Color for a Bathroom in an Old House.

by Karen Lindsey
(Elgin, IL )

Hi Jennifer,

This bathroom in our old house has the original subway tile, green sink, and tub. All have a unique charm that I'd like to keep.

I thought I'd choose a gray to highlight the mint green and chrome. However, the grays I've chosen are picking up odd tones from the green porcelain and the darkness of the hallway.

To preserve a crisp, vintage feel, is there a color or direction you suggest I consider?

In the first photo the gray on the left is Benjamin Moore Fieldstone and the right is Benjamin Moore Pilgrim Haze.

I know it's probably outlandish to ask you for a color consult through email and photos, but any direction you can provide would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you!
Karen

ANSWER:

Hello Karen,

I love the subway tile, and the green pedestal sink! I can see what your dilemma is with the paint color. Don't feel alone! Paint color is the hardest thing to choose, and choose correctly! The gray color, in my opinion, just won't work. It will always seem like you "missed" matching the green pedestal sink.

Okay, can I throw you a curve? What is your opinion about wallpaper? Wallpaper with the same color green as your sink, and with a white background. Something that would just add a little color to the walls. I think from the photo it looks like you have bead board, so that would require taking it down. I would definitely keep the subway tile!

I have some photos below that illustrate somewhat, of the direction that I think would work.

See what you think. Thank you for stopping by, and good luck with your project!