How To Brighten Up Your Bathroom

It’s official: block colours and bold patterns are all the rage when it comes to powder rooms. If yours is on the small side, however, you might be worried about making it look darker – particularly if it doesn’t happen to have any windows. Read on for some of our favourite windowless bathroom design ideas, plus plenty of expert advice on exactly how to brighten up a bathroom.

Windowless Bathroom Ideas: Here’s How To Brighten Up A Bathroom

Install A Mirror

The simplest way to brighten up any space? Add a mirror, of course.

‘Installing a mirror can instantly brighten up a windowless bathroom by reflecting light and making the space feel larger and airier,’ confirms Alex Woods of Victorian Plumbing.

Play with size and shape for an even bigger impact. ‘A floor-to-ceiling mirror – or even a mirrored wall – will double the light and visual space,’ Alex adds. ‘It’s like adding a window without the hassle.’ 

If a larger mirror isn’t an option, go high-tech instead: ‘For a fun touch, install a backlit mirror for a soft glow,’ says Alex.

Studio Vero

Maximise Artificial Lighting

Whether you opt for a backlit mirror or you stick to a more traditional design, clever lighting will always brighten up your bathroom.

‘Artificial lighting can feel clinical, but incorporate it in the right way and it’s sure to bring brightness into a dark space,’ says Alex. ‘Bathroom light fixtures are great for layering: ceiling lights, wall sconces, floor lights and vanity lighting will all help eliminate shadows. The mix of different fixtures allows for an eclectic design and a range of textures and colours.’

The key? Warmth. ‘Stick to one colour temperature,’ suggests Alex. ‘‘LED daylight light bulbs are great if you want to mimic natural light.’

Colour Drench Your Walls

No matter how trendy it is, colour drenching might seem like a risky move in a small or cramped space – especially if you consider darker hues like navy or cherry red. However, painting your entire bathroom in one shade will actually help it look bigger: not only will the paint reflect the light, but the ceiling will seem taller.

‘Colour-drenching is perfect for darker bathrooms,’ Alex confirms. ‘Using a single colour across tiles, walls, and even furnishings will create a cohesive look. It’s a bold statement that brings a real sense of luxury.’

When it comes to choosing a shade, ‘opt for whatever colour provides you with a sense of tranquillity and peace,’ Alex advises. ‘Soft pastels and warm neutrals will guarantee that airy feel.’

Charlton Brown

Add Biophilic Touches

Adding a houseplant to your bathroom certainly isn’t revolutionary, but it can be particularly transformative in smaller, dimmer spaces.

‘Use plants that thrive in low light – like ferns, spider plants, or peace lilies – to provide a sense of earthiness in any light-lacking room,’ Alex explains. ‘Wooden accents and textured finishes will bring further warmth to the space and create an outdoor connection.’

Try Glossy Tiles

‘If you have a windowless bathroom, always go for glossy tile finishes,’ Alex advises. ‘These will reflect light, making the space feel bigger and more luminous. To create even more visual interest, try pearlised tiles or a high-gloss subway tile that bounces light around like a mirror.’