Independent homes

Bathroom Colour Palette for Independent homes

Choose colour against the surfaces that will stay. Test it on a large sample at the room's brightest and darkest points.

Bathroom planning reference: compare fixture arrangements before selecting finishes.

Compare the options

Set the brief: Collect samples of permanent finishes, upholstery and hardware before picking a paint or laminate.
Compare: Assign a background colour, one wayfinding or feature colour, and contrast where people need to distinguish edges.
Before buying: Check painted or laminated samples vertically beside the same light source the finished room will use.

Worked example

Small patterned tiles make a compact bathroom feel visually busy around the mirror and fittings.

Keep the largest surfaces quiet, then test one accent tile beside the actual metal finish under the bathroom light.

How to test it

Compare the samples in daylight and artificial light, and check that handles and door edges remain easy to distinguish.

Apply it to this space

Layout: Put the shower at the far side and keep vanity, hooks and linen storage in the dry approach.
Detail: Select easy-clean wall finishes and a well-lit mirror with a separate night-level light.
Trade-off: More glass reduces splash but increases cleaning and visual exposure.

The Elixir portfolio

Photographs for design inspiration