Add a splash of colour to your bathroom

If you’re starting out with a white bathroom, think of it as a blank canvas. Decide on the style you want to achieve, then choose a colour scheme that will work with that style.

White with wow factor

First of all, there’s nothing wrong with a white bathroom. White is crisp, clean and ethereal. There’s something luxurious about slipping out of a white tub, blowing out white candles and wrapping yourself in white Egyptian-cotton bath towels.

If you want to brighten up a white bathroom, the options are endless for introducing colour: think towels, candles, plants, soaps, vases and artwork.

Block colours work well in white bathrooms, but consider using graduated colours as well. This means having towels in different shades of the same colour for a softer, more interesting look.

Alternatively, try using bright and muted colours together. Sunny yellow looks crisp, modern and fresh against silvers, greys, and whites, for example.

Embrace the retro bathroom

Your bathroom has hideous olive-green mosaic floor tiles … what do you do?

Unless you’re looking to renovate, the cheapest option is to work with it. Look for similar or complementary colours to celebrate and lift the era. Take a cue from military-style camouflage pants and incorporate some khakis or tans. Or add some pop with purples.

If you love the retro chic look, both IKEA and Freedom stock many retro-style tables, stools and decorations – these might give your bathroom that historical funky feel you’re after.

Tap into tradition

A traditional English-style bathroom takes elegance to a whole new level. Wood-grain fittings and marbled surfaces make for a beautiful palette. Consider picking up the grey in the marble and opt for silver and white towels and furnishings.

Otherwise, celebrate the classic style with a statement royal colour palette (think jewel tones). Alternate towels and decorations of classic burgundy, royal blue, rich purple and dark teal.

A seaside retreat

To bring a beach theme into your bathroom, blue might seem the obvious choice, but consider other ocean- and coastal-inspired colours, such as teal, mint, apple green or sandy brown. Complement the look with seashell accents, beach towels – maybe even a surfboard mirror.

Go monochromatic

Colour is great, but a lack of colour can make a statement as well. If you’re looking for a bold, timeless style, try accenting your bathroom in black. Black is stylish, elegant and evergreen, and your bathroom will surely get a few comments from impressed visitors.

When it comes to colouring your bathroom, it’s fun to experiment. Investing in towels, soaps and candles is by far the cheapest way to update a tired look. You can readily change them when it’s time to try something new. The key is to have fun with your bathroom space; after all, everyone spends time in there.