7 Clever Ways to Make a White Bathroom Feel Actually Exciting
Plain and white don’t necessarily go together. Here’s how to jazz up a white bathroom.
Design by Heather Hilliard; Photo by David Duncan Livingston
It’s not hard to see why white is the interior design industry’s favorite color: The in-demand neutral is arguably the most versatile shade around—not to mention it magically transcends time, trend, and design styles. Problem is, we see white everywhere (seriously, everywhere), so there are times when the hue feels light, fresh, and airy—and other times when it’s a little… snoozy.
Case in point: The bathroom. Since the bathroom is one of the most utilitarian rooms in the home and is dictated by a laundry list of appliances—such as a shower, toilet, and sink—it’s admittedly tricky to make this space ride with design kudos. And when this potentially lackluster space is painted white? It can feel plain. Uninspired. Just like every other white bathroom that came before it.
But what if it doesn’t have to be this way? What if you can create a white bathroom that is beautiful, not boring? To help, a few West Coast designers shared their insider tips for decorating a visually appealing space.
Warm It up with Wood
What does one do if their all-white bathroom feels a little one-note? While a secondary color is an easy fix, it might ruin the integrity and spa-like vibes an all-white bathroom can bring. The solution: Wooden accents. The light wood seen in this space from Studio K Design adds some warmth without taking too much attention away from the airy palette. Meanwhile, the clever use of tile creates a cozy edge. “We took the tile the whole length of the vanity wall, and also added a white tongue-and-groove ceiling,” explains Kathryn Hetherington, who runs Studio K Design alongside Karlyn Byxbee. “Tiling a whole wall can create interest and depth, even when in a neutral color tone.”
A Gilded Touch
According to Linda Hayslett, principal of a Los Angeles-based design firm called LH. Designs, strategic planning can make an all-white bathroom feel special. “White can still bring the personality—you just have to help it out with some key pieces,” she explains. “Tiles that have interesting shapes or texture for the floors and/or walls along with interesting plumbing fixtures, lighting, and accessories can really help a white bathroom feel refreshing—not like a spec home build.” Hayslett lets this all-white bathroom shine at full wattage with the help of brass hardware.
An Artistic Edge
You might not think of a bath as a place to display your favorite photos or pieces, but Marea Clark thinks a little bit of art can bring a lot of personality into your white room. “It helps give the space more of a lifestyle feel,” the San Francisco designer explains. She perfected the look by pairing a pared-down art piece with a sleek soaking tub. “An all-white bathroom can actually be an opportunity to go more sleek and modern, and really let the beautiful plumbing shine,” she adds.
Bring the Outdoors In
As this all-white bathroom from San Francisco designer Heather Hilliard proves, never underestimate the power of natural lighting. “Designing a space that allows for light to bounce around the room can create a stunning effect,” she says. “Large steel windows, mirrors, and polished nickel accents and hardware all facilitate this.” The sunshine seen here brings a little bit of the great outdoors inside—not to mention the subtle shade offers a dash of drama. Speaking of Mother Nature, an oversized plant gives this all-white bathroom a warm, forest-like feel.
Work in Some Wallpaper
When it comes to decorating a bathroom, tiled walls might seem status quo. However, Los Angeles designer Jennifer Miller thinks it’s time to shake things up. “There are plenty of white and neutral wallcoverings that may be subtle in color but striking in pattern,” she says. “When paired with other white elements like patterned tile and dynamic light fixtures, it can make a dramatic statement.” Looking for some inspiration? Check out this Miller-designed room, which features a subtle botanical repeat alongside a glamorous vanity and microscopic tiles below.
Raise the Bar
San Francisco-based design firm Marsh & Clark took this white bathroom to new heights by installing a series of vaulted ceiling peaks. The dramatic curvatures—which are covered in glossy tiles—prove that even an all-white bathroom can appear a tad moody. Rounding out the room are strategically-placed light fixtures, an angular vanity, and plants for a modern, storybook effect.
Try Some Texture
While there can be a time and place to incorporate a bold accent color, San Francisco designer Emilie Munroe says there’s nothing wrong with keeping an all-white bathroom white. “It can feel both cloud-like and fresh, inspiring both relaxation and a bright start to the day,” she explains. To add some visual intrigue, she recommends sprinkling some different textures throughout the space. In this spacious bath, plush towels, thick shades, and a subtle ribbed detailing on the floor tiles add some much-appreciated warmth.
