Could black be “the new black” in bathrooms?

Are you one of the many Australians who has been inspired by one of the renovation programs on the television? If you’ve been thinking of renovating a bathroom lately, chances are you’re already aware of the current trend towards the use of black in a number of different aspects of the bathroom. The burning question is, though, how to use black without turning your bathroom into the darkest part of your home.

There is no doubt that black can work really well in a range of different styles of bathroom, but it needs careful planning and a balanced approach to ensure that one of the most important areas of your home, (particularly when it comes to resale), doesn’t end up feeling like a cave.

Whether you are aiming to add a highlight feature, add some atmosphere or to balance a large space, there are a number of ways to use black in your bathroom. Here’s a brief look at some of your options:

1. Tiling. If you’re going use black tiles on the walls, floors or both, the key issue is not overdoing it. Using a white ceiling, white bath and white benches can help you to achieve a stylish monochrome look with a sense of balance. Another option is to go for a checkerboard effect by mixing black and white tiles.
2. Vanity unit. A black vanity can be effective in ‘toning down’ a bright bathroom, or providing a contrasting block in a large bathroom. Pairing black stone benches with black toned timber cupboards and drawers, for example, can add an edgier touch to an otherwise conservative room.
3. Tapware. Black taps have become quite a popular choice recently in both bathroom and kitchen renovations. They can be used as a point of contrast with white or neutral toned basins and benches, or for the more adventurous you can pair them with…
4. Basins. Black basins have been cropping up regularly in display suites for new homes and developments around Melbourne for a while now. The more successful examples tend to use a balance of black, white and timber tones to ensure that no one colour dominates, as the picture demonstrates.
5. Baths. The recent trend towards elegant oval-shaped free-standing baths with matt finishes can work really well in a black bath. This can be enhanced by the use of black tapware, particularly against a neutral backdrop such as stone floors or walls.
6. Decorator fittings. A shower screen is something that often blends into the background, but a black frame can turn it into a highlight of your bathroom. Even little features like a towel rail or a shelf can become a feature in a monochrome colour scheme if it contrasts with its background.

As we mentioned earlier, the key to creating a bathroom that becomes a feature of your home is to plan it carefully, particularly when working with a colour like black. Yes, black can certainly be “the new black” where chic styling is concerned. But it could also be a trend that disappears just as quickly as it arrived, so hasten slowly.