Brown bathrooms have seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years after falling out of favor for decades. Many interior designers are embracing warm, earthy tones like brown as an inviting and cozy alternative to stark whites and grays. But is brown truly in style for today’s bathrooms or just a fleeting trend? Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of brown bathrooms.
The History of Brown Bathrooms
Up until the 1960s and 70s, brown was actually a very popular color choice for bathrooms. Different shades of brown like beige, tan and even avocado green were common during this midcentury period. The earthy colors paired well with wood vanities and fixtures that were also popular at the time.
However, by the 1980s and 90s, white and pastel bathrooms came into fashion. Brown fell out of favor and came to be seen as dated and dingy. The sterile, clean look of white bathrooms became the new ideal. Gray bathrooms also rose in popularity as a slightly warmer alternative to stark white.
So for decades, brown bathrooms were seen as a design don’t. But the old adage “everything old is new again” rings true. As we move further away from the minimalist, cold look of the 90s and 2000s, brown bathrooms are having a comeback moment.
The Pros of a Brown Bathroom
So what’s fueling the return of brown bathroom design? There are actually several benefits to choosing a brown color palette:
Warmer and more relaxing: Unlike sterile white, brown makes a bathroom feel warmer, cozier and more relaxing. The earthy tones are reminiscent of nature and can promote a spa-like ambiance. This makes brown bathrooms ideal for creating a soothing oasis.
Easier on the eyes: Stark white bathrooms can seem harsh and clinical. Brown offers a softer look that’s easier on the eyes. The warmer tones won’t visually compete with fixtures and decor either.
Classic and timeless: Brown is a neutral color that has moved in and out of style over the decades. While trends come and go, brown has a classic look that transcends eras. Choosing classic browns makes it less likely your bathroom will look dated.
Versatile and flexible: From light beiges to deep chocolates, brown comes in so many shades and tones. This versatility makes it easy to find a brown that suits your taste and complements other colors. Brown works well with both cool and warm accents.
Hide dirt and wear: Unlike high maintenance white, brown bathrooms don’t show dirt, stains and wear as easily. Browns like tan or beige can help disguise the minor grime that comes with a well-used bathroom. This makes brown practical for families.
Potential Cons of Brown Bathrooms
However, brown bathrooms do come with a few potential drawbacks to consider:
Dark and cramped: Deep, dark browns can make a bathroom feel closed in and smaller than it is. Sticking with lighter beiges and tans can help prevent this. Proper lighting is also key.
Dingy appearance: Some browns can take on a dingy, muddy look without careful selection. Greige or olive browns run this risk more than beiges. Focus on warm, inviting shades.
Limiting palette: While versatile, working solely with browns can create a monotonous look. Be sure to accent with contrasts like white, black, natural wood or pops of color.
Staining: With extended water exposure, brown grout or tile can develop water stains. Be sure to properly seal the surfaces. Also opt for high quality porcelain or ceramic rather than natural stone.
Trend fluctuations: As a trend-driven color, brown may fall out of style again. Adding classic and timeless elements creates a more lasting look.
Key Factors for Pulling Off a Brown Bathroom
If you want to stylishly embrace the brown bathroom trend, keep these key guidelines in mind:
The right brown: Choosing the right shade of brown is essential. Light beiges feel bright and fresh, while deeper moccasins and chocolate browns have a cozy elegance. Greige or olive browns can look drab. Always view color swatches in the space.
Natural light: Proper lighting is crucial in a brown bathroom. Abundant windows, skylights or lighting fixtures prevent a dark, closed-in feeling. Light bulbs between 2700-3000K create a warm, welcoming glow.
Accent colors: Prevent a monotonous look by accenting brown with contrasting colors. Crisp white, light blues, black, and natural wood tones complement brown. Don’t be afraid of bold pops of color like green or yellow too.
Textures and patterns: Layer in textures like wood, tile, stone and veining. Patterns and prints also keep brown bathrooms visually intriguing. Florals, geometrics and abstracts all pair nicely.
Modern lines: While brown leans traditional, mixing in modern elements like clean lines, metallics and statement hardware creates contemporary contrast. This prevents an overtly retro feel.
| Brown Color Shade | Mood Created |
|---|---|
| Light beiges and tans | Bright, airy, neutral |
| Mid-tone mocha | Warm, welcoming, subtle |
| Deep chocolate | Dramatic, intimate, elegant |
Design Ideas for Stylish Brown Bathrooms
If you’re convinced a brown bathroom could be beautiful, here are some inspiring design ideas:
Spa-like tranquility: Create a relaxing spa atmosphere with light beige walls, white stone tile, rattan furnishings and green accents. Plenty of plants, woven textures and mood lighting enhance the zen vibe.
Rustic charm: For cozy cottage appeal, pair chocolate or espresso browns with wood elements like exposed beams, vanities and stool legs. Whitewashed wood floors and stone tile amp up the rustic charm.
Scandinavian minimalism: The clean lines of Scandinavian style complement brown’s earthiness. Use white and brown in a minimalist color scheme, mixed with black accents and wood tones. Plants add organic flair.
Bold and dramatic: Make a statement with a deep, almost-black brown paired with bright white tile and light gray wood floors. Brass fixtures pop against the dramatic brown backdrop.
Farmhouse chic: Achieve a farmhouse feel with beige walls, white trim, a classic pedestal sink and towel racks. Touches of blue and green add just enough color against the neutral brown palette.
Modern and masculine: For a menswear-inspired look, opt for greige-browns with black and white geometric floor tile. Stainless steel finishes and clean-lined wood vanities keep it contemporary.
Conclusion
Brown bathrooms have experienced a major resurgence, transforming from a dated look to a trendy design choice. When done right, brown can create bathrooms with warmth, elegance and timeless appeal. Stick with light and airy or rich chocolate browns, plenty of natural light, and accent colors for stylish results. Avoid murky, olive-browns or an overly monochromatic look. With proper design brown bathrooms can look far from dingy. Instead they become welcoming, spa-like spaces you’ll happily unwind in.