Bold, eye-catching, and dramatic, a bathroom accent wall is a perfect opportunity to experiment and add some unexpected flair to a home space that's often overlooked in terms of design.
You don't just have to choose paint because the options are endless. Depending on the look you're trying to achieve, you could opt for a vivid floral or patterned wallpaper that can be accented by a cool antique mirror or wall sconces. There are also more long-term options, such as a textured wall featuring stone, tiles, or rustic wood that works to incorporate a relaxing element that still adds visual interest.
Whether you want to get creative with a hand-painted mural or a bold metallic wall, our design experts have included all the must-have details on bathroom accent walls, including which wall makes the best choice and how an accent wall in a small bathroom might work.
Install a Bold Wallpaper
To elevate your bathroom's visual appeal, try installing bold wallpaper on an accent wall. Ideal for contemporary and eclectic spaces, a vibrant floral wallpaper pairs well with simple white fixtures. Ensure the material is water-resistant and avoid wallpapering every wall to prevent overwhelming the space.
Add a Textured Wall
Enhance your bathroom's character by incorporating textured materials like natural stone, wood, or tiles. For a unique look, opt for a mosaic or herringbone pattern. This idea works in modern, minimalist, and rustic bathrooms, adding depth and interest. Complete the look with subtle decor and matching fixtures.
Paint a Geometric Design
Create a playful and modern atmosphere in your bathroom by painting a geometric design on the accent wall. Use painter's tape for clean lines and select colors that complement the space. Recommended for contemporary bathrooms, add minimally designed fixtures and decor for a cohesive look.
Try a Metallic Finish
Give your bathroom a touch of luxury with a metallic finish on the accent wall. Opt for gold, silver, or bronze for a glamorous appearance in contemporary and upscale bathrooms. Pair with wooden and dark-colored furniture, ensuring a well-organized layout to maximize space and functionality.
Use Mirrors
Create an illusion of spaciousness and increased natural light with mirrored tiles or a large statement mirror on the accent wall. Ideal for small, contemporary bathrooms, this technique reflects natural light and effortlessly elevates the space. Consider including marble flooring and metallic accents for a sophisticated touch.
Go for a Dark Color
Make a dramatic statement in your bathroom with a dark accent wall in navy, black, or dark grey. Ideal for modern and minimalist bathrooms, this choice adds sophistication and intimacy. Complement the wall with simple yet elegant fixtures, including a wooden bench, gold-framed mirror, and minimal decor.
Create a Rustic Look
Achieve a rustic vibe in your bathroom with reclaimed wood or faux wood wallpaper on your accent wall. Perfect for farmhouse and country-style spaces, complete the look with greenery, vintage decor, and brass faucets on white marble countertops. Include natural light sources and wicker baskets for added charm.
Add Some Artwork
Personalize your bathroom with artwork on the accent wall, selecting pieces that complement the room's color scheme and style. Ideal for elegant and refined spaces, consider displaying a painting above the bathtub that matches the room's marble wall and gold accents, ensuring a cohesive design and tranquil ambiance.
Use a Bold Tile
Create a statement with a bold, colorful tile on your bathroom's accent wall, opting for a mosaic or patterned design for a unique appearance. This idea suits serene, spacious bathrooms featuring green and gold accents, white fixtures, and abundant natural light. Include eucalyptus and other plants for a fresh touch.
Add Some Shelves
Install shelves on your bathroom's accent wall to store essentials or display decorative items. Ideal for modern and minimalist spaces, choose shelves that complement your bathroom style, such as sleek, white shelves in a tiled bathroom. Spruce up the ambiance with plants and mirrors while maintaining functionality.
Incorporate a Living Wall
To bring a touch of nature into your bathroom, incorporate a living wall featuring humidity-loving plants on your accent wall. Ideal for modern or tropical aesthetics, this look pairs well with a sleek sink, bold mirror, and natural stone flooring. To maintain the living wall, ensure proper watering and lighting conditions for each plant species.
Create a 3D Effect
For a modern and refined bathroom accent wall, use 3D tiles or textured wallpaper in a neutral color palette. This will create a visually stunning focal point suitable for monochromatic or minimalist spaces. Pair the 3D wall with simplistic, wooden furniture for a balanced look, and consider adding a touch of personalization to the decor.
Add Some Drama with Lighting
Highlight your bathroom's accent wall by installing dramatic lighting fixtures like wall sconces or pendant lights. This technique is perfect for contemporary or eclectic styles and will add depth and interest to the space. Consider using dimmer switches or warm light bulbs to create a cozy and relaxing atmosphere.
Go for a Monochrome Look
For a cohesive and stylish bathroom, choose a monochrome color scheme for your accent wall, incorporating varying textures and finishes for added interest. Ideal for modern or glamorous aesthetics, this approach pairs well with elegant sinks, unique faucets, and large mirrors. Remember to include pops of color in small accents for a personal touch.
Add Some Contrast
Transform your bathroom with a contrasting color accent wall, pairing light and dark shades to create depth and drama. This approach works well in eclectic or contemporary spaces and can be paired with a decorative sink and quirky artwork. Don't be afraid to go bold with your color choices, as they can always be toned down with neutral accessories.
Create a Nautical Theme
Design a nautical-themed accent wall using blue and white colors, shiplap, or a porthole mirror. Recommended for coastal homes or beach-inspired spaces, complete the look with beachy decor, a white sink, and a [wooden cabinet](wooden cabinet). Remember to balance the color scheme by incorporating other subtle nautical elements throughout the bathroom.
Use a Gradient Effect
For a soothing and calming bathroom atmosphere, create a subtle gradient effect accent wall using complementary colors that blend seamlessly. This look works well in contemporary or minimalist spaces and can be paired with a sleek glass bathtub, concrete flooring, and modern fixtures. Experiment with shades that evoke a sense of tranquility for ultimate relaxation.
Add Some Texture with Fabric
Incorporate fabric elements, like tapestries or woven wall hangings, for a bohemian-inspired bathroom accent wall. This look adds texture and interest to your space and pairs well with colorful wallpaper, an ornate mirror, and a gold sink. Ensure your chosen fabric is suitable for a humid environment to maintain its beauty and longevity.
Use a Bold Paint Color
Choose a bold and vibrant paint color for your bathroom's accent wall to create a fun and playful atmosphere. Opt for a color that complements existing decor to achieve cohesion in spaces with eclectic or bohemian styles. Pair the bold accent wall with a unique mirror or accessories, ensuring the room remains balanced and inviting.
Add Some Glam with Marble
Let your bathroom exude glamour by featuring marble tiles or wallpaper on your accent wall. Ideal for luxurious or modern styles, this look can be paired with gold accents for a sumptuous aesthetic. Incorporate elements like a marble bathtub, glass shower stall, and large mirror for a cohesive and sophisticated appearance.
Create a Mural
Transform your bathroom into an elegant space with a hand-painted mural on your accent wall. Ideal for a sophisticated aesthetic in master or guest bathrooms. Incorporate elements like geometric patterns, gold accents, and sleek black cabinets for a luxurious feel. Ensure a balance between mural tones and bathroom fixtures to avoid overwhelming the space.
Go for a Minimalist Look
Achieve a clean, modern feel with a minimalist accent wall in your bathroom. Perfect for those who appreciate simplicity, this style works well in any bathroom size. Focus on neutral colors, clean lines, skylights for natural light, and sleek chrome hardware. A small wall-mounted shelf can serve as a functional, stylish addition.
Add Some Sparkle
Infuse glamour and sparkle to your bathroom with a glitter or metallic accent wall, ideal for en suite or powder rooms. Keep the color palette neutral and light to avoid an overpowering look. Stylish touches like gold fixtures, round gold mirrors, and black and gold contrasts can elevate the aesthetics.
Use a Bold Pattern
Introduce a dramatic flair with a bold pattern accent wall, perfect for adding personality to your main bathroom. Consider geometric or floral patterns, complementing them with marble countertops, wooden cabinets, and accents like vases of flowers or plants near windows. This lively design adds excitement to any morning routine.
Add Some Vintage Charm
Incorporate vintage charm with wallpaper or tiles, creating a nostalgic ambiance in your bathroom. Opt for pink tiles, gold mirrors, and wooden vanities that evoke a bygone era. Adding accessories like vases with flowers or vintage-inspired decor will produce a cohesive, timeless look.
Create a Faux Brick Wall
Introduce texture and visual interest with a faux brick accent wall, ideal for industrial or urban-chic designs. Suitable for small or large bathrooms, pair this feature with black metal sinks, large mirrors, and modern hardware. For a cozy touch, consider adding a sitting area with stylish benches.
Incorporate a Pop of Color
Add vibrancy to your bathroom with a bold color accent wall. Pick a hue from your existing decor to unify the look. Suitable for all bathroom types, use pink tiles, gold-framed mirrors, and brass faucets. Give the space a lively feel by placing plants on window sills or decorative shelves.
Create a Spa-like Retreat
Create a serene, spa-like retreat using natural stone tiles or a neutral color palette for your accent wall. Ideal for master bathrooms, enhance the calming atmosphere with candles, plants, and a minimalist design. Bespoke touches like round mirrors, marble tables, and sleek fixtures will elevate this relaxing bathroom oasis.
Use a Chalkboard Wall
Incorporate functionality and fun with a chalkboard accent wall, perfect for family bathrooms. Jot down reminders or leave notes while adding a playful touch to the room. Complement the feature with concrete floors softened by rugs, wooden shelves, and whimsical drawings to complete the playful yet modern atmosphere.
Add Some Texture with Wainscoting
Use wainscoting to introduce texture to your accent wall, chic for vintage or modern bathroom designs. Neutral colors will work well with statement mirrors, producing a polished and refined look. Complement the feature with marble surfaces, gold accents, and luxurious details to create a sophisticated bathroom sanctuary.
Caroline Patterson
Caroline is a young, New York-based interior designer and home decor writer, obsessed with textiles and designer furniture. Backed with rigorous training from a prestigious design school, as well as a profound understanding of material quality and fabric care, she offers spot-on advice on how to furnish your place with reliable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing pieces.
