The impact of a well-designed monochromatic bathroom can be timeless, and this is why it’s such an attractive colour palette. Whether you’re after dramatic appeal or prefer a more pared-down aesthetic, here are some guidelines to help you achieve a perfectly balanced look:
Black or white?
Before hitting the shops, plan your bathroom design so you know exactly what you want where. This involves picking colours too; consider which colour will be dominant and which one will be secondary, or if you want a balanced look – think about how to ensure this balance. Karen Steyn of The Home Studio advises: “When creating your own black and white space in the first instance it is important to think about just how light (white) or dark (black) they wish their space to be. In some instances the bathroom can be wholly finished in white tiles, paint and accessories, with just the fixture details in black. This is quite a different look from a bathroom with black tiles on the floor and a black shower box, and just a touch of white.”
The Home Studio
Adding to this, Asanda Ngidi of Bathroom Butler says: “Black is often overlooked as a bathroom colour, because it is perceived to have the ability of visually shrinking the space. However, using black as an accent colour in a monochromatic black and white bathroom adds a sense of sophistication to the design with touches of elegance and timelessness, especially when paired with marble surfaces. Matte black bathroom accessories as accent pieces are exceptionally popular because of their trend appeal; they work well with contemporary styles and are visually interesting.”
Bathroom Butler
Design notes
While a monochromatic scheme can be quite effective, if poorly designed, the space will come across as uninteresting. This can be rectified, says Oren Sachs of WOMAG. “When considering a black and white monochromatic bathroom there are a few key points to consider, firstly decide which colour is going to be your primary – black, white or grey – then choose your tiles and sanitaryware accordingly. The beauty of a monochromatic bathroom is in its simplicity, and you don’t need much to make it look spectacular. The key to completing the look is to introduce lots of textural contrast with different materials. For example, choose flooring with a natural finish to contrast with the smoothness of the sanitaryware. Also keep in mind the effectiveness of tiles – interest can easily be achieved with the play of patterns, sizes and placement.”
WOMAG
The natural effect
Introducing a third element to a black and white bathroom will help keep the design fresh. Liza Watermeyer of Tile Africa recommends: “On your quest to create the perfect monochromatic bathroom, consider adding a natural element, to ground the design. Plants, stone/marble or wood are excellent for aesthetic effect.”
Tile Africa
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