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Three Options For The Back Of My Built-In Open Shelves (Mirror, Accent Paint Color, Mosaic Tile)

My wainscoting is going to take me a day longer to complete than I thought, so I’ll be finishing it up today, and show you how it turned out tomorrow.  In the meantime, I want to share some ideas I had about the built-in linen storage area, and you tell me what you think.

As you know by now, the linen storage area will go on the same wall as the bathtub, in the same exact spot as the old linen closet.

bi-fold closet doors turned into double doors - 7

I’ll have that cabinet on the bottom (obviously) with a built-in open shelf area above.  It’ll have about three shelves, and I’m leaning towards using glass shelves.  So overall, it’ll be very similar to the built-in bookcase that I built at the condo, except with glass shelves instead of wood shelves, plus a few other modifications.

At the very beginning of this remodel, I just assumed that I would do this area the exact same way as the vanity — paint it teal and add pretty feet.  But now that the room is coming together, I’ve decided against that.  I’d like to keep the teal and the furniture feet unique to the vanity so that it really does look like a separate piece of furniture.  The linen storage will be an actual built-in storage unit, so it won’t have furniture feet, and I’ll paint it the same color as the trim (Behr Polar Bear).

But I’ve been thinking that rather than paint the whole thing white, I could add an accent to the back of the upper open shelving area.  I love that look on a bookshelf or glass-front or open-front kitchen cabinets, and I think it could work well in my bathroom as well.

Although I love the look in general, I ruled out wallpaper almost immediately.  I don’t want to add yet another pattern in such a small room.  I also thought about “wallpapering” the back of the shelves with the shower curtain fabric, but then that would be two pretty significant uses of the same fabric on the right side of the room, with none on the left side of the room.  That seems unbalanced to me, so I’d rather keep the fabric to just the shower curtain.  And then there’s the option of painting it the wall color (Behr Crisp Celery), but I’m afraid that’ll just look like I forgot to build a back onto the built-in and the wall is showing through.

But there are three options that I came up with that I think might actually work.

The first option is covering the back with mirror.

glass back bookshelves in living room by Smith Firestone Associates, via HouzzTransitional Living Room by Los Angeles Interior Designers & Decorators Smith Firestone Associates

I love how mirror makes things look light and bright since it reflects more of the light in the room. It’s also not really a surface that will compete with anything, and since I’ll already have a mirror in the bathroom above the vanity, it’ll just be a repeat of a finish that’s already in the room.

mirror back bookcase in living room by Jane Lockhart Interior Design, via HouzzTransitional Living Room by Toronto Interior Designers & Decorators Jane Lockhart Interior Design

What I don’t like about a mirror back is that not only does it reflect the backs of the items displayed, but it makes it appear as though there’s twice as many items displayed on the shelves. So if you’re not careful, mirror-backed shelvescan start to look cluttered very easily. But it’s still such a light and airy look that I would consider it for my bathroom.

dining room shelving with mirror back by Schulte Design, via HouzzBeach Style Dining Room by Jacksonville Interior Designers & Decorators Schulte Design

However, with my bathroom, this mirror-back storage would be directly across from the vanity mirror. Would those two mirrors directly opposite each other produce that weird infinity mirror look? If so, I don’t want it. Talk about looking busy!

The second option is to simply paint the back. I could repeat the dark teal of the vanity, which may look something like this.

white living room bookcase with dark blue back, from Emily A. Clarkvia Emily A. Clark

Or I could use the lighter teal color (the one I ruled out for the vanity), which would still coordinate with the room.

living room bookcase with blue back, by Angela Free Design, via HouzzTransitional Living Room by San Francisco Interior Designers & Decorators Angela Free Design

I even thought about doing some sort of painted design in the light green wall color and the light teal. Stripes? Y’all know how much I LOVE my stripes! But then we’re back to adding another pattern to the room, and I’m afraid that might look busy.

And the last idea I thought of is to use the accent tile of the wainscoting and tile the entire back of the built-in.

bathroom design by Cathers Home, via HouzzContemporary Bathroom by Basalt Interior Designers & Decorators Cathers Home

I really like the examples that I’ve found with this idea used in other bathrooms, but I’m afraid that the mosaic tile I have might look busier than these.

bathroom niche with mosaic tile back, by Niki Papadopoulos, via HouzzTraditional Bathroom by Atlanta Interior Designers & Decorators Niki Papadopoulos

glass shelving in bathroom with mosaic tile back, by Yunker Associates Architecture, via HouzzTraditional Bathroom by Minneapolis Architects & Building Designers Yunker Associates Architecture

So, I’m torn. I love the light and airy look of the mirror, but I’m also afraid that with two opposing mirrors, it’ll create that infinity mirror illusion, and that’s the very opposite of peaceful and pretty. I like the painted back idea, but I’m just not sure what color would work best. And I LOVE the tile idea, but I’m a bit concerned that my particular mosaic tile might look much busier than the samples above.

Any thoughts? Are there other options I’ve missed? Or should I just paint it white and be done with it? 🙂

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152 Comments

  1. I like the idea of mirror or dark teal paint. I don’t think a cluttered look would be too worrisome with the nook. In the picture you included above the view is almost from the side, which really emphasizes the cluttered reflection look. With the nook it will be almost impossible to see the mirror without it being a front view, right? That will minimize the cluttered appearance. The infinity mirror…I can’t figure out how much the mirrors would reflect. Will the mirror over the vanity be framed in? If so the reflection would be not a full mirror into a full mirror, right? That would minimize the infinity look.

    Honestly, I really like the look of the mirror, which I did NOT expect until I saw the pictures included. Bathrooms can so easily be dark…any opportunity to make it seem lighter and brighter should be taken, I think.

    1. Plus, if you have things on the shelves, like towels etc. that will take up some of the mirror reflected back.

    2. In the first picture you shared on the right side did you notice the way they did the shelves? Could you do that on top and a glass shelf under with mirrors in back. Great way to do the towels. Can’t wait to see what you decide.

  2. If you go painted I would use the same color as the vanity. To me it will just tie the vanity into the room. 🙂 I really like the idea of using the tile, but I would have to see a little preview to decide. Which is, I’m sure, exactly what you will need to! I think that once you get really started and can hold the tiles up, and can prop a mirror there, you will know!! No question at all once you see it! 🙂 it’s all looking great!! 🙂

  3. The teal background would give a coordinated designer look to the shelving area without being busy or too reflective . You’re certainly making great progress. Your cabinetry looks beautiful.

  4. I think the mirror would look great behind there! Regarding the infinity mirror look I am thinking with items on there and how far apart they are it wouldn’t be an issue. However If you can maybe grab a mirror around the same size and put it up for a few days to see if you like it. Also I was thinking maybe the tile would look great as well, if there is enough room between the tiles you could create a temporary board by nailing the tile to put up as well like the mirror to see which you like best.

    Cant wait to see your choice!

  5. Is there a mosaic tile available in the same family as your floor tile? WIth glass shelves and the cabinet built-in and painted white, that might be a subtle backdrop without adding a new pattern. Then that side of the room is basically white structurally, leaving the teal and woods as the visual grabber, and that fabulous shower curtain fabric connecting it all.

    1. I like Trudy’s idea. A lot.

      If not, then I don’t think your mosaic tile will be too busy anyway. I also really love the glass idea, I’ve stayed at a couple nice hotels that had that feature and I was surprised how much I like it. But some things bother you that don’t bother me, and you seem concerned about the reflection looking too cluttered, which wouldn’t be my concern but if its yours then I would think tile might be better for ya.

    2. I was wondering about using the floor tile. That doesn’t introduce another pattern, it’s a fairly ‘calm’ pattern, but it seems high end.

    3. I agree with Trudy. My first thought was tile behind the shelves. The floor tile in a mosaic would contribute to the look but not compete with the vanity, wall colour, awesome ceiling and shower curtain. Also it wouldn’t compete with any coloured accessories you want to add to the shelves.

      1. The painted dark teal is the easiest and also costs nothing.too much on that wall would be over kill and also , if used for storage of towels and other stuff will be cover up. How much of this is needed for useful storage or is it more a decorative area?. If you really want to push it up a notch, the back splash tile with the glass shelves are beautiful idea,. There will be light from vanity lights across from this area so this will not be a dark area. A litle puck light above will call attention to area. Can’t wait to see what it will look like,

  6. I’m going to vote for the painted back…either the dark or somewhat lighter teal. (The backs won’t be well lit, so the paint will appear darker in any case). I did back some shelves in my bedroom with mirror, as I too love the sparkle. I found, however, that it was both difficult to clean, and impractical in that the double image meant everything on the shelves had to be “styled”, when what I really wanted was more storage, and a nice “clean” look.

    I think the mosaic tile would be too busy on the back, and unnecessary, since there will be no water near it. Like the mirrored back, I think both those options are overkill, and your love of colour and balance would be best served by the paint option. It’s going to look great, whatever you do!

    1. I vote with you Bonnie. Paint – and I think the darker teal rather than the lighter one.

      Like you – I think there’s plenty of interest on other surfaces in the room and adding another in the alcove is unnecessary and probably a bit much. I think there needs to be some quiet in a room to make the statements stand out.

    2. I too like the idea of painted wall, darker teal, with glass shelving. Mirror behind…too busy and will look cluttered.
      You always seem to reason your options and have done a fabulous job so far. I like the way you research your options for us to see.

  7. Mirror!!! I love that idea. I can understand your concern about the infinity effect though. I guess it depends on what/how many items you plan to display on the shelf. A couple of small items leave a lot of mirror exposed, where something like rolled towels will only allow the mirror to peak through. If not mirror, then a solid paint color. I think the mosaic tile would look too busy (and too geometric) next to that beautiful floral shower curtain.

  8. I think the mirrors are kind of dated. I don’t know, mirrored walls or shelves make me think 1980s. And with such a small space and it reflecting the mirror right across above the vanity, I just don’t think it’s the way to go.

    At first I was going to vote for using the same color as the vanity. I think it would tie it in really nicely, but then you mentioned the tile and I think that’s an even better idea. i think that would be really pretty with the glass shelves.

    1. I like this idea. I don’t think it will look too busy and I think the teal would be very dark for an already dark area.

  9. Your bathroom looks beautiful! Paint is an easy fix and it’ll look good. What about wallpaper? There’s some pretty cool colours and designs out there!

  10. Mirror ~ love the look of more light, easy to clean and gives a bigger feeling to the room….can’t go wrong. You’ll have items on the shelves, so I don’t see that as being a problem with the infinity mirror look.

  11. I’m going to tentatively say tile because I think those looked posh and your bathroom is so posh already with all its custom touches! However, I think I’d install the backsplash first, take several steps back and then see how busy the contrast looks. It might end up fading away with the items on the shelves taking the attention. All good options though!

  12. I like the tile idea, but how about a clear glass tile in some mosaic pattern. It would add an element of shine, but be more subtle?

  13. I’m thinking the tile on the whole back will look lopsided and heavy compared to the narrow strip you are using as a backsplash. It might also steal the attention away from the beautiful tile/wainscoting, which think will look fabulous and should be the attention getter.

    I agree with your concern about matching teal paint. It will make the vanity look less like a piece of furniture. That’s why I’m going for the lighter teal paint. That will coordinate well with your shower curtain and add more depth to the color scheme.

  14. personally i love the wood ceiling and think it would be lovely behind the shelves (probably because i want to try this in my own fixer upper project). Its dark, interesting and a repeated element and would be lovely. I really like the tile idea too. You do good stuff!

  15. I think the painted back would look amazing and really tie it all together. I think glass and mirrors would contrast too much with the planks on the ceiling and traditional furniture style vanity. Just too many styles in one small room. I love the idea mentioned above for planks on the back of the shelving too.

  16. I vote no to the mirrors as I would think it would be too much since they are directly across from one another. I also don’t think the dark teal of your vanity would be the best as all the dark teal would be near each other and plus, it wouldn’t make your vanity stand out as a painted piece of furniture like you said you wanted. I vote for painting it Polar Bear and adding pops of your colors in accessories and towels. You already have your beautiful ceiling, that awesome light fixture, the great floor, wonderful wainscoting…I don’t think you need anything else to “stand out” if you know what I mean. However, I am sure whatever you decide will be beautiful!

  17. Maybe you could try the metallic looking decorating tiles (that are sometimes used for an inset in ceiling tiles or I have used them behind my stove) that are found a home depot. They are about a foot square and have some reflective properties of light but not reflections.
    Love the bathroom!

  18. Maybe you can ” antique” the mirror? So that it has a natural pattern but also it won’t be so “mirrorie” if that’s even a word. It would cut down on the infinity reflection. Seen this done with a torch once on a design show.

  19. I’d go for paint because it gives such a beautiful contrast to the white parts of the units in the pictures you chose. And it will not interfere with al that is already going on in that bathroom visually. Though I love that example with the darker blue back, I would chose the lighter paint colour, however, because that way your vanity will still be a stand-alone item in the room.

    I have gotten rid of about a cubic metre of mirror (in shards, obviously) when we moved into our house a couple of years back and they were installed in the 80ies. So to me mirrors as decoration and not as a utensil are a no-go for now (and probably forever :)). However, I have to admit that they would add light to the room. That infinity effect would drive me nuts, though!

  20. I can’t seem to find a photo, but a frosted mirror would look really interesting. It wouldn’t reflect the objects, but would still be light and bright, offering a soft visual texture to the shelf area.

    The room is really starting to come together! Can’t wait to see what you do next. It’s just lovely!

  21. I am also putting a closet in my bathroom redo
    I am using wood shelving because they will hold towels and sheets etc but I want the back walls to look yummy
    Sooooo I am going with STENCIL
    I am leaning toward a metallic paint perhaps for just a touch of glam but not too much shine (my fixtures are chrome)
    the closet is tucked in a corner and a good size so it will show but not be ‘in your face’.
    I want it to be that little jewel in my conservative bathroom
    This is a 55+ community and I am not thinking resale value. I am thinking what I like for me.
    d

  22. Mirror! I have a built-in cabinet/shelves in my dining room that originally had a door covering the shelves (matching my kitchen cabinets). I removed the door and the wallpaper lining the built-in and added a mirror back and glass shelves and LOVE IT. It adds so much reflective light, depth and glitz. I wouldn’t worry about the “infinity” appearance.

  23. When you mentioned paint it teal, I liked that idea and then I liked the tile idea but I think I’m back to the paint it idea. I do think I would paint it a lighter teal color so that your beautiful vanity takes center stage.

  24. I vote for a mirror. You plan on putting a lamp on that side, if I recall, and that will help disperse the light. What about a frosted mirror to address any infinity mirror problems? Or, you could put on a frosted stencil to break up the image.

  25. Any of those ideas would be great. My favorite is the tile to match the backsplash. I had to go back to look again at the photo where you held it up above the wainscoting to be sure and that confirmed it for me. The tile you are using does have multiple shades but it is somewhat muted compared to the color of the walls, shower curtain and vanity. I think it would give just enough variation to add interest and texture without being overwhelming in that corner. A more predominant color (wall, vanity or ceiling) would take over that space which is already a little darker simply because of it’s location and placement. I like your wanting to keep the vanity color and shower curtain fabric to be the pops in that room! So, that’s my opinion anyway, and I know you will go with what’s best for you and it will be asesome!!

  26. I love how your bathroom is coming together!! It’s so pretty and fresh! I think you would get an infinity type result with the two mirrors, but I love the idea of doing stripes in light colors behind the glass shelves. 🙂 Just my two cents worth. Other than the shower curtain, most of your other surfaces are solid colors, so I don’t think it is or would be too busy at all. 🙂

  27. Forgot to add to my already long comment (!) earlier that, with the shelves I agree that the mirror directly across from the vanity mirror would give that endless reflection effect but I also think the mirrors would be difficult to clean especially since they will have “stuff” to move each time you cleaned. I’m in the “the easier to maintain the better” camp 🙂

  28. I am going to side with Casey. Why not the same wood planks that are on the ceiling? The cabinet itself will be white, the shelves glass – I think the wood planks would look great.

  29. I would build a very shallow light box because it seems like a dark corner, backlit with LED…the subtle glow would highlight whatever you put on the shelves…..my other suggestion would be to use the subway tile, not the accent tile. That would also be subtle and just be background for whatever is on the shelves…

    1. I wouldn’t use mirror as I think that would be a pain to keep clean, having to remove shelves just to wipe it down…I would also use a deeper cabinet as the base to fill the space more….

      1. The first thing I noticed was the cabinet and I wondered why it wasn’t set so it was flush with the partial wall by the tub? Maybe that wall sticks out further than the bathroom wall? As far as the built-ins’ back wall, I think that glass shelves and mirrors might be too much. I agree that you should keep the vanity it’s own color so it looks more like a piece of furniture. I like the idea of giving the built-in more light- someone even suggested a light box, which I like, but using the wood of the ceiling might be too dark. You could keep it simple and do the subway tile again. The mosaic, I think, would be too much again. Are you styling these shelves or will they literally be jammed with towels and toiletries like most linen cabinets? What about a metallic paint to give it some bling and shimmer (but not over the top glass and mirror which will definitely add to the visual clutter in such a small space). Otherwise, I love the suggestion of a grasscloth wallpaper that someone else had, or maybe another type of wallpaper or two-toned paint (meaning matte and gloss) making it a VERY muted design- even mimicking the design on your sliding French doors? 🙂

  30. I think you should paint the cabinet the same as the vanity and I like the mirror or tile idea…I know what ever you decide it will look great!

  31. My first thought before you even mentioned options was to use the lighter teal, this way the vanity still stands out by itself. Tile sounds marvelous, but again, because it’s not the center of attention, it’s an added expense and for all of that extra work/expense, I’d wouldn’t want it to be hidden with stuff in front of it. Lighter teal is my vote.

  32. I love the tile backed samples you have shown, with the glass shelves. So classy looking. You would have to experiment to see if it looks too busy, or try the floor or subway tile for the back. Another painted option would be to paint it white but add a high gloss stencil pattern in the same white for a subtle patterned look.

  33. First I think it’s important to decide what is going on the shelves. If they will be mostly functional for towels, etc I would go with paint and I kinda like the lighter blue color idea. If the shelving will be mostly for pretty decorative things then I think a mercury glass mirrored back would give the wow factor and not look as stark as a plain mirror and also because your house is older give a little bit of the ‘old with the new” look. If it were my choice I would do the all white cabinet with glass shelves and the mercury glass mirrored look with some very pretty but functional jars, etc. Whatever you choose will look awesome as always.

  34. Tile would be stunning and different from what you have in the rest of your finished spaces thus far. Mirror would be difficult to clean, the dark teal should take center stage on the vanity, and the planking should keep its stage on the ceiling. The lighter teal color would certainly coordinate, but its not often that you get the opportunity to play with a decorative tile like this. Take the leap, I don’t think you will regret it 🙂

  35. Cabinet the same color at the trim, a wood top to match your vanity, tile the back to match your tile border, and the glass shelves! Gorgeous!

  36. I personally would paint the back white, the vanity is the focal point, don’t distract the attention from it. And I would make the shelves from sand glass to make cleaning them easier.

    Or if you want more reflective surficies in the bathroom, maybe a sand glass mirror would do as a built-it back?

  37. Have you considered creating (cutting) narrower strips of your accent tile then using them as a vertical, or horizontal stripes in a field of subway tiles? Option ties together your wall accent and tub surround but uses your favorite look ~ stripes! Also, this option helps to keep the shelving cubby wall very bright.

  38. I think the mirror is going to make things look too cluttered as you have already said. I like the paint or tile idea. The benefit of the tile is that it ties in with the bath and will make that wall look cohesive allowing the vanity to stand out. Can’t wait to see what you decide.

  39. I think mirror will be too busy. It’s also a pain to clean in a high-humidity environment (and static fluff from towels).

    How about using the floor tile instead of the mosaic? The mosaic is a better size but may be a bit too much in the space. The floor tile could go with glass shelves or wood. The downside of tile is that it gets dated. In that regard, paint is easy (easier to update or change).

    Someone mentioned using the ceiling planks, which (lovely as they are) may be a bit much if you make a second wooden countertop to match the vanity. Could you install the planks vertically and paint them dark teal, as you did on the ends of the vanity? That may benefit from white shelving.

    1. Finishing the back wall like the end of your vanity was my first thought as well. I think I would go with the lighter teal or take the opportunity to use both colors since you like stripes. With stuff on the shelves only part of the back wall will show anyway. I would have a hard time justifying the expense of tile if it is going to just peek through. I also like the seagrass paint effect idea. More texture either way, but not competing with anything. It’ll be gorgeous whatever you do.

  40. I vote mirrors! I love sparkle and I think it would bring your design “up”. My least favorite is tile. It makes me think of those areas in a shower where you keep your soap. Love the bathroom! Love your house!

  41. You have a lot of “stand out” items in that beautiful bathroom. I guess it depends on how much you want the linen closet to compete for attention with all the other gorgeous things in that room. Personally, I’m a “less is more” kind of person, so I would just paint the back, probably either teal. If you don’t like it, you could always tile or mirror at a later date.

  42. So many viable options! Any of the options you outlined could look tasteful and lovely. My only dislike from your list is the backsplash tile as the back of the shelves. Love these tiles for backsplash, but that much of it on the wall would be distracting and too busy. I’m leaning toward the mirror solution because the walled in space could be a bit dark, and in the bathroom you don’t want one dark “hole” to suddenly appear when this project is finished. Also the mirror gives a clean, modern look in keeping with your concept for the room. Agree using fabric as wall paper would look lopsided. And also agree the dark teal should be be reserved for the vanity alone. Too matchy-matchy. If you want to stay with a painted background, could you lighten up the celery several shades with white and use that? That’s all I’ve got today. As usual can’t wait to see what you come up with.

  43. I think i’d keep the vanity and ceiling as the two main stars of that bathroom. You have so many layers of amazing with the wainscoating and tile and built in cabinet and shower curtain and beautiful light fixture. But it would be chaos for me visually if everything demanded my attention all at once. I would plank the back of the cabinet like you did the side of the vanity and ceiling, use glass shelves and paint the cabinet and back wall the same color as the wainscoating and trim-white-to blend in. I don’t know what you plan to put on the shelves- decor or towels- but you can step up the color with those or not. You are great at this Kristi and I love following you as you go. Thank you for the inspiration.

  44. I agree with TinaG, paint it Polar Bear and accessorize with color. No mirrors, enough going on in such a small room.

  45. Whatever you choose its going to look great. White sounded like a terrible idea at first but TinaG makes a good case for painting the back Polar Bear white. But if your instincts as a decorator say NO, you’re probably right. Tile, teal or mirror …. all the opinions seem to be divided. I can’t wait to see how this turns out! I look forward to your blog every day!

  46. I think anything you decide upon will be perfect but to throw my two-cents in; I love the tile idea 🙂 To me, it evokes a spa-like quality – coupled with glass shelves….ahhhh serenity.

  47. I wouldn’t go dark behind glass shelves with white cabinets. I might go with the lighter teal you didn’t choose for the vanity, or, what about using the subway tile back there? It’ll tie in with the rest of the bathroom, look clean and you can add color with accessories? Just a thought. Truthfully, not sure what I’d do.

  48. I like the look of the tile backed shelves or just painting the back. What about a shade or two darker than the wall colour? Another thought, when you renovated your kitchen, you were thinking about painting the back side of glass for the back splash. Not sure how it would work with the humidity in a bathroom and the clear glass shelves, but it would give you colour and shine in that corner.

    1. Ooh, I like this idea too, of painting the back of glass in the lighter color. This would give it shine without reflection and no chance of being too busy.

  49. I think your concern about the mirror reflecting the items on the shelf is completely valid. And what about cleaning the mirror. It may never get finger prints, but wouldn’t it eventually gather dust?

    Of the options you mentioned, I’d either go with the paint or the tile. I think the tile would give you the most visual interest without adding a new pattern to the room.

    Or (completely random), what about grass cloth? If your concern for grass cloth in the living room was cost, with this small area, surely that is somewhat mitigated. And it would be a way to add texture/visual interest without adding a strong pattern. Not sure if bathroom moisture is an issue, but I thought I’d throw the idea out there.

  50. TILE! it’ll be great little surprise tucked back there…. As for the mirror idea, I think the “clutter” thing is totally valid. Let’s see what you come up with!!

  51. wow the bathroom looks amazing!!!! as far as the back of the storage area – you will definitely see the infinite effect if the mirrors are directly or almost directly across from eachother. plus I agree with one commentor above who said she lost her “storage shelves” to “styled shelves” when she added the mirror to the back of hers – that would drive me crazy not to have them perfect at all times. I think the safest choices would be to paint – probably a white first then the teal second. it will look wonderful but its safer and less busy. Idk if I would put the floor tile (or mosaic matching it) or the ceiling planks back there for the same reason that you don’t want to put the fabric.. I feel like those are such statement areas already that adding it to the back of the storage shelves might take away or make it feel unbalanced. that obviously leaves the accent tile or the subway tile as the risky choices 🙂 I am more drawn to the picture above where the storage shelves & shower are on the same wall and use the same tile so me personally I would like the subway tile more… but the accent tile is also really nice and I think it could work okay too. if you can, it probably would be best to either put up real life samples to see what you like or do a mock up on the computer. that way you can try everything out and see what you like best!

  52. What about colored glass like you were talking about originally in the kitchen? It would still be bright and shiny like the mirror but would add color to the room along with no worries of an infinity mirror effect. If you chose this option I’d go with the lighter teal.

  53. I know you like color, Kristi, but there is already a lot of color in this room. Remember how much you love your kitchen and how much you wrote about wanting your house to go in a sophisticated direction? I sense this room veering toward the look of your condo — which is a great look, but is it what you want for this house? Just a thought.

    Personally, I’d allow this storage area to be a very calm moment in this room. What about all white with glass shelves?

  54. I’d paint it the same celery as the rest of the walls. That will tie that side of the room to the other. The glass shelves will add some sparkle, and I don’t think it would look like you forgot to put a back on the storage cabinet. Paint is quick and easy, and if you don’t like it, then you can consider mirror or tiles. just my two cents!

  55. I love all you’ve done so far in this bathroom, but I’m going to be in the minority here and say “keep it all white with glass shelves.” I’m thinking about what you’ll store on those shelves. You could add plenty of color and interest with your accessories and change them whenever you want. You don’t want to risk making a small space too busy. Baths should be peaceful and calm, IMHO. But I’m sure you’ll figure it out, and it will reflect your personality, as it should.

  56. I’m totally being a smart ass here but given your past indecisiveness, I see you painting backs then changing that to mirror, then changing that to tile! My vote is for paint.

  57. Have you previously had glass shelves anywhere? I have and they are a real P.I.A. to keep clean. Dust happens and it will certainly find those shelves! They are pretty when they sparkle, aren’t they? No matter what type of shelving you decide, it will need cleaned every so often, but with the glass, it will need it more often. Just say’n. As far as what to put for the backing, how about the same size tile you have on the floors? It would be light and subtle and your towels and other accesories would show up nicely. Towel colors could be a combo of the light teal and celery. If not the floor tile, my next choice, being a close second would be the painted light teal. It will look very nice whatever you choose.

  58. I like the idea of painting the back with the Polar Bear or ,even better, using the wood planks on the back! It pulls some of the dark wood to the other side of the room. Even with your shower curtain it may end up too white on one side of the room. Now, as to the glass shelves….. I have them in a free standing bathroom shelf for towels and all I can say is LINT!!!!!!!!!!!! Always, even after wiping with windex! I think the towels just BREATHE LINT! LOL. I agree with one of the posters that sanding the glass would be pretty and perhaps the lint would not be so obvious. As usual I am certain I will love whatever you do. I just see beauty in all of your work.And I hope to see a PEACOCK in the finished room!

    Sheila F.

  59. I like the idea of painting it the lighter shade (that you ruled out for the vanity) or the tile. I think either one would look really nice and put together!

  60. The mirrors would create that infinity effect. When we bought our house they had mirrors on opposite walls and I had to immediately remove one because it drove me crazy. I like the tile idea.

  61. What about doing a painted glass behind it? You considered it for the kitchen backsplash and I thought your test glass turned out beautifully.

  62. To me, the mosaic tile sounds not only beautiful but also practical..and easier to keep clean…I’m sure that with your natural eye for color and design you will pick out something that will work…and I think the tile paired with glass shelves is classic..so that’s my vote…mosaic tile..in fact the glass tile in a coordinating color just sounds beautiful and not too busy…not necessary to have a patterned tile…if youre concerned about busyness..

  63. The one comment that really stood out to me was the texture seagrass wallpaper. If you don’t find it in just the perfect colors I would faux paint it using the linen technique with the light teal as the base and your vanity color the faux color you drag the dry brush through. Since you already have the paints its no added expense. You would be adding texture but not another distracting print. I definitely wouldn’t like the endless mirror reflection. To me it would act like a distracting print and they are also nuisance to clean. I think the accent tiles are great for your original plan but too much behind the shelves. It would destroy your wow factor. Someone else’s suggestion to add lighting in there was also a great idea. I’m not an interior decorator but that is mho.

    1. this is the best suggestion yet
      but I’m thinking we’d have to see your bathroom in person to see the true perspective.

  64. Oh please do the tile! I love that tile and it will be so pretty. I think the mirror would be nice but you seem like a person that likes things clean once you finish putting it together. The painted background would be beautiful too. I can’t wait to see it all together.

  65. i was all for the mirror until i saw the pictures with the tile. really like the tile and it is totally unexpected. whatever you do, the bathroom is a showstopper!

  66. Hi Kristi, really making progress! I like the way the built in at the condo looks. I think I would probably go all white. Then I would get towels etc in three key colors from the shower curtain. Roll them up and stack them on the shelves. I would add something in metal to match you pull finishes and/or faucets. Then maybe a ginger jar with bath salts and a small scooper. The unsightly things can go behind closed doors. Blessings

  67. I think the tile option is luxurious looking for not a lot of money. Just hold some up and gauge whether it’s too busy. If it is, is there a “quieter” coordinating tile option that you could include elsewhere to tie it all together?

  68. Kristi. I have read all of the replies. I have studied the picture you posted. I have a question. Are you going to continue to the wainscoting on the side walls that the storage unit is on? I hope that you do. I will give a more finished overall feeling to the room. Especially since your I’m sure your doors will stay open most of the time. If you are.My opinion is that you should use wooden shelves paint the unit white and the back should be painted the lighter teal color. That way your vanity is still a statement piece. The wainscoting will be white with the mosaic tile above it. The celery wall color will be a small area on each side of the unit. Then the light Teal painted back will be a perfect accent on the back of the storage unit and not fight any of the beautiful choices that you have already made.

    1. Kristi. I have read all of the replies. I have studied the picture you posted. I have a question. Are you going to continue to the wainscoting on the side walls that the storage unit is on? I hope that you do. It will give a more finished overall feeling to the room. Especially since I’m sure your doors will stay open most of the time. If you are.My opinion is that you should use wooden shelves and paint the unit white and the back should be painted the lighter teal color. That way your vanity is still a statement piece. The wainscoting will be white with the mosaic tile above it. The celery wall color will be a small area on each side of the unit. Then the light Teal painted back will be a perfect accent on the back of the storage unit and not fight any of the beautiful choices that you have already made. If I remember correctly from your past post. You are going to use the same counter tops as the vanity. This will bring all of the elements that you have used in the rest of the room come together and not compete with each other

      1. I was wondering the same thing. Talk about the back wall but what about the sides? Wainscoting & green uppers? I would do the tile accent there too. Once that’s done stand back & look at it to see what would look best on the back wall. You may get a whole new feel. Looking good so far. Can’t wait for finish project. I look everyday at lunch to see how far you’ve gotten.

  69. I’d go with the tile and glass shelves. The examples you included were truly lovely. I’m sure you’ll have a great finished product no matter what you choose. Look forward to seeing it completed. Thanks for the great posts. dj

  70. I think one inch light teal TILE with white grout. Glass shelves. And you’re done! Lol. It will be beautiful whatever you decide!

  71. I would stick with the same green walls and paint the shelves white if you build around them entirely or use chunky wood shelves the same colors as the countertop or ceiling if they are floating shelves.

    Add a botanical print(s) on the sink side (maybe above the toilet) that picks up on the flowered shower curtain theme. Then in the shelving corner stock with some towels, washcloths and unique antiques to give this corner unexpected personality. It would be the fun part of the process that could be added to or changed over time. Something no one else has and the reflection of these items in the vanity mirror would remind any visitors to take a closer look.

    Possible unique accessories — a mix of light and dark elements. A few old antique keys — frame them and set them on an easel on a shelf. Or if you have enough room above the top shelf (if not too high) hang a bigger version on the wall. Vintage wire baskets to hold washcloths., maybe a transfer ware or sponge ware pitcher, vintage soaps in a basket, for sparkle a small mercury glass or regular glass vase with silk roses. etc. Antique wall hook (somewhere) for guests to hang their purse or coat when inside.

  72. What about one of each? A shelf back painted, a shelf back tiled, a shelf back mirrored. (Unless they aren’t going to be fixed shelves.) You could do a combination, like a very thin strip of mirror (4-6″) that goes down the length of the shelves and paint on either side, or tiles down the center and paint on the sides.

    I think you could mix your ideas. Even some mirror tiles mixed with your decorative tiles!

    I can’t wait to see what you decide–I’m sure it will be lovely (and if you’re anything like me, you’ll change it later anyway!). 🙂

  73. Have you considered repeating the wood pattern from the ceiling? It could add some warmth to an otherwise cold (white + glass) area. Just a thought…

  74. After you have stayed up all night reading and giving thought to all these recommendation, I will add a few of my own:

    I am not leaning towards the same wood as your ceiling. I think that stands alone as a beautiful, rich surface. I think the shower curtain’s installation will really help direct your decision making regarding the linen cabinet. To be honest, I LOVE the appearance of the book case in your condo. Classic, clean lines. With your decorating savvy, I am certain you will decorate the shelves with eye-catching vignettes. I really love the way the fixture shed light on the book shelves. Do you have the ability to light the interior of the linen cabinet shelving? Either with a light similar to the condo bookcase (your doors swing out, I think, so no clearance issues there) or hidden inside (that kind of rope lighting). Then your decorative touches (towels, baskets, glass vessels filled with soap bars, etc.) will be what catches your eye. Again, I think the shower curtain will really help you make the decision how to best treat that back wall. You already have quite a few distinct focal points – the lovely vanity area, the beautifully trimmed walls and accent tiles. Maybe this is a place to just be calm. So I guess my vote would be for whichever paint color (vanity or wall) best compliments the shower curtain.

    I am a new member of your “DIY fan club” and run to my computer each morning to catch your updates. Your work is fabulous!

  75. Firstly I’m really loving how the bathroom is coming together, it’s looking amazing!
    I have 2 thoughts. My first one is to paint the wall in the lighter teal color and my second option is using the same white subway tile as around your bath, but with thin accent strips of your border tile in an oblong shape to reflect the oblong frames in your wainscoting. I think both options will look amazing with glass shelving and I know whatever you decide, it will look really stunning! Can’t wait to see the border tile up.

  76. What about using the same subway tile from the tub/shower area with some of the mosaics in between, like where you would put each shelf? Carry them both over there, it’s shiny, bright and reflects lights. Either that or paint. I like the idea of the vanity paint as an accent wall behind the glass.

  77. You’re overthinking. How much of the back will show when your linens are on the shelves? I would paint it white and be done with it.

  78. My first choice is definitely the tile mosiac. You have chosen such a neutral tile mosiac that it can’t possibly look too busy. And what an accent it would be to your backsplash. If you do go with the paint, use the lighter teal rather than the color of you vanity for the very same reason that you did not paint the bottom of this unit the same as your vanity. BUT, go mosaic tile. What a boon to your bathroom. Yes, it will be more expensive than paint, but will definitely be worth it.

  79. I vote for tile similar to the floor or the accent tile you’re using with some sort of soft lighting. Mirror would need to be constantly cleaned and make it look too busy. Paint is so ordinary.

  80. Oh—Kristy. You must be really tired.Paint it white and be done with it! I’m shocked to hear this come from your lips. The woman who single handedly built that stunning kitchen.
    O.K. down to it. At first I thought mirror of course–it’s a small dark space–mirror slam dunk. But once I read your full post, well now you have me undecided as well.
    How about dark wooden shelves to mirror your countertop with mirror behind. Since you are going to use this as linen storage I’m sure you will have some towels , assorted soaps gels,etc. decorating the shelves I don’t think you will get that mirroring effect, and the wood will tie in beautifully to the vanity. Or just plain painted wooden shelves might look good as well.I don’t see glass shelves with mirror or tile behind the shelves in that bath. I’ll admit that I’m stumped on the cabinet color as well as you.

    Can’t wait to see what you’ll come up with, I just know that it won’t be plain,simple white. That’s really not your style is it?

  81. I’d go with painted white shelves. This will also repeat the lines of the cabinet framed doors and recessed paneling on the walls.

    The color for the back of the closet will be dependent on what color linen that you choose to display. If you display white linen on the shelves then I would paint the back of the shelves the light teal you used in your Condo. That way you bring teal to this side of the room and also the lighter shade will throw more light when reflected from the adjacent vanity mirror.

    A few decorating items in timber (to match vanity top), metal (to match draw/faucet) and small amounts of linen (pull say 2 or 3 shades from the shower curtain fabric) would also look great displayed on the shelves and bring these coordinating features to this side of the room.

    If you displayed linen in colors that coordinate with your shower curtain fabric, then I would paint the back of the shelves in just white.

    I’d keep in mind the type of light you want that vanity mirror to throw on the rest of the room! Darker shades or stained timber will throw dull or too little light, making the room look smaller. Mirror behind the shelves will make the shelving look too cluttered (from the reflection), collects condensation and is just another thing to separately clean. Although I like the look of glass/mirror/tile, I don’t feel that they would be exactly at home in this bathroom. Their design lines would be better suited to a bathroom with a frameless shower enclosure and vanity mirror.

    Whatever you do, it will be beautiful and I thank you for keeping us all inspired.

  82. if you are doing glass shelves, I think the mirror back may be a mistake. My vote is tile. Either the one you used already or a complimentary tile that is a more simple design.

    I also like the stained wood back idea with a glass shelf. I think the teal paint would take away from the vanity.

  83. I am a retired interior designer and owned an art gallery for over 20 years. Mirrors have an art rule. When and if you hang one, they should reflect something beautiful. In the gallery the mirror would always be opposite something beautiful, an art piece or sculpture. I think a mirror adds another element to a bathroom that already has a lot going on regarding ceiling, backsplash, paint, wainscoting and the beautiful floor tile. I vote for the wonderful green wall paint or the lighter teal.

  84. White subway tile would be perfect and ties that whole wall together. For variation install in herring bone pattern.

  85. Regarding the backs of the cabinets: seeing as you already have the paint, I would suggest firstly painting them and see how you like it. I’d go the same color as either the vanity OR the wall to tie it in (also, too many colors going on in that small space will look messy). If you decide that don’t like that, move onto either the tile or mirror. You could sit a piece of each on a shelf until you decided which you liked best.

  86. I would use mirror but make it aged like mercury glass. It wouldn’t be glaring mirror but add another layer of charm.

  87. I really like the idea of the same teal background or maybe a flat teal and use a gloss of the same color to get your stripes.

  88. It’s looking absolutely lovely so far! What about a square tile that matches the white subway tile (same height or the tiny ones) for visual texture but no color to compete with the room’s focal points? Or, does the mosaic tile come in white, to repeat the shape of the mosaic without adding the color of it? I can’t wait to see what you decide. Thank you for sharing the uncertainty of the decision making process, it’s a huge part of any reno project and is usually overlooked by many bloggers.

  89. I think the mirror would create that infinity thing, and be distracting. If you’re going to paint, I’d go with the lighter blue, but I think the tile would be fabulous!

  90. Since the linen storage will be on the same side as the bathtub, I think you should use subway tiles with glass shelves. Just like how the tile behind the shelf in the “Contemporary Bathroom” pic is the same as the tile in the shower stall.

  91. Personally, I would put up bead board or planks painted the white trim color. let your beautiful vanity be the focal point. With so much going on in the room with the ceiling, vanity & tile it needs to remain neutral. love reading your blog.

  92. Good Morning Kirsti, my preference would be paint the baking a lighter colour of the vanity. I feel you have just the right balance with the wood ceiling, the tiles and the shower curtain. By simply adding interesting objects etc into the cupboard would be enough.

  93. I love the painted look with either the teal to match the vanity or the lighter one as well. I like the painted look over and above all the other choices you mentioned. But I have no doubt when you are finished with whatever YOU choose, it will be beautiful as usual 🙂

  94. Kristi, it sounds to me like it is time to pull out the good old foam core, extra sheet rock, luan or whatever you prefer to use for sample boards. I’m called “Queen of Sample Boards for a reason. Ready several pieces of the sample boards by cutting them the size of the back section between the shelves or however you want to try it and paint away, wall paper, or tile. Use a separate board for each color or treatment you are considering. It looks like your tile is on a mat so you can just attach it to your sample board with pins. Then you can put up each sample board in turn and get a much better idea of how it will look in that area. A few times, while looking at a mounted sample, I’ve suddenly “seen” another option I had not even considered.
    Expanding on the sample board idea, I also like to use something similar for the back of book shelves, built-ins and display cabinets; really anywhere you decide to add a little color to the back of the shelving unit. I use luan, foam core or a very thin plywood then paint it or use wall paper, fabric, whatever background you have chosen. I apply the background board to the back of the cabinet or wall, etc. in a non-permanent way so that when I’m ready to make a change, I can remove the back board and install one with my newly chosen accent background. I know sample boards sound like a tedious idea but they are generally pretty quick and easy to make. I use them before I repaint a room, too. Since colors change so much depending upon the room lighting, other colors in a room that having a sample or two has really saved me time, money, and hubby’s temper when he finished the ceiling and I say”don’t you think that has a slightly ‘green’ tinge to it? Paint chip was a perfect match for a fabric I was using but once it was on a ceiling, you could definitely see that little bit of green. Last time I ever painted without using sample boards.
    You might even turning your tile vertically. I’ve seen a backsplash done vertically and an accent area where a linear type of tile such as your was applied vertically and I thought both uses were gorgeous.

  95. I was all about the mirror at first. But, after reading all the suggestions and thinking about it, I love the accent tile option, and, I love the subway tile option, and I LOVED the gal’s suggestion of doing the subway tile with accents of the accent tile. (that might be my favorite suggestion) I don’t really like the idea of painting the wall – too boring. Everything you do is so great, though. I’m excited to see what you decide to do!

  96. You know what your problem is??????? Too many GOOD IDEAS!!!! You’re gonna have to start building on some rooms so you can use all your decorating ideas. For what it’s worth, I vote for the lighter paint….it would blend, but not be overpowering,

  97. No mirrors! Use white paint if the accessories will be colorful and/or sparkly. I would love to see you combine your tiles to make a unique design, using your floor tiles would add beauty and simplicity. You will knock it out of the park-thanks for letting us all put our two cents in!!

  98. While I like the mirror idea I think it would look better to use a litter shade of your teal for behind the shelves. Especially if your material for your shower curtain contains the same colors as the rest of the bathroom. I also really like using white for the cabinet and the glass shelves, makes for a cleaner looking bathroom!

  99. I love the tile. The tile mosaic won’t read busy at all once it’s set back and behind items on the shelves. I think using subway tile might just read white.

  100. I was looking on Pinterest & had a idea. You know how you did the side if the vanity with the wood slats, how about doing that on the back wall painted the lighter teal?

  101. I agree with what a lot of others are saying about trying out the different options once you actually get that bottom shelf in. I hope you are planning on doing the wainscoting there as well, so that the whole room will have a cohesive feel to it. I think you will see which option is best if you do that. Saying that, I personally like the tile option best with either your mosaic tile or your flooring tile. If you feel like the mosaic is too busy, I think the flooring tile would be beautiful. I also don’t see anything wrong with having it painted the green color like the walls in the rest of your room. I don’t think all shelves have to have a back on them to be beautiful. My opinion on the glass shelves is that I’m not sure that they “fit” in the room. I may just be having a hard time picturing them in the room since the room is not finished yet. One other thing I know from experience, is that glass shelves get so dirty and adding them in a bathroom with the steam from a bath or shower I would think would just make that worse. JMO. I’m sure whatever you decide, it will be beautiful, as always!

  102. I,m just throwing this in to ensure all basis are covered, how about the same material as the shower curtain!

  103. I’m personally drawn to the lighter teal paint, since there will probably be portions of it that are more dimly lit than the rest of the room once you put things on the shelves. The dark teal with stuff-shadows on it would feel like a black hole to me. The same for mirrors without tons of natural light. I just this week covered all the mirror backing in my living room curio cabinet with drop cloth and cheery large scale floral fabric because that area never got any natural light, so it just kept multiplying darkness and feeling doubly cluttered like you mentioned! Your celery green bathroom is reminding me how much I loved my bathroom of that color in my old house! You have me eyeballing all my bathrooms’ white walls again. ;D

  104. I like the wood slats that you used on the ceiling. It would visually balance the weight of the vanity as you have all white on that wall with the tub. The other option would be a sea glass tile. A beautiful cool green glass tile would give texture and also a reflective surface without competing with a vanity mirror. Sea glass is also a neutral that would still work if you wanted to change the color scheme at a later date. I don’t think it would compete with the wall color and would look great with the fabric you chose for the shower curtain. Also, it’s distinctly different from your tile trim, so it wouldn’t compete with that either. Sea glass would also make a great back drop for both towels and anything decorative you may want to put on the glass shelving.