12 Design Ideas for a Small Downstairs Bathroom

Art Deco, a trend from the 1920s and ’30s has been enjoying quite a resurgence in home interiors lately with its bold graphics, vibrant colours and luxurious materials that capture all of the glamour & grandeur this era stands for. This theme usually involves symmetry, elaborate features, metal finishes, and hues such as black and gold in addition to heavy gem tones. In bathroom design, these elements bring back old-world charm, wrapping the space in luxurious surfaces. Read on to see how this iconic design could add a touch of class and history to your everyday routine. https://pin.it/1hMZs2Mok  Bold Colour Palettes Art Deco bathrooms usually include dark and rich colours like black, navy blue and emerald green which work well with metallic designs in gold, silver or chrome. In larger bathrooms, the colours are ideal as they make a deep contrast to the rest of the colours in the room while jewel tones bring in a sense of effect.  For smaller areas, these colours are best used on walls or cabinets and are complemented with brighter surfaces to prevent making the room feel cramped. This colour scheme and texture are suitable for bathrooms of any size because it evokes upscale style, design and individuality.  https://pin.it/5USA9A3ys  Statement Lighting As far as lighting is concerned, geometric chandeliers and wall mounted sconces stand out best when trying to achieve this particular look. Chandeliers in gold, chrome or brass are commanding and perfect in the modern bathroom when placed over a freestanding bathtub or perhaps as a bathroom focal point.  Whilst wall mounted sconces on each side of mirrors guarantee perfect lighting and contribute to the general retro feel of the space.  If you decide to choose lighting that has a frosted design with metallic trims or has a tiered design, the light creates interesting shadows on the bathroom’s embellishments and effectively transports the space into the 1920s. https://pin.it/5fKgcHNSV Geometric Patterns Geometric patterns are famously recognised from the jazz age era and can be found in tiles, wallpaper and flooring. Usually patterns like chevrons, zigzags and fan shapes are integrated into this theme which adds mesmerising visuals and movement to your bathroom. You can use them subtly or as a feature, depending on what you’re going for. For a bold look, try a tiled accent wall with a repeating geometric pattern in contrasting colours, black and white or navy and gold. Or use them on the floor with intricate tiling to make a bold statement.  For a gentler appearance, consider incorporating geometric shapes into minor elements like shower curtains or wallpaper. This approach pays homage to the style without letting it take over the entire room.  https://pin.it/1snp9p6TQ Art Deco Fixtures and Mirrors Choose taps, showerheads, and wall cabinets with symmetrical lines and fancy finishes like chrome, gold, brass, matt black, or nickel. Fluted vanity units known for their ribbed texture and geometric design, serve as a perfect centrepiece for this vintage-inspired look. Mirrors also play a key part - think about round or octagonal shapes with decorative frames in gold, silver, or black, or pick frameless options with a bevelled edge to capture the spirit of the time. https://pin.it/6TS6fIWji Small Bathroom Art Deco Design Tips In a small bathroom, it’s best to select a key focal point, such as a brass framed mirror or a vanity unit, to anchor your design. This makes it easier to plan the surrounding décor while preventing the space from feeling cluttered. Consider a colour-drenched bathroom in a dark shade that complements the vanity, or a large mirror with hidden lighting to create a standout feature. Mirrors, in particular, can help reflect light and create the illusion of a larger room.  Choosing floral or geometric patterned wallpaper is a fantastic choice for this particular theme. If you opt for patterned wallpaper, use it sparingly—on a single wall or half of a wall behind your focal point. This approach ensures the wallpaper compliments the room rather than overwhelms your chosen feature. https://pin.it/qbaf0kB9e Expert Tips from Interior Designer Karen Barcoo, expert Interior Designer at 34 St John, suggests that to truly achieve the artistic look of the Art Deco theme, you need to immerse yourself in the spirit of the era. "Although Art Deco originated in the 1920s and 1930s, exploring movies, art galleries, and exhibitions from the 1950s and 60s can also provide valuable inspiration. These resources offer insight into the colours and patterns that defined the time, helping you visualise the interiors of those periods."  Barcoo adds, "Art Deco remains incredibly popular and is a timeless trend that will never fade from the world of design. Choosing this style is never the wrong decision—it’s a theme you’ll never regret.” For more guidance, you can consult our bathroom design service, where experts are ready to help bring your vision to life.

Grey has come a long way in interior design, especially in bathrooms. Its versatility allows it to work with almost any style. From soft, light shades to deep, dramatic tones, grey is the perfect canvas to build a stunning bathroom that reflects your personal taste.   We have gathered 12 exciting grey bathroom ideas to help you get started. Let’s explore how this colour can transform your bathroom into a stylish, dynamic space. Layer Different Shades of Grey Consider layering various shades of grey to bring depth and a more visually interesting feel to your bathroom. Combining materials like light stone or marble grey in different areas can add a designer’s touch. If your bathroom is on the smaller side, opt for bathroom accessories in different grey tones, such as a vanity unit, to introduce subtle contrast without overpowering the space. https://uk.pinterest.com/pin/526076800237176643/ Pair Grey with Bold Accent Colours Pairing a predominantly grey bathroom with a pop of colour can completely transform the room’s vibe. Opting for bold shades like red, yellow, or pink can give the space an edgy, artistic flair - think of a contemporary art gallery that reflects your unique style and personality. For a more subtle approach, consider incorporating natural materials like wood or bamboo, which complement grey tones and create a Scandinavian feel. Adding vibrant green plants is another popular choice, bringing a fresh, organic touch that softens the overall design.  Go for Matt Grey Walls  Historically, matt surfaces gained popularity for their ability to absorb light rather than reflect it, creating a soft, refined look. In bathrooms, matt finishes are particularly sought after for their luxurious and contemporary appeal. You could embrace this timeless trend by colour drenching your entire bathroom in matt tones. To create the appearance of varying shades of grey, hidden lighting around a matt grey vanity unit, mirror, or ceiling edges can add a layered look to the space.  https://uk.pinterest.com/pin/863494928584423412/ Add Textured Grey Tiles Adding grey textured tiles to your walls or floors can completely change the feel of the room, depending on the shapes and patterns you choose. For a luxurious vibe, consider geometric tiles in your shower area. If you’re aiming for an industrial bathroom theme, grey brick-like tiles will give the room an edgy, urban feel. Alternatively, for a more rustic or natural look, stone-effect tiles in neutral grey can add warmth. To avoid making the space feel smaller, it's best not to tile all your walls with the same colour and shape - mixing textures and shades keeps the bathroom feeling open. https://uk.pinterest.com/pin/352969689560978734/  Try a Grey Vanity Unit Adding a grey vanity unit to your grey bathroom can create a warm feel. If you've decided to paint or tile one wall, it’s a good idea to choose the wall where your vanity unit will go. This creates a unified look and allows other grey surfaces or accessories to stand out against your more neutral-coloured walls. https://34stjohn.com/products/tasca-four-drawer-vanity-unit-with-beyondstone-double-basin-dark-concrete-1200mm?_pos=4&_fid=2ef9ec376&_ss=c&variant=45771950424356 Mix Grey with Brushed Brass Finishes Pairing grey with brushed brass finishes may not be a common choice, but it creates an expensive look that stands out. The cool tones of grey work well with the warmth of brass, especially brushed brass, which offers a golden look without being too bold. To complete this combination, consider adding brushed brass taps, a brass toilet roll holder, or a matching shower set. https://uk.pinterest.com/pin/757097387373900104/ Grey Metro Tiles for an Industrial Look When you think of grey metro tiles, New York might be the first city that comes to mind. This urban trend has made its way into the homes of London, becoming a popular choice for bathroom designs. It's a stylish and edgy way to bring an industrial feel to your space. Commonly used behind vanity units or mirrors, grey metro tiles are also being embraced in larger bathrooms, where they serve as a striking backdrop for freestanding baths. https://uk.pinterest.com/pin/679621399997962517/ Create a Grey Accent Wall  A grey accent wall can immediately draw attention to a specific area of your bathroom as soon as you enter. To keep the design balanced, it’s a good idea to place accessories or bathroom furniture in matching tones in front of the accent wall, ensuring they don’t get overshadowed by the bold grey backdrop. This approach works especially well in small to medium-sized bathrooms, as it can create the illusion of a larger space. If the rest of your bathroom is in a light grey, going with a darker tone for the accent wall gives the room a clear focal point. https://uk.pinterest.com/pin/551409548147003593/ Brighten Your Space with a Grey and White Mix  While grey and white might sound like a simple, safe design choice, there are countless ways to make this combination stand out. White brings a clean, minimalist feel, while grey offers versatility with its range of shades. You could keep the room all white, letting grey furniture and accessories pop as focal points. Or, flip the scheme by drenching the walls in grey and accenting with white basins and accessories. For a more creative touch, consider using blocks of grey throughout the bathroom to create a more random yet eye-catching design. https://uk.pinterest.com/pin/551409548147003394/ Incorporate Grey Marble  Adding marble to any home, especially the bathroom, gives an expensive and impressive look. Historically used in grand monuments and palaces, marble has always been a symbol of luxury and craftsmanship. You can incorporate grey marble into almost any furniture or wall space, and it’ll suit beautifully. It can also make a smaller bathroom appear bigger by reflecting light, creating the illusion of a larger space. https://uk.pinterest.com/pin/665195807475179505/ Mix Grey with Natural Elements  Mixing grey with natural materials like wood, stone, or plants compliments the colour well, bringing warmth and texture to the space. This combination helps create a calming environment, perfect for starting your day feeling refreshed or unwinding after a long, busy day. A bathroom designed with these elements can become your own personal retreat, offering a sense of peace and relaxation whenever you need it. https://uk.pinterest.com/pin/544794886171420077/  Mix Grey with Soft Pastels  Mixing soft pastel colours with greys adds character and personality to your bathroom. If you have natural light, it highlights specific areas, complementing the grey backdrop. The versatility of pastels means they blend effortlessly with any shade of grey, from light silver to deep charcoal. For a subtle touch, consider adding bright pastel hues through accessories like towels, soap dispensers, toilet roll holders or bath mats, allowing the grey to remain the focal point. Overall, pastels offer plenty of room for creativity, making them an excellent choice for adding a fresh, playful twist to a grey bathroom.  Grey continues to be a trending choice for bathroom design, offering endless possibilities to suit any taste. From layering shades of grey to pairing them with bold accents, natural materials, or soft pastels, there are many ways to make this timeless colour work in your space.  Whether you're looking for a modern look or a cosy, warm feel, grey provides the perfect backdrop to experiment and express your style. These 12 ideas are here to inspire you, showing how easily grey can be transformed into an inviting, and luxurious bathroom design that suits both large and small spaces.  For more guidance, you can consult our bathroom design service, where experts are ready to help bring your vision to life. https://uk.pinterest.com/pin/496451558937223556/

The ultimate goal when designing a bathroom is to create your own personal sanctuary; a place where you can go to unwind and disconnect from the stress of your day. But it can be hard to nail down the components that help create a cosy bathroom - key elements might include warm bathroom colours, earthing materials and dark toned accessories, but how do all of these go together? Cold colours can make a space feel clinical whilst an overload of different shades quickly gets overwhelming. Picking the most suitable materials is a fine art as these will play a key role in setting the tone. And creating a sanctuary you want to return to time and time again means finding the balance between these key elements. In this guide, we explore everything you need to know about choosing the right colours and materials as well as how you can pair them together in a cohesive design.  Choosing warm bathroom colours As Color Psychology describes, warm colours are those that are on the right side of the colour wheel “advancing toward the eye, while cool colours recede.”  They are often reminiscent of natural elements like sunshine and fire which is why we associate them with a sense of safety and comfort.  At the same time, warm colours are empowering. Bathroom designers often opt for cool colours such as blues and greens to create a relaxing atmosphere, but a warm bathroom can be the opposite, truly energising and invigorating.  Popular warm colour palettes for bathrooms To ensure cohesion and balance, it’s best to opt for warm colours of the same variety and to carefully choose the shades of your furniture. In this section, we look at how a few key colour palettes can look.  Earthy tones https://pin.it/5qE3VhS Colours like beige, taupe and terracotta make a space feel cosy and inviting. The best way to implement this scheme is to opt for deeper shades on areas (such as walls) to ground the space while adding accents through lighter shades.  Pastels https://pin.it/5vMQYZl If you’re looking for something more soft and comforting, colours like peach, coral and blush are highly effective. It’s best to balance these shades against white and neutral colours so as not to make the space appear overly gimmicky.  Rich hues  https://pin.it/31Pgzot For those seeking a touch of opulence, rich hues such as deep red, warm burgundy, and burnt orange can be an excellent choice. The key is to consider them as accent colours and place them in decorative tiles or accessories. Choosing the right materials The bathroom fixtures you choose should contribute towards the aesthetic you have created through colour. And, in a warm bathroom, this means opting for natural materials such as these: Wood. Wooden fixtures, such as vanity cabinets and shelves, add a sense of calm and complement colours like beige, taupe, and terracotta. Stone. Luxurious yet grounded, stone makes a perfect flooring choice in bathrooms featuring deep red or warm burgundy shades.    Bamboo. Bamboo is an eco-friendly choice for bathroom fixtures with a light, natural hue that complements soft pastels.  Copper. Copper ensures that warmth is maintained across key fixtures, pairing well with rich hues like deep red and burnt orange to add a sense of sophistication. Clay. Clay tiles can be used as accents, offering a rustic texture that aligns well with earthy tones. Creating a Cohesive Design To balance warm colours and natural materials, it’s important to create a sense of visual flow. This is, as Interior Designer Jelian Caligner describes, “a thoughtful orchestration of design elements that guides the observer’s eye through a balanced narrative that seamlessly marries form and function.”  Here are five main tips for doing so:   Repeat key warm colours at focal points such as the vanity area or bathtub. Then echo them through accessories and accents.  Balance textures by layering to add depth. For example, if you have smooth, glossy tiles, set them against textured elements like a woven basket for storage.  Select warm lighting. Opt for soft white bulbs to ensure your lighting fixtures align with your colour palette. Add greenery. Create an even more welcoming space with elements of nature.  Choose the right furnishings. Look to St John for elevated pieces in your favourite earthy tones.  Summary In the search for a warm and inviting bathroom, understanding the nuances of colour psychology and material selection is key.  By embracing the right shades from the colour wheel and pairing them with complementary materials, you can achieve a harmonious balance. Whether you're drawn to the grounding nature of earthy tones or the elegance of rich hues, the key lies in cohesion.  With the right blend of colours, materials, and design principles, your bathroom can become a true sanctuary, reflecting both comfort and sophistication.

In this article, we will explore the best paint colours for small bathrooms, focusing on how different hues and finishes can transform a confined area into a bright, inviting, and stylish space. We’ll look into the psychological effects of colours, offer top recommendations from our design experts, and provide practical tips on how to use colour to your advantage. Psychological Impact of Colours This is particularly important if you have a small bathroom, as the colour you choose can either make it feel even smaller, or can give you the sense that it is much larger. You want to choose colours that feel airy, open, and light. So let’s look into some colour psychology.  Light and Neutral Colours Light and neutral colours are often recommended for small bathrooms because they create a sense of openness and airiness. Whites, light greys, and beiges are classic choices that can make a small bathroom look clean and spacious. Soft pastels, such as pale blue or blush pink, can add a subtle touch of colour without overwhelming the space. Cool Colours Colours, such as blues, greens, and lavenders, have a calming and refreshing effect. These shades can make a small bathroom feel very calming, providing a sense of relaxation and tranquillity. Soft shades of blue and green are really effective in creating a spa-like atmosphere. These colours also pair well with white fixtures and decor, giving your bathroom an overall sense of cleanliness and peace. Warm Colours Warm colours, including light yellows, peaches, and soft pinks, can add warmth and cosiness to a small bathroom. Warm colours can work beautifully in bathrooms with plenty of natural light, creating a cheerful and welcoming environment. Top Colour Recommendations White https://pin.it/5YYRlvwQV White is a classic choice for small bathrooms. It reflects light, making the space appear larger and brighter. Examples include pure white, off-white, and ivory. Pair with white or light-coloured tiles and fixtures to create a seamless, airy look. Light Grey https://pin.it/44v0inahP Light grey offers a modern and sophisticated touch without overwhelming the space. Examples include pale grey, dove grey, and silver. Combine with chrome or brushed nickel fixtures for a contemporary feel. Beige https://pin.it/5DBOoP7EV Beige is a warm neutral that adds a cosy yet open feel to a small bathroom. Examples include cream, tan, and sand. Accentuate with natural elements like wood or wicker. Soft Pastel https://pin.it/1lYbypYLh Pastels provide a hint of colour while maintaining a light, airy atmosphere. Examples include soft pink, baby blue, and mint green. Use pastel accents in accessories and towels to tie the look together. Soft Blue https://pin.it/PPp6C71z1 Blue is calming and refreshing, perfect for creating a spa-like environment. Examples include sky blue, powder blue, and seafoam. Pair with white trim and fixtures to enhance the fresh, clean feel. Green https://pin.it/55RNwXEUK Green evokes a sense of nature and tranquillity. Examples include sage, mint, and light olive. Complement with natural stone or ceramic elements for an organic look. Lavender https://pin.it/10GfwaBVs Lavender adds a touch of elegance and serenity. Examples include pale lavender, lilac, and periwinkle. Use alongside silver or white accents to create a sophisticated atmosphere. Light Yellow https://pin.it/5YVOvtcHN Yellow brings warmth and a cheerful feel, ideal for brightening a small space. Examples include pale yellow, buttercream, and soft gold. Combine with white or light wood tones to balance the warmth. Peach https://pin.it/578a9h3QH Peach adds a soft, warm glow, making the bathroom feel cosy yet open. Examples include light peach, coral, and apricot. Pair with brass or gold fixtures for a vintage charm. Soft Pink https://pin.it/hI5BUwmuY Pink creates a gentle, soothing environment. Examples include blush, rose, and salmon. Use in moderation with white or grey elements to prevent overwhelming the space. And there you have it; 10 ideal colours for a small bathroom. Don’t forget, you can always consult our bathroom design service who will help you create the bathroom of your dreams, no matter how small your space is!