Why Black and White bathrooms are always a great choice
Thinking of re-doing your bathroom this year but not too sure what style to go for? Well, there are many different colour schemes and styles to choose from, but there is only one that is both contemporary and classic, and that is the always elegant and effortlessly stylish black and white bathroom.
This fantastic design never goes out of fashion and is perfectly suited to both modern apartments and country cottages, making this colour scheme one of the most versatile around.
The dramatic and bold black is complimented perfectly by the delicate and calm white, providing a room with a unique serenity and making it the perfect choice for any bathroom.
In this design, white metro tiles (from around £10 per sqm) are combined with black grout and black hex tiles with white grout. For a similar bathtub, try this. The metro and hex tile combination is proving very popular.
The bathroom in this monochromatic apartment in Tel Aviv was designed by Yael Perry and Dafna Gravinsky, along with architect Amir Navon. Photo: Itay Benit. Try these square ceramic white tiles.
Black and white bathroom decor
When looking to turn your bathroom into a black and white haven there are a few things you need to consider to help bring this wonderful colour scheme together, the first being the decor. Although these colours can bring an elegance and allure to the room, it’s important to inject a little extra colour when you can.
A fantastic way of doing this is by adding in a gold element, such as gold taps or lights, to help keep the bathroom feeling fresh and light. When choosing lights, remember that they need to have specific bathroom rating. The taps below are from Lussostone.com.
Another way of tying this style together is by including a bold mirror.
Source: AUHAUS Architecture, from the 'Concrete House'
Above: Whitewing at Higley Ground up residential construction, by AFT Construction.
Never underestimate the importance of a good mirror in the bathroom; it’s one of the first things people see, you will use it every day and it’s a wonderful design feature. Don’t be afraid to mix it up here, be creative and use the mirror to its full potential by making sure its eye catching, bold and beautiful.
Another big thing to think about is what to do about the bathroom vanities. There are many different options to choose from here, but if you are going for the monochrome theme then avoid rustic vanities; these can often look out of place when paired up with daring colours.
Instead, why not opt for a modern black unit boasting a white countertop with white handles. This will blend seamlessly into the room and create a sense of extra space, which is often much needed in a bathroom.
The final main thing to consider to really bring this style to life is the use of tiles. There are lots to choose from but you can’t go wrong metro, marble, square or hex tiles as all of these compliment the design flawlessly.
Source: AUHAUS Architecture, from the BLUFF HOUSE in Barwon Heads, Victoria. This is a new residence completed in 2013
When people choose the black and white colour scheme they often lean towards rectangle and square symmetrical design as it works so well with these colours, however, don’t be afraid to push the boundaries and mix it up with hexagons and diamond patterns.
As long as these tiles are still within the colour scheme then this different kind of element will quickly add a funky, modern feature to the room and really help it stand out.
A small bath designed by San Francisco based designer Katie Martinez.
Elle Decoration Sweden - Annette and Mikael in Lund, Photo by Andrea Papini.
Wallpaper for the bathroom?
You may not have considered wallpaper as an alternative to tiles for the bathroom wall but this can actually be a fantastic choice.
You MUST take care when sealing it of course, but by using wallpaper instead of tiles you can bring a whole new dimension of versatility to the room as well as it being a much cheaper option. Read this post on Mad About the House about sealing your wallpaper.
If you really had your heart set on tiles then don’t forget you can get extremely convincing wallpaper that looks like tiles or brick (as well as this one that is faux marble) that will cost you a fraction of the price. Easier to install, quicker and cheaper, this wall option is perfect for any type of bathroom in any type of home.
Architectural Designer: Katie Hackworth, H2 Design + Build Office renovation
Above: In 2015, interior designer Vanessa Francis used Schumacher’s Agadir Screen in Noir for her daughter's art filled ensuite bathroom that was part of the One Room Challenge. You can see the 'before' photos and the full transformation here.
Love black and white wallpaper? Try these
Fashionable and functional black and white decor
The classic simplicity of monochrome works wonders in a functional space, such as the bathroom, where clean lines and strong angles tend to dominate. The natural symmetry and sharp lines of a bathroom are complimented effortlessly by these elegant colours.
Not only this, but they work wonders at hiding stains and scratches, both of which can happen a lot in the bathroom.
For the majority of us, we want our bathrooms to be a place of relaxation and tranquil peace, a place where you can truly unwind after a long day. Well, this is made much easier with the monochrome style as there is something very calming about a black and white colour scheme.
It has a zen-like quality that works wonders in the bathroom, allowing you to shower or bathe in a cosy and calming space.
It may sound obvious, but in terms of colour you are already halfway there, as the vast majority of bathrooms already include white bath tubs and sinks. This means you don’t have to invest in new sinks and showers to achieve the monochrome look which is another big saving.
The wonderful thing about this bathroom style is how versatile the functionality is. With monochrome you can play around with stripes, patterns and blocks of colour to help create this classic look.
For example, you can create stripes, chevrons or geometric patterns with tiling, or even introduce more playful patterns like spots or florals through towels, bathmats or shower curtains.
A black feature wall paired up with a bold white bath tub is the perfect way of providing the room with a striking style, and one that will never go out of fashion.
Conclusion
Black and white bathrooms have been popular for years and it’s easy to see why. Thanks to its versatility, style, elegance and practicality the monochrome bathroom will always be a great choice. Simply remember these tips to help tie everything in and I am certain your bathroom will look fantastic in no time.
