With so many hard surfaces, bathrooms can easily begin to look sterile and cold. However, this pitfall can easily be avoided by incorporating textures to transform a mundane space into somewhere luxurious and inviting. In this article, we'll explore why textures are essential to bathroom design and provide practical suggestions on how to implement them effectively!
Design: Marie Flanigan Interiors
Why Texture Matters in Bathroom Design
1. Spa-Like Ambiance: Textures evoke a sense of indulgence and tranquility, essential for creating a spa-like atmosphere in your bathroom. Soft, tactile materials can make your bathroom feel like a sanctuary, promoting relaxation and self-care.
2. Visual Interest: Bathrooms often feature many flat, smooth surfaces, which can sometimes feel bland. Introducing textures adds visual interest and depth, making the space more thoughtful and inviting.
3. Functional Aesthetics: Textures in the bathroom serve both form and function. They not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but they can also provide practical benefits such as improved grip on wet surfaces and better acoustics to reduce echoing.
4. Personalization: Textures offer an opportunity to personalize your bathroom and infuse it with your unique style. Whether you prefer a rustic, earthy vibe, or a sleek, modern look, textures allow you to tailor the space to reflect your taste and personality.
Design: Forest Studio
Implementing Textures in Your Bathroom Design
We encourage you to include at least 12 different textures to your bathroom to complete your space! It may sound like a challenge, but when done, the payoff will be huge. Below are several ideas to help get you to 12.
1. Textured Tile: Opt for tiles with a textured surface for flooring walls, and shower enclosures. Tiles with a beveled edge, mosaic tiles, or natural stone tiles like travertine or slate add depth and visual interest to the space. On floors, natural materials also offer a little extra slip resistance. We love these tile options from Tile Collective.
2. Specialty Wall Treatments: Experiment with textured wall treatments to add dimension to your bathroom. Textured wallpaper, specialty paints, or wall paneling can create visual interest without taking up precious floor or countertop space. We are particularly fond of lime wash and roman clay from Portola Paints.
Design: House of Honey, Paint: Nitty Gritty Roman Clay by Portola Paints
3. Cabinetry: Cabinetry is a great way to make a bold statement with texture. Sleek lacquered cabinets, reeded doors, or even a spectacular wood grain can be used to give your bathroom dimension and add to a bespoke feel.
Design: Fran Keenan Design, Hardware: Geo Collection
4. Cabinet Hardware: Textured hardware is a great way to add subtle detail to your space. It also offers a tactile experience for the hand. Textured hardware can range from bold knurling to subtle distressing.
Top Left: Cleat Knob, Top Right: Turno Pull,
Bottom Left: Ore Pull, Bottom Right: Travertine Hubble Knob
5. Textiles: Fabrics are a fantastic way to add multiple textures to your room. Opt to incorporate a mixture of fabrics such as linen, velvet, cotton, and wool to add richness and variety. Also consider varied textures, such as ribbed, waffle, or terry cloth, to add both interest and functionality.
Design: Studio of Meghan Eisenberg
Design: Jessica Helgerson Interior Design
7. Interesting Accessories: Last but not least, incorporating accessories is a simple way to layer in texture. For example, adding artwork could add two points of interest with a wooden frame and layered paint. Other ideas include woven baskets and ceramic accessories like soap dishes and toothbrush holders with textured finishes or intricate patterns. Small wooden furniture and aesthetic bath tools can also be a great way to add detail. Choose pieces that complement you bathroom decor and add a tactile element to your daily routine.
Design: Sarah Sherman
In conclusion, textures are instrumental in transforming a stark bathroom into a luxurious rereat. By incorporating a variety of textures, from tiles and natural materials to soft furnishings and accessories, you can create a space that is both more visually captivating and functional. Whether you're aiming for a serene spa oasis or a contemporary sancturary, embracing textures will elevate your bathroom design to new heights of style and comfort.
Design: Date Interiors