The Bathroom Color Trend That Instantly Makes Small Spaces Pop

If you have a small bathroom, it can be hard to maximize the space and make it pop. It often feels like there's no room to create a statement piece or decorate until your heart is content. Add a monochromatic neutral palette to the mix, and the whole space can feel pretty blah. Sure, lighter tones have the power to make rooms feel larger and brighter, but they can also stifle all the fun out of a space. Thanks to the color-blocking trend, though, you'll never have to settle for dull bathroom color schemes again.

Now, color-blocking might sound a little intimidating, and rightfully so. Picking colors that go together, inserting just the right amount so it doesn't look clunky, and making sure the result looks intentional (instead of like a kid's art project) are all valid concerns. However, one tip for creating a cohesive color palette for your home – and your bathroom — is to use the basics of color theory. All colors have meanings and energies, and by choosing two complementary colors, or a triadic color scheme with three colors, you're sure to get a color-blocked bathroom with both balance and harmony.

Just because you have a tiny bathroom doesn't mean it doesn't deserve to feel as special as the rest of your house. Luckily, color-blocking can be done even when decorating your bathroom on a budget. Depending on the colors you choose, you could make a bold statement with a pop of bright red or blue against a neutral background. Or, maybe go for darker tones with touches of white or another light hue peppered throughout. Another option is to try a complementary color scheme like blue and orange. 

One easy way to incorporate color-blocking is by creating an accent wall. You can do this with paint, wallpaper, or even tile to maximize style in the tiny space. An accent wall in the bathroom is typically done around the mirror or vanity to bring attention to the area that will be seen the most. Choose your brightest color or a bold, patterned wallpaper to immediately draw the eye when people walk in.

If you don't feel like undertaking bigger renovations like painting or tiling the walls, try adding smaller pops of color with sanitary items or decor pieces. Let's say you have a shower with a shower curtain — switch it out for a vibrant shade or a playful motif. You might even want to use this trick with your bath or hand towels, soap dishes, and artwork or picture frames. As long as you stay consistent with the color you're using, the options are endless. Not to mention, they're easy to refresh should you change your mind.