The principal designer of Minneapolis-based Randolph Interior Design, Sarah Randolph, is a big fan of using bold color in the bathroom. She shares her professional insights here.
How do you select and pair bold colors in bathroom spaces without overwhelming the design?
The good news is that with a bathroom, you really can’t overdo it. As long as you stick with either color-drenching the space or pairing a bold hue with white or complementary trim, it’s hard to overwhelm the design. That’s the beauty of a bathroom’s confined footprint! If you’re still unsure, deep blues, greens, and jewel tones balanced with the warmth of white oak are always gorgeous – contrast between warm and cool tones typically works well.
Design: Randolph Interior Design. Photography by Rob Grosse // Spacecrafting
Can you share some tips for balancing aesthetics with functionality?
I recommend sticking with darker walls, trim or cabinets instead of dark plumbing, sinks and countertops, which can frequently show water spots and therefore look messy. If it’s a heavily used bathroom, lighter countertops and sinks will always show less – but deep contrast can give the eye more to look at, masking wear and tear. When in doubt, wallpaper is a wonderful go-to. Depending on the substrate, using a vinyl wallpaper can also increase durability.
Design: Randolph Interior Design. Photography by Rob Grosse // Spacecrafting
What are the best materials, finishes and fixtures to complement bold hues in bathrooms?
Bold hues paired with either aged brass or polished nickel finishes are my favorite. I love a little contrast, and the deep color combined with a softer plumbing finish works wonders. Similarly, deep colors with lighter, marble-looking countertops deliver a timeless, sophisticated style. The color can change and be on trend, but the contrast in colors and finishes will always be beautiful.
Design: Randolph Interior Design. Photography by Rob Grosse // Spacecrafting
Can you share a few real-world examples or case studies where bold colors were successfully implemented?
Bold colors on the walls, especially in a bathroom, are a wonderful way to have some fun in a home if you prefer to play it safer throughout the rest of the house. Color drenching the woodwork, trim and cabinetry with a hue pulled from the wallpaper always provides drama. Bold punches of color can bring interest and charm to a small space like a powder room, showcasing personality in a spot guests often frequent. Lastly, a playful pattern on the walls creates a cheerful, happy space.
—Sarah Randolph, Randolph Interior Design
