Are Pink Bathrooms Coming Back In Style?

If there is one controversial color, it might be pink. For many, pink is too bold or too feminine, but, for others, it's fun and calming and an expression of their personality. Though pink was a color many rejected for years, it has re-surged recently, most notably with the rise of millennial pink, which has led many people to incorporate the color in their homes.

But there is one place in the home where pink has a historical context: the bathroom. In the 1950s, the hue was the most popular color for these rooms in the house, with an estimated 5 to 10 million pink bathrooms in the United States, as per Save the Pink Bathrooms. First Lady Mamie Eisenhower popularized the color, and the particular pink used in these areas was referred to as "Mamie Pink." And though many 1950s bathrooms are considered outdated in style, having a primarily pink restroom is fashionable again.

However, for many, those original pink bathrooms never went out of style. These areas often featured pink tiles on the walls and floors, pink paint, and pink fixtures like sinks, toilets, and bathtubs. In the 1950s, these Candyland-like colored bathrooms brought an interest in hygiene to the American public, says Odele, quoting that prettier restrooms seemed to make Americans bathe more often. Many people also like having pink in this space because it creates a glow that makes them look younger and healthier.

Take a look at this bathroom and you'll see that the color is definitely back in style. Many homeowners achieve a vibrant pink bathroom with chic tiles; you can get really creative with the designs, adding pops of color or all-over vibrancy. If you're new to using bright colors like pink, Fireclay Tile suggests starting with a smaller space like the powder room. You can still create a big impact, but the project won't feel as overwhelming.

Most homeowners aren't remodeling their entire bathroom in an all-pink design, so another way to play with smaller pops of color is by containing them in a small section. For example, pink tile can look fun and chic when surrounding the shower only. You can also use pink tile on the floors as a feature of the room or carry the slabs halfway up the wall, which will still make a significant impact.

Pink tiles also come in many more shades than the historic bubblegum tint of the '50s. Lighter blush pigments are more similar to neutrals, which can be less overwhelming. Unique tile shapes also make bathrooms feel more contemporary, with elongated hexagons, narrow rectangles, and simple squares being three trending styles.

According to Woman & Home, all pinks are inherently warm shades, but you can choose a more muted color to get a note that feels cooler in tone. Soft pinks are currently the most popular shades for many paint brands. First Light by Benjamin Moore, Potters Pink by Dulux, and Pink Ground by Farrow & Ball are all expert-picked options, but warmer shades that mimic terracotta are also on trend. Other two paint color options designers love are Masquerade by Little Greene and Dishy Coral by Sherwin-Williams, Woman & Home notes.

Painting your bathroom walls or vanity cabinets is an easy way to incorporate the color without setting up tile, but if you want to add pink without using permanent fixtures, you have several lovely options. For instance, shower curtains, bath mats, and artwork are all simple ways to add a pink accent to a space. Thursd also suggests adding fresh flowers to the space. A flower bouquet or even pink plants will add nice natural textures to the room.