The Best Bathroom Paint Color? Experts (and We) Agree: Soft Blue Is Here to Stay

When it comes to updating your primary ensuite or guest bathroom, one design decision makes a big impact: the wall color. But in Southern Wisconsin—where homes range from charming lakefront cottages to modern builds and historic farmhouses—you don’t want to repaint every few years just to keep up with trends. You want timeless. You want soothing. You want something that will still feel fresh five years from now.

According to an article from our trusted partner Better Homes and Gardens, there's one color professionals consistently choose for bathrooms, and we couldn’t agree more. The verdict? Soft blue.

“It’s a timeless bathroom wall color because it evokes a sense of calm, cleanliness, and spa-like serenity,” says Erika Woelfel, BEHR’s VP of color and creative services.

Why Soft Blue Works in Southern Wisconsin Bathrooms

Here at BHGRE Dream Partners and MDR Design Co., we’ve used soft blue in other (and our own!) primary ensuites, and we understand why this hue works so well in our local homes:

1. Creates a Spa-Like Retreat

Life moves fast. Whether you're starting your day or winding down in the evening, your bathroom should feel like a retreat. Soft blue tones like Upward by Sherwin-Williams creates an airy, peaceful atmosphere that feels luxurious yet livable.

2. Feels Timeless—Not Trendy

While bold color moments come and go, soft blue endures. “Blue is the most popular paint color family after neutrals,” notes Glidden’s Ashley McCollum. The right shade of soft blue acts as a neutral itself: clean, calming, and endlessly stylish.

In design work, we love pairing it with crisp whites, matte black accents, or brushed brass fixtures for a balanced look that works with any style, from farmhouse to contemporary.

3. Makes Small Bathrooms Feel Larger

Many Southern Wisconsin homes have compact bathrooms, especially in older or historic properties. A light-reflecting soft blue on the walls can visually open up the space, making it feel brighter and more spacious.

4. Gives You Flexibility in Decor

A shade like BEHR’s Etched Glass is soft enough to let your personality shine through in towels, art, plants, and accessories. Whether you swap in seasonal décor or want to change up your style later, you won’t need to repaint to keep things cohesive.

“You can easily change the vibe without needing a full makeover,” says McCollum.

Ready for a Refresh?

Whether you're remodeling a primary ensuite or staging your home to sell, our design partners at MDR Design Co. are here to help you choose timeless finishes that elevate your space (and your home's value!). We offer expert color consultation, design planning, and full bathroom updates.

Let’s transform your bathroom into the relaxing, modern retreat you deserve.

Proudly serving Southern Wisconsin