Colored sanitaryware: Interior experts react to the rainbow-kissed micro trend

The '80s called - it wants its colored sanitaryware back - only we don't want to give it back, at least for a little while. 

Yes, colored sanitaryware is the latest nostalgic micro-trend we are injecting into our homes, following a recent jump in patterned carpets sales and the news that the demand for rattan has increased by +3000%. 

It is unsurprising, therefore, that we are now turning to colored ceramics and sanitaryware to pay homage to bold retro interiors in our bathrooms. 

Before we get too color happy, however, we asked a few of our favorite designers whether they support the trend, and if so, how they'd bring this bold furnishing into their homes.

(Image credit: Annie Sloan)

Louise Ashdown 

If anybody knows about bathrooms, it is Louise Ashdown, the Head of Design at the London-based luxury bathroom company, West One Bathrooms. 

'Colored ceramics are making a comeback,' Louise emphasized. She went on to suggest which shades she suggests would work best in our interiors. 

'Think peach, red-tinted pinks, and warm greens when it comes to statement basins. And don't be shy of going for an all-over, total-look effect- shower trays that can seamlessly match floor tiles and even glossy black pans for the ever-popular black tap bathrooms,' Louise shares. 

(Image credit: Paul Massey)

Alexander and Michael Christou 

Founders and Directors of 1.61 London, Alexander, and Michael are equally enthusiastic in their exploration of colored ceramics, as they praised the 'fun' trend for infusing bathrooms with 'joy' amid the pandemic.

'People are bored with the stereotypical five-star bathroom style and want to bring more character, life, color, and personality into their homes,' the designers share.

They continue: 'People want to be bolder and expressive and create something unique to them and their space. That is why we see a big rise in vintage styles, patterns, and color trends. Even the simplest and smallest design purchases can make a big aesthetic difference.'

(Image credit: Future)

Alexander and Micheal continued, offering ways for people to enjoy a vibrant retro living space without having to commit entirely to the microtrend.

'At 1.61 London, we still keep the sanitaryware white but accentuate color and pattern with different marble and porcelain colors and textures. We also incorporate a lot of metal beading with pops of brass and antique, rustic brass to give a design contrast.'

(Image credit: Paul Raeside)

Jeff Andrews 

While Alexander and Micheal share a way to create a kaleidoscopic bathroom without taking the plunge with this microtrend, Los Angeles-based designer Jeff Andrews further offers a way to 'personalize' your bathroom interiors in ways beyond the sanitaryware. 

'Bathrooms are a great place to personalize your design with the use of color. I prefer introducing color through the use of tile, stone, paint, or wallpaper and keep the other elements like tubs and sinks classic and subtle,' Jeff shared. 

So, it appears that not everybody is in complete love with this trend, but what do you think? The only way to know is to try.