Black and White Tile Bathrooms - What Color to Paint Walls

Neutral

One popular option for a black and white tile bathroom is to stick with a neutral color palette. Soft grays, beiges, and taupes can add a soothing and subtle touch of color without competing with the bold black and white tiles. These colors can also help to create a sense of continuity throughout the space, making the room feel larger and more cohesive.

The gray walls in this New York City bathroom complement the white subway wall tiles and black tile flooring perfectly, creating a cohesive and stylish space.

Bold & Contrasting 

Another option is to add a pop of color to the space by choosing a bold, contrasting shade. Bright blues, greens, and pinks can be used to create a playful and fun atmosphere, while deep reds, purples, and yellows can add a touch of luxury and drama. However, be mindful of not overusing these colors as it can make the bathroom look too busy and chaotic.

This children's bathroom in Dobbs Ferry, New York features a beautiful shade of blue that stands out against the white subway wall tiles and black hexagonal flooring.

Vintage and Retro Colors

If you're looking to create a more vintage or retro feel in your space, consider using muted pastel shades. Soft pinks, blues, and greens can evoke a 1950s or 1960s vibe, while pale yellows and mint greens can give the space a more Art Deco feel.

This charming Brooklyn, New York bathroom features classic details such as black and white hexagonal flooring and white subway wall tiles. Paired with blush pink walls, it creates a space that feels timeless.

Calming Colors to Nurture Peaceful Feelings

Certain colors have a natural ability to create a sense of calm and relaxation—qualities that are especially welcome in a bathroom. Soft blues and gentle greens, for example, are often associated with water and nature, helping to evoke a spa-like atmosphere. Muted shades of lavender or pale gray can also quiet the mind and soften the visual contrast of black and white tile. When paired with natural light, these hues reflect a gentle glow, making the space feel open and tranquil. Choosing a soothing wall color is a simple way to transform your bathroom into a restorative retreat, perfect for unwinding at the end of the day.

To see how the right tint of a cooler color can bring a peaceful element to a black-and-white tiled bathroom, check out this New Jersey bathroom.

Patterns & Textures

Another way to add color to a black and white tile bathroom is to incorporate patterned or textured elements. A patterned shower curtain or a colorful rug can add a playful touch to the space, while textured towels or a woven basket can add a sense of warmth and coziness.

In this Queens, New York bathroom the brightly colored rug adds a touch of playfulness to the otherwise neutral space. Paired with the black floor tile and white wall tiles, the bold rug truly stands out.

Pair Black and White Tile With Stone

Natural stone elements—like marble, slate, or travertine—add a layer of sophistication to a black and white bathroom. Stone’s organic texture softens the sharp contrast of the tiles, creating a more inviting and balanced space. Consider a marble countertop, stone accent wall, or even stone-inspired paint colors for a subtle, elegant effect. The interplay between polished tile and natural stone brings depth and a sense of luxury to your bathroom, as demonstrated by this New York bathroom.

Bring Together Wood With Black and White

If you’re looking to add warmth and texture to a bathroom with black and white tiles, wood-inspired wall treatments offer a thoughtful solution. Installing wood-paneled walls or choosing a wood-grain wallpaper can introduce a sense of organic comfort that beautifully balances the crisp geometry of black and white tilework. Vertical or horizontal wood slats provide architectural interest and a tactile quality, while subtle wood patterns on wallpaper deliver the look of natural material with minimal upkeep. By pairing the clean lines of black and white tiles with the inviting texture of wood, you create a space that feels both modern and welcoming like the California bathroom below.

Embrace Black and White—and That’s It

There’s a unique power in fully committing to the interplay of black and white, allowing these two shades to define the entire space. Instead of introducing additional colors, focus on the dynamic relationship between light and dark—think bold geometric patterns, checkerboard floors, or striking tile borders. The contrast between black and white can be used to highlight architectural features, frame mirrors, or create visual rhythm throughout the room. By letting the duality of black and white take center stage, you achieve a look that’s both graphic and classic with every detail contributing to a cohesive, high-impact design. For inspiration, look to this New Jersey bathroom.

Don’t Forget The Accessories

When it comes to accessories and decor, stick with a cohesive color scheme. Choose metal finishes and hardware in silver or chrome to complement the black and white tiles. For lighting, you can use chrome light fixtures or white glass shades to keep the space light and airy.

Finally, consider the overall style and aesthetic of your home when choosing colors for your black and white tile bathroom. If your home is modern and minimalistic, stick with a simple, monochromatic color palette. If your home has a more traditional or vintage feel, consider using more muted or pastel shades. By considering these different options, you can successfully add color to your bath while contributing to its overall aesthetic.

Visualize New Paint Colors With Our Bathroom Remodel Visualizer

Choosing the right wall color can feel daunting, but Block’s Bathroom Remodel Visualizer makes the process simple and interactive. With this AI-powered tool, you can upload a photo of your own bathroom and instantly see how different paint colors, tile styles, and other remodeling choices would look in your actual space. Experiment with a range of hues and finishes, adjust details, and explore new design concepts, helping you refine the color scheme that will guide the next steps of your bathroom renovation. It’s an easy way to gain confidence in your decisions and ensure your black and white tile bathroom turns out exactly as you imagine.