Yellow bathroom ideas and inspo.

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

Yellow is the color of the sun, and who doesn’t love a bit more sunshine in their lives? Decorating with yellow is all about embracing the joy and positivity that this color brings. Whether you choose to incorporate it in a bathroom through paint, furniture, or accessories, let the color yellow fill your space with happiness and optimism.

Yellow spans a wide range, from soft buttery tones that evoke a gentle, early morning light to the bold, zesty lemon shades that pack a punch. Lighter mellow yellows can create a subtle, airy feel, perfect for smaller or dimly lit rooms to give an illusion of space and light. Rich, saturated yellows work well as accent walls, bringing energy and a focal point to a space. Yellow's invigorating effect makes it a great choice for kitchens, dining areas, and living spaces, where it can boost mood and energy. In bedrooms or study areas, opt for softer, more subdued yellow tones that encourage relaxation and concentration.

Yellow pairs beautifully with a variety of colors. For a striking, high-contrast look, consider pairing yellow with its complementary color, purple. For a harmonious, cohesive feel, use analogous colors like greens and oranges, which are next to yellow on the color wheel. To keep yellow from overwhelming your space, pair it with neutral tones. Whites, creams, and soft grays provide a clean backdrop that allows yellow accents to shine without dominating. Natural materials like wood and stone also complement yellow's warmth and can ground the brighter tones.

Introduce yellow through patterns and textures to add depth and interest to your decor. Floral patterns, geometric prints, or abstract designs featuring yellow can make your space more dynamic. Textural elements, such as a plush mustard throw or a glossy yellow ceramic, add visual interest and tactile appeal.

Yellow can complement natural light beautifully. Natural light accentuates yellow's brightness and warmth, enhancing its uplifting effect. If you have large windows or abundant natural light in your space, consider using yellow curtains or blinds to enhance the brightness and create a sunny atmosphere. The combination of natural light and yellow can make your space feel warm and welcoming. In artificial lighting, especially in warmer tones, yellow can add a cozy, intimate feel.