Interior experts react to the burgundy bathroom trend - should you make the bold move?

Minimalist lovers, look away now. Bold burgundy hues are taking over our bathrooms, with demands for this unorthodox interior design trend jumping by over 300% this year. Perhaps unsurprisingly, this merlot-infused craze is causing quite an excitement across the design industry, with interior experts rushing to embrace, or avoid, this nostalgic statement in their homes. 

And so, because this trend is one of the most audacious we have seen this 2021, we’ve asked a few celebrated experts whether they’d bring burgundy into their homes. Hold off from your paintbrush until you hear what they’ve got to say. 

David Harris:

Nobody knows color quite like David Harris. The Design Director at the luxe London-based manufacturers Andrew Martin is no stranger to a courageous palette which he uses to bless the walls of our homes. In his discussion of burgundy, David argues this daring hue should be used to create a dark bathroom that will act as a moody but nonetheless therapeutic retreat. 

See: Small bathroom ideas: 22 super chic ideas for bijou bathrooms

(Image credit: Future / Paul Raeside)

‘Bathrooms are a place of sanctuary for many, so when you want to unwind and be undisturbed, why not opt for something dark and rich to take you away from the rush of daily life,’ David begins. 

The designer continued, focusing specifically on the controversial color in question: 'Burgundy is rich and deep and sumptuous and perfect for a luxurious bathroom. Fantastic with classic black and white tiles on the floor and pairs well with either chrome, brass, or crittal. It’s also the perfect backdrop for natural textures, raffia, wood, and tropical house plants,' he adds. 

Lucy Henderson:

As the head of interior design at My Bespoke Room, we're taking notes on everything Lucy has to say - especially when it comes to a shade that is so tricky to master. Lucy noted the rise in burgundy before giving her advice as to which specific shades work the most effortlessly.

(Image credit: Future / James Merrell)

'It's really interesting to see burgundy making its way into people's bathrooms. Being quite a strong color, it can work well in period properties. For example, you could paint the underside of a roll-top bath for a rich pop of color. Something like Farrow & Ball's Preference Red or Brinjal would work well for this.

'Brass also works well with burgundy. You could paint the base of a vanity unit in this color and add brass handles for a sleek, modern spin,' she adds.

If you're tempted to indulge in this warmth of this Malbec-infused shade and are looking to make the ultimate statement, Lucy might just have the solution for you. 

Another option, if you're feeling bold, could be to include a feature wall made of burgundy tiles in your shower enclosure. You could then keep the rest of the bathroom light and bright, adding just a hint more burgundy via your accessories, such as towels and bathmats.' 

See: Bathroom Colour Ideas: 24 Chic & Stylish Paint Colours For Your Bathroom

Richard Roberts:

(Image credit: Future / Paul Raeside)

Since this is a bathroom trend, after all, we couldn’t fail to include the expertise of an individual at the very top of the bathroom game, Richard Roberts, Director of Sanctuary Bathrooms. While Richard supports burgundy in the bathroom, he urges us to tread with caution and be careful that color will not ‘overpower’ the space, as this is the ‘ opposite of the relaxing haven you want it to be.’ Richard, therefore, suggested using burgundy paint to create a ‘feature wall,’ which is another unconventional decor choice for a bathroom. 

‘Feature walls are not usually linked with bathrooms, but there’s a definite trend towards being more adventurous with color, so burgundy may be a good choice if you are looking to try this,’ he shares. 

Do you dare venture to the dark (red) side? If there is ever a trendy time to take the plunge, it is right now.