Innovative bathroom art for brilliant interiors

Bathrooms art isn't necessarily a priority in renovation - well, not the expensive stuff anyway. People who buy pieces especially for their bathroom do so because they're passionate about art, according to interior designer Rodney Sprague, of Rodney Sprague Interiors.

"Generally, the bathroom isn't an area people deliberately buy art for," he says. "However, art can furnish a bathroom perfectly - a space that's often quite personality lacking."

Any architectural detail or design that adds an added feature to the décor can be considered bathroom art. Paintings, sculptures, wallpaper, carvings, fragment art, even jewellery - they all fit the profile. Fabrics can be used as draping, wall hangings, or upholstered into vanity seats.

Identify the bathroom spaces you want to fill

You may need to rearrange items to achieve your desired layout. Next, decide on a colour scheme and select a theme. "It's nice to continue the theme of the home into the bathroom," says Rodney.

"However, if the treasured pieces you have in mind won't stand up to steam and various bathroom particles, a powder room is great for accommodating these items, like zany light fittings or intricate carvings."

Purchasing wall art before choosing your specific shade of wall colour may also save some stress, as the wall colour can be fine-tuned around your pieces of inspiration.

See the bathroom tiles become the art

Wallpaper effects with mosaic tiles in bright stripes are another current favourite, along with geometric or hand-painted art tiles. 

A kids' bathroom is the perfect place to let creativity take over

Add a fun dimension by framing some of your kids' art or letting their little sculptures take pride of place. The guest bathroom might provide the opportunity to display a wacky collection of memorabilia.

If you don't have a ready-made collection, check out flea markets and rummage sales for ideas. Items that evoke relaxation, cleanliness and health, like vintage vitamin advertisements or spa posters are a great choice.

Light, water and steam in bathrooms can pose unique threats to art

Acrylic paints will stand up to condensation better than water colours. To avoid damage, frame pieces well, using archival-quality mats and sealing the backs. And keep an eye on your art. Light changes during the year and a piece that's fine one year may take on moisture damage the next if the backing comes loose.

Art, like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder, so choosing is fairly foolproof according to Rodney. "It's still good to run your ideas past someone though – preferably an interior designer," he says. And don't be afraid to change your art around for a different perspective … even if it's just for a different view from the loo."

Contact an interior designer to find out more about bathroom art: