Even compact bathrooms have the potential to make a big impact. Camille's powder room exemplifies this perfectly. If a full remodel isn't feasible for you, a fresh paint job can work wonders. Selecting the ideal paint colors for smaller spaces is a straightforward, cost-effective way to transform your bathroom. Color plays a crucial role in how a room feels, regardless of its actual size. Lighter shades create an illusion of depth, making ceilings appear higher and spaces seem more open. Conversely, darker tones can highlight specific features and cultivate a distinctive atmosphere.
The correct paint color not only enhances the perception of space but also brightens the area. Good lighting is essential in bathrooms, and both light and color influence how we perceive ourselves in the mirror. This makes the choice of paint colors particularly significant.
With countless paint color options available, creativity flourishes. Yet, the abundance of choices can lead to feeling overwhelmed. We consulted top designers for their favorite paint colors for small bathrooms to simplify your selection process. The beauty of paint is its flexibility—if you don’t love the result, you can always repaint.
Check out the recommended paint colors for small bathrooms from our panel of design experts:
- Nina Freudenberger, founder of Freudenberger Design Studio
- Tali Roth, principal of Tali Roth Interior Design Studio
- Shannon Wollack and Brittany Zwickl, co-founders of Studio/Lifestyle
- Lauren Schneider, co-founder of Transition + State
- Amber Lewis, founder of Amber Interiors, All Sorts Of blog, and author of Made for Living
- Kim Lapin, designer based in Los Angeles
- Anna Sage, interior designer and author of Sage Living
- Javaneh Pirooz, Los Angeles-based designer
Duck Green W55 – Farrow and Ball
“This shade is fantastic for bathrooms. A well-chosen green can truly elevate a small space like a bathroom, offering an elegant and cozy ambiance.” — Nina Freudenberger
China White – Benjamin Moore
“China White is a timeless favorite for us, whether in a larger home or a cozy bathroom. This creamy white helps small spaces feel more expansive and serene.” — Shannon Wollack and Brittany Zwickl
Milk Glass – Dunn Edwards
“We generally prefer white in bathrooms for optimal makeup lighting. DE Milk Glass is a soft, warm off-white that reflects beautifully under any light.” — Lauren Schneider
BONUS
Fairview in a Roman Clay Finish – Portola Paints
“We recently used *Portola Paints in Fairview with a Roman clay finish, adding rich texture to its warm camel tone. The seamless look blends old-world charm with modern elegance.” — Lauren Schneider
*This color was semi-custom, derived from Portola Paint's Lime Wash collection.
Maison in the Roman Clay Finish – Portola Paints
“Small powder rooms can handle darker shades and drama! We selected Maison by Portola in a Roman clay finish for its texture, creating a perfect backdrop for our natural limestone sink.” — Amber Lewis
Chantilly Lace – Benjamin Moore
“Chantilly Lace brightens and modernizes dull spaces, especially in well-lit areas. It provides a crisp and airy feel, perfect for achieving that modern California aesthetic.” — Kim Lapin
County Line – Portola Paints
“For this compact 8’x8′ bathroom, I tiled the two largest walls but needed a complementary paint color for the smaller walls. County Line was the ideal choice, enhancing light and creating a bright, airy atmosphere.” — Anna Sage
Wimborne White – Farrow & Ball
“This warm white shade beautifully reflects light, creating the illusion of a larger space.” — Javaneh Pirooz
BONUS
Prayer in Lime Wash – Portola Paints
“A light colored lime wash on walls and ceilings can add texture and movement, especially in smaller areas. Ensure a proper sealer is used to manage moisture.” — Javaneh Pirooz
Shade-Grown – Sherwin-Williams
“I love dark colors in bathrooms; they create depth and mood in small spaces, avoiding a prison-like feel. I also adore the shade Quinn from Portola Paints!” — Tali Roth
Save this post for when you want to refresh your small bathroom.
