Bathroom design can often feel purely utilitarian, leaving us to overlook the final layer that truly makes a space feel completed: decor and accessories.
Our belief is that if you can make every little chore (like washing your face, brushing your teeth, or taking a shower) a little bit more pleasant, you'll finally become a morning person... i.e., it makes the time spent in the space feel more relaxing and serene, i.e., like a day spa. That's why we've rounded up all the best bathroom decor ideas for your retreat. Our bathroom decorating ideas are great for small spaces, master bathrooms, or complete DIY remodels.
A wall decor is one of the most effective bathroom decorating ideas to focus on right away. What's better? Makeover options are plentiful. Mirrors on a gallery wall in a small bathroom can help reflect light and make the space feel more spacious. A patterned wallpaper adds color and personality to a powder room. Feel like going bolder? Think about a herringbone pattern, bright colors, or painted cement tiles for an accent wall.
Shelving can also be an opportunity to marry storage with home decor. Open shelving or floating shelving can give you an opportunity to store towels and toiletries, while also providing a place for keepsakes and small pieces of art.
When remodeling your bathroom, start with tile. The classic white tile (like subway tile) always makes for a lovely design moment. Consider how bathroom tile can be incorporated into your backsplash, countertops, and shower if you're seeking to inject color and character into your bathroom design. If you have a small bathroom, consider installing a small mosaic on your floor or shower floor.
Even a small bathroom floor can be transformed with patterned ceramic tiles - try it!
Try pairing white tiles with a funky-colored grout to create an unexpected look.
Wall Ideas
Wall decor is one of the most effective bathroom decorating ideas to focus on right away. What's great about it? You can choose from a wide range of makeover options. A gallery wall of mirrors can reflect light and make a small bathroom seem more spacious. If you want to add a splash of color and personality to your powder room, consider adding patterned wallpaper. Feeling bolder? Consider a herringbone pattern or a bold color on your accent wall.
Home decor can also be incorporated into shelving. You can store towels and toiletries on open shelving and place keepsakes and small pieces of art on floating shelves.
Decorate Your Bathroom Walls
A blank wall can be intimidating, and what works in a bedroom may not work in the bathroom. No matter how big or small this room is, there are plenty of ways to spruce it up, from decals to paint. Make your bathroom walls more colorful with these 13 clever ideas.
1. Set the tone with wallpaper.
It can be quite the undertaking to wallpaper an entire bathroom. However, wallpapering an accent wall is more manageable and budget-friendly, especially with peel-and-stick wallpaper. The collaboration between handbag designer Clare V and Wallshoppe has us smitten.
2. Go for paint that pops.
When selecting a paint color for bathrooms, we tend to keep it safe, but picking an unexpected color is a brilliant (and easy) way to make the space pop. You can keep your paint color from taking over your bathroom by carrying it only halfway down the wall.
3. Fake the "wallpaper" look.
Consider DIY patterns for accent walls if your budget is extremely tight. No matter if it's on one wall or all four, this option can make a big impact with a stencil, paint, and patience. With this option, you won't have to remove wallpaper when you want a change - all you need is a few coats of primer to return your wall to a blank canvas.
4. Go for a beachy theme.
In terms of bathroom themes, beach-themed or water-friendly motifs are classically popular. You can channel the vibe without making your bathroom look too kitsch by choosing a piece of blue art or photography that feels high-end, like this print from Saatchi Art ( $90 ).
5. Make an art gallery.
You may find it difficult to choose just one or two prints when exploring the world of prints, so curate your own gallery wall. You can create a clean, modern look with a color theme, or you can use a variety of colors and frames to create a more bohemian vibe.
6. Find bathroom-friendly art options.
Choose materials that resist moisture if you are concerned about a piece of wall art getting damaged by water or humidity. Take a look at this desert print from Society6 ( $160 ), made from aluminum sheet canvas.
Tile
Tiles are a good place to start when remodeling a bathroom. As always, white subway tile (or any other white tile) looks lovely. Consider how you can incorporate bathroom tile into your backsplash, countertops, and shower if you want to add color and personality. If your bathroom is small, consider installing a small mosaic on your floor or shower floor.
Patterned ceramic tiles can completely change your bathroom look — try transforming even a small bathroom floor with a new design.
For something unexpected, consider pairing white tile with a funky-colored grout.
Mosaic Bathroom Floor Tile Ideas
The floor of your bathroom shouldn't be dull, so your guests won't be embarrassed to see it. There are countless options to choose from when it comes to choosing the right tile. You can also get creative with mosaic tile, creating a custom design that will turn your washroom dreams into reality - from stars to flowers to hearts. So get rid of that oversize rug and open the door to one of these 13 mosaic bathroom floor tile ideas.
1. Monochrome Magic
Scandinavian-chic bathroom by CM Studio lacks color, but makes up for it in style. White walls and floors are textured with round penny tile mosaics. The design is complemented by chrome fixtures, Turkish towels, and a fiddle leaf fig tree.
2. Lovely Designs
Like Elsie in A Beautiful Mess, let your imagination run wild. The bathroom was given a little love with black and white hexagonal tiles.
3. Black and White Beauty
A dated, dark master bathroom was transformed into a bright, timeless sanctuary by Erin from Sunny Circle Studio. Using a white paint palette with wood accents, black and white mosaic floor tiles, and black and white accents, she created a washroom that is simple yet stunning.
4. Vintage Charm
The interior designer Tracey Stephens added a pop of color to this Craftsman-style house built in 1906 in New Jersey using mosaic floor tiles.
5. Shades of Gray
Cover your shower walls and floor with shades of gray, like Elizabeth from EDB Designs, for a visually interesting yet not distracting effect. The result feels luxurious yet restful and transforms a standard-size walk-in shower into a haven of calm.
6. Blue Lagoon
Rachel from Pencil Shavings Studio has a cheerful blue bathroom. Flowers made up of white and blue hexagonal tiles decorate the shower floor, which is complemented by cerulean subway tiles on the walls. A wooden stool warms up this aqua paradise.
Bathroom Vanity & Cabinetry
Cabinets and vanities help define a bathroom. Especially when it comes to cabinetry, you can consider colors that stand out (a can of paint can be your best friend in an interior design project) and what kind of changes you could make to your hardware. In terms of bathroom vanities, there are a variety of options depending on your bathroom's size and style. Consider a double vanity for the master bath. Another way to create a unique bathroom vanity is to turn an old antique hutch or dresser into one.
Traditional Bathroom Vanity Ideas for Sophisticated Spaces Only
Hunker loves trends. Even we admit that keeping up with them can be challenging, especially if you're aiming for a timeless space that won't go out of style in a few years. Consider a traditional vanity when refreshing your bathroom if this is your primary goal.
A classic style vanity cabinet is known for its calm, quiet decor that's neutral, classic, and is derived from European design. There are a few things you should consider before you begin shopping.
First of all, white is a pretty standard color for traditional bathroom vanity ideas, but we are also big fans of navy blue and gray. Brass and black finishes in simple, streamlined shapes should accompany the vanity hardware. Also consider the decor of your bathroom. Add curated pieces to your vanity, such as handwoven baskets, flower vases, and vintage trays to house your self-care essentials.
Now that you know the basics, here are six traditional bathroom vanity ideas.
1. Allow your vanity to take center stage.
Even though traditional bathroom vanity ideas tend to blend into the background, the cabinet in this vintage-inspired space, owned by Alisa of A Glass of Bovino, stands out from the crowd. The wallflower cabinet is adorned with elaborate decorative details, painted in a dramatic shade of blue, and topped with a marble countertop and brass fixtures. Add an ornate mirror, framed artwork, and globe-style wall sconces to complete the swanky look.
2. You can't go wrong with classic white.
White bathroom vanities are a classic choice when it comes to traditional bathroom vanity ideas. Emily Henderson's bright sanctuary illustrates the classic pairing of navy wainscoting with white wainscoting.
3. Gray is a sure thing.
Among traditional bathroom vanity ideas, we love white, but we also love gray. We think it adds depth to any palette, and it's just as timeless as black. Designed by Jenny of Juniper Home, the lead-colored cabinet anchors the white space and provides a perfect backdrop for lustrous hardware.
4. Embrace curves.
Instead of a straight option, choose a curved one. A white cabinet with Shaker-style doors, a marble-inspired top, and tapered legs has an elegant appearance. Finished in satin-nickel, curved wall sconces and fixtures complete the sophisticated setup.
5. Pair a traditional vanity with wainscoting.
Consider wainscoting for your traditional bathroom. As seen in Emily Henderson's bathroom, navy blue looks amazing when paired with a white vanity.
6. A little embellishment goes a long way.
This blueish-gray cabinet is the perfect choice if you like the subtle look of most traditional bathroom vanity ideas, but want something that has just a little more flair. There is just enough detail in the classic design to make it interesting without overtaking the small space. Perfect!
Bathroom Lighting
Bathroom lighting does not have to be so utilitarian. If you want something truly opulent, consider pendant lights or a chandelier. When choosing lighting for your bathroom, keep your style in mind. Midcentury-inspired bathroom designs might work better with modern sconces. The globe sconce would look lovely in a modern bathroom, while the chandelier would be striking in a retro or farmhouse bathroom.
Bathroom Lighting Ideas for Large and Small Bathrooms
The bathroom is where you can be the most yourself. It's where you'll burst out crying or show off your hidden talents, such as singing. Most importantly, you let go of your stress, frustrations, and exhaustion. As a result, the bathroom should reflect your personality and provide you with a sense of comfort. Other than lights, what could be more soothing in a bathroom? Here are 15 bathroom lighting ideas for you to consider:
Two sides of the mirror have task lighting.
While applying make-up or brushing your teeth, lighting is essential. The best lighting for this is task lighting. These lights shine on the part of your face that you want to be able to see clearly. It emits light without casting shadows. People who are attractive are more self-assured. As a result, this concept will assist you in improving your mood and, in turn, your quality of life. Among bathroom lighting ideas, this is the best.
Bathroom lighting in a farmhouse style
Add farmhouse lights to the wall or ceiling of your bathroom for a vintage classic look. Farmhouse lights come in a variety of styles and can even transform a vintage bathroom theme into a modern tinted one. This is one of the more unusual bathroom lighting concepts. You can also make it look more modern by mixing and matching designs.
Recess lighting
Recessed lights in the corners of your bathroom will provide you with a different atmosphere. Focus lights are another name for them. These lights have a gentle glow to them. This bathroom lighting idea will ensure that your bathroom has a pleasant ambiance.
Sconce with tubular form
The tubular sconce is a timeless design that is still popular today. Tubular shapes are the most common. These lights are available in both transparent and opaque glass sconces. Choose the one that appeals to you the most. When hung on the wall, it looks fantastic.
LED lights are used to save energy.
Bathrooms benefit from LED lighting. It lights up the entire bathroom. It conserves energy. The lights do not cause any discomfort to your eyes. This type of light is appropriate for any bathroom. If you have a large bathroom, you can add more than two lights if you feel the lighting is insufficient.
lights with three prongs
This style of lighting is for you if you have an artistic soul and don't want to keep your bathroom simple. Three-prong chandeliers are available in a wide range of styles. Choose one that matches your desired sense of style.
Luminaires spherical
Spherical lights have a round shape. These will be suspended from the ceiling. These lights look fantastic no matter where they are used. There will be a variety of shapes available in various tones to match your bathroom.
For the back of the mirror, use strip lights.
You've probably seen this in every movie where only the light holder and the light are visible. This is due to the fact that it is backlit. This lighting can also be used behind televisions in the living room. In the case of your bathroom, the lights will be placed on the back of the mirror, similar to a vanity light.
Ceiling lights with a low profile
These are the different types of incandescent lights. In your bathroom, an understated pendant light will undoubtedly create a wonderful ambiance. For a better appearance, use white light.
Edison's Light Bulb
Edison's bulbs are old-fashioned lights that are now fashionable again. This creates a rustic, vintage look in your bathroom. Remember that these are decorative lights that are best suited for large bathroom areas.
Lighting that is layered
Layered lighting entails placing lights in each of the area's layers. Pendant or recessed lights should be placed at the top, backlight for the mirror should be placed in the middle, and footlights should be placed at the bottom. This is one of the most innovative bathroom lighting concepts.
lights with geometric shapes
Designer lights with geometric shapes are known as geometric lights. In any setting, this type of light looks extremely classic. These lights will look fantastic in large bathrooms.
Motion-activated nightlights
These lights should be installed on the exterior of your bathroom pot. They are waterproof and have built-in motion sensor lights. You have a variety of colour options to choose from. They are hygienic, so there is no need to be concerned. It is powered by a battery and has a built-in LED. These are simple to find and reasonably priced.
Wall light that is waterproof
One of the best lights for small bathrooms is waterproof wall lights. It's rustproof, long-lasting, and energy-efficient. To improve the appearance, place one light in each corner.
Showering with light
You've probably seen these kinds of lights in movies. You can, of course, have these at home. These lights don't require any electricity or batteries. After the induction of water, they light up. So all you have to do is spend money on the light, which is relatively inexpensive. However, once you've fixed it, it'll appear to be worth a thousand dollars. These lights are extremely simple to install.
Consider your bathroom lighting options carefully, keeping in mind that you will be looking at them every day. Don't buy lights just because they're fashionable. Make your own comfort a priority. I hope this article has assisted you in determining the best unique bathroom lighting option for your bathroom.
Plants
You can inject color and texture into your bathroom design idea by adding plants. You won't have to deal with dozens of design questions. Choose the type that will flourish in your environment based on sun-to-shade ratio, and enjoy the results of your (minimal) labor. Put it in a seagrass basket for a California vibe, or place it on the countertop to soften an industrial-style bathroom. Choose a hanging planter that hooks on the ceiling to draw the eye up - you can have gorgeous bathroom decor and have plenty of room to display all of your skincare and makeup products.
Shower Curtains and Bath Mats
It is possible to dress up even the most functional bathroom decor ideas with a little extra design flair. Choose a textured rug that lends a sense of comfort and sophistication instead of the same old bath mat you have had since your first apartment haul from Bed Bath and Beyond.
Want to upgrade another accessory as well? Replace that slimy shower curtain. No problem! You don't have to spend a lot of money. Simply swapping out other accents, like plain soap dishes and toothbrush holders, with options that reflect your aesthetic, whether rustic or spa-like, will make your bathroom feel more like a personal sanctuary, not to mention it will blend in seamlessly with the rest of your home.
Where to Shop for Bathroom Decor