Bathrooms are the most underutilized places in terms of adding a splash of color, but they can have amazing potential to make a statement in design. Have you ever thought how several accents of red color could turn your bathroom into a cool, welcoming place? In this article, I will guide you through the numerous ways you can add red to your bathroom design, including dramatic tiles and accent walls, to subtle accessories that make a huge statement. You will know how to select the appropriate shades, combine them with other colors and make a modern, cohesive appearance that is personal and professional.
Regardless of whether you are going to do a complete remodeling or simply update the current one, these tips will help you achieve the right balance between the bright design and practicality. And now, we are going to see how red accents can make your bathroom fresh and revitalizing.
Bold Beginnings: Introducing Red Accents In Bathroom Design
As soon as I begin to think about red accents in a bathroom, the first thing that comes to my mind is that they can make it warm and personal immediately. A bathroom that has well selected red items becomes more lively and expressive immediately. Red is also perfect in small powder rooms as well as large master bathrooms since it can be used in small doses, such as one decorative piece, or in large doses, such as an entire wall.
I usually suggest introducing red with permanent features such as tiles or freestanding bathtubs when you are sure of the style, or with removable items such as mirrors, linens and rugs when you want to be able to change more easily. This will allow you to regulate the amount of red you are adding and the way it will blend with other colors within the space.
In my personal projects, I have discovered that the red color used in the bathroom makes it less clinical and friendlier. According to design expert Jonathan Adler, who once said in an interview, every room requires some wow factor and the fastest way to achieve it is through color. Red does that wow in spades.
Choosing The Perfect Shade Of Red For Your Bathroom
The key to making sure that your bathroom does not feel like an overpowering red is to choose the correct shade of red. I tend to use a more muted color such as terracotta or deep burgundy in my work to add a sophisticated feel, whereas bright scarlet or cherry red is better suited to a bright and modern feel.
You should also look at the lighting in your bathroom before making a shade choice. The richer tones can be better highlighted by artificial lighting, whereas bright reds can be very beautiful under natural light. To test how the color will perform during the day, you can test small pieces of paint or tile in the real space.
I have discovered that a wrong shade can make a bathroom look too tight or too intense, and the right shade takes the entire design to another level. I would recommend using warm reds with creamy neutrals to create a warm feel or with crisp whites to create a cool, clean feel.
Red Tiles That Transform Your Bathroom Walls
Red tiles on the walls of the bathroom can produce a beautiful focal point, which is durable and easy to clean. I would like to use glossy subway tiles to make it sleek and modern or patterned Moroccan-inspired tiles to make it a bit artsy.
A wall of red tiles behind the vanity or within the shower enclosure is usually sufficient to transform the whole area. Glazed tiles have reflective properties that diffuse the light and prevent the bold coloring to be too heavy.
I think the method is particularly effective in minimalist bathrooms, where the red tiles can be used to their full potential without having to contend with too many other design features. They can be further accentuated by adding contrasting grout colors such as white or charcoal.
Statement Red Bathtubs For A Luxurious Soak
A red bathtub is the focal point of any bathroom that transforms a utilitarian object into a piece of art. I adore how a freestanding clawfoot tub in glossy crimson can bring vintage glamour, and a sleek, modern tub in matte red is bold and on the edge.
When you have such an eye-catching piece, I suggest surrounding walls and flooring to be neutral to allow the tub to be the center of attention. The accessories such as a red soap dish or a matching bath tray can be used to echo the main color in a subtle way.
Personally, I have had clients who opted to have a red bathtub and they tend to say that it is what makes their bathroom look unique. This option is particularly effective when the customer considers his or her bathroom a personal oasis and desires every element to be customized to his or her taste.
Red Vanity Units For A Striking Focal Point
A red vanity adds immediate color to the bathroom without overwhelming the room. Depending on the modern or more elegant look I would recommend high gloss finishes or matte lacquer.
Selecting a vanity in a bright color of red attracts attention at once and gives a focal point to other design features. It can be combined with a white countertop to contrast with it or a black stone top to add drama. An additional touch of class is given by chrome or brass hardware.
In my opinion, a red vanity is a good investment to anyone who wants to customize his or her bathroom but still maintain the functionality of the layout. It is an art that has form and purpose in one.
Incorporating Red In Bathroom Cabinets And Storage
Color can also be introduced to your bathroom subtly through red cabinets and storage units that will also help you to organize. My personal favorite is to suggest built-in cabinets that have been painted a deep red to give a unified appearance or open shelving in a lighter red to give it a playful, contemporary touch.
It is practical, and I usually prefer moisture-resistant finishes to maintain a fresh appearance of painted surfaces. The color brings the warmth and even the most functional storage feels like it is a part of the design.
I have found in practice that clients love how these little splashes of red can be adjusted to fit their home, whether it is a small over-the-toilet shelf or a full-height linen cupboard. It is a simple method of maintaining the bathroom clean and adding character.
Red Accent Walls To Add Drama And Warmth
The red accent wall can transform the whole mood of a bathroom without the necessity of the complete remodelling. I like matte or satin paint finishes to look more sophisticated or textured wallpaper to add depth.
The technique works especially well behind a vanity mirror or a bathtub, where the wall is already an interesting feature. Here lighting is important too – wall sconces or pendant lights will make the red glow and give a warm and inviting effect.
As a result of my own projects, I have witnessed how a red wall can change the atmosphere of plain to polished within a few hours. It is an affordable, high-impact upgrade.
Combining Red And White For A Crisp Bathroom Look
I have always liked the combination of red and white in the bathroom as it produces a fresh and timeless style. The intensity of red is softened by the brightness of white, which makes the space balanced and welcoming. It is a combination that fits in both contemporary and traditional rooms.
In practice, I like to use white tiles or walls as a background and use red by using cabinets, towels, or decoration. In this manner, the room is light and airy but with a good visual point of interest.
In my opinion, this mixture makes the bathroom simple to clean in terms of appearance. Red gives character and the white keeps the area open and clean-looking- a balance that most homeowners value.
Pairing Red With Black For A Bold Contrast
Red and black are one of my favorite combinations when I want to make a drama in a bathroom. Black, deep and dark colors increase the brightness of red and the whole space looks chic and luxurious.
I usually suggest matte black fixtures or wall tiles with a bright red vanity or an accent wall. Such a high-contrast design is most effective in bathrooms that receive plenty of light, so that the dark details do not make the room feel cramped.
I have observed over the years that this combination is attractive to people who desire to have a statement-making bathroom that is high-end. It is risky yet so fulfilling when done well.
Mixing Red And Gold For A Glamorous Touch
When you incorporate gold into a red bathroom design, you automatically bring it to the level of luxury. I like to use gold in fixtures, mirror frames or cabinet hardware, which balances off the richness of red.
An example would be a deep red vanity with gold handles, which makes a strong focal point, and gold framed mirrors on a red accent wall which are very elegant. The trick is to have moderation, otherwise the appearance of gold may be overwhelming.
I think this is a particularly good combination in powder rooms, where a little luxury can make the little room feel special. It is a popular one with customers who adore glamour but not to an excessive degree.
Subtle Red Accents Through Towels And Linens
Anyone who is not sure about making changes permanently can incorporate red accents into the room by using towels and linens as a safe, versatile solution. I prefer to suggest high-quality towels of bright colors, which can immediately update the image of the bathroom.
These items can be changed out with the season or mood and they are a cheap option to play with color. The depth can be achieved by layering the various shades of red, crimson to coral.
As an individual, I believe that this is the ideal way to rent or even experiment on whether red is the right color to them. It is low commitment and high impact.
Using Red Rugs And Mats For Color And Comfort
Red rugs or bath mats in a bathroom will do two things simultaneously: make it comfortable on the feet and add a splash of color. I like thick, absorbent mats in deep red to create a rich, cozy impression or flat-weave rugs in lighter colors to create a more casual atmosphere.
Rugs and mats are also a chance to add some patterns, such as geometric patterns or some slight stripes, which will unify the color scheme.
I think this is one of the simplest methods of adding red to the bathroom. It is effective both in big and small rooms and can be transformed every time you feel like having a new style.
Red Shower Curtains As An Instant Statement Piece
The atmosphere in the bathroom can be changed in a few seconds with a red shower curtain. I tend to recommend solid colors that are bold, to achieve a modern look, or patterned designs with red accents to have a more playful style.
A red curtain, in combination with neutral walls and flooring, becomes the main visual element in the room that attracts attention at once.
Through my experience, I have observed that clients like this option because it is cheap and easy to change. It is also an excellent method of trying out how comfortable you feel living with such a bold color before investing in more permanent aspects.
Red Lighting Fixtures For A Warm Glow
Less popular, yet very effective, is the use of red lighting fixtures which can be used to create atmosphere in a bathroom. My favorite lighting is pendant lights with red glass shades or wall sconces that provide a warm reddish light.
The fixtures are also very effective when combined with other minor red elements in the room to produce a unified yet distinctive appearance. The overall mood can be changed with the help of lighting that makes the bathroom warmer and more welcoming.
In my view red light is ideal in the evening, when you need the bathroom to be relaxing and spa like.
Red Mirrors And Frames To Elevate The Space
I have never understood that a mirror is not only a practical object in the bathroom but also a design element. The red frame around the mirror immediately draws attention and makes a focal point. The contrast in an otherwise neutral bathroom adds life to this space and can establish the tone of the rest of the decor. The trick is selecting a red that will work with your current color scheme-dark crimson to be elegant or a bright cherry to be energetic.
Frame-wise, I tend to suggest high-gloss lacquer to give a smooth, contemporary effect or matte painted wood to give a more gentle touch. The mirror can be matched with identical red picture frames on the walls to give a unifying effect. These frames are also good when they are balanced with chrome or brushed nickel fixtures to maintain the overall feel fresh and modern.
I have found that this small addition can change the space without having to do a complete renovation. According to one designer, Jonathan Adler, a bright color around a mirror will make people look up and will create the illusion of height, which is ideal in a small bathroom.
To make this look even more special, I would put some LED backlighting around the mirror, so the red frame would light up in the evenings, both providing some functionality and a dramatic effect.
Integrating Red Artwork In Bathroom Decor
Bathroom art is a personal style, and adding red art can make that statement even more. I prefer waterproof or moisture-resistant prints so that they can withstand the humid climate. The red colors are able to unify other accents within the room, and the design will not look accidental.
In selecting pieces I am drawn more to abstract prints in deep ruby or burgundy accents, which are elegant, yet not too much. Rather, the room can be liven up and made unique with red strong floral or geometric patterns.
In my opinion, art in a bathroom must not be random. Nate Berkus, an expert in interior design has proposed that memorable interiors are made by art in unexpected locations and I completely agree with this.
I would also add more depth and storage to this concept by adding a thin red floating shelf to hang smaller framed works on, creating an added level of depth and storage to the design.
Red Soap Dispensers And Accessories For Small Pops Of Color
Among the most effortless methods of introducing the red accents into the bathroom is using accessories such as soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, and little jars of storage. I have applied this method to rental spaces where I cannot make a permanent change and the impact is quite transformational.
I prefer to use the quality ceramic or glass dispensers with deep red color to have a more luxurious impression. Transparent red acrylic pieces can be used to give a modern playful feel. The arrangement of these items with matching hand towels or a red bath mat gives the impression of harmony.
Based on experience, such minute details are perceived more than people would imagine. Accessories, as House Beautiful once pointed out, are the jewelry of a room they finish it.
To go an extra mile, I would incorporate a red tray to hold all these accessories together, which makes them not only functional, but visually striking as well.
Red Accent Shelves For Style And Storage
Shelving is an excellent combination of style and storage and painting or fitting shelves in red can make a functional need a design feature. I usually install such shelves above the toilet or next to the vanity to utilize the wall space.
To make the shelves pop, a high-gloss finish is the best choice, and matte red shelves are more modest. I prefer to combine them with white or light-colored walls to create the maximum contrast.
I think that shelves are the best place to present decorative jars, rolled towels, and small plants, which give some texture and divide the color block.
I would add some discreet under-shelf lighting to give it a soft glow that would help to accentuate the red and make the bathroom look more luxurious, were I to elaborate on this.
Combining Red Accents With Natural Wood Elements
The red and natural wood combination is timeless, it brings a warm and modern feeling. I have used this combination in bathrooms where the wood is used in vanities, shelving or even wood-look tiles. The red details are used to add liveliness and the wood makes everything more down to earth.
I usually work with red towels, storage baskets or vases on walnut or oak. The trick is to match the intensity of the red to the richness of the wood so that neither suppresses the other.
In my opinion, this combination is more effective in rooms that have good natural lighting, which makes the depth of both colors come out. Architectural Digest designers have also emphasized the success of the combination of daring and natural materials to create a balanced appearance.
I would further this design by including a red ceramic soap dish on a wooden vanity top as a simple but eye-catching addition.
Red Floral Arrangements For A Refreshing Touch
Red flowers, whether fresh or artificial, can immediately make a bathroom look brighter and have a bit of nature indoors. I have discovered that a group of roses, tulips or even tropical flowers such as anthuriums are beautiful in a neutral bathroom setting.
The room can be softened and made elegant by a tall vase on the vanity or a smaller arrangement on a red shelf. I would suggest using glass or ceramic vases in white, black or clear finish so that the flowers themselves are the star.
I have observed that in my own designs, flowers bring dynamism and make the space not to appear stagnant. Seasonal floral updates have been one of the tips Martha Stewart Living has always suggested to give a room a new look without investing too much in it.
To make the arrangement even more impressive, I would add foliage with deep green leaves in order to contrast with the red flowers.
Red Mosaic Tiles For A Unique Feature Wall
Nothing is more dramatic than a red mosaic tile feature wall. I would prefer to apply this technique in shower enclosures or behind the vanity to make a striking focal point. The small tiles are textural and reflect the light so well, particularly when you select a combination of matte and glossy finishes.
In the choice of mosaics, I usually prefer glass or porcelain as they are durable. The reds can be solid to give a clean appearance or varied to give a more dynamic appearance. When paired with white grout, it looks really bright; when paired with dark grout, it is more moody and intimate.
I think it is best done with the rest of the bathroom kept minimal so the mosaic can shine. It is a fact that many professional designers believe that statement walls are a classic method of adding personality to a bathroom.
I would go a notch higher by incorporating recessed lighting on top of the feature wall to give the tile its natural shine and depth.
Red Bathrobes And Storage Hooks For Cozy Elegance
I have always loved bathrooms that resemble mini spa retreats and having plush red bathrobes can instantly give that effect. They are also a decoration by being hung on fashionable wall hooks. Their pop of color is fantastic against neutral or monochrome walls, to break up the space with warmth and personality.
In choosing red bathrobes, I usually go with thick cotton terry because it is soft and durable. Brushed brass or matte black hooks give a sophisticated contrast to the fabric. Putting them close to the shower or bathtub will make them functional and act as visual interest.
Personally, I think that such minor details make a bathroom look not only lived-in, but also luxurious. Oprah Daily even recommended to make your bathroom a home spa, and I would say that a major part of it is to add some warm and colorful details to it.
To make this even better, I would place a small red storage basket below the hooks to store slippers or folded towels and have a functional and cohesive corner.
Red Accent Niches Inside The Shower Area
A shower niche is a great place to have some fun with color and a red tiled niche can make a daily necessity a design feature. I have applied this concept to a few projects and it has never failed to earn compliments on its unexpected but classy boldness.
I prefer to line the niche with glass or ceramic tiles in deep red colors so that it stands out against the neutral or stone tiles around. The niche can contain necessities such as bottles of shampoo, but I suggest matching their color to give a clean look.
I think that a red niche is most effective in a modern or transitional bathroom, where it is purposeful and architectural. Elle Decor designers have commended accent niches as a way of breaking up large surfaces without overwhelming them.
In case I was continuing to develop this design, I would incorporate hidden LED strip lighting within the niche to accentuate the red and add a luxe spa ambiance.
Red Patterns And Prints On Bathroom Textiles
You can also incorporate red patterns in the bathroom with textiles shower curtains, towels, rugs without making permanent alterations. I have done bathrooms where a patterned shower curtain in a loud color was the focal point of the design.
I tend to wear patterns that have a white or neutral background so the red does not dominate. Geometric, floral or even the slightest stripes are good, depending on the general theme of the bathroom. Visual consistency is achieved by matching the pattern of hand towels and bath mats.
Patterned textiles have been particularly handy in guest bathrooms, where they can immediately make the place look more welcoming and styled. This idea is perfectly matched with the recommendation of Better Homes & Gardens to change the pattern of linens to redecorate a room seasonally.
To complement this I would place a patterned towel on top of a solid red bath mat to create a balanced curated effect.
Seasonal Red Accents For Festive Bathroom Updates
I am fond of switching up the little things in the bathroom to reflect the seasons, and red is ideal to switch up in a festive way- especially around winter holidays or Valentine Day. The red towels, candles, and soap dispensers are swapped and the space is converted immediately.
I suggest storing seasonal items in labeled bins to make them easily rotated. As an example, winter may have deep crimson accents whereas summer may have a brighter cherry tone and white.
Personally, through my design experience, I understand that seasonal changes are enough to make the bathroom feel new without necessarily having to do a complete remodeling. The Real Simple experts also point out the advantages of seasonal decorating to have a dynamic home.
Going the extra mile, I would include a small red wreath or themed wall art over the towel rack to make a small but festive statement.
Red Accents In Minimalist Bathroom Designs
Simple bathrooms work best with minimalist design, yet one red object can create a dramatic centerpiece. I tend to have one bold element such as a red stool, vanity vessel sink, or a wall-mounted cabinet to contrast with the clean lines and neutral palette.
In minimalist settings, it is all about restraint. The red ought to be deliberate rather than incidental, so I prefer smooth, solid surfaces without fussy textures. The lack of clutter makes the strong color even stronger.
I have observed that the minimalists like this style since it adds character without interfering with the general serenity. Color blocking in minimalism has been discussed by Architectural Digest, where they state that the palette should be tightly edited to work.
Taking this a step further, I would match the red element with another similar accessory such as a towel or soap dish to complete the look.
Mixing Red With Metallic Finishes For Modern Glam
Red and metallic finishes such as gold, brass or chrome make a glamorous and modern impression. I have done this in bathrooms with red storage containers with brass handles or a red vanity and gold-framed mirrors.
The metallics are very light reflective and the red accents look even richer and more vibrant. I like warm metals such as brushed gold with darker reds, and cooler metals such as chrome with lighter reds.
In my opinion, this combination is ideal when it comes to homeowners who desire to make their bathroom look luxurious yet friendly. Veranda designers frequently point out this combination to achieve hotel-like style at home.
To take this a notch higher, I would incorporate a metallic pendant light that has a red cord to perfectly combine the two features into a single functional aspect.
Red Marble Surfaces For A Luxe Finish
Not many materials are as rich as marble, and a red version of it will make it even more luxurious. I have encountered red marble in vanity tops, shower walls, and even floors to make the place look rich and opulent.
I like to select red marble with light veining to maintain the appearance sophisticated. Combining it with gold or brass fixtures will add to the warm hues, and white accents will bring a sharp contrast.
I think red marble is best suited in bigger bathrooms where it does not feel so overwhelming. House & Garden reports that colored marble is returning with a vengeance to luxury interiors, and I concur.
To finish this off, I would incorporate soft warm light to highlight the natural variations in the stone.
Red Glass Elements For Sleek Bathroom Design
Red glass details may immediately add a new level of beauty to a bathroom and make it look modern and sleek. I have frequently observed clients adding red accents in the form of glass panels, shower enclosures or backsplashes to add color without overcrowding the space. Glass makes the red colors come out and maintains the appearance of the room to be light and modern. This style is very pretty in minimalist and luxurious interiors.
In choosing pieces, I normally advise tempered glass that is smooth or frosted finish to be safe and stylish. A red glass vanity countertop can be matched with chrome fixtures to achieve a clean, reflective look and a glass shower door with a light crimson tint will add some character without overpowering the room. To introduce continuity in the design, it is possible to use glass shelves with red edging or small glass tiles in a mosaic pattern.
Personally, I find red glass most suitable against the neutrality of the wall, white, beige, or light grey. Architectural Digest recommends the application of bold colors on glass surfaces so that they can reflect light and prevent the bathroom to look smaller. I usually recommend to clients to use red in one or two large surfaces to balance.
To further improve this appearance, I would incorporate warm LED lights in the back of the red glass panels to bring out the depth of the panels and give it a warm evening look. The polished finish can be complemented by small chrome items such as towel hooks or soap dispensers.
Red Accent Ideas For Small Bathrooms
Small bathrooms should be designed with red accents but the balance should be done carefully so that the space does not feel cramped. I have discovered that strategic use of red through accessories, feature walls or floor tiles makes a statement without overwhelming the space. Vertical red stripes, e.g., may make ceilings seem higher, and a thin band of red tiles around the room may provide structure and interest.
In the case of furniture and fixtures, red lacquered doors vanity units are a good idea. Frameless mirror hanging above a red ceramic basin reflects the light and doubles the visual space. The deep red towels, soap dishes, and storage baskets can complete the appearance without occupying a lot of space. This discriminating style makes the design fresh and clean.
I would recommend glossy red finishes in small bathrooms in my professional opinion because it reflects light and makes the room look bigger. Better Homes & Gardens designers will frequently advise to keep the bold color areas to only 20 percent of the room surfaces so that the room does not feel closed in.
To make this idea more precise, I would add a transparent glass shower stall and do not use heavy shower curtains. To break up the color and add some sophistication, without losing space, it is possible to add some subtle metallic accents such as brushed nickel taps.
Red Accents In Spa-Inspired Bathroom Retreats
The spa-style bathroom is usually inclined to the soft natural colors, but the red accents can create a distinctive feeling of warmth and passion in the room. I am also inclined to use dark and muted reds like burgundy or terracotta, in the shape of bath mats, plush towels, or decorative vases to introduce a grounding energy to the relaxing space.
In case of fixtures, a free standing bathtub close to a wall with red-toned stone tiles can be used to form a beautiful focal point. The spa aesthetic goes well with wooden furniture that has reddish undertones such as mahogany. Red glass containers or a crimson ceramic sink can be used as scented candles.
In my personal projects, I have observed that red in a spa environment promotes the sense of luxury and comfort. According to the specialists at House Beautiful, red evokes warmth and energy, which is why it is such a good idea to use it in winter relaxation areas. The trick is to apply it sparingly so that it does not overwhelm the peaceful palette.
To finish the spa experience, I would incorporate dimmable lights and background music to aid relaxation. Two neutral-potted bamboo plants that are safe indoors can add a contrast to the warm red hues without disrupting the spa atmosphere.
Final Touches: Balancing Red Accents For Lasting Appeal
The balance is the most important factor to make the bathroom timeless and functional, even with the most beautiful red accents. I would like to consider the final styling by evaluating the interaction of the red with the other colors and materials in the area. Neutral backgrounds such as light stone, wood, or white paint will bring out the red and maintain the room balanced.
The easiest method of adding or modifying red in your bathroom is through accessories. Accessories can be changed such as rugs, artworks, storage baskets or even soap bottles to change the appearance seasonally. When you are determined to go with a more lasting touch, red grout between white tiles or a dramatic vanity backsplash can be lasting design elements.
I have heard this many times by clients that excess red can be overwhelming in the long term. According to specialists at Elle Decor, it is advisable to avoid using bold colors in permanent fixtures so that there is room to update in the future. This is why I tend to go red on removable or easily changeable things- so that the design can change as the homeowner changes their tastes.
To achieve a perfectly balanced finish, I would include layered lighting comprising of overhead and task lighting. Combining warm and cool light sources may help to emphasize the richness of red and make the room flexible in terms of mood and activity.
The right red accent can entirely change the appearance and atmosphere of a bathroom and make it warmer, more energetic, and personal without being too much. With a combination of daring color and neutral tones and careful design decisions, you can make your bathroom appear both fashionable and classic. What would you do with red in your own bathroom? Share your ideas and experiences in the comments below!
