Choosing the right color for a rental bathroom can be a tricky task. As a property owner, you want to select a color that will appeal to potential tenants, while also being easy to maintain over time. The bathroom color should create an inviting space, but also stand up to moisture and regular cleaning. By considering factors like color psychology, design trends, and practical maintenance concerns, you can pick the ideal rental bathroom color scheme.
The Psychology of Bathroom Colors
Color psychology plays an important role in how a bathroom color scheme will be perceived. Certain shades evoke different feelings, which can impact the overall vibe of the space. Here are some common color associations to keep in mind:
- White: Cleanliness, purity, openness
- Beige: Warmth, calm, subtle sophistication
- Gray: Balance, tranquility, neutrality
- Blue: Relaxation, harmony, confidence
- Green: Health, rejuvenation, balance
- Yellow: Energy, optimism, cheerfulness
- Purple: Creativity, spirituality, luxury
- Black: Sophistication, intimacy, mystery
For a rental bathroom, aim for colors that evoke positive, uplifting feelings. Neutral shades like white, beige, gray, and blue tend to have the most universal appeal.
Popular Bathroom Color Trends
Looking at current design trends can provide inspiration for choosing an on-point bathroom color. Here are some of the most popular rental bathroom color schemes right now:
- White: Crisp white is a rental bathroom staple. It makes spaces look bright and clean. Pair with neutrals and natural materials for a light, airy look.
- Gray: From light dove gray to charcoal, gray bathrooms are very on-trend. Gray has a soothing, subtle effect that appeals to many.
- Beige: Warm beige is making a comeback in baths. Paired with textures like terra-cotta tiles and woven baskets, it creates a laidback, spa-like environment.
- Blue: Cool tones like powder blue and navy blue are appearing in lots of bathrooms now. Blue is both calming and timeless.
- Green: Earthy sage greens and emerald greens are bringing nature inside. Green represents rejuvenation and harmony.
- Black: For dramatic flair, black accents and fixtures are trending. Matte black pairs well with white for chic contrast.
Aim for a neutral color base that fits into one of these popular schemes. Then add eye-catching accents in bolder shades.
Practical Maintenance Concerns
While color trends come and go, there are some practical maintenance concerns to keep in mind for a rental property bathroom:
- Moisture resistance: Bathrooms see a lot of moisture. Look for top-quality paints that are specially formulated for bathrooms. Oil-based and high-gloss enamel paints are good options as they resist moisture and allow for easy wiping.
- Cleanability: Light and mid-tone neutrals show the least amount of grime and are easiest to clean. Stay away from darker colors or very matte finishes that won’t wipe down easily.
- Durability: How much wear-and-tear will the bathroom color need to withstand? Durability varies by color – lighter shades like white and beige tend to show scuffs. Deeper colors like gray or navy hide wear better over time.
- Re-paint frequency: Bright whites and light colors may need freshening up more frequently. Plan to repaint every 2-3 years for lighter shades. Deeper neutrals can sometimes last 5+ years before needing a refresh.
Talk to your paint retailer about the best moisture-resistant, durable paints for high-traffic rental baths. Also consider ease of touch-ups when choosing a color.
The Best Bathroom Colors for Rentals
Taking all of these factors into account, here are the top color choices to consider for rental property bathrooms:
1. White
A white bathroom is a timeless choice. Crisp white evokes cleanliness, openness, and purity. It makes small bathrooms appear larger and brighter. White is easy to decorate around and appeals to most renters. The downside is it does require more frequent repainting to keep looking fresh.
2. Light Gray
For a slightly warmer alternative to white, pale grays like Farrow & Ball’s Shadow White are great rental bathroom colors. Light grays provide a tranquil, neutral backdrop that won’t soon look dated. Dove gray or greige (a gray-beige hybrid) are other versatile options.
3. Beige
Beige may remind you of the 1970s, but it’s back in bathrooms today! Warm sand and khaki beiges provide a laidback, welcoming feel. Pair with textural elements like woven baskets, rattan mirrors, and ceramic accessories for a spa aesthetic.
4. Classic Blue
Periwinkle, powder blue, or navy blue make bathrooms feel instantly soothing and peaceful. Classic blue is versatile enough to appeal to men and women both. For moisture resistance, use a high-gloss or semi-gloss blue paint.
5. Sage Green
Earthy sage greens are on-trend now and bring the outdoors in. Greens represent health and renewal – perfect for a room like the bathroom. Try Farrow & Ball’s Vert de Terre or Benjamin Moore’s Rain Forest for a calming green bath.
Tips for Implementing Your Color Scheme
Once you’ve chosen the perfect rental bathroom color, keep these tips in mind:
- Use high-quality bathroom paint for better moisture resistance and easier cleaning.
- Only apply paint to properly prepped and primed walls for best durability.
- Use sheens like satin or semi-gloss for wipeability – stay away from flat paint.
- Accent with materials like ceramic tile, wood shelving, linen curtains to enhance the color scheme.
- Incorporate greenery – green plants paired with cool hues come across very inviting.
- Don’t forget the ceiling and trim! Painting them a clean white helps the walls pop.
With the right color choice and proper application, you can create a rental bathroom that appeals to tenants and withstands frequent use. Focus on tranquil neutrals punctuated by some on-trend gray, beige, blue, or green.
Conclusion
Selecting the ideal color for a rental bathroom requires balancing aesthetic appeal, psychology, and practical maintenance concerns. Neutral shades like white, light gray, beige, and pale blue tend to work best. These colors evoke positive feelings of cleanliness and calm, while hiding moisture and wear. By prepping surfaces properly and using durable bathroom paints, the right color scheme can last for years of tenancy. With a little strategic thought, you can pick a rental bath color that appeals to tenants, while also being livable long-term.
| Color | Psychology | Maintenance Notes |
|---|---|---|
| White | Cleanliness, openness | Repaint every 2-3 years |
| Light Gray | Tranquility, neutrality | Hides scuffs well |
| Beige | Warmth, calm | Resists moisture and mildew |
| Blue | Relaxation, harmony | Use high-gloss for wipeability |
| Sage Green | Health, rejuvenation | Darker than white, shows less dirt |