Paint colours to ‘steer clear’ of in bathrooms or risk room feeling ‘gloomy and cramped’

The is often considered one of the most important rooms in the home.

It’s important to make a bathroom feel spacious, and much of this comes down to the shade it’s painted.

The wrong shades can make a bathroom look smaller than it is and rob it of its much-needed brightness.

Bathroom expert Craig Phillips from has shared several colours to “steer clear” of when decorating a small bathroom.

While stylish in other contexts, these shades can “shrink” a bathroom and drain the light.

All white

An all-white bathroom may seem practical, but it can often feel clinical and uninviting, according to the pro.

He said: “Add warmth and depth to an all-white space with natural textures and pops of colour.

“Think wooden accents, plush towels, and greenery to soften the look. Break up the starkness with vibrant tiles, artwork or colourful accessories.

“White can work if you let it be a canvas for your personality. Add layers and textures to make it feel lived-in and relaxing.”

Black

Bold and dramatic, black might be appealing, but in small bathrooms, the expert said “It’s a disaster”.

Craig explained: “Stick to lighter tones like crisp whites, warm beiges, or soft taupes to reflect light and open up the space.

“Black is oppressive in tight spaces. Whites and beiges reflect light beautifully and provide a versatile backdrop for your personal touches.”

Dark brown

Rich, earthy browns are becoming extremely popular within the home, but they should be kept in bedrooms and living rooms.

In small bathrooms, they can end up feeling heavy, and claustrophobic as well as making the space dark and gloomy.

The bathroom pro noted: “Opt for lighter natural tones like sandy beige or soft greys to maintain the warmth without the weight.

“Add wooden accents sparingly for a modern, organic look. Dark brown tends to feel oppressive in small spaces. Swap it for lighter, nature-inspired tones that feel airy but still warm.”

Aubergine

Deep and moody, aubergine may scream sophistication but it can make a space feel confined and dark.

Craig added: “Opt for spa-inspired blues like sky blue or turquoise for a soothing, expansive vibe. For a touch of sophistication, try a muted denim blue paired with creamy accents.

“Blues evoke serenity and openness, turning your bathroom into a calming retreat after a hectic day.”

Bright red

Red in a bathroom can feel overwhelming, and applying makeup under its rosy glow can be a nightmare, according to the pro.

Instead consider sage or mint green or a fresh, earthy vibe. The pro continued: “Sage brings grounding warmth, while mint adds an invigorating burst of freshness.” The expert also recommended avoiding orange as this can be too bright.