If you're anything like us, you've probably already considered incorporating a dash of black into your home. After all, adding the ebony hue can result in some incredibly chic, timeless, and sophisticated spaces, but have you considered using it in your bathroom? People often shy away from using dark colors in smaller spaces, fearing that they'll make them appear even smaller. We're here to tell you that's a common misconception. Dark colors recede, making them a perfect fit for a spatially-challenged bathroom, and good news: They can actually give the illusion of more space. Check out these seven bathroom backsplash ideas that beautifully illustrate how going to the dark side can give you the gorgeous results you've been dreaming of.
1. Don't overlook your tile pattern.
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When subway tile is installed in a straight lay pattern, as seen in this design by Amber Lewis, it has a distinctly modern sensibility. This bright and welcoming bathroom incorporates many telltale contemporary characteristics like clean lines, timeless materials, and natural light, which is plentiful here thanks to the skylight reflected in a mirror. Unique light fixtures, a patterned area rug, and a mix of metal finishes personalize this WC.
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Get the look: Schoolhouse Orbit Sconce, $269
2. Opt for stained wood.
Apply a black stain to reclaimed wood walls for a new spin on a bathroom backlash idea that's a perfect match for cabin-inspired or modern farmhouse interiors like Emily Henderson's mountain retreat. A pronounced grain adds plenty of texture and allows the wood's natural beauty to function as a design feature. Gold hardware and marble floors are the glamorous yin to the wood yang.
Get the look: Thos. Moser Hoops Mirror, $700 - $1,075
3. Amp up the drama with subway tile.
Resist the urge to add contrast to a bathroom backsplash idea with light walls and instead, embrace a monochromatic look for dramatic results. Katie Martinez created a masculine powder room with a black tile backsplash, gray walls, and dark accessories. A custom marble and wood counter makes an eye-catching statement.
Get the look: Fireclay Tile 2 x 8 Carbon, $28 per sq. ft.
4. Make an impact with all-over tile.
When it comes to penny tile, you just can't have too much of a good thing. Need proof? Check out this guest bathroom at Hotel Debrett in Auckland, which maxes out on the material for eye-catching results with plenty of texture. Bonus: They're classic, easy on the wallet, and look equally at home in a range of interior styles from modern to bohemian. What's not to love about this bathroom backsplash idea?
5. Embrace pattern.
A waterfall backdrop of graphic black and white Moroccan tile that transitions seamlessly from wall to floor is a unique spin on a bathroom backsplash idea. Designer Raili Clasen tones down the cement tile pattern with plenty of white and streamlined fixtures, while light wood flooring adds warmth from below.
Get the look: Cement Tile Shop Cambridge Tile, $76.80 per box
6. Make your tile pop.
Don't overlook the power your grout color can have on the look and feel of your bathroom backsplash idea. In this high-contrast salle de bain by Jean Stoffer Design, white grout helps black tile arranged in a herringbone pattern take center stage and gives it a bit of edge, while a pair of white vanities balance out the dark backdrop. Gold sconces and mosaic floor tile add a decidedly traditional note to the striking space.
Get the look: McGee & Co. Vendome Single Sconce, $240
7. Match your sink to your backsplash.
Infuse personality and character into your bathroom backsplash idea with a colored sink. Here, a black vessel sink gets an added dose of drama when paired with black backsplash tile and coordinating matte fittings. Streamlined accessories allow the wash basin to be the main event, and a wood vanity adds plenty of warmth.