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Black and white bathroom ideas. Make the most of black and white designs

June 20, 2023 | Updated on: June 20, 2023

minimal design in black and white bathroom

Black and white is perhaps the most overused and trivial color combination not just in interior designs but in all other forms of visual design outputs. You see black and white color combinations everywhere. In t-shirt prints, walls, flooring, exterior house paints, graphic posters, cars, and other visual prints. The colors black and white stand out visually because these two colors create a stark contrast. Black is also as versatile as white. 

In this blog, we will discuss bathroom ideas in black and white. When designing or renovating bathrooms, the easiest and most compatible colors to use are black and white. You can also opt for a navy black and white bathroom if you don’t want a little bit of style an illusion to your bathroom. Interior designers nowadays are leaning into a white and matte black bathroom for that spa-like vibe.

There are thousands of white and black bathroom ideas you can find on the internet. You can gather decoration and design ideas from the Cut2Size blog to craft your own black-and-white bathroom theme. Opt for a black-and-white themed bathroom if you’re planning to redesign your bathroom in a contemporary, modern, industrial, or even minimalist aesthetic.

White and black bathroom designs

black bathtub against white wall in the bathroom

A bathroom design black and white scheme can create a sophisticated and visually appealing space that suits a variety of design styles. In this portion, we will explore seven different design styles and discuss how to incorporate white and black bathroom design elements to achieve each unique look in your bathroom. 

  1. Modern

Modern bathroom design in black and white is characterized by clean lines, minimalism, and a sleek aesthetic. To incorporate a black and white bathroom modern, opt for a white backdrop with black accents. Consider using black fixtures, such as faucets, showerheads, and towel bars, against a backdrop of white tiles or walls. Add sleek black cabinets or floating shelves for storage. Lastly, introduce geometric patterns with black and white tiles on the floor or in the shower area to create a bold statement and achieve the modern black and white bathroom look. 

  1. Vintage

Vintage-inspired bathrooms exude charm and nostalgia. To achieve a vintage black and white bathroom, focus on classic fixtures and ornate details. Start with white wainscoting or beadboard on the lower half of the walls and pair it with black and white patterned wallpaper or tiles on the upper half. Look for vintage-inspired black and white pedestal sinks or clawfoot tubs. Decorate with vintage mirrors, light fixtures, and accessories. Consider adding black and white framed artwork or vintage photographs to enhance the ambiance. 

  1. Farmhouse

The black and white farmhouse bathroom style combines rustic elements with a touch of elegance. To incorporate a farmhouse black and white bathroom, start with white shiplap or beadboard walls. Install a black freestanding vanity or opt for a white bathroom vanity with a black countertop. Use subway tiles in a classic white color for the backsplash or shower area. Accentuate the space with black metal fixtures, such as faucets, towel hooks, and sconce lights. Add black and white bathroom farmhouse-inspired accessories like wire baskets or wooden crates for storage. 

  1. Classic or traditional

A classic black and white bathroom or traditional bathrooms exude timeless elegance. To achieve a traditional black-and-white bathroom, begin with white marble or porcelain tiles for the floor and walls. Install a white clawfoot tub or a white vanity with black marble countertops. Incorporate black and white mosaic tiles as a border or focal point in the shower or behind the vanity. Choose black and white patterned curtains or Roman blinds for the windows. Finish the look with elegant black and white accents like chandeliers, sconces, or framed mirrors. 

  1. Minimalist

A minimalist black-and-white bathroom design embraces simplicity and a clean aesthetic. Start with a white color palette for the walls, floors, and fixtures. Install a sleek, wall-mounted white vanity with a black countertop. Opt for frameless black or white shower enclosures to maintain a minimalist look. Use black and white mosaic tiles for a subtle touch of pattern in the shower or as a vanity backsplash. Choose simple black or white accessories, such as towel hooks and soap dispensers. Keep the space clutter-free to achieve the desired minimalist effect. 

  1. Victorian

A black and white Victorian bathroom is known for its opulence and intricate details. Begin by installing black and white checkered tiles or black and white marble tiles on the floor. Choose a white clawfoot tub with black accents or a black vanity with intricate carvings. Add a touch of luxury with a black and white patterned wallpaper featuring damask or floral motifs. Install ornate black and white sconces or chandeliers for lighting. Accessorize with vintage-style black and white vases, candle holders, and decorative trays. 

  1. Industrial

A black-and-white industrial bathroom design incorporates raw and unfinished elements for an edgy and contemporary look. Start with exposed brick or concrete walls painted in white. Combine black metal fixtures, such as faucets and showerheads, with white subway tiles for the walls. Opt for a black vanity with a white countertop or vice versa. Install black metal-framed mirrors or medicine cabinets. Add industrial-style black pendant lights or cage sconces. Incorporate black and white artwork with an abstract or urban theme.

How to add color to a black-and-white bathroom?

wooden details in black and white bathroom

Black and white bathrooms are strict and elegant, and sometimes you may want to introduce a pop of color to create a more vibrant and personalized space. Here are four ways to add color to a black-and-white bathroom. 

  • Use black and white marble tiles

Marble is a luxurious material that can introduce subtle color variations to your black-and-white bathroom. Consider using a black and white marble bathroom with veining in shades like gray, beige, or even soft pastels. Use them as black and white tiles bathroom in the shower or as a border around the vanity mirror. Alternatively, you can opt for a bathroom with black and white tile with colored veining to add a touch of color while still maintaining the classic black-and-white aesthetic.

  • Opt for a black and white bathroom accent wall

Create a focal point in your black and white bathroom by incorporating an accent wall in vibrant color. Choose a hue that complements the black-and-white palette, such as a rich navy blue, emerald green, or bold red. Paint one wall or install wallpaper with a colorful pattern. Accent color for a black and white bathroom, not only adds visual interest but also allows you to easily change or update the color scheme in the future without a major overhaul. 

  • Consider black and white wallpaper bathroom

One of the easiest ways to introduce color and pattern to a black-and-white bathroom is by using black-and-white wallpaper in it. Look for black-and-white bathroom wallpaper that features water-repellent properties. Opt for patterns like geometric designs, floral prints, or abstract motifs that suit your personal style. 

  • Incorporate black and white shiplap bathroom

If you want to introduce color in a subtle and rustic way, consider incorporating shiplap panels or black and white wood bathroom panels. Install the colored shiplap on one wall or as wainscoting for a charming and cottage-inspired look. Pair it with black and white elements, such as fixtures and accessories, to maintain the overall theme. 

  • Add accent color for a black and white bathroom

To add color without making permanent changes, focus on incorporating accents throughout the bathroom. Accessories such as towels, bath mats, shower curtains, and window treatments offer an opportunity to introduce a pop of color in a black-and-white bathroom. Opt for bold colors like sunny yellow, vibrant turquoise, or fiery orange to create a striking contrast against the black and white backdrop. Choose a color that resonates with your personal style and complements the overall design of the bathroom.

Black and white bathroom furniture

modern bathroom vanity top black with white sink

When it comes to designing a bathroom, the timeless combination of black and white never fails to make a bold and stylish statement. The contrasting colors bring a sense of elegance and sophistication to any space, and the bathroom is no exception. In this section of the blog, we'll explore a few tips on how to create a stunning black-and-white atmosphere in your bathroom by incorporating the right furniture and accessories. 

  • Start with the basics

To establish the black and white theme, begin by selecting foundational elements such as bathroom furniture and fixtures in these contrasting hues. If you surf through the internet, you can find countless black-and-white bathroom vanity ideas. But in order to achieve your desired black-and-white aesthetic, you need to narrow down your black-and-white bathroom with vanity choices. We suggest you opt for a sleek, white and black bathroom vanity or cabinet to serve as the focal point of the room. Pair your bathroom vanity black with a white countertop and sink for a striking contrast. Remember to choose pieces that blend functionality with aesthetic appeal to ensure a well-rounded bathroom design. 

  • Embrace contrast

Contrast is key to achieving a captivating black-and-white atmosphere. Look for opportunities to incorporate black elements against a predominantly white background or vice versa. Consider installing black and white granite bathroom tiles on the walls or floors to create a visually appealing pattern. Alternatively, choose a bold wallpaper with a black-and-white motif for a dramatic statement wall. 

  • Play with patterns

Patterns can add depth and visual interest to a black-and-white bathroom. Experiment with geometric or floral patterns on mosaic tiles, shower curtains, or window treatments. These patterns can provide a touch of personality while still maintaining the overall black-and-white aesthetic. Additionally, consider eye-catching black and white bathroom countertops or flooring. 

Bathroom Cabinets

  • Lighting matters

Proper lighting is crucial in any bathroom, and it can significantly impact the ambiance of the space. Install lighting fixtures that enhance the black-and-white theme. For example, pendant lights with black or white shades can serve as focal points and add a touch of elegance. Consider placing LED strip lights behind mirrors or along the edges of shelves to create a soft, indirect glow that complements the black-and-white color scheme. 

  • Accentuate with metallic

Metallic black-and-white bathroom sets can beautifully complement a black-and-white bathroom. Incorporate fixtures, such as faucets, showerheads, and cabinet handles, in finishes like chrome, brushed nickel, or matte black in your black-and-white bathroom. These accents will add a touch of sophistication and reflect light, enhancing the overall ambiance of the space. 

  • Bring in textures

Incorporating textures can prevent a black-and-white bathroom from appearing flat or monotonous. Add interest with textured bath mats, patterned wallpaper, or woven baskets. Textures can create a sense of depth and tactile appeal, making the space more inviting and visually intriguing. Another way where you can add texture is by carefully selecting black and white bathroom cabinets. You can add texture through black and white bathroom vanities as well especially if you choose that black and white bathroom vanity unit with a weathered wood texture.

Black and white bathroom decor

black and white bathroom with white cabinet and black faucets

Decorating a black-and-white bathroom will be easier once you have set up your color scheme and the base of your entire bathroom interior concept. In the previous sections, we have provided you with different techniques and strategies as well as ideas for black-and-white bathroom aesthetics. In this section, we’ll take a look at the different bathroom décor you can incorporate as a finishing touch to your overall bathroom interior concept.

  1. Wall art

Incorporate black and white art for the bathroom or photography in varying sizes and styles to add a touch of personality and visual interest to your bathroom walls. Choose pieces that complement your overall aesthetic, whether it's abstract, minimalist, or vintage-inspired, to create a cohesive and stylish look.

  1. Rugs

Place black and white bathroom rugs in front of the vanity or bathtub to add texture, warmth, and visual contrast to the bathroom floor. Consider patterns like stripes or geometric shapes for a contemporary look, or opt for a plush, solid-colored rug to create a cozy atmosphere.

  1. Accessories

Enhance your black-and-white bathroom by carefully selecting black-and-white bathroom accessories like soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, and tissue boxes in matching black or white tones. Choose sleek, minimalist designs or add a touch of glamour with metallic accents for a sophisticated finishing touch.

  1. Towels

Display black and white towels bathroom neatly folded or rolled on a towel rack or open shelves to enhance the overall aesthetic of your bathroom. Mix and match different patterns or textures to create visual interest, or stick to a uniform style for a clean and elegant look.

  1.  Shower curtain

Select a black and white bathroom shower curtain that complements your bathroom's style and adds a focal point to the space. Look for patterns like stripes, chevron, or floral designs to infuse personality, or choose a solid-colored curtain for a sleek and minimalist look.

small bathroom ideas in black and white hues

Small black and white bathroom interior

Looking for more black and white small bathroom ideas? Here are several unique and easy to incorporate black and white bathroom small features. Spruce up your tiny black and white bathroom with these ideas and make the most of your space. Even a small white and black bathroom can look more spacious and can be functional when it is adorned or equipped with the right bathroom black and white features.

Idea

Description

Black and white tiles

Use black and white tiles to create a checkerboard pattern on the bathroom floor. This classic design adds a touch of elegance and visually expands the space.

floating vanity

Opt for a sleek, white floating vanity with a black countertop. This design choice creates an airy feel and provides storage without overwhelming the limited space.

Monochrome accessories

Decorate your bathroom with black and white accessories such as towels, shower curtains, soap dispensers, and toothbrush holders. These small details tie the black-and-white theme together and add a cohesive look.

Mirror with black frame

Choose a mirror with a black frame to create a focal point in your bathroom. The black frame adds contrast against the white walls and enhances the overall black-and-white aesthetic.

Black fixtures

Swap out your standard fixtures for black ones, such as faucets, showerheads, and towel racks. Black fixtures create a bold statement against white surfaces and add a touch of sophistication.

Vertical striped wallpaper

Use vertical striped black and white wallpaper to visually elongate the walls and create an illusion of height in a small bathroom. This design trick adds a sense of spaciousness to the room.

FAQs

Article by:

Valentina Melnikova - Lead Designer at Cut2Size

valentina@cut2size.ca

Office 403.366.7411

Hi there! I’m a millwork designer and an owner of a kitchen cabinet manufacturing company. With a team of professionals, I work on designing and manufacturing high-end millwork. Combining professional designing and manufacturing skills is what allows us to develop and translate our plans into a reality through our uniqueness and exclusive ideas. Our employees are highly skilled and creative thinkers that also utilize their professionalism and experience to take millwork to the next level. I’m very familiar with the industry and I take on each project from the design to the final product. With that said, if you’re looking for design advice or technician help, you’re in the right place.