35+ Best Bathroom Wainscoting Ideas And Designs (Photos)
The humble bathroom deserves just as much attention and TLC as any other room in the house. It’s where we retreat to unwind, refresh, and rejuvenate – whether it’s for personal use or to accommodate guests. Wainscoting, a timeless design element, can be used to elevate this often-understated space. Typically associated with living rooms and bedrooms, there’s no reason why wainscoting can’t bring its charm to the bathroom as well.
If you’re looking for inspiration to give your bathroom a makeover or simply want to add some classic flair, we’ve got you covered. From subway tiles to luxurious marble, we’ll explore 35 bathroom wainscoting ideas that will help you create a space that’s both functional and visually stunning.
These design options range from subtle and understated to bold and eye-catching. Whether you prefer traditional, modern, or eclectic styles, there’s something on this list for everyone.
So go ahead, get inspired, and start planning your bathroom wainscoting project today!
What is bathroom wainscoting?
Elevate your bathroom’s aesthetic with the thoughtful addition of wainscoting, which combines the visual appeal of wallpaper, chair railing, and baseboards into one cohesive design element. This clever concept can be used to introduce a touch of sophistication and refinement to the space, making it an ideal solution for homeowners seeking to add some extra flair without breaking the bank.
What is the purpose of wainscoting?
Wainscoting’s primary function is to bring elegance and refinement to a space, serving as a versatile design element that can be tailored to suit various tastes and preferences. By offering a range of materials, hues, and designs, wainscoting allows homeowners to inject their unique style into the room, creating a sophisticated atmosphere that reflects their personal flair.
35 Bathroom Wainscoting Ideas
Wainscoting has long been a go-to solution for adding visual interest to plain walls. The precise edges and geometric shapes used in this design element can dramatically alter the perception of depth, angle, and overall shape. In what follows, we’ll delve into some of the most striking bathroom wainscoting ideas currently trending, perfect for those seeking inspiration for their own project.
Subway tile wainscoting and white toilet
Installing a subway white tile wainscoting in your bathroom can create a timeless design that never goes out of style. For added visual appeal, consider matching the tile’s hue to your ceiling, which will draw the eye upwards and give the illusion of more space. To further elevate a simple bathroom, incorporate a mirror with a minimalist frame that complements the room’s color palette.
The result is a harmonious blend of neutral tones and understated decorations, perfect for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Green tile wainscot bathroom wall
The freshness of the green color is undeniable, evoking a sense of natural serenity that can be particularly uplifting within bathrooms. When incorporated into interior design, it has the ability to create a refreshing atmosphere that’s hard to ignore. Interestingly, pairing green with black and white accentuates its vibrancy, allowing it to truly stand out.
The incorporation of green wainscoting also serves as an effective means of protecting the lower areas of the bathroom from dirt, effectively keeping them clean and well-maintained.
Luxurious blue tile wainscoting
To achieve an upscale ambiance in your bathroom, consider incorporating luxurious elements such as blue tile wainscoting. This elegant feature can be further enhanced by adding matching decorative accents like silver mirrors and gold faucets. The addition of a long ceramic sink also contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of this small bathroom design.
In order to maintain the desired look and feel, it’s essential to focus on maintaining the space as much as possible, not only for the homeowner’s enjoyment but also for the sake of guests who may visit.
Gray stone tile wainscoting
The subtle charm of a gray hue on bathroom walls is undeniable, offering a neutral backdrop that invites exploration. The textured appearance of the stone adds depth and visual interest, making it a compelling choice for any bathroom design. When paired with a larger space, thoughtful use of color and decorative elements can elevate the overall aesthetic to new heights.
Moreover, gray’s versatility allows it to harmonize seamlessly with an array of colors, including white, which creates a clean and sophisticated look reminiscent of high-end designs.
Light green wainscotting tile
In small bathrooms, where minimal furniture reigns supreme, the focus shifts to creative tile choices that harmonize with each other. The compact space means every element is magnified, making it crucial to ensure a seamless visual flow. One approach is to combine a light green wainscotting with bold green flooring, creating a fresh and airy atmosphere. This design solution not only adds depth but also highlights the simplicity of a palette centered around white and green hues.
Dark board wainscoting
When it comes to bathroom design, playing with contrasting colors can lead to stunning results. By incorporating a bolder hue alongside neutral whites, you can create a unique ambiance that’s both visually appealing and refreshing. In this particular setup, the bold color choice is elevated by the presence of the bathtub at its center. The focal point created by the tub’s placement serves as a striking contrast to the patterned tile flooring, resulting in a simple yet character-filled design.
Mint Green
Transforming your bathroom into a serene oasis, pastel hues bring a refreshing and calming ambiance. The soft, gentle tone of pastel green creates a sense of tranquility, making it an ideal choice for a space where you want to unwind. Moreover, selecting the perfect colors for wainscoting can add depth and visual interest, while harmonizing with the overall aesthetic of your bathroom.
Dark burgundy board
The boldness of crimson red injects a dynamic flair into this wainscoting idea, making it a perfect fit for your personal style. Neither too dark nor too light, the striking color offers an impressive visual impact that can elevate even the smallest or largest bathroom area. This thoughtful incorporation of matching colors not only adds a traditional feel but also creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, effortlessly transforming any space into a welcoming haven.
White beadboard wainscotting
In an all-white bathroom, the purity and brightness are enhanced by the wainscotting. To add depth and visual interest, introducing a different texture with the same color creates a stunning contrast. The large mirror and dramatic lighting above amplify the elegant ambiance. Furthermore, having a window beside the bathtub is a timeless classic, allowing you to appreciate your surroundings while indulging in a relaxing bath experience.
Wooden wainscotting
To create a rustic ambiance in your bathroom, consider incorporating wooden wainscoting as a design element. This small but impactful addition pairs perfectly with the warmth of wood tones and can even evoke a sense of nostalgia through its vintage-inspired sink design. As you gaze upon this cozy and welcoming space, you may find yourself surrounded by a naturalistic atmosphere that’s equal parts inviting and calming.
Modern high wainscotting
In many homeowners’ eyes, a modern and upscale bathroom is the epitome of elegance. And that’s precisely why this wainscoting idea shines so brightly in such settings. The harmonious blend of colors and the striking high wainscoting create an impressive visual display, imbuing the space with an air of grandeur and sophistication. Furthermore, this unique design element offers homeowners a chance to stand out from the crowd by choosing something truly exceptional.
Full wainscotting
While half-wainscoting can create a striking look, a full wainscotting treatment can elevate the visual appeal of a room even further. This neutral-toned wainscotting design, for instance, creates a stunning contrast with the black patterned flooring in this bathroom, resulting in a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere. The interplay between color and texture adds depth and visual interest to the space, ultimately increasing its aesthetic value.
Black wainscotting
The allure of black as a bathroom wainscotting choice is undeniable, bringing an air of sophistication and grandeur to the space. The warm and inviting aesthetic it creates is hard to ignore, making it a design that demands attention. The subtle interplay of lines and patterns adds depth and visual interest, while the addition of high-end fixtures like sinks and decorative items elevates the overall look to new heights.
As you indulge in bath time, you can’t help but feel enveloped in luxury and comfort.
Wonderful Bathroom wainscotting
While classic wainscoting designs are timeless and aesthetically pleasing, opting for an unconventional yet charming design like the one described here can elevate the bathroom’s charm and sophistication. The subtle fusion of patterned white and pink elements with luxurious fixtures such as the sink, bathtub, and furniture creates a harmonious and chic atmosphere.
What sets this wainscoting apart from more traditional designs is its ability to impart a distinct personality to the room, making it a truly one-of-a-kind space.
Decorative wainscoting as separator
A more effective approach to partitioning bathroom walls involves dividing them into distinct sections, rather than opting for a traditional wainscoting design. This can be achieved through the use of décor separators in various styles and colors. For instance, the bold combination of purple and white used here creates a chic and luxurious ambiance that is further enhanced by the presence of decorative items within the space.
The wood-tinged flooring also serves to highlight the wainscoting, as its subtle contrast with the rich upper wall color creates visual interest.
Variety of wainscoting
Introducing a contrasting wainscoting on one side and maintaining consistency on the other creates an visually appealing dynamic. As you move around the space, your eye is drawn to the subtle yet striking difference in textures and colors, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the unique beauty it brings to the area.
This design approach can be successfully applied to bathrooms of any size, from compact to spacious, as long as there are two distinct sides that can accommodate different wainscoting styles. While this combination may not be common, it offers an intriguing and captivating visual experience.
Accent wainscoting wall
While traditional wainscoting often involves covering entire walls, a more understated approach is to install it in a single corner of the bathroom. This unique design element can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the space without overwhelming the senses.
By incorporating wainscoting into just one corner, you can create a visually appealing focal point that draws the eye and adds depth to the room.
This approach also allows for a greater sense of openness and airiness in the remaining areas of the bathroom.
Grey wainscoting to your marble console
Crafting an air of sophistication within your bathrooms hinges on two key factors: thoughtful color choices and the judicious use of materials. In this design, a striking visual balance is achieved by employing the entire wall as wainscoting, while the marble console and sink imbue the space with a sense of refinement. The flooring, too, merits attention, its unique features elevating the overall aesthetic.
When each element harmonizes seamlessly, beauty and elegance are the natural consequences – a testament to the power of thoughtful design.
White wainscoting with a grey patterned design
A bathroom designed with timeless elegance, this space embodies the essence of understated luxury. The absence of clutter and emphasis on simplicity create an atmosphere of serenity, making it a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. The harmonious union of white wainscoting and grey decorative separators produces a visually striking contrast that beautifully complements the classic design, drawing attention to the thoughtful arrangement of fixtures and decor within.
Sophisticated dark wood wainscoting
Creating a harmonious fusion of style and sophistication by pairing a luxurious black bathtub with dark wood wainscoting is indeed a bold move, as both elements boast an air of refinement and elegance. The contrast between the two might initially raise concerns about visual overload; however, cleverly incorporating white accents through brick design effectively balances out the overpowering colors, creating a visually stunning yet harmonious space.
While this choice may come with a higher price tag, it’s likely to be a worthwhile investment for those seeking a truly unique and awe-inspiring bathroom design.
Tin roof wainscoting
Transforming used roofing materials into wainscoting in your bathroom can be a clever and creative idea. Consider cutting and installing the salvaged material to add texture and visual interest to your space. The rustic, weathered look of old roofing can actually create a unique and charming aesthetic when paired with a plain, clean wall. For an alternative design approach, consider incorporating industrial-style tin roofing materials for a distinctively modern look.
Oblique lines
While the wainscoting design may appear intricate, its visual impact is truly stunning. By incorporating this craft into your bathroom’s plain walls, you can create a one-of-a-kind look that adds an air of luxury. The repeating lines are particularly effective in longer bathrooms, where they can be used to create a sense of infinity and visual interest.
Gold and intricate designed wainscoting
At first glance, it’s clear that this bathroom space exudes grandeur and luxury. The combination of old gold tones with intricate designs featuring shapes and spirals adds a touch of traditional elegance, reminiscent of bygone eras. When paired with the peach-printed upper portion, the wainscoting creates a visually intriguing contrast that draws the eye. This unique design concept is definitely worth adding to your list of bathroom ideas.
White marble wainscoting
Introducing a touch of elegance to your space, incorporating a contrasting material like marble can be an inspired decision. This example beautifully illustrates how the simplicity of white can be elevated by the addition of marble, resulting in a look that’s far more captivating than its plain counterpart. Furthermore, incorporating marble tiles as wainscoting in your bathroom area is also an excellent way to inject some visual interest and sophistication.
Lumber cabin walls
While many focus on coordinating colors and materials, a lesser-known approach is to utilize lumber as a stunning wainscoting element in bathroom design, as exemplified by this concept. What’s remarkable about this space is that every feature is crafted from wood, making it an affordable option for incorporating lumber into the design.
Furthermore, the unique aspect of this layout lies in its potential to incorporate cut logs and additional wooden elements as decorative accents, adding texture and visual interest to the space.
Vertical wood paneling and wainscoting
This particular wainscoting style exudes a sense of serenity, making it an inviting addition to any bathroom space. Its calming effect is undeniable, drawing you back in again and again. When selecting a color scheme to complement this design, it’s crucial to strike the right balance, as the wrong choice can detract from the overall aesthetic.
However, regardless of the chosen hue, the incorporation of decorative elements such as ceiling fixtures, tables, and freestanding tubs lends an air of orderliness, cleanliness, and natural beauty, creating a cohesive and pleasing atmosphere.
Geometric stone wainscoting
For a truly eye-catching bathroom, consider incorporating geometric designs like wainscoting. While it may not appear grand or luxurious at first glance, this design element adds an interesting dimension to the overall space. By intensifying the white color scheme and building character, it transforms the area into a stylish retreat.
One of the major advantages of choosing this design is its versatility – it complements any home style, making it a timeless choice that works well regardless of the season.
Multi-dimensional tile wainscoting
Elevating your bathroom’s aesthetic, a black multi-dimensional tile wainscoting offers a level of sophistication that transcends space constraints. This design choice creates a grand and luxurious ambiance, effortlessly pairing with any color palette. The boldness of red, in particular, is beautifully harmonized by the black tile’s neutral tone, making it an accessible and daring design concept that can be attempted by anyone.
Rustic wall panels
To bring a rustic charm to your bathroom, think outside the box when selecting wall panels. Consider painting them in a light brown hue or a complementary color that evokes a sense of nostalgia and ruggedness. This dual-purpose design not only adds an aesthetic touch but also serves as wainscoting, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
The perfect complement to this look is old furniture with a rustic flair, which can be paired with the panels in a way that harmonizes their colors while maintaining their unique character.
Chevron panel wainscoting
While a simple wainscoting design can be effective, incorporating unique patterns and lines, such as a chevron panel, can elevate the overall aesthetic of a bathroom. Not only does it add an element of sophistication, but it also provides a focal point that draws the eye. In this particular design, the chevron panel wainscoting seamlessly integrates with the existing color palette and materials, creating a harmonious and visually appealing space.
Contemporary coffee beadboard wainscoting
Achieving a contemporary style in interior design doesn’t necessarily require lavish materials. In fact, the opposite is true. This bathroom area successfully embodies the essence of modernity by blending various shades of a single color palette with the addition of bead board wainscoting, which injects an air of sophistication into the overall aesthetic.
The circular wooden frame surrounding the mirror adds a touch of elegance, particularly when paired with the contrasting printed wall that complements the wainscoting. This design approach proves particularly effective in smaller bathroom areas, where minimal decoration and natural colors can come together to create a harmonious whole.
Traditional vertical panels
Regardless of its age or traditional nature, a design’s aesthetic value remains crucial. By pouring your heart and soul into the space and fusing creativity with modern elements, you can transform even the most timeless designs. For instance, incorporating bold flooring and accenting with printed sofas injects vibrancy and enthusiasm into an area.
The once plain walls take on new life not just due to the vertical wainscoting panels, but also because of the harmonious blend of styles, which collectively breathe fresh life into the space.
Bright and brilliant wainscoting
In creative crises, homeowners may turn to unconventional design elements to stimulate their imagination. One such approach is incorporating bold, bright colors into bathroom spaces. This notion challenges traditional norms by introducing a vibrant green wainscoting that commands attention upon entering the room. While some might view this choice as unorthodox, others will appreciate the opportunity to defy conventional expectations and make a statement with their unique design.
Cabinetry wainscoting
A game-changer in bathroom design is repurposing cabinetry as wainscoting. This innovative approach elevates the space to new heights, blending form and function seamlessly. The resulting aesthetic is nothing short of sophisticated, with rich colors and opulent materials adding a touch of grandeur. Whether your bathroom is compact or spacious, this versatile solution can be adapted to suit any size or shape, making it an ideal choice for homeowners seeking a unique and functional design.
Thin bamboo wainscoting
Elevate your bathroom’s aesthetic with a unique and refreshing touch – install a tall bamboo wainscoting. This design element brings a timeless and classic appeal, blending seamlessly with the natural ambiance it creates. Moreover, this unconventional idea sets you apart from the crowd, making it an excellent addition to your personal best list.
FAQs
What type of wainscoting can be used in a bathroom?
When it comes to wainscoting in a bathroom, the possibilities are endless. One popular option is to install wallpaper or paneling above the usual height of a wall, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the space. For those looking for a more unique look, custom paneling made from bead board can be a stunning choice. However, it’s essential to consider the added cost this may bring to your renovation project.
Should you put wainscoting in a bathroom?
While some individuals may opt against incorporating wainscoting in their bathrooms, it’s essential to consider the practical implications of such a decision. Bathrooms are areas where we tend to interact with walls more frequently than other rooms, which means that wainscoting can quickly become worn out and stained from constant use.
In contrast, installing wallpaper can be a more sensible choice, as it is easier to replace and maintain cleanliness, making it a more practical option for high-traffic spaces like bathrooms.
Is the type of wainscoting chosen for a bathroom easy to clean?
When selecting wainscoting for a bathroom, it’s crucial to consider its cleanliness properties. A dirty and worn-out wall can be avoided by opting for easy-to-clean wainscoting. However, some types of wainscoting feature intricate grooves that may not be ideal for frequent cleaning, especially in bathrooms where hair products are often applied. In such scenarios, it’s recommended to choose a different material or design to prevent unsightly stains and wear.
Can wainscoting be used on the floor of a bathroom?
While wainscoting can add a touch of elegance to a room, installing it on the floor of a bathroom is not a recommended design choice. The primary concern is that it would create an illusion of reduced space, making the room appear even smaller than it already is. Additionally, the lowered profile would hinder cleaning efforts, as dirt and debris could accumulate under the panels without being easily accessible.
Furthermore, wainscoting on the floor can be vulnerable to damage from dropped objects or other accidental impacts.
Would a wainscoting made from wood be a good choice for a bathroom?
When it comes to designing a bathroom, opting for wood wainscoting might not be the best decision. The high level of moisture in bathrooms can cause wooden surfaces to deteriorate quickly, leading to warping or even rotting. Furthermore, wood’s porosity makes it more challenging to clean and maintain compared to other materials. As a result, alternative options should be considered for creating a durable and low-maintenance bathroom look.
Can a wainscoting made from metal be used in a bathroom?
Incorporating metal wainscoting into your bathroom design offers numerous benefits. Not only is it easy to clean and maintain due to its non-porous nature, but it also boasts impressive durability, making it an ideal choice for a space where moisture is prevalent.
How much does it cost to have a wainscoting put in a bathroom?
The cost of installing wainscoting can vary significantly, with an average price tag of around $300 per wall. However, this figure doesn’t include the costs of materials and labor, which will depend on the type of wainscoting chosen and the number of walls requiring installation. Additional walls can add anywhere from $50 to $100 to the overall cost.
With regards to time, the duration of the installation process can vary greatly, ranging from 3 to 5 days for a full installation, depending on the complexity of the job and the type of wainscoting used.
How long will it last if a wainscoting is put in a bathroom?
The longevity of a wainscoting installation largely hinges on the selection of material, maintenance habits, and environmental factors. A well-crafted wainscoting can enjoy an impressive lifespan of 100 to 250 years if consistently cleaned and cared for. However, the actual durability also depends on the composition of the materials used in its construction as well as the specific bathroom context in which it is situated.
Can a wainscoting put in a bathroom be painted?
When it comes to painting wainscoting made from wood, particle board, or MDF, the process is relatively straightforward. The porous nature of these materials means that they can readily absorb large amounts of water if not properly sealed, which can lead to damage if left untreated. With a high-quality primer and paint, however, even the most porous wainscoting surfaces can be effectively coated without issue.
Would a wainscoting made from plastic be a good choice for a bathroom?
While a sleek, modern design might initially seem appealing, installing a glass shower enclosure wouldn’t be the most practical choice. The cost of replacing it every few years would far outweigh any aesthetic benefits. Moreover, this type of material is notoriously difficult to clean and maintain, not to mention its flimsy nature. If you do decide to go with glass, consider installing it above the tub or shower to minimize these drawbacks.
Is wainscoting made from metal good for a bathroom?
When considering a low-maintenance and long-lasting option for your bathroom wainscoting, metal could be an excellent choice. Its durability stems from its ease of cleaning and resistance to warping, rotting, or corroding – making it an ideal material for areas prone to moisture. Unlike wood, which can be compromised by water exposure, metal remains unaffected, ensuring a stylish and functional wainscoting solution for your bathroom.
Are there any health benefits if a wainscoting put in the bathroom contains no glue?
When it comes to wainscoting, a common concern is the potential presence of harmful glues that can emit formaldehyde, a chemical known to cause skin and respiratory irritation. Moreover, prolonged exposure to this chemical has been linked to the development of conditions such as asthma and allergies.
To mitigate these risks, opting for wainscoting options that eschew synthetic adhesives altogether or instead utilize natural materials like rubber and cork can significantly reduce formaldehyde emissions, creating a safer indoor environment for you and your loved ones.
How high should wainscoting be in bathroom?
When it comes to achieving a professional aesthetic, installing wainscoting around the top of the wall is a great starting point. But, if you’re looking to add some unique flair, consider extending the wainscoting up as high as needed, leaving enough clearance above for storage solutions like towel racks or shelves. The key here is to ensure there’s sufficient space between the top of the wainscoting and the ceiling for your desired storage features.
To determine the ideal height, measure from the existing wall to the bottom of the wainscoting – this will give you a sense of how much storage space you have available.
What is the best height for wainscoting?
While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the ideal height for wainscoting, a common starting point is around 5 feet. This moderate height strikes a balance between providing ample storage space and achieving the desired aesthetic. Ultimately, the best height will depend on individual preferences and functional requirements.
How do you wainscot a bathroom?
Wainscoting a bathroom is an accessible DIY project that can be accomplished in two distinct approaches. The initial method involves combining baseboard and paneling to cover the walls. After the installation, you’ll need to fill any imperfections with wood filler, allowing it to dry before sanding until smooth. A high-quality primer and paint specifically designed for bathrooms should then be applied. Alternatively, you can opt for a wooden wainscoting of your choice and color scheme.
The process remains the same: fill any holes or damages with wood filler once it’s dried, followed by sanding to a smooth finish. Finally, apply a high-quality primer and paint suitable for bathroom environments.
Conclusion
Originally, wainscoting in bathrooms served as a practical solution to protect walls from man-made hazards. As time evolved, its purpose transformed, becoming more of a decorative feature aimed at enhancing the area’s visual appeal. Despite this shift, wainscoting still offers several advantages that make it a worthwhile investment and design project for homeowners.
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