Bathroom Patterns: Style with Impact
Brandi hagen
How to use pattern in your bathroom
Below you'll learn how to transform your bathroom with patterns that make a statement without overwhelming the room. From creatively arranged patterned tiles to striking wallcoverings in powder rooms, these 7 tips will help you infuse style and personality into one of the smallest spaces in your home.
#1: Choose your focal point
The key to mixing patterns successfully is to start with a focal point. Whether it’s the floor, a shower wall, or a vanity backsplash, select one area where you’ll use a bold pattern. Once you’ve established this focus, the rest of the room can complement the design with more subtle patterns or solid colors.
#2: Mix Scale and Style
Can you mix patterns in a bathroom? Absolutely! When mixing patterns, it's important to vary the scale to create balance. Combine large-scale patterns with smaller ones to avoid visual clutter. Opting for patterns in similar color palettes helps tie the room together cohesively, even with different styles.
#3: Wallcoverings in Powder Rooms
A powder room is the perfect place to experiment with bold patterns. Since these rooms are typically small, you can go all out with a striking patterned wallcovering without feeling like it’s too much. From classic damask prints to playful, modern motifs, adding a wallpaper with pattern brings personality to an otherwise simple room.
#4: Embrace the Power of Neutrals
Patterns don’t have to be bold or colorful to make an impact. Subtle, neutral designs can add visual interest while maintaining a calm, serene feel. Consider how you lay your tiles—whether it’s herringbone, stacked, brick-laid, or chevron— to create a timeless, elegant look that adds depth without overpowering the room.
#5: Use Patterned Accents
If you're hesitant to commit to large areas of pattern, try introducing them through smaller accents. A patterned shower curtain, rugs, towels, or even a decorative tile border can bring in a pop of pattern without overwhelming the space. This approach allows for easy updates if your tastes change down the road, making it an ideal option for those who like to switch things up.
#6: Balance Bold with Simple
The most effective way to mix patterns is to balance bold designs with simpler, solid-colored elements. If you’re using a fun pattern on the wall, opt for a clean, solid tile or paint color or wall covering on the walls.
#7: Add Texture for Depth
Don’t forget that pattern can come through texture as well. Textured tiles or wall panels such as shiplap can bring a layer of depth and interest to your bathroom without needing bright colors or intricate designs. These subtle patterns work particularly well in minimalist bathrooms where you want to keep things sleek but not boring.