30 Bathroom Design Ideas to Transform Your Space

Kitchens and living rooms are not the only spaces in the house that are getting a lot of attention lately. Bathrooms are transforming from functional rooms that we use only when necessary to more luxurious spaces where we unwind, relax and recharge. Think of your bathroom as your personal spa-like wellness center in your home that you can escape to any time you need.

This shift means you need to consider both form and function when tackling any renovation project. Whether you're reconfiguring your primary bathroom, updating your finishings, or finally tackling that small bathroom in the basement, we have many great bathroom design ideas that can help you create a space you'll love.

Useful bathroom remodeling project tips

Whether you’re looking for bathroom shower design ideas or want to update your tiny bathroom, you don’t have to be an interior designer to get it done. Here are some ideas you can incorporate into your bathroom remodeling project.

1. Create drama and visual interest with unusual tile shapes

Level up your design by using unconventional tile shapes rather than relying solely on patterns and colors. It's a great way to add drama and visual interest to your bathroom and create that wow factor.

Choose hexagon, fish-scale, and arabesque tiles to transform your bathroom with a more elevated feel. You can also use geometric shapes like diamonds or chevrons to introduce movement and flow. Opt for softer, curved lines in pebble or wave shapes for a more tranquil, spa-like bathroom.

2. Create a stand-out feature with exotic stone

Exotic stone can be a game-changer in your bathroom. Traditional stones like marble and granite are commonly used for their beauty, but imagine the opulence of a vanity or shower decked out in rarer, exotic stones like onyx, quartzite, soapstone, or travertine.

The downside is that while exotic stones can increase your home's value, they are also more expensive. Luckily technological advances have made it possible to create high-quality lookalike materials that closely replicate these precious stones. This makes decorating your bathroom with exotic stone (or one that looks like it) more cost-effective.

3. Use smart storage

Storage is an essential component of any bathroom design. To keep things organized, put your extra rolls of paper and cleaning products away in cupboards and in drawers. Keep your essentials to a minimum.

You can also integrate hidden storage compartments into your bathroom furniture to maintain a minimalist, tidy look.

4. Opt for natural materials 

Incorporate raw materials like wood, stone, or concrete to create a more natural, rustic feel in your bathroom. Reclaimed wood is an excellent option for creating warmth and adding character to the space.

Concrete is also becoming a popular choice for its industrial and modern appeal. These materials not only create a unique atmosphere but are also durable and easy to maintain.

5. Create drama with large bathroom windows

Floor-to-ceiling windows can transform any room. These expansive windows serve as a natural focal point, inviting abundant natural light.

Use minimalist decor and a restrained color palette to keep the windows as the focal point. The outdoor scenery will automatically add tranquility and elegance to your decor.

6. Use stone mosaic on shower walls

Add a touch of elegance and luxury to your bathroom with stone mosaic tiles in your shower. The different textures and patterns of the stones add depth and interest while creating an eye-catching feature in the room.

You can also use different tile patterns like herringbone to create an accent wall behind the vanity or bathtub, adding a sophisticated focal point.

7. Use calming color palette

Opt for a color palette that promotes tranquility and calmness. Soft neutrals like creamy whites or gentle beiges are all great choices. To create contrast, incorporate natural wood cabinets with white bathroom fixtures and green glass tiles with a watery, translucent finish.

8. Make your fixtures standout features

Heated floors and towel racks are the ultimate luxury that can make your bathroom more comfortable. Heated flooring adds immediate tactile warmth, especially on a chilly morning, but it can also increase the overall temperature.

As for heated towel racks, they serve the dual purpose of drying towels faster, reducing mildew, and ensuring you have a warm towel after a bath or shower.

Primary bathroom remodel ideas

When it comes to designing your primary bathroom (also referred to as a master bathroom), features like double sinks, sleek faucets and quartz countertops are often used to create that luxury hotel-like vibe.

Here are some other great ideas to turn your bathroom into your private oasis.

9. Create a seamless transition between your bedroom and ensuite

Creating a harmonious flow between the bedroom and ensuite bathroom elevates your primary suite's overall aesthetic and experience.

Echo design elements such as color schemes, patterns, and materials from the bedroom into the bathroom, to create a continuity that enhances the feeling of a private retreat. 

10. Install a sauna

Install a home sauna for the ultimate luxury. Choose one with glass walls or stylish paneling to ensure it seamlessly blends with the overall design of your bathroom.

There are many options available with a variety of wooden finishes to choose from. Take your time to find the perfect one that fits your space and complements your decor. You'll end up with the ultimate space to relax and rejuvenate.

11. Create a vanity wall

If you have a spacious bathroom, create a dedicated space for a vanity wall. Combine a dark wooden cabinet with a large mirror and comfortable seating to create a space uniquely yours.

Choose a cabinet with plenty of storage space to keep your accessories organized and out of sight. You can also use vintage lighting to complete the look. 

12. Include an industrial partition

For a unique twist on the classic bathroom design, consider incorporating an industrial partition. This element adds texture and dimension to the space while also serving as a functional divider for different areas of the bathroom.

Whether it's made of metal, opaque glass, or wood, a partition can add an edgy and modern touch to any bathroom design.

Ideas for small bathrooms 

When it comes to bathroom ideas for small spaces, there are plenty of tricks to use, even in the smallest space, to make it look larger. 

13. Go for an all-white bathroom to expand the space

An all-white palette is a useful trick to help a small bathroom feel more spacious. White surfaces reflect more light, brightening the room and giving the illusion of a more expansive space.

Using white for walls, flooring, and fixtures can blur the boundaries between surfaces, reducing visual clutter and making the room appear larger than it is. Additionally, the white bathroom can serve as a neutral backdrop for more flashy finishings and hardware. 

14. Expand the space with subtle visual tricks

Consider using marble tiles and wooden panels with horizontal veining to visually enlarge a compact bathroom. This design choice can create an illusion of breadth and continuity.

Combine this with a scheme of light colors and reflective surfaces to foster an airier feel. Extending the wall space with marble to a floating vanity can also amplify this expansive effect. 

15. Create a focal point

Creating a focal point in a small bathroom can be as simple as installing a statement sink. A standalone basin with sculptural qualities can be a piece of art and a functional fixture.

Alternatively, consider a rustic stone sink that exudes natural beauty and adds an organic touch to the space.

Simple bathroom design ideas that work

The right window treatments and strategic bathroom lighting are clever bathroom design ideas that can transform your ordinary space into one you will want to spend more time in. Create a space that looks as if it was designed by a professional designer.

16. Work in hidden storage

Hidden storage is the key to keeping your bathroom looking uncluttered and spacious. Consider incorporating a vanity with built-in compartments and drawers to store personal items discreetly.

Recessed medicine cabinets can also offer seamless storage without protruding into the space. Mirrored cabinets are also a practical solution to keeping your things hidden while reflecting more light into the room.

17. Hide the toilet behind a screen

Using a see-through screen to hide the toilet can subtly delineate the space without compromising the bathroom's open feel. This functional solution offers visual privacy while keeping the toilet tucked away and creating a more organized space.

The transparency ensures that light flows freely throughout the space, maintaining a bright and airy atmosphere, which is particularly beneficial for smaller bathrooms where every inch of natural light counts.

18. Use terrazzo for instant color and texture

Add some color and texture to your bathroom with terrazzo tiles. These versatile tiles can be used for flooring, countertops, and even walls. As they come in different patterns, they can easily add visual interest.

19. Accessorize with character

Accessories are your bathroom's best friend. Use soft, plush towels in accent colors to add that luxurious hotel vibe. Those cute artisanal soaps and sleek dispensers? Instantly elevate your space. Alternatively, choose art that resonates with you to spruce up your space.

20. Introduce texture for interest and warmth

Wood brings a touch of organic texture and makes every room feel inviting. Wooden cabinets not only adds interest but also infuse the room with a timeless charm. For bathrooms, pair a wooden countertop with a stone sink for visual depth. 

21. Go for a monochromatic color scheme

A monochromatic color scheme, such as the timeless black and white, works for both classic and modern bathrooms. Achieve balance by using white walls and fixtures to keep the room fresh and spacious.

Incorporate black through smaller elements and accessories—think tapware, towel rails, or patterned tiles on the floor.

22. Maximize natural light with smart shutters

Make the most out of natural light by using shutters instead of drapes to blocking the light. For bathrooms with large and numerous windows, this is a great solution that provides privacy and allows natural light to stream in.

Plus, with adjustable slats, you can control the amount of light and ventilation in your bathroom. Choose a sleek design in a neutral color to blend seamlessly with the rest of your bathroom decor.

23. Combine black fittings with bold colors

Create a dynamic visual statement by using color on the wall that contrasts against dark flooring and fittings. Add some black elements to draw the eye along the lines of the tiles.

This combination creates a striking contrast of color and pattern that is both modern and timeless. This design choice is a sophisticated way to inject personality and movement into any bathroom space.

24. Use bold accessories

Bold accessories, such as graphic pendant lights, can instantly draw attention and add personality. The contrast between the sleek, minimalist background and the intricate details of a pendant light can create a striking visual impact.

It's also a great way to create that 'wow factor' that elevates the aesthetic and leaves a lasting impression.

25. Incorporate greenery

Look to nature for color inspiration. Different shades of green and brown, along with the vibrant hues of flowers, can create a soothing palette. Hanging plants is a smart solution because they don't take up counter space and allow you to transform an empty corner into a vertical garden.

Consider choosing plants that thrive in humid environments, such as ferns or philodendrons, which will integrate seamlessly into your bathroom.

26. Incorporate some maritime inspiration

Nautical elements, such as rope accents, seashell decorations, and blue and white color schemes, can instantly make you feel like you're on a seaside getaway every time you step into your bathroom.

Incorporate nautically-themed wall art or vintage ship prints to add interest to blank walls and introduce hints of coastal charm.

Bathroom wall decor 

We can’t talk about bathroom design without mentioning the importance of wall decor. While we tend to accessorize walls in other rooms, bathrooms are often neglected. Between hanging art on the wall to utilizing special features, here is how to spruce up your bathroom wall. 

27. Creating a perception of space with wall-to-wall tiles

Utilizing wall tiles can significantly alter the perception of space. Especially if you use them on all walls. Keep in mind that light-colored tiles reflect more light and can creating a brighter and more open-feel atmosphere.

Additionally, use large-format tiles to create an illusion of a broader expanse. With fewer grout lines to break the visual flow, this will create a more seamless and expansive-looking wall.

28. Dazzle with a wall of mirrors

Give your bathroom that extra pizzazz, with a custom mirrored wall behind the vanity. This will brighten the room and make it feel more open.

Mirrored walls can also serve as a functional storage solution, with hidden cabinets or shelving behind them.

29. Introduce bathroom art for a curated look

Art is what makes a room come together.  Why not apply the same approach to your bathroom? Hang a piece of art on the wall that speaks to you.

Whether you opt for room-theme images (think landscapes, water, or fish) or add something entirely different, it's going to make this space more personal and enjoyable. 

30. Add wallpaper for a touch of personality

Wallpaper is making a serious comeback and is finding its way into bathrooms. It works exceptionally well in small bathrooms and powder rooms.

Distinctive wallpaper pattern can transform a mundane space into a lively oasis, inviting creativity and charm. For instance, a patterned print can introduce texture and drama to your bathroom design.

Conclusion

When revamping your bathroom, implement features that blend function and style. Wall-to-wall mirrors can elevate the sense of space, while integrated storage keeps the area organized. Embrace a rustic flair by infusing natural materials like stone, or create depth with textured wallpapers that are once again en vogue. 

Art isn't just for living spaces. Incorporating artwork into your bathroom personalizes and completes the look. And for those who want a dash of character, distinctive wallpaper patterns can turn a simple bathroom into a vibrant sanctuary. Plan your dream bathroom using tools like Planner 5D, an intuitive design tool that makes any renovation project easy and fun.

FAQ

How do you plan a bathroom layout?

Start by assessing the available space to ensure it can accommodate essential fixtures like the sink, toilet, bathtub, or shower. Consider the room's natural flow to ensure you have enough clearance for doors to open and provide ample space to move comfortably. Set a budget for your project to help you stay on track and avoid unexpected costs.

What adds the most value to a bathroom?

Updated fixtures, quality of materials, and overall aesthetic appeal can add value to your bathroom design. Features like dual sinks, modern showers, and freestanding tubs are popular and attractive to potential buyers. 

What do you remodel first in a bathroom?

When starting a bathroom remodel, begin with the essentials that require plumbing adjustments, such as the bathtub or shower, toilet, and sink. Focusing on these foundational fixtures ensures the necessary infrastructure is in place before proceeding with cosmetic updates like tiling, painting, or adding bathroom accessories.

What is the best time of year to remodel a bathroom?

Some homeowners prefer to tackle renovations during the warmer months when they can open windows for ventilation or work on outdoor projects simultaneously. Others opt for winter remodeling as contractors are less busy, and materials may be more affordable due to seasonal sales. 

What is the ideal size of a bathroom for a bathtub?

For a standard-sized tub, it is recommended to have at least 5 feet by 8 feet of floor space. However, if you prefer a more oversized or luxurious tub, consider a bigger bathroom with around 7 feet by 10 feet of floor space. If in doubt, consult a professional to determine the appropriate size for your tub and bathroom layout.