Designing a guest bathroom necessitates a careful balance between style and functionality. Homeowners often default to neutral tones, yet leading interior designers are advising against one common choice: pure, cool white. While white has traditionally been viewed as a timeless option, it can render a bathroom stark and uninviting, compromising the warmth that should characterize these spaces.
When questioned about color preferences for guest bathrooms, designers unanimously highlighted their aversion to white. According to Kristina Khersonsky of STUDIO KEETA, “It feels sterile and, frankly, a little uninspired. It doesn’t bring anything to the space and often ends up feeling more like a hospital room than a considered part of the home.” Her sentiment is echoed by fellow designer Kristina Lawrence, who notes that in smaller bathrooms, harsh white can amplify shadows, making the space appear tighter and less inviting.
The challenge with white paints in compact areas is that they can fail to create the light and airy ambiance homeowners desire, especially in rooms with minimal natural light. Designer Hannah Blumenthal of Studio Olivine advises to “avoid stark white paint in a guest bathroom when possible.” She emphasizes that it is rarely the most flattering color, particularly in spaces like guest bathrooms and powder rooms, which often lack sufficient daylight.
Instead, designers suggest opting for colors that enhance the character of a guest bathroom. They advocate for richer hues that can make these spaces feel cozy and inviting.
Recommended Colors for Guest Bathrooms
1. **Earthy Neutrals**
Moving away from bright white, earthy neutrals are recommended for their depth and softness. “You don’t have to go super bold if you want to avoid using white in a guest bathroom,” Khersonsky points out. She suggests choosing off-whites with undertones, such as warm sand, soft greige, or putty tones. These colors maintain a neutral palette while offering warmth and comfort.
Kristina Lawrence endorses similar hues, advising that a guest bathroom adorned in a warm oat mineral wall color can create a calming atmosphere. “These gentler hues maintain the clean lines of minimalism while introducing enough warmth to help guests feel enveloped and genuinely welcomed,” she adds.
Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene, encourages deep, indulgent tones, mentioning options like Chocolate Colour or softer gray shades like Rolling Fog Dark. These colors wrap the room in comforting warmth, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
2. **Soft Pinks**
For those looking to introduce more color, soft plaster pinks provide a flattering option. These shades add interest while maintaining a calming ambiance. Designer Brynn Olson points out that warm tones are more flattering on skin, contrary to cool greens which can produce an unappealing glow. “Instead, choose warmer shades with subtle pink, red, or orange undertones,” she advises, emphasizing that these colors promote a healthy glow in mirrors.
Interior color consultant Charlotte Cropper supports the use of pinks in guest bathrooms, noting their versatility and flattering effect. She suggests considering pink-based neutrals or earthy rose tones, which can create a welcoming environment.
3. **Soothing Pastels**
Pastel shades, particularly soft yellows and blues, are effective in creating an inviting atmosphere. Rona Edelman states that colors like pale yellow or sage evoke warmth and calm without overwhelming the senses. “They create a gentle, inviting backdrop that helps guests feel comfortable and relaxed,” she explains.
Color expert Helen Shaw from Benjamin Moore adds that soothing pastels counterbalance the harsh lines and hard surfaces typically found in bathrooms. She recommends soft pastels such as pale blues, greens, and lavenders to foster a sanctuary-like feel.
In conclusion, while the conventional choice of white may be tempting for guest bathrooms, designers advocate for a more thoughtful approach. By introducing earthy neutrals, soft pinks, and soothing pastels, homeowners can create spaces that are not only functional but also warm and inviting. These colors allow for creativity and personality, transforming guest bathrooms into welcoming retreats.
