Sad beige interiors have been all anyone can talk about recently, but can this criticized hue be used to create more uplifting spaces? Cue happy beige, a new term coined by interior designer Emily Henderson, which focuses on using the right shades of beige to create a warm, welcoming design.
Sharing the bathroom reveal from her recent Riverhouse project, the scheme is filled with beige tones, which she describes as a 'quiet but warm bathroom.' It's a go-to color when decorating with neutrals, and with the right textures and finishes, it's a color that can bring joy to a space, especially a bathroom.
Here, we take a tour of the remodeled bathroom through her reel, to find out exactly how she turned this sad hue happy.
Inside the 'happy beige' bathroom
At first glance, you might think this bathroom design by Emily Henderson is just another neutral bathroom, but what makes it so unique (and happy) is the beautiful blend of textures and bold contrasts between colors and finishes.
Upon entry, your eye is instantly drawn to the beige shower tiles. A full wall of one tile design is a simple approach, but the irregular tiles chosen here add a more interesting finish, which stands out against the smooth black hexagonal floor tiles.
Throughout the rest of the bathroom, the upper portion of the walls has been covered in a textural beige wallpaper, which adds a tactile element and a softer design feature that instantly makes the bathroom feel more lived-in and cozy.
Contrast is a key design choice, giving the beige palette a more uplifting appeal. Black bathroom fixtures stand out against the warm beige of the bathroom walls, while a dark blue vanity introduces an unexpected yet subtle pop of color.
Finally, wood tones introduced through decor are also key to adding warmth to the beige bathroom. A stool in the shower, picture frames on the walls, and the bath mat all bring in a more organic element. These materials and textures combined create a happier take on beige interiors.
Shop the look
A tonal beige wallpaper in a timeless design added warmth and character in this bathroom project, and this option by Farrow & Ball has a similar feel.
A stylish soap dispenser is a quick and effective way to elevate your countertop decor and make essentials more aesthetic. Match with your hardware for a cohesive finish.
The irregular finish of these bathroom wall tiles will add interest and depth to a beige bathroom scheme – the handmade look always adds charm.
This dark blue dingle vanity offers plenty of storage and countertop space and gives an unexpected splash of color in a happy beige bathroom.
In this Emily's beige bathroom design, a black pill-shaped mirror adds contrast. This pill-shaped design is simple and sophisticated.
A wood bath mat is a great way to make a functional item more stylish. This piece is non-slip and made from bamboo, so it's aesthetic and practical.
This bathroom design proves beige can be an uplifting hue, it just needs to be paired with the right textures and finishes. And if you're planning on creating a bold scheme with beige, read up on the best colors that go with beige.
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