What’s the best color for your bathroom vanity? Experts share their go-to hues for a sophisticated scheme

If you're wondering what's the best color for your bathroom vanity, you'll be pleased to hear that there are a variety of hues experts prefer, meaning there's a choice for every style. And as the vanity is one of the few bathroom furniture pieces you can customize, it's an important choice.

This year's bathroom trends have shifted from the once dominating all-white spaces, and in their place, unique designs, characterful style, and warm spaces have proved enduringly popular. But what does this mean for your bathroom vanity color?

To find out the hues that will endure, we've asked the experts: what's the best color for your bathroom vanity? And their answers don't disappoint.

What’s the best color for your bathroom vanity?

The color you choose to paint your bathroom vanity will really depend on the atmosphere you want to create. Do you want a moody, cozy space, or do you prefer a lighter, more tranquil feel?

Neutrals for a timeless design

'Neutrals like soft greys, muted whites, or warm taupes are timeless choices that can provide a calm, serene environment. These colors complement a wide range of interior design styles, from modern to traditional, and allow for greater flexibility when choosing other elements like tiles, fixtures, and accessories,' says Burcu Garnier, co-founder of Color Atelier.

The benefit of choosing a neutral color for the bathroom vanity is that it's often easier to design a scheme around it. Plus, it's a hue that's guaranteed to endure bathroom trends. 'Styling a bathroom vanity involves harmonizing it with the rest of the bathroom’s design elements,' Burcu adds.

'If you've chosen a neutral color for the vanity, you can play with textures and finishes to add depth and interest. For instance, pairing a soft grey vanity with brushed nickel or matte black fixtures can create a sophisticated, modern look. Incorporating natural elements like a wooden mirror frame or marble countertop can also add warmth and texture.'

Make a statement with bolder hues

However, if you're looking to introduce a bolder color, experts say there's a distinct palette that works best. Vibrant hues, as fun as they may seem, can quickly begin to feel outdated, so opt for a more sophisticated, moody shade instead.

'A bathroom vanity is a great way to add contrast to a space. People often lean towards lighter, brighter hues, however, a deep, bold color, like Evening Sky 833, on a vanity can bring a striking pop of color to an otherwise neutral space,' says Arianna Barone, color marketing manager at Benjamin Moore.

'It is a great way to introduce more saturated hues to your home’s color palette. With a handsome blue-violet undertone that is verging on black, this color easily adapts to various tiles, countertops, and other hard surfaces,' she adds.

Moody colors to create a cozy space

And Arianna isn't the only one who recommends moody hues as a great color for bathroom vanities. While these darker colors can feel intimidating, many are often considered neutrals – take navy as an example – so they are easier to style in a bathroom than you might think.

'Deep, rich colors like navy, forest green, or charcoal can add a touch of luxury and sophistication. These bold shades work beautifully in contrast with lighter walls or marble countertops, offering a striking balance that feels both modern and elegant,' says Burcu.

You can take two directions if you choose a moody colored vanity. One option would be to lean into the dark hues and create a color-drenched space with a cocooning feel. This would certainly feel dramatic, and can work beautifully in small bathrooms.

Alternatively, creating a balance of light and dark is a favorable way to make a deep-toned bathroom vanity feel like a statement piece. 'Balance it with softer, complementary tones in the walls, tiles, and linens,' suggests Burcu.

'For example, a navy vanity would look stunning against white subway tiles and brass fixtures, creating a classic yet contemporary feel. Adding a few pops of color through plants, towels, or decorative accessories can bring the entire scheme together.'

Natural wood for enduring appeal

Warm neutrals and moody hues have long been favorable choices for bathroom vanities, but recently, a more unexpected choice has become a more desirable choice. Wood is a material that people often feel hesitant about using in the bathroom, but interior designers say there is no reason you shouldn't bring it into your scheme.

'We have been on an all-wood vanity kick for a while now. I wouldn't say it's a new trend because wood has always been a classic finish for cabinetry, but it's nice to see it having a popular moment,' says Mollie Ranize, lead interior designer and founder at Dmar Interiors.

It's the quickest way to warm up a room with primarily hard surfaces like tile and stone. No matter the tone or type of wood, or how modern or traditional the actual vanity style is, it's really hard to make them look bad when paired with pretty tile,' she adds.

The verdict? It seems natural wood tones, warm neutrals, and dramatic moody hues are the best colors for your bathroom vanity, depending on the atmosphere you want to create and your design style. And while it might seem like a small selection of palettes, each offers so much variety and opportunity to customize your space.