Orderer's Dilemma: What Sequence Should You Follow When Selecting Bathroom Color Scheme or Tiles – Interior Designers Unveil Their Go-To Method for Harmonious Layout
Creating a Stunning Bathroom Design: Start with Your Color Palette
Designing a bathroom can be an exciting yet daunting task, given the numerous choices available. However, following a strategic approach can help create an elevated and cohesive bathroom design. One of the key strategies is to choose your overall color palette or mood first, then select the tiles that complement that palette and style.
Starting with a clear idea of the color mood—whether calming neutrals, fresh greens, or bold tones—helps anchor decisions and prevents overwhelm, especially in small spaces like bathrooms. Tiles play a significant role in setting the tone through their color, pattern, and texture, so once the color direction is clear, you can select tiles that either harmonize or create a bold statement within that palette.
Jamie Chappell, VP of brand and marketing at Fireclay Tile, recommends choosing bathroom tiles first due to their fixed unique characteristics. A hand-painted green tile with a white line design, for instance, is a trendy yet classic design, ideal for walls and floors. This tile can serve as a bold yet timeless choice, perfect for setting the color palette for your scheme.
If you want a bold or patterned tile as the centerpiece, you might start with tile choice and then pick paint colors that highlight or offset the tile design. Conversely, if you want a calm, cohesive, and broad design foundation, starting with paint color is recommended. The muted microcement used for a raw, textured finish in the Color Casing project is a perfect example of this approach.
Designer Natalie Rebuck advises requesting samples of the paint colors, tiles, and any other materials before committing to a DIY project. This ensures that the chosen colors and materials work well together and create the desired ambiance.
In summary, starting with paint color (color palette and mood) if you want a calm, cohesive, and broad design foundation, choosing tiles next to either blend subtly or add texture/pattern within that palette. If the tile is intended as a bold design statement, start with tiles and select paint colors around them. This sequence helps coordinate fixtures, cabinetry, and decor smoothly.
Whether you're aiming for a dramatic showpiece or an escape from the world, following this approach ensures a harmonious, elevated bathroom aesthetic with a thoughtfully layered design approach. For a fresh and vibrant bathroom, choosing green as the overall color is suggested. For a calmer, neutral bathroom, choosing the color palette first is recommended. In tranquil spaces or Japandi bathrooms, choosing the paint color first makes more sense as it's the main feature.
- Incorporating interior design elements, such as tiles with a hand-painted green design, can help create a bold yet timeless color palette for your bathroom.
- If you're aiming for a calmer, neutral bathroom aesthetic, it may be best to start by choosing a paint color for your color palette first, followed by tiles that complement the chosen hue.
