Small homes and studios

Bathroom Colour Palette for Small homes and studios

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: Keep the shower at the end and put towel hooks within reach of the dry exit.
Detail: Use a mirrored cabinet and a bright, even mirror light.
Trade-off: A larger vanity offers storage but narrows standing and door clearance.

The Elixir portfolio

Photographs for design inspiration