Using streamlined colors, like black and white, give bathrooms a retro look.
Although it may seem bland at first, using a color combination of blue, white and black creates a simple yet elegant look for your bathroom. Contrary to popular belief, painting the bathroom walls black or dark blue will not make the room look smaller. Instead, by keeping the eye moving, it creates interest and the illusion of space. Scattering white accents around the room will break up the monotony and add depth.
Walls
Royal blue or jet black paint produce a bold effect on a bathroom wall. Add white borders to the wall using patterned stencils or wallpaper, including floral, diamond or swirl shapes. Line the walls with black and white photographs in black or white frames. Add white curtains to the windows, made of light fabrics like gauze or sheer cotton. For a decorative touch, tie the curtains back with dark blue or black tassels.
Floors & Fixtures
For rooms with dark walls, black and white checkered, marble or subway tile floors add an elegant touch. Balance out the floor's dark colors by adding shaggy white bath mats. If your budget permits, add new fixtures as well. Bathrooms with a modern design should consider above counter sinks and Japanese soaking tubs. For an old-fashioned look, try pedestal sinks and clawfoot bathtubs. Stick exclusively with white fixtures.
Lighting
Scattering multiple lights throughout the bathroom allows you to adequately control the amount of light throughout the room's different zones. For instance, you may prefer bright lights near the vanity but mood lighting near the tub. Create a shabby chic look by adding a rustic white chandelier to the middle of the room. For additional lighting, add black or dark blue glass sconces to the sides of each mirror. Clear the bathroom's countertops, making way for black and blue candles of varying sizes. For safety purposes, make certain you only light the candles when present in the room.
Accessories
Depending on the room's dominant color, use accessories for an added pop of color or to balance out the room's darker shades. Many accessories serve a functional purpose as well. Place a rustic wood bookshelf in the bathroom. Give the shelf a worn look by adding just a single coat of black, white or light blue paint. Fill a dark-colored bookshelf with white towels and a white shelf with black or light blue towels. Place a white or clear glass vase with colorful blue flowers, like columbines or geraniums, on top of the bookshelf. Add a matching clear bowl next to the vase filled with blue potpourri or soaps.
Tags: black white, dark blue, black dark, black , blue black, light blue