. nine0003
First, white. The classic color of plumbing should not be changed to black or colored, let it remain light. Add other white details to the interior: a decorative border, furniture, textiles.
Secondly, the light scale of the selected dark tone: light gray, beige, pastel blue, green, red. On sale you can find a companion tile: when the design is the same, but the shades are different. Such a duet will be the most harmonious on the walls and floor.
Bathrooms will benefit from bright details: for example, yellow accents in a black room or green accents in a brown one. It is expressive tones that set the dynamics of the interior.
Recommendations for choosing finishing materials
Read also
13 ways to finish the bathroom instead of tiles
Bathroom renovation in dark colors is not much different from any other. Finishing materials should be durable, waterproof, preferably antifungal. nine0003
Basic options:
- tiles or porcelain stoneware - the most durable and reliable way to finish the floor and walls;
- PVC panels - an option for budget repairs;
- lining - wood is not the most suitable option for a bathroom, it will have to be periodically treated with impregnations;
- natural stone - more expensive and stronger than tiles;
- paint - simple, fast, but requires careful preparation of the walls.
Are you confident in your decision? Choose stone or ceramic tiles. In doubt and just want to try living with a dark bathroom? Choose paint (it's easy to change color in the future) or plastic panels (they are inexpensive, the cost of a mistake will not be high).
Which furniture and sanitary ware to choose?
Dark walls in the bathroom do not oblige you to buy dark fixtures. Although some manufacturers make black bathtubs and toilets, you should not put these in the already impenetrable darkness. White classic color will favorably set off the surroundings. nine0003
As for the furniture, there are 3 basic options:
- White. As well as with plumbing - it will shade, increase the space.
- Dark. Furniture in the color of the walls "dissolves" against their background and looks more compact.
- Wooden. It goes well with black, gray, dark brown. Brings a touch of comfort to the room.
What to consider when lighting?
Light has been, is and remains an important detail in bathroom design. Avoid the main mistake: one chandelier in the center in a dark bathroom will not be enough. nineSee also
Bathroom lighting tips Recessed spots, rails with directional lights, a few pendant lamps.
