A monochrome colour scheme can actually refer to a limited colour palette in any hue. Most of us think of the design term as referring to black and white, however. This is what we’re going to look at here. Black and white monochrome is a concept that many can find daunting. If you get it wrong, it can look harsh and stark. Styled with thought, though, a black and white bathroom can not only be elegant, but also welcoming and personal. Stick to these principles, and make your monochrome bathroom refit absolutely en pointe.
Choose a dominant shade
Try to avoid balancing your black and white features too equally. Too much contrast will make the room appear cluttered and forced. Clearly the size and shape of the room will in part affect this decision. For example if your bathroom is already quite dark, keep white predominant to make the most of what natural light does come in. Even if your bathroom space is larger and gets plenty of natural light, you’ll need to plan how to optimise this if you choose a predominantly black scheme. Horizontal surfaces such as countertops, basin surrounds and floors will catch the light more easily so choose one or all of these as white features.
Contrasting or complementing wall colour
Choosing a wall colour for a bathroom is different from any other room in the home. While you may not choose to tile a whole room, or indeed while walls, there is a balance to be found between tile (or alternative) and wall. You may decide to keep tiles and paint to either black or white. If you do, try to add some contrast with textured tiles. Alternatively you may directly contrast your wall and tiles with black against white or vice versa. Adding a grey tone can soften this contrast nicely if it feels too stark.
Accessorise in Black
Plan subtle details such as black taps against white ceramic or black grout set against white tiles. Bearing in mind that most standard bathroom furniture is white, these black details can really elevate a monochrome concept. Think of downlight bezels, light switches, flush panels and even toilet seat hinge caps. Even those extra accessories such as a soap dish or reed diffuser can be a great way to underline the black element of a predominantly white concept. Increasingly popular are Crittal style doors. This modernist black frame style of glazing can be used in shower screens to tie together a monochrome design scheme.
Remember depth and texture
While a contemporary monochrome bathroom design thrives on simplicity, it is important not to let it feel flat. There are various techniques to include pattern and texture in a bathroom.
Patterns
Bathroom wall and floor tiles are a fantastic opportunity to have some fun with patterns. From geometric to art deco to floral designs, adding a bit of pattern gives a monochrome bathroom interest and depth. You don’t have to cover a whole wall; you may isolate patterns to a floor, a shower enclosure or even just a basin splashback.
Materials
It can be easy to become so focussed on black and white as a concept that you forget about the properties of each material. Bathroom tiles can be matte or glossy; smooth or coarse. Countertops can be textured natural stone or manufactured smoothness. Fittings may be polished or brushed. By mixing these materials, your monochrome bathroom will feel warmer and more personal. There’s a balance of complement and contrast to find here. So while you may complement a gloss counter and tile, you may choose brushed fittings and matt wall paint.
Lighting
A lot of depth is created in a bathroom through different levels of lighting. It’s important to support the general wash provided by ceiling lights or downlight LEDs. An illuminated mirror will highlight the black / white contrast while adding another hue of light to the room. Similarly, recessed lighting and underlighting set around your bathroom furniture is atmospheric and highlights existing textures.
Add warmth with natural touches
Sometimes stark monochrome can make a space feel a bit clinical, especially in larger spaces. You may like to add a wooded feature to bring a bit of warmth. Walnut or oak finishes tend to fit nicely into these schemes; sometimes as a wall panel or vanity front. If you have open shelving space, you could add rattan storage baskets. This natural material is great to simply and cheaply soften a monochrome design. Lastly, don’t forget about greenery. A hanging plant, or cactus arrangement are ideal to add a flash of green. This is natural, calming and the green shades actually work to emphasise the finished monochrome concept.
Your monochrome bathroom can be both a stylish statement and calming haven. Talk to our designers to discover which options will work best for your bathroom.