Wall design ideas in the bathroom

Colorful bathroom: Wallpaper ideas for an atmospheric ambiance

Tiles in the bathroom always work. But how about a graphic wall design for your wellness oasis, or colorful designs for a good mood in the morning? We’ll show you modern ideas that are both functional and original here.

White bath tub in front of black tiles and floral patterns
With this wall design, you don’t need much more: The brightly colored peonies are the focus of this wellness area.

The 1x1 of wall design in the bathroom

Bright bathroom with colorful flowers
Fresh, light, and bold: Bring a cheerful mood into your space with this flowery idea.

Wallpapers work very well in the bathroom: they’re a homey alternative to tile mirrors and, with the right design, also a design eye-catcher. Pay attention to the particular material before making your choice. 

The reason: Conventional models made of paper or rough fiber aren’t waterproof, and do poorly in moist environments. Pay attention to the DIN EN 235 standard about waterproof capability when making your decision. To be on the safe side, choose the highest protection class “Highly abrasion-resistant.” 

Suitable materials include:

  • Non-woven wallpaper: Wide selection available. From stone or 3D look, graphic patterns to photo wallpaper, anything is possible. Non-woven wallpaper is breathable and moisture-regulating; it can be used in all areas that do not come into direct contact with water.
  • Fiberglass wallpaper: Comes in different colors and atmospheric designs. It is absolutely shock-proof, tear-proof, and slip-proof, and can also be used in the shower area. 

Optimal processing is key for models installed in the bathroom. The edges have to be glued seamlessly, so that moisture doesn't accumulate underneath. 

If you don’t want to give up on a luxurious option, you can also treat your favorite model with a suitable paint coating. How well this works depends on the particular material composition and protective paint. Depending on the model, the application may cause color changes. To avoid surprises here, you should seek advice from a specialist.

Show character in the bathroom

​​​​​​​Are you a playful personality? Do you have a strong sense of form? Or do you like things to be straightforward? With wallpaper, you can set very personal accents in your room design. You can make this rather functional area of your home more homey without a lot of effort.

The selection of materials, colors, and designs is enormous! Let our examples inspire you.

  • Flora and fauna: Detailed depictions of plants and animals bring nature and liveliness into your bathroom
  • Graphic patterns: In minimalist bathrooms, these patterns are eye-catchers that express exclusivity and sense of style
  • Color combinations: Further enhance the effect of your interior furnishings. For example, models in a natural look that emphasize a calming mood with several wooden elements. 
  • Mix of materials: Used thoughtfully, a mix of different materials brings excitement into the room: Design your walls in the lower area with plain tiles or textured plaster, and use wallpaper in the upper area to highlight the wall design.
  • Photo wallpapers: Set the design with panoramic nature or macro shots under a motto and create a special atmosphere. Have your own shots made and keep great moments in vivid memory. 


When it comes to wall design, you have a great deal of creative freedom and can play with colors and shapes. If you pay attention to the right material, the path towards a bathroom design with that special something becomes clear. 

Frequently asked questions about bathroom design with wallpaper

What wallpaper is suitable for bathrooms?

In particular, non-woven and fiberglass models are best suited for the bathroom. They tolerate moisture or wetness to varying degrees and retain their shape.

Is there wallpaper for the shower area?

Fiberglass wallpaper works best for wet areas like the shower and sink. With optimal application, it is water-repellent.

Can I use paper wallpaper in the bathroom?

Yes, they can be used in areas that are very far from sources of moisture. Alternatively, they can be treated with a protective paint by professionals.

What wallpapers work in minimalist bathrooms?

You can use graphic patterns or monochrome models in the shower area or on the wall behind the sink as design elements.

What wallpaper ideas are there for themed bathrooms?

Some examples include photo wallpapers with macro or panoramic shots from nature, or floral patterns.

Dare pattern and color

Bring homey flair to the bathroom. When making your choice, make sure to pick a suitable material that can tolerate moisture and humidity

The best thing to do is to seek advice from specialists. Give your creativity free rein: There’s a suitable idea and model for every mood.

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