| Date: 03.10.2024

The Avocado Bathroom Revival: A Modern Twist on the Trend

The 1970s were a time of bold interiors, and no design trend was more iconic than the avocado bathroom. Characterised by its rich, earthy green hues and retro appeal, this look was once a staple in homes across the UK. Though it fell out of favour in the decades that followed, avocado bathrooms are making a surprising comeback, especially among younger homeowners looking to inject personality into their interiors.

In a recent article from The Guardian, around 30% of homeowners between 18 and 34 say they would upgrade their bathroom in green, particularly in avocado, according to Wicks. But how can you give this vintage trend a modern twist? It’s all about balancing nostalgia with contemporary design – and green bathroom tiles are at the heart of it.

The 70s Avocado Bathroom: A Look Back

The avocado bathroom symbolised an era where colour was key, with homeowners embracing warm, natural tones. Avocado green, reminiscent of lush greenery and nature, was often paired with other bold colours like mustard yellow or brown, creating a cosy and homely atmosphere. However, while the idea of installing a green suite in your bathroom today might feel a little dated, there’s a way to revive this trend with elegance and flair.

Tiles, accessories, and modern furnishings can bring the avocado look into the 21st century, allowing you to capture the essence of the trend without overpowering your space. Whether you’re opting for a full avocado suite or want to introduce a pop of green through tiles and décor, there’s a variety of ways to embrace this colour trend with a fresh, updated feel.

Client avocado bathroom before renovation

Client avocado bathroom before renovation

Modern Avocado: How to Bring the Look into Today’s Homes

One of the easiest ways to modernise the avocado bathroom trend is by incorporating green bathroom tiles into your design. Whether you choose deep forest green or a lighter olive shade, tiles can transform your bathroom into a calming, stylish retreat. Here are some ways to bring a modern avocado look into your home:

Tiles
Green metro tiles or glossy wall panels can create a sleek and timeless look that hints at the 70s without feeling kitschy. You can use them as a statement feature behind your sink or bath or cover an entire wall for maximum impact. Metro tiles, with their clean lines and subtle sheen, are perfect for adding a modern edge to a classic colour.

Furnishings
Introduce avocado-coloured accessories like towels, rugs, or shower curtains. Pair these with natural materials like wood or brass fixtures for a warm, organic feel. The key to modernising the avocado bathroom is to combine textures and materials that evoke nature, while keeping the overall look clean and contemporary.

Accents
If you’re not ready to commit to a fully green bathroom, consider using avocado as an accent colour. A herringbone tile layout with a mix of green shades adds depth and sophistication to your walls or flooring, while keeping the look refined and modern. You could also pair avocado tiles with neutral shades like white or grey to create contrast and balance.

Green Bathroom Tiles - Artistic Sage Green

Artistic Sage Green Metro Tiles

Exploring Green: Shades and Colour Theory

Green is often associated with tranquillity, nature, and renewal – all of which make it an excellent choice for bathrooms. But with so many shades available, how do you choose the right one for your space?

Soft Pastels
Mint and pistachio greens are perfect for smaller bathrooms or spaces that need a lighter, airier touch. These shades are soothing and pair well with white tiles and minimalist décor.

Earthy Tones
Deeper greens like moss or olive add richness to your bathroom, giving it a sophisticated, spa-like feel. These colours work beautifully when combined with natural textures such as wood, rattan, or stone.

Bold and Vibrant
If you want to make a statement, opt for more intense shades like emerald or forest green. These colours can create a dramatic backdrop, particularly when used for feature walls or combined with darker accessories and metallic fixtures.

When choosing your green tiles, consider the impact of colour theory. Green sits at the centre of the colour wheel, making it a versatile choice that can create balance and harmony in a space. Pairing green tiles with warm tones like brass or gold will bring out the richness in the colour, while combining them with cooler neutrals like grey will emphasise their calming properties.

Duck Egg Metro tiles in a chic bathroom setting

Duck Egg Tiles

Tile Layouts and Designs: Playing with Patterns and Colours

The style of tile you choose can have a significant impact on the overall look of your bathroom. Here are a few options to consider:

Metro Tiles

These classic rectangular tiles are perfect for creating a clean, contemporary look. Use them in a vertical or horizontal layout for a sleek finish, or go for a more playful herringbone pattern to add texture and visual interest.

Green Bathroom Tiles - Gamma Green

Gamma Green Metro Tiles

Herringbone Layout

If you love a bit of pattern, the herringbone layout is a stunning way to incorporate green tiles into your bathroom. This arrangement works well with various shades of green, allowing you to blend avocado with darker or lighter tones for a subtle yet striking effect.

Handcraft Teal Green Tiles

Handcraft Teal Green Tiles

Wall Panels

For a seamless and modern look, consider large-format wall panels in green. These are ideal for creating a feature wall or giving your shower area a smooth, contemporary finish.

Boiserie Sage Green Wall Panels

Boiserie Sage Green Wall Panels

Blending Colours
If you want to incorporate green without going all-in on avocado, try blending different shades of green tiles or mixing them with complementary hues. For instance, pairing avocado green with soft grey tiles can create a beautiful, balanced look. Or, consider using a few scattered green tiles amidst white or cream ones for a delicate nod to the trend.

Eco Pastel Metro Tiles

Eco Pastel Metro Tiles

Bringing It All Together

The avocado bathroom is no longer a thing of the past – it’s a design trend that’s back with a bang! By updating this retro look with modern tiles, thoughtful accessories, and a careful approach to colour, you can create a stylish, green-infused bathroom that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. Whether you choose to go bold with green metro tiles or mix different shades in a herringbone layout, the possibilities are endless.

 

At Direct Tile Warehouse, we have a stunning range of tiles to help you bring the avocado bathroom trend to life in your home. Whether you’re going for full-on retro revival or just a hint of avocado, we’ve got the perfect tiles to suit your style.