Colour has the power to influence how we perceive space. In a small bathroom, implementing the right bathroom colour ideas can make the room feel airy and open, while the wrong choice can leave it feeling cramped and claustrophobic. Beyond space perception, colour also sets the mood—some colours can create a calming retreat, and others can add cosiness and energy.
Let’s dive into some of the best small bathroom colour ideas for London homes that will inspire you to create a space you’ll love.
Beautiful Small Bathroom Colour Ideas You Can Consider
Choosing the right small bathroom paint colour is the first step to transforming your small bathroom into a stylish sanctuary.
Here are the top bathroom colour ideas for small bathrooms in London:
Classic and Timeless Colours
Some colours come and go, but classic shades always stand the test of time. If you’re aiming for a look that never goes out of style, classic and timeless colours are your best bet. These shades are perfect for creating a clean, elegant, and spacious feel in your small bathroom.
1. Crisp White for a Clean and Airy Look
There is a good reason why using white colour is one of the go-to small bathroom colour ideas for many London homeowners. It reflects light beautifully, making even the smallest bathrooms feel bigger and more open. It’s the perfect blank canvas, allowing your tiles, fixtures, and accessories to stand out without competing for attention.
Try Farrow & Ball’s “All White” (No. 2005) for a pure, bright finish. Pair it with glossy white tiles and chrome fixtures for a sleek, modern vibe or a matte finish for a softer touch.
2. Soft Beige for a Warm, Neutral Feel
Not a fan of stark white? Soft beige is the perfect alternative. This colour can add warmth and pairs beautifully with natural wood accents, marble countertops and warm-toned tiles.
A go-to option is Dulux’s “Natural Hessian” —a soft, earthy beige that blends beautifully with both modern and traditional decor.
3. Light Grey for a Modern, Versatile Style
Grey is one of those colours that has surged in popularity over the last decade—and it’s easy to see why. It’s neutral yet interesting, sophisticated yet understated. When used correctly, it can make a small bathroom feel sleek and contemporary without feeling too cold.
For a soft, warm-toned grey, Farrow & Ball’s “Cornforth White” (No. 228) is a great choice. Despite its name, it’s actually a beautiful light grey with just enough warmth that does not make the room feel dark or cramped.
4. Warm Taupe for a Cosy, Elegant Space
Somewhere between grey and beige lies taupe—a perfect blend of warmth and sophistication. It’s one of those colours that makes a space feel rich and welcoming. It’s especially ideal for London homes where natural light can sometimes be limited.
A beautiful option is Farrow & Ball’s “London Stone” (No. 6) —a rich, earthy shade that works wonderfully with brass fixtures, wooden accents, or crisp white trims. If you want a small bathroom colour idea that feels classic yet modern, taupe is a great way to achieve that balance.
5. Off-White and Cream for a Subtle, Sophisticated Look
Looking for a colour that can be used as an alternative to plain white? Then go for off-white or cream! Any of these can add subtle depth to your small bathroom.
To implement this small bathroom colour idea, try Farrow & Ball’s “Pointing” (No. 2003) to achieve a warm off-white colour that works beautifully with brass fixtures and adds a touch of sophistication.
Cool and Refreshing Tones
Sometimes, all a small bathroom needs is a breath of fresh air—literally and visually. Soft, cool hues can make a space feel open, clean, and relaxing.
If you love the idea of bringing a sense of calm into your bathroom, these modern bathroom colour ideas for small bathrooms might be exactly what you’re looking for.
6. Soft Pastels for a Gentle, Uplifting Feel
Pastels are a game-changing colour for small bathrooms. They add personality without overpowering the space. Soft blues bring in a sky-like airiness, light greens evoke nature, and gentle lavenders add a dreamy, spa-like touch.
These colours reflect light beautifully, making them perfect for bathrooms that feel a bit cramped.
7. Sky Blue for a Light and Airy Feel
A classic choice that never goes out of style. Sky blue makes any small bathroom feel open and fresh, almost like stepping into a peaceful morning sky.
A soft, muted shade like Farrow & Ball’s “Pale Powder” (No. 204) pairs well with white fixtures, giving your space a bright, breezy aesthetic. It’s one of the most timeless colour ideas for small bathrooms if you’re after that effortlessly refreshing look.
8. Mint Green for a Fresh and Natural Vibe
There’s something undeniably soothing about mint green. It’s cool without feeling cold, bright without being overpowering.
Dulux’s “Mint Macaroon” (90GY 65/153) is a fantastic pick if you want a soft, rejuvenating vibe. It works beautifully with white subway tiles and wooden accents, making it a great option for a natural, spa-inspired bathroom painting idea.
9. Pale Aqua for a Coastal, Relaxing Atmosphere
Dreaming of a small bathroom that feels like a coastal retreat? Pale aqua is the colour to choose from.
A shade like Benjamin Moore’s “Beach Glass” (1564) brings in that effortless seaside charm. It’s subtle but adds enough colour to keep things interesting. Try pairing it with soft sandy tones and natural materials like rattan or bamboo for the full beachy effect.
10. Cool Grey-Blue for a Modern, Serene Look
For a bathroom colour scheme for small bathrooms that leans more contemporary, a cool grey-blue is the way to go. It’s sophisticated but still calming, ideal for those who want a modern but inviting bathroom.
Farrow & Ball’s “Pavilion Blue” (No. 252) is a deeper take on this shade, perfect for an accent wall or a painted vanity against crisp white walls.
Bold and Dramatic Shades
Not all small bathroom colour ideas need to be light and airy. Sometimes, going bold can actually make a small space feel more stylish and intentional.
Darker hues add drama, contrast, and a touch of luxury—without making the space feel suffocating. If you love moody interiors, these bathroom painting ideas will inspire you.
11. Deep Navy for a Luxe, Moody Look
Few colours bring instant sophistication, like deep navy. It’s bold yet timeless, especially with gold or brass fixtures.
Farrow & Ball’s “Hague Blue” (No. 30) is a rich, inky shade that works beautifully for an accent wall, cabinetry, or even the entire space if balanced with bright lighting and reflective surfaces. It’s one of the most elegant bathroom colour ideas for small bathrooms if you want a deep, moody ambience.
12. Charcoal Grey for a Bold and Sophisticated Feel
If black feels too harsh but you still want that dramatic effect, charcoal grey is the perfect alternative. It adds depth and contrast without making a small bathroom feel claustrophobic.
Benjamin Moore’s “Kendall Charcoal” HC-166 is a versatile shade that works well with marble tiles and metallic finishes like brushed brass or chrome.
13. Emerald Green for a Rich, Jewel-Toned Look
For those who love rich jewel tones, emerald green is a showstopper. It’s bold but elegant, dramatic but surprisingly inviting.
A shade like Benjamin Moore’s “Hunter Green” (2041-10) creates a luxurious, nature-inspired atmosphere. If you’re feeling adventurous, paint the entire space in this colour and add brass hardware for a striking contrast.
14. Dark Teal for a Modern and Striking Bathroom
Deep, sophisticated, and slightly unexpected—dark teal is a stunning choice for a small bathroom. It has the depth of navy but with a touch more warmth, making it feel inviting rather than cold.
Farrow & Ball’s “Pigeon” (No. 25) is a muted teal with grey undertones, perfect for a modern yet classic feel. Alternatively, you can choose Sherwin-Williams “Oceanside” SW 6496 if you prefer bolder, more saturated dark teal that delivers a modern, striking bathroom aesthetic.
15. Burgundy or Wine Red for a Dramatic and Warm Touch
If you want a truly unique bathroom painting idea, try burgundy or wine red. These deep, rich colours add warmth and elegance, making even the smallest bathroom feel luxurious.
Benjamin Moore’s “Dinner Party” AF-300 is a fantastic option—deep, velvety, and perfect when paired with white or gold accents.
Nature-Inspired & Earthy Hues
Bringing the outdoors inside is one of the best small bathroom colour ideas to make a tiny bathroom feel calming, fresh, and inviting. Earthy tones inspired by nature—muted greens, warm browns, and soft beiges—create a spa-like retreat, making even the smallest spaces feel grounded and serene.
If you’re drawn to natural elements like stone, wood, and greenery, these bathroom painting ideas are perfect for you.
16. Sage Green for a Calming and Organic Feel
There’s something about sage green that instantly relaxes the mind. It’s soft, muted, and effortlessly elegant. This colour works wonders in a small bathroom, especially with natural materials like wooden shelves or stone countertops.
A shade like Sherwin-Williams “Sea Salt” SW 6204 brings a subtle richness to the space without overwhelming it.
17. Terracotta for a Warm, Mediterranean Look
Terracotta is a warm, earthy tone that brings a Mediterranean vibe to small bathrooms. This rich, earthy tone brings a hint of the Mediterranean, making the space feel sun-kissed and full of character.
Farrow & Ball’s “Red Earth” (No. 64) is a beautiful reddish-brown shade that works wonderfully with white tiles, brass fixtures, and rustic wooden accents. It’s a bold choice, but when done right, it turns a compact bathroom into a cosy, stylish retreat.
18. Sandstone Beige for an Earthy, Spa-Like Vibe
Many people think neutral colours are outright dull, but it’s not. Here is one of the small bathroom colour ideas that proves that. Sandstone beige is the perfect example of a warm, earthy tone that adds depth without making a small bathroom feel flat.
It brings that soft, spa-like atmosphere that works beautifully with natural textures like linen, rattan, and bamboo. Sherwin-Williams “Accessible Beige” (SW 7036) is a go-to shade for this look—subtle, sophisticated, and endlessly versatile.
19. Olive Green for a Bold, Yet Natural Feel
For those who want something bolder but still want an earthy feel, olive green is a top contender for bathroom colour schemes for small bathrooms. It’s rich, moody, and pairs beautifully with both modern and vintage elements.
Farrow & Ball’s “Bancha” (No. 298) is a stunning, deep green that works especially well in bathrooms with brass or black fixtures.
20. Clay or Rust for an Earthy, Bohemian Style
Clay or rust tones are perfect for creating a bohemian-inspired bathroom. They add warmth, depth, and a slightly rustic edge that works well with vintage decor and textured materials.
Johnstone’s “Crushed Cinnamon” is a perfect example of this—a deep, warm reddish-brown that instantly makes a space feel more pleasant. Combine it with woven baskets, warm wood, and soft lighting for a cosy, well-balanced look.
Playful and Vibrant Colour Ideas
Whether you want to create a cosy retreat or a lively oasis, the colours you choose can set the mood.
Here are some fun and vibrant small bathroom colour ideas that can really bring your small bathroom to life:
21. Blush Pink for a Soft, Feminine Touch
Blush pink is a soft, feminine shade that adds warmth and charm. A shade like Farrow & Ball’s “Pink Ground” (No. 202) brings a subtle, rosy glow to a small bathroom.
It blends beautifully with white, grey, or even navy accents, giving you plenty of flexibility when styling your space.
22. Peach or Coral for a Fun and Energetic Look
Searching for a small, colourful bathroom idea that will bring the vibe of freshness and playfulness? Try peach and coral colours.
Benjamin Moore’s “Coral Gables” (2019-40) is a stunning, rich peachy shade that pairs beautifully with white or navy accents. It’s a fun way to inject personality into a small bathroom without overpowering the area.
23. Black & White Monochrome for a Chic Look
Black and white is a timeless combination that adds drama and sophistication. Use Farrow & Ball’s “Railings” (No. 31) for a deep, inky black and couple it with crisp white tiles for a high-contrast, monochrome scheme.
To achieve a genuinely crisp and bright white that goes well with “Railings,” you might opt for Benjamin Moore “Simply White” OC-117. This white is versatile, avoiding an overly harsh look, and offers an ideal contrast.
24. Sunny Yellow for a Cheerful and Bright Bathroom
Sunny yellow is a great choice if you are looking for small bathroom colouring ideas that instantly cheer up a small bathroom space.
Dulux’s “Buttercup” (45YY 83/250) is a perfect example of a warm, golden yellow that works beautifully as an accent wall or even just for accessories like rugs, or a painted vanity. If your bathroom lacks natural light, yellow is a great way to bring some sunshine indoors.
Creative Small Bathroom Colour Ideas & Paint Techniques
Painting your small bathrooms is not just about the colour you choose or the small bathroom colour ideas you have; it’s also about how you use it according to your taste and lifestyle. Creative paint techniques and smart design choices can make a huge difference in how your space looks and feels.
Let’s explore some innovative ideas to improve your small bathroom’s design.
25. Two-Tone Walls: A Stylish Way to Add Depth
Two-tone walls are a fantastic way to add visual interest and depth to a small bathroom. By combining two complementary colours, you can create a dynamic look that draws the eye and makes the space feel larger.
For example, pair Farrow & Ball’s “Pale Powder” (No. 204) with Hague Blue (No. 30) for a fresh, modern contrast. Paint the lower half of the wall in a darker shade and the upper half in a lighter one to create a sense of height.
26. Colour Choices for Impactful Accent Walls
An accent wall is a great way to introduce a bold colour without overwhelming the space.
Consider painting the wall behind the vanity or bathtub in a striking shade like Farrow & Ball’s “Green Smoke” (No. 47). This creates a focal point and adds personality to your bathroom.
27. Half-Painted Walls for a Trendy Look
Half-painted walls are a trendy and practical option for small bathrooms. Paint the lower half of the wall in a darker shade and leave the upper half white or light-coloured.
This technique not only adds visual interest but also protects the walls from splashes and moisture. Try Little Greene’s “Lamp Black” No. 228 for the lower half and Farrow & Ball’s “All White” (No. 2005) for the upper half.
28. Paint Colours for Bathrooms with No Windows
Windowless bathrooms can feel dark and cramped, but the right paint colour can make all the difference.
Opt for light, reflective shades like Farrow & Ball’s “Skimming Stone” (No. 241) or Benjamin Moore’s “Simply White” (OC-117). These colours bounce light around the room, making it feel brighter and more spacious.
29. Maximising Natural Light with Reflective Colour Palettes
If your bathroom lacks natural light, choose high-LRV (light reflective value) colours to maximise the light you do have.
Pale pastels like Dulux’s “Mint Macaroon” or soft neutrals like Farrow & Ball’s “Pointing” (No. 2003) are excellent choices. Pair these with glossy tiles or satin-finish paint to enhance light reflection.
30. Coloured Bathroom Fixtures: Sinks, Tubs & Vanities in Bold Hues
Why stick to white when you can have a vibrant sink or bathtub? Using coloured fixtures is a fun small bathroom colour idea to add a pop of personality.
Consider a blush pink basin or a teal freestanding tub as a focal point. Couple these bold pieces with neutral walls to keep the space balanced.
31. Brightly Coloured Bathroom Doors for a Fun Pop of Colour
A brightly coloured door can transform your small bathroom into a playful, inviting space. Try painting your door in a bold shade like Farrow & Ball’s “Charlotte’s Locks” (No. 268), a rich, warm red, or Dulux’s “Emerald Glade” for a fresh, vibrant look.
This works especially well in cloakrooms or powder rooms.
32. Personalise Your Bathroom with Colourful Accessories
Using accessories is an easy and affordable idea to introduce colour into your small bathroom. Think vibrant towels, rugs, and storage baskets in shades like sunny yellow, emerald green, or coral.
Add a colourful framed print or a set of wall hooks in a contrasting hue for an extra touch of personality.
33. Textured Paint for a High-End Small Bathroom Look
Textured paint techniques, such as limewash or Venetian plaster, add depth and sophistication to small bathrooms. These finishes create a tactile, high-end look that works well in both modern and traditional spaces.
Try Bauwerk’s Lime Paint in a soft beige or pale grey for a luxurious, organic feel.
Pro Tips & Bathroom Colour Ideas for Small Bathrooms
If you’ve explored the small bathroom colour ideas mentioned above, you may have chosen a paint colour or are still weighing your options.
As experts in bathroom renovation and fittings in London, we believe these tips will further enhance your planning process:
Brighten with Light Colours and Mirrors: Use light, reflective colours like Farrow & Ball’s “Pale Powder” or Dulux’s “Egyptian Cotton” paired with a large mirror opposite the light source to amplify brightness and create an airy feel.
Add Texture and Depth with Wainscoting or Panels: Incorporate wainscoting or textured panels like shiplap, painting the upper half in a light shade and the lower half in a contrasting colour like “Hague Blue” for a timeless, two-tone effect.
Create Height with Vertical Stripes or Patterns: Use vertical stripes in shades like Farrow & Ball’s “Skimming Stone” or introduce geometric patterns with stencils or tiles to visually elongate the space.
Personalise with Subtle Murals or Bold Wallpaper: Add a unique focal point with a subtle mural (e.g., tropical leaves) or make a statement with metallic wallpaper featuring gold, silver, or copper accents.
Enhance Brightness with Glossy Tiles and Light Flooring: Use glossy subway tiles in white or pale pastels and opt for light-coloured flooring to make the space feel larger and more open.
Incorporate Contrast with Floating Shelves or Colourful Furniture: Install floating shelves in a contrasting colour (e.g., white against navy) or add playful energy with colourful furniture like a pink or teal vanity.
Choose Moisture-Resistant Wallpaper for Style and Durability: Opt for moisture-resistant wallpaper with floral prints or geometric patterns, like Graham & Brown’s “Bamboo Forest,” for a stylish yet practical solution.
Balance Dark Shades with Light Accents: If using dark colours, limit them to accent walls or cabinetry and combine them with light ceilings, mirrors, or glossy tiles to avoid a cramped feel.
Stick to a Simple, Timeless Palette: Use soft neutrals like beige, taupe, or light grey for a calming look, and avoid overly trendy shades to ensure long-lasting appeal.
Mix Textures for Depth and Interest: Combine matte walls with glossy tiles, wood accents, or metallic finishes to add dimension and style without overwhelming the space.
Test Colours and Consider Lighting: Always test paint samples on your walls and observe them at different times of the day to ensure they work well with your bathroom’s lighting.
Final words on small bathroom colouring
Designing a small bathroom doesn’t mean sacrificing style. From crisp whites and soft pastels to bold navy and earthy terracotta, there’s a colour palette to suit every small bathroom. Be it for a compact ensuite, a cloakroom or a powder room, Implementing the small bathroom colour ideas we’ve discussed can help you transform your bathroom into a stylish and functional oasis.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends or family who are planning their own small bathroom makeover. Contact us today at +44 7707-603 548 for any assistance regarding bathroom installation or renovation. Thank you for reading!