From bright geometric motifs to subdued botanical prints, pattern can bring any room to life. We’re not talking your grandmother’s frilly floral curtains, though. Today it’s all about uniquely tactile patterns, oversize scaled prints, and dramatically layered applications using out-of-the-ordinary materials. From floor to ceiling, in both ultra-modern and distinctly traditional spaces, a clever use of print will enhance the character of your bathroom. Go big or stay subtle--just be sure to have fun with it.

A Traditional Take on the Patterned Bathroom

They key to using pattern in a traditional bath is to stay subtle. In an elegant black-and-white master bath, gleaming capiz-shell walls create a softly sculpted texture that plays well with the more boldly patterned mosaic floor tile. Marble veining in the countertops and a geometric pattern in the glass sinks add even more interest and depth to the space.

Tips for a Traditional Patterned Bath

• For a softer statement, keep patterns subdued and balance them with plenty of solids.
• Consider a neutral color scheme like black and white if you’re a fan of classic style.
• Use textured paint or monochrome tile to create a wall pattern that’s noticeable, yet subtle.

Love this look? Explore our Kips Bay home tour.

A Transitional Twist on the Patterned Bathroom

Wallpaper is back, bringing with it an explosion of bright colors and bold graphics in larg­er-than life motifs, like this palm-leaf pattern inspired by Dorothy Draper’s Greenbrier Hotel design in the 1940s. Along with liberal use of wall patterns, geometric floor tile is hugely in vogue. This tile can make a room feel larger and can play up the colors in your paint or wallpaper, creating a dramatic look that’s perfect for the bathroom or powder room.

Tips for a Transitional Patterned Bath

• Keep fixture colors neutral to help ground a bold floral pattern.
• Choose faucets in a classic style and finish that lends the wallpaper a vintage vibe.
• Adding subway tile to the bottom third of the wall lends a clean look that prevents the pattern from overwhelming.

Love this look? Explore our Palm & Collected Bathroom moodboard.

Clean and Contemporary Patterned Bathroom

In a room where the elements are equally balanced, no single feature steals the spotlight here, except maybe the dramatic window. The space shares marble, wallpaper and a mix of organic and geometric lines help to steer the design toward neutral territory while keeping it sleek and chic.

Tips for a Contemporary Patterned Bathroom

• Use organic patterns like florals to soften geometric angles and embrace free-flowing marble veining.
• When layering patterns, keep the color palette simple and detail at a minimum.
• Choose products with clean, modern style and strong design lines.

Love this look? Explore our Dark Floral Bathroom moodboard.