Designing a guest bathroom is often more challenging than homeowners anticipate. These spaces need to strike a balance between being welcoming and functional for various visitors. While many opt for traditional neutral hues, experts advise caution, particularly against using pure white. Leading interior designers consistently highlight a single color to avoid: stark, cool white.
According to Kristina Khersonsky of STUDIO KEETA, while white is a classic choice, it often creates an atmosphere that feels sterile. “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,” she explains. The consensus among designers is that such a choice can render a guest bathroom cold and uninviting.
Kristina Lawrence, another prominent designer, points out that white can be particularly harsh in smaller rooms. “In smaller guest baths, pure, hard white can emphasize shadows, making the room feel tighter and less inviting,” she notes. This perspective is echoed by Hannah Blumenthal of Studio Olivine, who warns against stark white paint in spaces that lack natural light. “It’s never the most flattering shade, especially in rooms like guest bathrooms and powder rooms.”
Instead of opting for white, designers suggest embracing colors that add warmth and character. “Guest bathrooms can be a fun place to bring in color,” Blumenthal adds, emphasizing the potential for creativity in these spaces. She recounted a project in Washington, D.C., where a change from a creamy off-white to a more vibrant shade transformed the room dramatically.
Recommended Colors for Guest Bathrooms
Designers advocate for several alternatives that enhance the inviting nature of guest bathrooms. Here are three popular choices that consistently receive high praise:
1. **Earthy Neutrals**: Opting for earthy tones can significantly improve the ambiance of a guest bathroom. Khersonsky recommends shades like warm sand, soft greige, or putty tones. “These colors are still neutral and calming but offer depth and warmth,” she explains. Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene, adds that hues like deep chocolate or gentle stone colors can create a retreat-like atmosphere.
2. **Soft Pinks**: Another trend gaining traction is the use of soft pinks. These warm tones are known for their flattering qualities, particularly under artificial lighting. “Warm shades with subtle pink, red, or orange undertones enhance natural pigments, creating a healthy glow,” says Brynn Olson. Charlotte Cropper, an interior color consultant, advocates for pinks due to their versatility and ability to complement various styles.
3. **Soothing Pastels**: Pastel colors, such as buttery yellows and soft blues, offer a gentle touch to guest bathrooms. Rona Edelman notes that these colors evoke warmth and calm, creating an inviting backdrop. Helen Shaw, a color expert at Benjamin Moore, highlights how soft pastels can soften the hard surfaces commonly found in bathrooms, enhancing relaxation.
Creating an Inviting Atmosphere
To ensure guest bathrooms feel cozy and welcoming, it’s essential to layer decor thoughtfully. Textiles and contrasting materials can add flair and warmth to these functional spaces. For instance, incorporating items like a stylish soap dispenser or a decorative towel can elevate the overall design.
While the advice against using white is clear, designers emphasize that personal style should take precedence. If white works for a particular space and complements the overall design, there is no rule prohibiting its use. However, as a general guideline, steering away from pure white can help avoid the sterility that often accompanies it.
The takeaway for homeowners is to embrace a bolder palette in guest bathrooms, allowing for creative expression in areas that do not require daily use. Colors like plaster pink, sandy beige, or earthy neutrals not only add character but also foster a warm, inviting environment for guests. As interior design trends evolve, the guest bathroom can transform from a forgotten space to a stylish retreat.
