Whether you’re updating a powder room, renovating your primary en suite, or making over a guest bathroom, the right upgrades can make a big difference. Here are some ideas that will increase functionality and aesthetics.
Installing a window will let natural light flood the space while controlling glare and harmful UV rays. Swapping out textiles for a fresh new look is also an affordable way to refresh a bathroom’s style.
Add Skylights or Windows
The right windows and skylights can brighten a bathroom without using valuable wall space. Plus, natural light is known to improve mood and create a calming atmosphere.
To maximize natural light in your bathroom, choose a window location that faces the east, which allows morning sunlight to fill the room with a soft glow. Avoid western and northern exposures, which bring in hotter and more intense sun, unless you’re willing to invest in shade options that can block out harmful UV rays.
Make sure furnishings and accessories don’t obstruct the path of light, and add mirrors and other reflective surfaces to amplify it. Energy-efficient windows and skylights also reduce the need for electric lighting, which helps lower your energy consumption and save on electricity bills.
Swap Out Textiles
A bathroom’s hardware, fabric, and rugs are the finishing touches that pull a space together. Replacing drawer pulls can instantly upgrade a room, and new faucets add a luxe feel.
A shower curtain can change the whole feel of a bath, and swapping out the standard plastic or vinyl curtain for a white linen option will elevate your space. Plush Turkish towels and washcloths can also upscale the space, and bamboo or waffle towel sets can offer an on-trend color palette.
And don’t forget the floor! Adding an antique rug or a durable performance mat can be transformative. Swapping out the shower head for a dual model is another easy, low-cost way to upgrade your space.
Add Lounge Seating
When you’re looking to make a bathroom feel more cozy and relaxing, adding seating is a great way to do so. Introducing ottomans or pieces you’d find in cozier rooms, like a chair or upholstered vanity stool, adds both style and functionality.
However, keep in mind that bathroom lounges require a lot of maintenance and can stress out a small space. So, unless you’re working with ample floor space, opt for a more minimalistic setup that’s still spa-inspired. You can also look for multipurpose seats that hold towels or storage containers. Just make sure it’s made of durable materials that can withstand moisture.
Add Built-In Storage
Often, bathroom remodeling involves adding new storage solutions to address specific needs. Built-in cabinets turn unused wall areas and awkward nooks into custom storage spots that blend into the space’s overall design.
For example, built-in niches can frame a mirror to keep beauty items and towels handy while keeping counters clear of clutter. Built-in drawers under the sink can hold everything from extra toilet paper to cleaning supplies and even a collection of bath salts.
For more stylish options, add a series of ladder shelves mounted against the wall to manage guest towels or even house a few humidity-loving plants. This type of unique storage solution combines utility with artful style that reflects the personality of the home.
Add a Chandelier
Adding a chandelier can instantly brighten your bathroom. It also plays to the 2024 design trend of warmer metals, which you can also incorporate in other standout elements like shower curtain rods or cabinet hardware.
If your bathroom features an industrial aesthetic, a steel teardrop-style chandelier would be ideal. For a contemporary space, a more minimalist chandelier with geometric accent pieces enclosing bulbs offers a chic pop of sparkle without overwhelming the room.
A chandelier over the bathtub can be a stunning statement piece, but make sure to consult your local code and a licensed electrician for safety regulations and requirements. A remodel is a big commitment, so you want to be certain you’re making smart choices with your renovation budget.
Install Soft Music
The bathroom is a great place to get creative with your design. Whether you opt for a subtle color scheme or a bold pattern, the possibilities are endless.
This year, designers love floor-to-ceiling glass showers. This creates a visually seamless look that feels custom and makes the space feel larger.
Integrators can install a wireless speaker that connects to a smartphone for easy streaming of favorite tunes during a shower or bath. This is a cost-effective upgrade that doubles as an entertainment system. The latest models even come with a light to indicate volume and have a built-in waterproof speaker for safe usage in the shower. This is a great option for homeowners who enjoy music but don’t want to add a media console.
Install a Television
If you’re short on space, a TV can make a room feel awkward. But you can hide it behind a mantel, or mount it on a wall or console table so it’s not front and center. Geometric or uniquely shaped tiles also work, and can trick the eye into perceiving a larger space.
For a more stylish solution, try hiding your TV inside a piece of furniture like a dresser, armoire, or vintage metal gym locker. Then, sconces, a chandelier, and other decor can add a fresh finish that makes your TV blend into the room. Ask your installers to conceal wires. They can drill custom holes to snake them through the wall and into an unobtrusive media center or cabinet.
Install Recessed or Built-In Shelves
Clutter can make a room feel small, especially in bathrooms. Installing recessed shelves or built-in storage can help you keep your bathroom tidy and organized without taking up precious floor space.
If you have drywall, your walls are likely able to accommodate recessed shelving. To get started, locate the studs behind your chosen wall with a stud finder and cut an inspection hole to check that it won’t interfere with plumbing or electrical wiring.
Add wood or metal shelves to display decorative items, like a vase, candles, or neatly folded towels. These updates can elevate the look of your space while adding functional elements that will serve you well in the future.