28 Tasteful Bathroom Decor Ideas, From Quick Fixes to Major Makeovers
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With lounge areas, meditation spaces, and even beverage stations, bathrooms are taking on new functions in our wellness-obsessed daily lives. As a result, the world of bathroom decor ideas has expanded, transforming what used to be the most utilitarian rooms of the home into personal sanctuaries. And we’re not only growing fonder of our bathrooms, they’re increasing in square footage too. “We are seeing that bathrooms are growing larger and more important to homeowners, especially in the high-end housing market,” says Holly Hunt of the Chicago-based House of Hunt.
As for outfitting these increasingly significant spaces, we reached out to top design pros across the country for their best bathroom decorating ideas. Below, these trusted experts share their solutions to common homeowner concerns as well as some fresh inspiration to get you going.
How do I decorate my bathroom?
In other words, where should you begin? Bianca Ecklund of Bianca Ecklund Design in Hermosa Beach, California, recommends turning to your personal style when it comes to bathroom decor ideas. “Bathrooms are great spaces to express a design style unique to the homeowner,” she explains. [A bathroom is] also a space that should look the way you want to feel [when you’re] in it. Whether that’s spa-like or energetic, this is where you have the freedom to express your energy.”
From there, consider each choice—from the faucets to the floor tile—an aesthetic one. “Embrace imaginative design decisions to metamorphose an ordinary powder room into a charming treasure trove brimming with character,” says Kellie Sirna of the Dallas-based Studio 11 Design. She recommends combining a vibrant sink with a patterned wall covering, using sculptural lighting to elevate the ambiance, or adding thoughtfully positioned tiles to “craft optical illusions that captivate the eye and introduce visual intrigue.”
What decorations can you put in a bathroom?
In addition to the requisite bath mats and towel racks, designers are approaching bathrooms like they would other rooms in the house. Actual pieces of furniture, such as armoires (as opposed to your typical built-in storage that has historically been relied upon in such spaces), luxe lighting fixtures, and open shelving are all on the proverbial table when it comes to bathroom decor these days. Sarah Tract of Sarah Tract Interiors in New York City suggests looking to your walls to add a bit of flair to your bathroom. “I love wallpaper in a bathroom, especially in the powder room,” she says. “A powder room is your own personal jewel box with the opportunity to make a statement for your guests to see.”
What bathroom decor trends are worth trying out?
Some of the biggest bathroom trends of recent years have revolved around utilitarian additions. Bidets were all the rage in 2020, and the splashy add-ons remain more popular than they were in the US pre-pandemic. Steam showers have also become increasingly common in luxury homes. Freestanding bathtubs have held steady as the preferred choice for the ultimate space to relax.
As far as decorative trends go, though, there’s one that designer Alex Proba of StudioPROBA is particularly keen on. “Try using big or interestingly shaped mirrors to give the bathroom a fun, fresh look,” Proba recommends. An unusual mirror can serve as a focal point in your space and it’s a suitable change whether you’re doing a full-scale bathroom remodel or a lighter lift makeover.
How do you decorate a small bathroom?
Decorating a small bathroom can be a major challenge. Depending on whether it’s a powder room or a primary bath—and also depending on just how squeezed it is—most of your square footage is likely devoted to practical matters. Still, there are certainly ways that you can create something stylish out of that limited space. Designer James Fung of the Seattle-based NB Design Group regularly shares a few standard tips with folks tackling this problem. “We always recommend incorporating artwork or accessories with soft textures like wood to offset the harder finishes in bathrooms,” Fung says. “[We also recommend] investing in decorative lighting that can pack a punch.”
What do you hang on bathroom walls?
Hanging artwork in bathrooms and even creating gallery walls is a favorite design idea of the moment. “I’m all for it!” Teresa Manns of Teresa Manns Design in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, says. “Hanging artwork, bringing in greenery with plants, and even creating cozy seating areas can transform a bathroom into a multifunctional and inviting space,” she says. Additional wall decor ideas include sconces and floating shelves to display apothecary jars or pottery.
Read on for more bathroom decor ideas to try at home.
Photo: Cynthia Kim1/28Go with a cream color scheme
When considering bathroom color ideas, keep each bathroom’s primary purpose in mind. “We tend to lean toward lighter, airier creams in primary bathrooms where occupants get ready and lighting is key,” says designer Lauren Svenstrup of Studio Sven in Chicago. Then, she adds, her team incorporates color through artwork and rugs.
Photo: Werner Straube2/28Create a spa oasis
Make your bathroom the ultimate relaxation zone with rainfall showers, a deep soaking tub, and towel warmers. Amy Kartheiser of AD PRO Directory member Amy Kartheiser Design in Chicago says, “There was a time when clients were forgoing bathtubs in primary bathrooms and instead just installing a large shower, because who had time for long baths? Now (thankfully) people are realizing how important self-care is.” Even if you can’t go big (like, say, adding a sauna), simply placing a small table or stool next to the tub to hold loofahs and bath salts still achieves spa vibes.
Photo: Stan Fadyukhin3/28Add eye-catching wallpaper
Ashley DeLapp of Ashley DeLapp Interior Design in Charlotte, North Carolina, likes to take a non-traditional approach to bathroom decor, adding color and pattern in unexpected ways. A favorite method? Wow-worthy wallpaper. “It’s much nicer to wake up to bold pops of color and graphic floral prints when you’re getting ready for work,” she says.
Photo: Pieter Estersohn4/28Incorporate artwork
Pondering a painting while you floss your teeth? Displaying art in a bathroom is a design do. Alexander Adducci, a senior designer at 210 Design House in Chicago, says, “Artwork introduces a unique dimension, transforming a space into more than just a utilitarian necessity.” Plus, he adds, “by carefully selecting pieces that resonate, you can curate an inviting and tranquil atmosphere.” And adding artwork doesn’t only mean hanging a painting. Sculpture is equally striking, as seen above in a bathroom designed by House of Hunt.
Photo: Courtesy of En Masse Architecture & Design / Aimee Mazzenga5/28Create a seating area
“Integrating soft furniture or seating areas can warm up a bathroom space,” say Lucas Goldbach and Mike Shively of En Masse Architecture & Design in Chicago. “Bathrooms can feel cold, but these more personal items really give the space personality and make it your own.” Similarly, Kartheiser suggests adding a tufted ottoman, which she says “offers homeowners a moment of respite” and works well in a small space.
Photo: Christina Hussey6/28Make a statement with colorful tile
Whether a purple shower or a sage green sink area, for a bold bathroom design, let your tile do the talking. This is another way DeLapp adds color in unexpected ways. Bonus points if you mix colorful tile and bold wallpaper.
Photo: Courtesy of Bianca Ecklund Design7/28Include a beverage station
“Believe it or not, we’ve added a beverage station to the majority of our primary bathroom designs,” says Bianca Ecklund. “This could be a wine fridge or coffee station and we love the challenge!” It does make sense to keep chilled bubbly right by the bath, we must say.
Photo: Dustin Halleck8/28Go big on blues
“I often opt for water-inspired colors like blues and silvers,” says Teresa Manns. “They beautifully contrast against white porcelain fixtures, adding a serene touch to the bathroom.” The soothing color palette can be included in the paint color, rugs, drapery, and hand towels.
Photo: Courtesy of 210 Design House9/28Integrate your lighting
When lighting is part of bathroom mirrors or vanities, the pieces appear to glow. “This innovative use of lighting not only enhances the visual appeal, but also transforms the ambiance of the space,” Adducci says, adding that there’s a growing presence for a cohesive aesthetic.
Photo: Courtesy of En Masse Architecture & Design / Ryan McDonald10/28Flex your green thumb
If you’re a houseplant lover, don’t leave your loo out from all the botanical fun. “Plants can thrive in a humid bathroom environment, and seeing something alive and green adds to the calming feeling a bathroom can have,” Goldbach and Shively say. Pothos, bromeliads, ferns, orchids, and bamboo do particularly well in bathrooms.
Photo: Courtesy of En Masse Architecture & Design11/28Display apothecary jars
“Bathroom storage isn’t just about functionality, it’s about creating a sanctuary,” Kartheiser says. “Investing in storage that inspires you and adds a design element will instantly elevate your home. Delicate glass apothecary jars holding essentials like cotton balls and swabs transform necessities into serene decor.” Using woven bins to store toiletries, toilet paper, or extra towels is also a nice touch.
Photo: Stuart Thurlkill12/28Invite nature in
“Too many times bathrooms are blocked off without a lot of windows and natural light, and we wanted guests to feel like they were in the middle of the woods no matter what room they were in,” says Nadine Lipson, interior designer and owner of the green o, a luxury resort in Greenough, Montana. Even if you don’t have the luxury (and privacy) of a 37,000-acre ranch like this one, decorating with natural woods and an antler chandelier still makes the space feel steeped in nature.
Photo: Ryan McDonald/Studio Sven13/28Opt for drawers over doors
“We tend to choose drawers over doors when designing custom cabinetry,” Svenstrup says. Not only do drawers make better use of vertical space beneath a sink, they also look aesthetically appealing—like an old-fashioned apothecary closet rather than a run-of-the-mill bathroom vanity.
Photo: Courtesy of En Masse Architecture & Design / Aimee Mazzenga14/28Go full tilt with tile
According to the pros at En Masse Architecture & Design, there’s no need to hold back when it comes to bathroom tile. “Using a few materials across large surfaces can really elevate a bathroom,” Goldbach and Shively say. “Tiling all the walls beyond the shower area and avoiding tile rugs, accent niches, or decorative stripes feels more immersive and lets the one material sing.”
Photo: Erica Mark15/28Paint your vanity pastel
In addition to wallpaper, Ashley DeLapp’s other favorite method for infusing color into bathroom design is by painting the vanity. “It adds energy to a space and livens up what can be a typically neutral canvas,” she says. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly DIY project that can make a major impact.
Photo: Kara Mercer16/28Give grout a spotlight
“A noticeable trend of late is designers utilizing grout as a design piece instead of an afterthought or simple necessary installation material,” says Allison Lind of AD PRO Directory member Allison Lind Interiors in Seattle. “[Using] thicker grout lines to create dimension, or being dramatic or playful with grout colors can really elevate a standard tile layout.”
Photo: Courtesy of Audrey Sheck Design17/28Hang a vintage mirror
An antique mirror instantly adds glamor to a neutral bathroom. About the space above, designer Audrey Sheck, of Audrey Sheck Design in Austin, says, “The vintage mirror is flanked by structural wood sconces, which exude the nature-inspired feeling that is seen throughout the remainder of the home.”
Photo: KatarzynaBialasiewicz/Getty Images18/28Pick a pendant light
Beautiful light fixtures, whether pendant lights or chandeliers, belong in the bathroom just as much as any other room in the house. “Lighting is crucial,” says Gillian Gillies of Gillian Gillies Interiors in Toronto. “We are mixing in pendants with task lights and more decorative fixtures. We are using less and less pot lights, and if we do, we are using trimless ones.”
Photo: Mike Shivley19/28Conceal your medicine cabinet
For a sleek minimalist look, hide your storage space with a hidden medicine cabinet. “These cabinets are flush with the adjacent walls or cabinets and are finished to match,” Goldbach and Shively say. “These are ideal spaces for items that may want to stay plugged in like toothbrushes or shavers. They also don’t distract from the decorative mirrors over the sinks.”
Photo: Rafael Soldi and Proform Construction20/28Embrace the darkness
“In small bathrooms, particularly powder rooms, I’m all about embracing the darkness,” Lind says. “Trying to make an already dark space ‘feel brighter’ is a losing battle—why not instead enhance the drama with dark colors and dramatic textures…. I think we’re seeing a transition toward darker, more intense palettes after the white kitchen trend.”
Photo: Werner Straube21/28Float your vanity
Among current bathroom ideas, Kartheiser says she’s seeing a lot of floating vanities. The advantage of a levitating unit? It allows flooring to run all the way to the wall, which can make a room feel larger. Additionally, you have space below the sink for a scale or small trash can, and you have more control over the height of the vanity based on wall placement.
Photo: Courtesy of Audrey Sheck Design22/28Choose handmade tiles
The (much older) cousin of subway tiles, handmade zellige tiles date back to 10th-century Morocco but are all the rage right now. About the Audrey Sheck Design bathroom above, Sheck says, “This guest bathroom features beautiful zellige tile with a variegated colorway exhibiting different shades of green and turquoise. The tile was installed in a basket weave pattern, enhancing the natural color variations of each piece.”
Photo: Ryan McDonald/Studio Sven23/28Hide your shower
Many homes don’t have a designated powder room, Svenstrup points out. Instead, a full bathroom is also the one guests use. “In those situations, we want to take the focus away from the shower and all of its contents (e.g. lotions and potions), so we’ll incorporate custom full-height shower curtains in lieu of glass,” she says. “The shower curtain appears to be a draped wall and adds to the drama and intimacy of our faux powder bath while maintaining functionality.”
Photo: Kevin Scott24/28Use an easel to display artwork
Some spaces simply don’t lend themselves to wall art. Such was the case for this windowed bathroom designed by NB Design Group. Since wall-mounted pieces weren’t workable, designer James Fung used an easel so as to not sacrifice the energy only art can infuse into a space. “In this primary bath, the easel adds a playful, layered feel that complements the expansive views, bringing art into the foreground without permanently anchoring it to a wall,” Fung tells AD.
Photo: James John Jetel25/28Go custom
For details in the bathroom that are nearly impossible to prettify, consider creating something custom to fix the visual problem. Designer Nick Spain of Arthur’s went the bespoke route when an untenably long lead time for his bath of choice in an Oakland home necessitated the purchase of a tub with a drain cover that was “a big, bulbous bummer,” as the designer put it. Ceramicist Jordan McDonald crafted a new cover inspired by the work of French artist George Braque. For this particular custom solution, Spain recommends being particular about the ceramicist you work with, since it’s a more complex task than simple hand-building.
Photo: Lance Gerber26/28Wallpaper the ceiling
To craft a unique, surreal atmosphere in the kids’ bathroom of an Atwater Village redesign project, AD PRO Directory designer Leah Ring of Another Human chose to wallpaper the ceiling. “Wallpaper isn’t going to be suitable for all bathrooms, as you definitely need to consider the amount of steam and water it might come into contact with,” Ring warns. “Because this bathroom was for a child, the showerhead is on the lower side and the tiled archway and shower curtain help prevent too much splashing outside of the shower.”
Photo: Alex Proba27/28Add a mural
While it’s not the simplest bathroom decor decision, getting a custom mural painted in your bathroom can have a major impact—without taking even an inch of precious square footage. Alex Proba of StudioProba opted for one in her own primary bathroom, bringing her distinct high-energy style to life in the space. “The bathroom mural allowed me to infuse a bit of spontaneity and character without overhauling the entire bathroom and making it a serious construction site,” the designer explains. “Plus, hand-painting [as opposed to using] wallpaper adds so much more depth and texture to the wall and art.”
Photo: Natasha Lee28/28Use shelving to divide the space
As is the case in many old homes that have seen several remodels over the years, this bathroom didn’t quite suit the modern needs of its residents. Instead of adding onto its footprint, Alice Cheng of Shialice Spatial Design rethought the space’s existing layout. Working a shelving ladder into the center of the room helped create order, and the extra storage was just an added bonus. “Sometimes, [custom shelving] helps to create divisions, while other times, it’s about achieving the right proportions,” Cheng says. “Floor-to-ceiling installations can significantly enhance the perception of height and spaciousness, particularly in smaller bathrooms.”
