--- title: "Beyond White: 15 Alternative Hues to Color Your Bath" description: "The all-white bathroom is timeless, but can leave some homeowners yearning for a bold update. These bathroom paint color ideas..." date: "2022-02-20" modified: "2022-02-22" authors: - name: "Rachel Brougham" job_title: "Contributing Writer" link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/rachel-brougham/" url: "https://www.bobvila.com/articles/bathroom-paint-color-ideas/" categories: - "Interior" --- # Beyond White: 15 Alternative Hues to Color Your Bath ![bathroom paint color ideas]() *Photo: istockphoto.com* ## Go Bold A dash of color can infuse any space with energy, and that's especially true for spaces in which you spend a fair amount of time. Depending on the shades of paint you choose, your bathroom paint colors can invigorate you in the morning, relax you in the evening, or simply make you smile at any time of day. A blue bathroom that pulls from hues of the sea and sky will feel tranquil, while a stately navy blue or a steel gray bathroom promotes a sense of stability. Or, choose something altogether refreshing: a green bathroom with nature-inspired tones that bring an earthy quality to your space. No matter your [paint color choice](), it's a good idea to to choose a shade in a semi-gloss finish. As a matter of practicality, these work best in the high-moisture environment of the bathroom. [Semi-gloss paint]() is easy to clean and isn't marred by the occasional splash of water. Be sure to use an especially durable [paint on trim]() work, as windows and doors in the small space of a bathroom take extra abuse. A good paint job is at the foundation of nearly all [bathroom decor ideas](): Whatever your style, there’s a palette to suit it. These 15 bathroom paint color ideas range from pale and ethereal to dark and dramatic and really make an impression. ## 1. Straw ![bathroom paint color ideas]() *Photo: istockphoto.com* Straw isn’t quite yellow and it’s not quite beige, which makes it an unexpected color for your bathroom. This bathroom combines straw walls with white medicine cabinets and a wooden, [farmhouse style]() vanity. Plants on the countertop provide a pop of color. A [wicker]() basket to hold towels and [brushed nickel]() fixtures round out the look. **RELATED: [The 26 Best Plants for Bathroom Decor]()** ## 2. Brown ![bathroom paint color ideas]() *Photo: istockphoto.com* Brown walls can make a bathroom feel cozy, but can also run the risk of being too dark. To find the right balance, choose a light-to-medium shade like this one, and balance it with white fixtures. The [mirrored]() tile used in the backsplashes and on the opposite wall adds a playful yet sophisticated touch to the space. ## 3. Periwinkle ![bathroom paint color ideas]() *Photo: istockphoto.com* A cheerful blue-purple as fresh as the flower itself, periwinkle is a fun color to use in the bath. Here, the darker tile in the shower gives the room a modern look, while the [skylight]() highlights the rich colors. White fixtures, along with a small white side table, pop against the hue. ## 4. Navy Blue ![bathroom paint color ideas]() *Photo: istockphoto.com* Sophisticated and a bit unexpected, navy blue makes a strong statement in the bath. Ample use of white keeps the dark hue from overpowering the small space. The tiny tile pattern on the floor combined with a framed photo over the tub adds texture to the scene. **RELATED: [The Pros and Cons of Free-Standing Bathtubs]()** ## 5. Caramel ![bathroom paint color ideas]() *Photo: Homedepot.com* Delicate details like a [pedestal sink](), simple mirror, and a modern [bathroom light fixture]() reflect the easy elegance of this [powder room]()'s earthy caramel palette. A bath mat or in similar tones keep the look simple, allowing the walls to command full attention. ## 6. Lime Green ![bathroom paint color ideas]() *Photo: istockphoto.com* The soft green chosen for this bath recalls the beauty of a summertime garden. White flooring and a warm wooden countertop complement the color of the walls. The simple fixtures add a pleasing accent while letting the color shine. ## 7. Gray ![bathroom paint color ideas]() *Photo: istockphoto.com* Who says gray can’t be bold? [Shades of gray]() from pale fog to deep charcoal are widely used in American homes today. The sophisticated appeal of this color is apparent in this [master bath](), where gray walls are mixed with lighter-gray tile and darker flooring to set a dramatic tone. **RELATED: [The Best Greige Paint Colors for a Warm, Welcoming Home]()** ## 8. Peach ![bathroom paint color ideas]() *Photo: istockphoto.com* Not only does the color peach look beautiful when it's combined with white, the hue also casts a warm glow over the skin, enhancing one's complexion in the [mirror](). Mixing peach walls with earthy tile and wooden flooring is an unexpected combination that brings a feeling of warmth to the room. ## 9. Sky Blue ![bathroom paint color ideas]() *Photo: istockphoto.com* The tranquil blue walls of this master bath go hand-in-hand with the vibrant blues found outside the large window. The color also complements the [old-fashioned details]() of the room, including the [wainscoting,]() window moulding, and claw-foot tub. **RELATED: [The 9 Best Paint Colors for a Restful Sleep]()** ## 10. Beige ![bathroom paint color ideas]() *Photo: istockphoto.com* A few shades darker than traditional white, a [warm beige on walls]() and woodwork creates an enveloping sense of calm in this [luxurious bath](). Choosing a pale tan marble pattern for the flooring and walls continues the room's monochromatic look. ## 11. Lavender ![bathroom paint color ideas]() *Photo: istockphoto.com* There are endless choices for nearly white paint colors that have a hint of another hue—like this ethereal lavender—making them a good option for anyone who just wants to turn up the volume on a white bath ever so slightly. Gray tile and flooring, along with a rich purple hand towel, add a bit of sophistication and depth to the room. ## 12. Black ![bathroom paint color ideas]() *Photo: istockphoto.com* A black can be dramatic, yet sophisticated. These striking walls are offset by gold tile around the vanity, tub, and shower, giving the room a glamorous feel. A wooden [vanity](), flooring, and a modern shelving unit tie the look together with plenty of texture. **RELATED: [Should You Paint Your House Black?]()** ## 13. Black and White ![bathroom paint color ideas]() *Photo: istockphoto.com* The combination of black and white will always be a classic. Here, a white wall and freestanding tub is offset by the richness of the black vanity and wall. Add in some wood for texture along with plenty of light from a large window and you have a modern-looking bathroom that feels bright, while also casting warmth. ## 14. Pink ![bathroom paint color ideas]() *Photo: istockphoto.com* A light pink wall combined with the look of rich [marble flooring]() and tile gives this hue a sophisticated look. Since pink can be overwhelming when used extensively, mixing it with more muted colors such as white, black, and gray make it look less Barbie and more regal. ## 15. Red ![bathroom paint color ideas]() *Photo: istockphoto.com* A definite statement maker, this red bathroom works with more natural colors and uses them to its advantage. The bold walls are offset by a white vanity and warm textiles, along with cream-colored flooring. Black framed mirrors help tame the striking wall color so it’s still bold without being off putting. **RELATED: [The 16 Best Accent Wall Colors]()** ## 16. Green ![bathroom paint color ideas]() *Photo: istockphoto.com* There are plenty of options when it comes to green bathrooms, including this wormwood green tone. A funky floor tile combined with the natural element of a wood countertop give the room a laid back, nature-inspired vibe. ## Author Rachel Brougham is a former newspaper editor turned freelance writer who now contributes to a variety of newspapers, magazines, and brands. Rachel started writing for BobVila.com in 2020, often covering design and trend topics. Her writing (including a syndicated weekly newspaper column) can also be found in several newspapers around the country. Her work appears in [Family Handyman](), [Minnesota Parent](), [Taste of Home](), [Yahoo News](), University of Minnesota, and [Reader’s Digest]().