The Irish Mail on Sunday

Interiors:

- Emily Westbrooks

Most people fall into one of two camps when it comes to the bathroom: spalike neutrals or bold and bright colours. Today, let’s talk about those colourful wash rooms that don’t necessaril­y increase your zen but instead give you a burst of energy.

There are four ways to get a colourful look into your own bathroom; some are more permanent and more expensive than others.

First, bold tiles. It’s by far the most permanent choice you can make in a bathroom, but it’s also one of the most impactful. Whereas tiles used to be available in a limited range of colours or patterns, the tile world has expanded exponentia­lly over the last decade, and many bright, patterned tiles are very affordable at this stage.

Furniture and fixtures are another way to bring colour into your bathroom, and another area that has benefited from improvemen­ts in the number of options available in recent years. A teal sink cabinet can add oodles of personalit­y to a bathroom, far more than a white or black option.

Wallpaper, on the other hand, used to be a no-no in the bathroom due to the risk that condensati­on in the room would lead to the paper peeling off. However, advances in wallpaper mean that it is now pretty safe to keep in a bathroom, so long as it’s not in direct contact with water and there’s adequate ventilatio­n. Dark or bold wallpaper can make a huge statement, and the small wall area to cover means it won’t be quite as expensive as a living room.

Finally, if you aren’t quite ready to buy a season ticket to the colour and pattern game, accessorie­s can bring somewhat temporary life to a bathroom with minimal investment. Think towels, bath mats, candles, baskets and even the toothbrush holder. They can all add colour to a neutral space while you test out just the right colour combinatio­n.

Dark or bold wallpaper can make a huge statement and the small wall area to cover means it’s not quite as expensive as a living room

 ??  ?? A teal vanity paired with teal patterned tiles makes a statement, above (SONAS)
A teal vanity paired with teal patterned tiles makes a statement, above (SONAS)
 ??  ?? Try half-wall panelling, left, and a boldly patterned wallpaper (The Curious Department)
Try half-wall panelling, left, and a boldly patterned wallpaper (The Curious Department)
 ??  ?? Try adding colourful accessorie­s to bring life to the space (B&M)
Try adding colourful accessorie­s to bring life to the space (B&M)
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 ??  ?? Large patterned wallpaper can create a strong look in a bathroom (Matalan)
Large patterned wallpaper can create a strong look in a bathroom (Matalan)

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