Ideas in black

The bathroom: Black ensures pure elegance

Dark green wall and wall elements
Here, the dark wall elements emphasize the luxurious character of a dark bathroom with emerald green glow.

A little drama, a little elegance, and something special no matter what: a black bathroom is a real eye-catcher – if the staging is right. Learn what you should know when creating your design.

Bring excitement to the bathroom and make a statement

Sink and faucet in front of light gray wall
Sometimes that’s all it takes: The faucet from the hansgrohe FinishPlus series is the center of attention and can optimally unfold its full potential.

Strictly speaking, black isn’t a color at all. Rather, it’s the absence of light and, unlike white and other colors, can exist without light. Perhaps this fact also contributes to the color’s mystical effect. Depending on how we combine it, the color exudes elegance, a hint of exclusivity, and seduction.

We know the “little black dress,” a symbol of pure seduction in the fashion world. However, it also creates a certain distance with its high aesthetic appeal. Be aware of this effect when you use the dark color. If you put it to skillful use, you can emphasize your sense of aesthetics and your design-oriented interior style with this design.

How to design your bathroom in black

Start by deciding whether you prefer a minimalist design where most of the surfaces are black. This will make color the absolute focus and determine the character of the space. One small disadvantage: Limescale deposits are easier to spot in very dark bathrooms. But choosing the right cleaner will ensure this problem is quickly forgotten.

Emphasize a concentrated design by using matching materials:

  • Glass: The glass shower enclosure provides lightness 
  • Marble: Sinks or marbled floors enhance the elegant character of the dark color
  • Wood: Straight shelves or base cabinets made of solid wood break up the smooth look of black walls and floors


Depending on how you’ve decorated the rest of your home, you can create a smooth transition to the other rooms by choosing the right materials. 

Shower in front of dark gray background
Here, colors are perfectly combined. The result is a minimalist space with a very aesthetic look.

Skillful mix of colors: Try gray and white

If a bathroom completely in black is too much for you, try combining it with white, for example, or something softer in natural beige tones. Make your bathroom bright and friendly and set an exciting contrast with a wall painted black. 

You can enhance the luxurious marble look with matte faucets. 
The contrast between gray and black is somewhat softer. This mix harmonizes very well with gold or bronze accents, such in faucets or decorative elements. 

Let there be light: Set the mood

The more black you use in your design, the more you should pay attention to a well thought-out lighting concept. One practical idea is large windows that can let in bright daylight. In addition, warm ceiling lighting and additional spots provide light in the right spot.

The light shouldn’t be too cold, or otherwise it will give the dark design an artificial, uninviting touch. You can find more tips for your lighting concept in our article “Bathroom lighting in perfection: How to create optimal lighting conditions.”

Frequently asked questions about a black bathroom

What effect does the color black have?

It is the darkest color and has a correspondingly strong effect. It symbolizes elegance, an exclusive sense of style, seduction, and a certain distance.

What colors can be combined with black?

For an elegant effect, combine it with white and gray tones. Black looks especially luxurious when combined with warm metallic tones like gold and bronze.

What materials can be combined with black?

To emphasize the modern character, combine black with equally cool materials like glass and metal. You can soften the smoothness of dark surfaces by contrasting them with individual, warm wood elements.

How important is the lighting concept in black bathrooms?

If the room has a ground-level glass front or is part of a loft, daylight may be sufficient. In all other cases, there should be a well thought-out mix of ceiling lamp(s) and spot lights.

How do I use black as an accent?

In a bright bathroom, you can use faucets and showers or a black wall as an eye-catcher. It’s important that the room design doesn’t look too noisy from many details and style mixes. Less is definitely more!

Masterful use of black as a statement

It is an absolute eye-catcher that reveals a lot about your style and design aspirations. Choosing this color creates a space that invites you to relax and enjoy in a special atmosphere.
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