How to Style a Bathroom with Wallpaper
DESIGN
STORY BY VIRGINIA BESHEARS
Bathrooms are THE perfect candidate for wallpaper.
Bathrooms, being small and functional spaces, have precious few ways to bring in pizazz. Wallpaper is the easiest and most efficient way to add personality, color, and pattern. A bathroom can be an opportunity to go a little wild and try something bold, or you can choose a subtle wallpaper to set a serene spa-like mood.
VIA RENEE CUSANO
Before we jump into the fun design inspo, let me preface by saying that taking precautionary measures when wallpapering in a humid environment is an absolute must. Powder rooms are less of an issue, but if you’re planning to use wallpaper in a bathroom that has a shower or a tub, be sure to look into ways you can prevent humidity damage to your wallpaper. To keep your wallpaper looking fresh, make sure you have a high-quality exhaust fan to minimize moisture. For added durability, consider sealing the wallpaper with a protective varnish or opting for a vinyl style specifically designed to handle damp conditions.
Scale & Color
In a small space like a bathroom, the scale of a wallpaper’s pattern plays a major role in shaping how the space feels. Large-scale patterns with oversized motifs bring the drama, and small-scale patterns lend a sense of coziness and intricacy. Both approaches can work beautifully, and it all depends on the mood you want to evoke.
The color palette is the other main factor in creating the room’s overall vibe. A large-scale pattern in vibrant, contrasting colors will feel energetic. That very same design in a muted, earthy palette will still feel bold, but softer and more subdued. Similarly, a small-scale pattern in high-contrast tones might add a lively texture, while a monochromatic palette can make the design feel understated and elegant.
Decor & Surrounding Elements
The last step is styling the rest of your bathroom. A pattern of any scale or color has the potential to make a small enclosed space feel overwhelming, so the rest of the decor is important for providing balance. If you’ve chosen a lively, statement-making wallpaper, consider balancing it with simpler, neutral elements like a white vanity, subway tile, or classic chrome fixtures. These quieter features provide a clean backdrop that lets the wallpaper shine.
Alternatively, if you’re drawn to a bold vanity in a deep hue or with an interesting texture, a more subtle wallpaper can act as the perfect pairing. Think soft patterns, muted tones, or even a monochromatic design that adds interest without competing for attention.
Pairing your wallpaper of choice with wainscotting is another fantastic option. From a practical standpoint, wainscoting protects the lower half of the walls from everyday wear and tear, which is especially important in a high-traffic area like a bathroom. Meanwhile, the wallpaper above can bring in personality, pattern, and color without being exposed to as much moisture or accidental scuffing. Wainscoting also just reduces the amount of wallpaper in a room which can allow the pattern to stand out without dominating the space.
With the right combination of wallpaper, thoughtful styling, and balanced design elements, your bathroom can become a space that’s as functional as it is unforgettable. Happy, happy wallpapering :)
