Bathroom inspiration

Durability Meets Design

it comes to designing a new bathroom, it’s tempting to get carried away with selecting big ticket items like the vanity or bath, or become consumed by the minutia of lighting and accessories, but before diving into the details, it’s crucial to lay the right foundation. Bathrooms are unique environments that are constantly exposed to moisture and humidity, which means wall finishes are a crucial component in the design process. As well as tiles where applicable, choosing the right type of paint is just as important as selecting the perfect colour palette. Opting for a formula that resists mould and mildew, like our Aura® Bath & Spa, ensures your space stays fresh, clean, and stylish for years to come.

Once the practicalities are covered, the real fun begins. From clever colour-drenching techniques in small spaces to bold, unexpected hues in cloakrooms and serene spa-like sanctuaries in larger bathrooms, the bathroom is undeniably an underrated room in which to explore colour. Whether a full redecoration is in order or a quick mini makeover, paint can transform your bathroom into a space that reflects both personality and purpose.

Smaller bathrooms can be a challenge to decorate, however, colour drenching the space can blur the edges and create the illusion of a larger room. Add an element of gloss for the ultimate design statement - this not only creates a cosy yet luxurious look but as finish that reflects the most light, it can also deceive the eye and make the room seem even larger.

Blue works particularly well in the bathroom, creating an atmosphere that soothes the mind. A ‘quietly colourful’ teal like Stained Glass CSP-685 is captivating when used across all surfaces, including the fifth wall, the ceiling. What makes this hue special is that it is rich with undertones of blue and grey that make a statement with a relaxed confidence that is perfectly suited to a space we unwind in.

Adding a splash of colour to the bathroom doesn’t need to be daunting, it is a great place to be a little more adventurous with different hues and how you use them.

A soft rose adds a wonderful airy feel to a bathroom. For a subtle play on a complementary colour pairing, match with a navy blue. This warm neutral balances beautifully with the cool anchored blue, creating a softness that makes this combination both approachable and sophisticated.

Adjacent on the colour wheel, orange tones make a naturally harmonious pairing to soft rose, especially when used in vibrant, saturated shades like a bold orange-red. These bright pops of orange offer a fresh twist on the 'unexpected red' trend, bringing energy and impact to a space. Whether through furniture or accents like painted bathroom cabinets or a shower curtain, even small bursts can infuse a room with a lively, invigorating feel.

A coastal theme works particularly well in bathrooms due to the calming feeling it evokes, especially in those that enjoy plenty of natural sun light. Combine a soft blue or green with crisp white to create the ultimate nautical look. Coloured walls are an ideal choice for coastal interiors as their undertones help soften intense sunlight. This not only creates a balanced environment for grooming but still preserves a fresh, restorative atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing bath.

Channel this look further with tongue-and-groove panelling, floorboards and woodwork to create a light-filled, airy, coastal-inspired space. These traditional design elements work beautifully with coastal colours, grounding the palette and adding textural interest without overwhelming the space. The linear detail of tongue-and-groove echoes the slats of a beach hut or the interior of a boat cabin, instantly conjuring a nautical feel. Allow natural light to flood in and add towels in nautical blue and white stripes or seaside inspired décor to complete this laid-back look.

Smaller bathrooms often have less windows so, if this is the case in your space, work with a colour that thrives in reduced light. While white is a safe and easy option in this circumstance, incorporating a rich, bold paint colour like a striking French blue or burgundy will add instant character, taking the room from simple to strikingly stylish. As a cloakroom is standalone space, it gives you the opportunity to use your most imaginative ideas to turn into an unexpected delight.

For the ultimate design statement, combine with a lustrous, high gloss finish to create a look that oozes luxury and opulence. This not only looks incredible, but choosing a finish that reflects the most light can deceive the eye and make the room seem larger than it is.

Bathrooms are full of hard surfaces from tiles and mirrors to functional fixtures, so it’s always worthwhile trying to offset this by picking a hue that brings a sense of softness to the space. Soft taupes or greys with pink undertones will create a sanctuary-like feel, perfect for relaxing in the bath after a long day. However if you do opt for a neutral it’s important to consider its undertones. Anything with cooler hue undertones can make everything, and everyone, look a little pale and washed out – so opt for warmer undertones to help counterbalance this.

Elevate this minimalist, spa-like look with layers of texture such as sleek stone surfaces, patterned tiles and sheer window dressings. Finish the look with elements of biophilia to enhance the grounding sanctuary-like feel of the space.

Sometimes smaller projects can create the biggest difference, and a lick of paint is a great way to refresh a bathroom without costing the world. These mini makeover also don’t need to be an intimidating job - as long as the surfaces are prepped and primed correctly, you’ll easily achieve a final product to be proud of, no plumber needed. A cabinet or vanity unit offers the perfect opportunity to add elements of colour to an otherwise simple bathroom scheme and can be easily changed by re-painting to keep up with the latest colour and style trends in future.

Light pastels such as baby blue, lilac, sage green or pale pink are a popular choice for injecting colour into a bathroom scheme. These light - almost spiritual - shades are ideal for those wanting to experiment with colour as they create a statement without being too bold and their calming undertones delicately balance the need to make the bathroom a sanctuary.