Red bathroom ideas and inspo.

What’s the best way to design and decorate a red bathroom?

On one hand, bathrooms are undeniably practical spaces. They serve a very specific purpose and are often the smallest rooms in any home. On the other hand, bathrooms also double as havens for cleansing and self-care, an intimate escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Small room, big personality.

Designing a bathroom that's both functional and stylish involves combining practicality with aesthetic appeal. Whether you're in the process of a bathroom remodel or looking to makeover your existing one, these are the key elements to include in your design**:

• Tile: Tile is typically the first choice you’ll want to make when designing a bathroom. You may opt to tile the entire bathroom or just the floors in a powder room or backsplash for the shower or bathtub area. Select tiles that are durable, non-slip, and easy to clean. Tiles range in all different shapes, sizes, materials, and layouts. From penny rounds to large format floor tiles, zellige to subway tile, or checkerboard to herringbone, your choice of tile will set the tone for the whole bathroom. And don’t forget the grout! Your choice of grout color can completely change the way your tile looks in the space.
• Paint or Wallpaper: If you don’t choose to tile your walls, you’ll want to select a paint or wallpaper that can withstand moisture and humidity. Vinyl wallpaper is best for this application. We are partial to covering walls, ceilings, and trim in a uniform paint color to create a cohesive look. Or consider an accent wall to serve as a focal point.
• Bathroom Vanity: The bathroom vanity should balance the style with functionality, offering adequate storage and countertop space. The vanity provides place to wash hands or brush teeth, and storage for toiletries and personal care items. It’s common for modern bathrooms to include a vanity with a double sink. Sink options include under-mount, vessel, and pedestal sinks and range in materials from porcelain, stone, or glass.
• Mirror or Medicine Cabinet: Choose a mirror or medicine cabinet that complements the vanity in size and style. Consider a framed mirror that matches the bathroom’s design style, or a frameless mirror for a sleek, more modern look.
• Toilet & Sink: The modern standard for toilets and sinks is white porcelain. But if you really want to make a statement, consider going with a color! Colored fixtures are having a comeback moment or you can source a vintage option.
• Shower or Bathtub (for full baths): Depending on the size and layout of the bathroom, you may opt for a shower or bathtub (or a bathtub with shower combination). A shower will consist of a showerhead, faucet controls, and a shower enclosure (shower curtain or glass door), while a bathtub provides a space for soaking and relaxation. If you have the space, you may opt for a separate shower and a freestanding clawfoot tub.
• Lighting: Combine task, ambient, and accent lighting for a layered lighting scheme. Consider the placement of lighting fixtures to eliminate shadows and evenly light the space. Dimmer switches can adjust the mood. Sconces are popular options for vanity areas.
• Faucets: Faucets are an opportunity to add a decorative touch. Select finishes that match other metal elements in the bathroom, such as cabinet hardware or lighting fixtures. Consider water-saving models for environmental sustainability.
• ** Bathroom Decor**: From bath mats and shower curtains to soap dishes, toothbrush and toilet paper holders, bath accessories should be both functional and decorative. Coordinate the color and pattern with the overall color scheme and style to bring your design vision to life.

If you are looking for more inspiration or need an extra hand with your bathroom design, check out our step-by-step guide on How To Design a Bathroom.

How do you decorate with red?

A red bathroom is sure to make a bold statement. The color red is a vibrant and powerful hue that can evoke a range of emotions and sensations. Red is one of the primary colors, along with yellow and blue, and it holds a special place on the color wheel. In interior design, incorporating red can create a sense of energy and passion in a space. Red is often associated with warmth (fire), strength, power, love, and excitement.

It’s important to use red strategically or in moderation in your design, as it can be overwhelming if used excessively. Red is most often used as the main color in kitchens, dining rooms, living rooms, and playrooms. Red can be used as a dominant color in your bathroom to create a dramatic and stimulating atmosphere or as an accent color to add a pop of intensity. A pop of red doesn't just speak; it sings. You may have heard of the trending “unexpected red theory” that has taken over our social feeds. The theory is simple: Add something red to any room—even when it doesn’t match—and it will automatically look better. Fun fact: the term was coined by designer and Spoak member Taylor Migliazzo!

When it comes to finding a cohesive color palette that works well with red, there are a few options to consider. One classic choice is to pair red with its complementary color on the color wheel, which is green. This creates a vibrant and dynamic contrast. Another option is to go for a more harmonious look by combining red with analogous colors, such as shades of orange and purple. These colors are adjacent to red on the color wheel and create a visually pleasing and cohesive palette. Additionally, neutral colors like white, black, and gray can also complement red nicely, allowing it to stand out as the focal point. Your choice of complementary or harmonious colors will depend on the desired mood and style of your space.