90 Bathroom Design Ideas That’ll Inspire Your Own Relaxing Oasis

A bathroom needs to be clean and tidy, but it doesn’t have to be purely functional—especially if you appreciate a nice atmosphere for bubble baths or mirror selfies. Add a cozy chair or some proper window treatments, and you’ll be amazed at how much it warms up the space (and improves your mood!). To spark some creativity in your own home, we’ve collected a slew of bathroom ideas to help you create an oasis for spa-level relaxation and style at home. Whether you’re thinking of sprucing up the powder room and main bath, or you’re embarking on a full-on ensuite renovation, we’ve laid out some major inspiration. Take design advice from the likes of Leanne Ford, Breegan Jane, and Toledo Geller to create a space that’s inspiring and calming—you just might never leave the tub!

And if you’re itching for info on the more technical stuff, we have you covered with bathroom renovation and remodel tips as well as tutorials like how to lay tile. You’ll be able to enjoy a personalized bathroom design in no time!

🏡 Love knowing all the latest design trends? We’ve got you covered.

Jared Kuzia

1

Add Café Curtains

For a privacy solution that doesn’t block out natural light, add café curtains to the windows as designer Cecilia Casagrande did in this Massachusetts home.

Eric Piasecki

2

Incorporate a Curved Vanity

For a soft touch, designer Katie Ridder gave this powder room a custom curved vanity with moldings. A merlot lacquered door reflects the movement of the blue wallpaper for an overall enveloping atmosphere.

Scott Gabriel Morris

3

Mix Up the Scale

A small sink doesn’t mean you’re limited to a small mirror. In this bathroom, designer Rydhima Brar added a long, horizontal mirror above a corner sink and the neighboring toilet, which makes the room feel bigger.

Nick Glimenakis

4

Make It Subtly Art Inspired

If you don’t want to hang any wall art but want to make a statement, consider bold floor tiles. The black-and-white ones in this bathroom by designer Eneia White were inspired by the homeowner’s love of art. “We found this floor tile to mimic something an artist might paint,” the designer says.

Eric Roth

5

Don’t Overlook Sconces

Sconces can instantly give a bathroom a cozy aura, not only in how they light the room but how they look. In this powder room, designer Liz Caan installed gold flower-inspired sconces with olive green lampshades for a whimsical yet elegant flare.

Shade Degges

6

Forgo a Basic Window

Instead of sprucing up or adding a classic window, make it attention-grabbing with a unique shape like in this bathroom by designer Sarah Solis. Pedestal sinks and open shelving ensure the small space feels airy.

Courtesy of DXV

7

Make It Double as a Library

A freestanding tub surrounded by built-in bookcases in this bathroom by Corey Damen Jenkins is a dream for anyone who loves to read while taking a relaxing bath. The Art Deco-inspired tilework, Greek Revival columns and arches, and bold artwork animate the cozy alcove.

Jessie Preza

8

Hang a Bold Chandelier

A freestanding tub set underneath a glamorous chandelier is timeless. When placed near a large window with views of nature and surrounded by marble tiles—like in the bathroom of designer Krystal Matthews—it makes for a highly lavish setup.

Read McKendree

9

Install a Shelf for Decor

Display large art pieces, fresh flower arrangements, and other treasured decor items on a single open shelf. In this bathroom by Lucy Harris, the decorative accents are set against a backdrop of sage green tiles for a spa-like effect.

JESSIE PREZA

10

Don’t Forget to Have Fun

Every room in designer Fitz Pullins’s Florida home is bursting with fun, including this bathroom with cheeky monkey-print wallpaper. “What’s more invigorating than a jungle?” Pullins says. “Waking up, brushing your teeth—I want it to be entertaining for me.”

Read McKendree

11

Make Marble Pop With Complementary Paint

Interior designer Elizabeth Cooper brought out the rich blue veining in the marble surfaces with an icy pale blue paint color on the cabinet doors.

Romanek Design Studio

12

Get Inspired by Your Environment

This light-filled bathroom by Romanek Design Studio reflects the beauty of the external setting, Malibu. From the wood panel sloped ceiling to the rainbow of green zellige tiles, it fits right into the Southern California coast. Aside from being calming and stylish, the wall-to-wall green tile floor means that basically everything in the room will hold up well when wet.

William Abranowicz

13

Make It Like a Spa

Analisse Taft-Gersten calls her morning bath at her Connecticut weekend home the best part of her day—and it’s easy to see why. The serene space was inspired by spas at her favorite hotels.

RYAN GARVIN

14

Add Seating

Make it feel extra luxe with sophisticated seating and a grand floating tub in the center of the room. We love how Breegan Jane sets the mood for relaxation with a repeating circle motif, from the rounded edges of the window, sconces, seating, the actual shape of the space, and beyond.

Jacob Snavely

15

Don’t Be Afraid of Wallpaper

Designer Jessica Geller of Toledo Geller has a passion for prints—and bathrooms are no exception. She covered the walls in the powder room of her own New Jersey home with a playful pattern by Hygge & West. Proper ventilation ensures it won’t peel off.

Eric Piasecki

16

Shake Things Up With Lighting

This bathroom by designer Kureck Jones is a lesson in how to have fun with tile and color. The pink subway tiles on the wall and the diamond, almost leaf-like motif on the floors of this bathroom bring in a surge of energy while the lavender paint sets an instant calm. The brass industrial-style fixtures and lighting add just enough contrast and intrigue to the otherwise sweet and romantic space.

Ishka Designs

17

Vary Tile Styles

When designing a minimalist and modern bathroom, stick to neutral tones but keep things exciting and varied by layering tiles of different materials for different sections in the space, as Ishka Designs did in this luxe, nature-inspired bathroom.

BRITTANY AMBRIDGE

18

Add a Fireplace

If you’re building from scratch, consider adding an extra perk for bonus cozy vibes. Translation: a gas fireplace next to the bathtub. In this space designed by Peti Lau, the bathroom and bedroom share a wall, so the connecting fireplace insert provides warmth, style, and romance to both sides.

Jane Beiles

19

Bridge Two Spaces

Speaking of pattern-happy: This bathroom by Charlotte Barnes is a blue-and-white dream, and continuing the same Quadrille pattern into the adjacent room makes for a satisfying visual.

Karyn Millet

20

Bridge Inside and out

When you have a home that overlooks the Pacific Ocean, you want to make the most of it—even in the bathroom. Eric Olsen added this glass door (which leads to an outdoor shower!) off the main bath of his California home.

PHOTO: Reid Rolls; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Interiors

21

Get a Copper Tub

Once you see this copper tub situation designed by Leanne Ford, you can’t unsee it. Your farmhouse bathroom dreams just got a little bit fancier.

2LG Studio

22

Stick to One Color

If you have a favorite color, why veer away from it? Plus, sticking to a one-tone color scheme will make things a lot easier during the design process. We also love how 2LG Studio magnifies this space and makes the awkward corner into something awesome with a custom vanity and mirror.

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Romanek Design Studio

23

Add a Partition

A great way to add more privacy to a shared bathroom? Separate the toilet area from the tub and sink zones with a partition. Romanek Design Studio even manages to make it look sexy with smokey mirrored tiles that also make it feel larger and exude an air of mystery and intrigue. The silver zellige tiles enhance this mood even more.

Shade Degges

24

Save Space With Pocket Doors

“Everything feels sort of candlelit,” says designer Jae Joo of this Boston home, and the elegant powder room is no exception. The ambient lighting radiates a soft glow, the wood finishes emit warmth, and the green floral wallpaper brings the entire room to life; together, these elements have a cocooning effect. And now for the logistical takeaways: Whether it’s the entrance or a closet enclosure, replacing hinges and installing pocket doors will end up saving a lot of usable space in a small bathroom.

Max Kim-Bee

25

Go Rustic

In this castle-inspired home by Lisa Tharp, the designer continued the rustic French country theme into the bathroom with two wooden chests in lieu of traditional sink vanities and a painted tile wall for added texture.

RYAN GARVIN & TYLER HOGAN

26

Install Circadian Rhythm Lights

Want your bathroom to be bright and unique without the hassle and commitment of paint? Take note of this powder room by Breegan Jane, where circadian-rhythm color lights turn the cream walls temporarily pink.

Hecker Guthrie

27

Forgo the Mirror

Small twist, revolutionary impact: Instead of hanging a mirror above the sink, consider displaying artwork instead as Hecker Guthrie did in this bathroom. Then put your hand soap and lotion on a small elevated shelf above the sink and hang a single slim pendant light instead of going the typical symmetrical route and flanking a sink area with sconces.

Anna Spiro Design

28

Pick the Right Tub

Though the striking freestanding marble tub with Victorian, old-school fixtures is the clear focal point of this bathroom by Anna Spiro Design, the tile floors set the foundation for the entire space (plus, their worn finish and playful design make it feel more approachable and historic).

ALISON GOOTEE

29

Hang a Gallery Wall

Sure, it might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of bathroom decor, but what else are you going to do with that otherwise-unused space above your shower? Designer Alexander Reid shows how it adds some much-needed texture to an all-white bathroom (P.S. This is a great design choice for rentals!).

PHOTO: Tom Ferguson; DESIGN: Arent & Pyke

30

Expose Natural Materials

When your home is blessed with gorgeous natural bones, keep them exposed. Materials like brick and stone add so much dimension. Add color with accessories and a sense of polish with fancy soaps, as done in this space by design firm Arent & Pyke.

Akin Atelier

31

Take Your Shower Outside

Outdoor showers can dramatically increase the value of your home—according to a 2018 report from Realtor.com, homes with outdoor showers tend to list for nearly double the asking price of other homes! That, along with this rustic but show-stopping outdoor shower designed by Akin Atelier, is all the convincing we need.

STEPHEN KENT JOHNSON/OTTO

32

And Your Toilet…

The same can be applied to your toilet! Leave it to Commune Design to convince us that we need a stylish outhouse in our own backyards. With pretty florals, nature-inspired materials, a pop of color, and polished artwork, it seems like a nice place to meditate, too.

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Flat Vernacular

33

Add a Little Trompe l’Oeil

Bathroom lacking architectural details? Fake it with a trompe l’oeil wallpaper, like this one by Flat Vernacular.

2LG Studio

34

Animate the Corner

Add a tree in the corner for a low-lift update that has a ton of transformative power. As seen in this bathroom designed by 2LG Studio, the palm leaf tree truly brings it to life.

The Happy Tudor

35

Design Around a Wallpaper

In the bathroom of their Tennessee Home, the couple behind The Happy Tudor opted for a scenic Gracie Wallpaper—which made designing the rest of the bathroom simple. They went for classic whites with brass accents so as not to distract from the wall.

Gail Davis Design

36

Create Patterns With Penny Tiles

The hidden vanity in this bathroom designed by Gail Davis has a fun pop of surprising color. The orange mirror highlights the warmth of the curtains and vibrant wallpaper while the striped penny tile floor complements the navy paint and keeps things cool when the cabinets are closed.

PHOTO: Matthew Williams; DESIGN: Studio DB

37

Give Classic Design New Twists

From the floor tiles to the so the sconce, marble vanity, and even the romantic bathrobe, this bathroom designed by Studio DB has strong Art Deco roots. Though it’s retro-inspired, each detail boasts a fresh, modern interpretation. And who needs a giant mirror when you can have a seriously cool sconce to look at instead?

Nickolas Sargent

38

Go Graphic

In her bathroom at the Kips Bay show house, designer Young Huh created an artful statement using her AKDO tiles in green and white plus a black-and-white mirror and sculptural black sink. Oh, and a bouquet of flowers never hurts!

Romanek Design Studio

39

Place Your Shower Strategically

Even if your bathroom only has space for a small shower, you can still make it feel and look luxe. Take, for example, this one designed by Romanek Design Studio. The baby blue zellige tiles and sleek matte black and glass enclosure make a modern statement. A floating bench adds both formal and functional value, too. Also, if you’re renovating or adding a bathroom in an attic or somewhere with a sloped ceiling, make sure you place it strategically so it’s at the highest point.

Claire Esparros

40

Choose an Alternative Tub

Who said a bathtub had to be porcelain? At her Sag Harbor home, Alison Babcock chose a concrete tub to anchor the main bath.

PHOTO: Alexandra Rowley; DESIGN: Studio DB

41

Focus on the Space Itself

Designed by Studio DB, this bathtub moment is a serious stunner. Make those bubble baths even more relaxing by keeping decor minimalist and focusing on the beauty of the surrounding space (a phenomenal view doesn’t hurt either).

Nicole Franzen

42

Mix Your Styles

A little bit modern, a little bit industrial—we’re all about this warm, light-filled bathroom designed by Black Lacquer Design. For added texture and color, bring in a plush area rug, like this one.

PHOTO: Dustin Askland; DESIGN: Elizabeth Roberts

43

Use an Etagere for Extra Storage

Another great way to introduce a ton of storage room without having to drill into your walls for custom cabinetry and shelving is by sliding in an etagere, as done in this bathroom designed by Elizabeth Roberts. And since they’re exposed, you can also display some extra decor.

Robson Rak

44

Install Floor-to-Ceiling Cubbies

These floor-to-ceiling cubbies provide ample room for storage in a Robson Rak-designed bathroom. Put things like toilet paper, cleaning supplies, and other bulk items behind closed doors, then show off your décor and towels on the open shelves. I love how these tonal towels reflect the wood grains of the storage unit itself.

PHOTO: Reid Rolls; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Interiors

45

Embrace Quirky Layouts

With hanging eucalyptus, an upcycled turquoise sink, and fresh linens, this farmhouse bathroom designed by Leanne Ford is beyond dreamy. It also proves that awkwardly-shaped bathrooms can be beautiful with clever layouts.

Hecker Guthrie

46

Focus on Shape and Materials

If you want a fashionably fancy bathroom, take note of this space by Hecker Guthrie. Though it’s sophisticated, formal, and undeniably chic, nothing about it feels too showy or ostentatious. Rather than bringing in flashy gold mirrors, they stacked two frameless round ones for a unique design. Similarly, they chose artful, modern lighting instead of over-the-top chandeliers. This allows us to focus on the real statement: that sculptural metallic and red marble sink. The dark wood details and wall paneling also bring in a down-to-earth, nature-inspired sense of grit without dressing the entire space down.

House Beautiful

47

Go Big in a Tiny Space

Don’t let tiny rooms deter you from going big. Interior designer Shaun Smith’s New Orleans home is a treasure trove of beautiful and clever design solutions. If your bathroom is too small for shelves with a lot of depth, add extra storage by placing a tray over the hamper. Keep your hand towels and florals there to brighten up the room. And most importantly, have fun with color.

Shannon McGrath; DESIGN: Hecker Guthrie

48

Bring the Outdoors In

Just because you can’t invest in an outdoor shower doesn’t mean you can’t make your bathroom feel like it’s outside. Play up garden views with modern glass doors and windows (and let the light pour in), and introduce some greenery in the shower. Plants help rid the air of chemicals left behind by cleaning and beauty products. Plus—they instantly add life to any bathroom. Then add some curtains for privacy, as design firm Hecker Guthrie did here.

Commune Design

49

Enhance Privacy

This wall partition in a Commune-designed bathroom makes a world of difference, both functionally and style-wise. The cream-colored screen softens the space and adds a contemporary feel while speaking to the Art Deco shape of the mirror. And best of all, it adds a touch more privacy. A folding screen could also work as a temporary option.

2LG Studio

50

Spotlight a Fresh Color

From the minty green wall tiles to the freestanding sinks, matte finishes, terrazzo vanity, and hairpin legs, it’s pretty hard not to fall in love with this bathroom designed by 2LG Studio. The Art Deco-inspired floor tiles in fan formation lay the perfect foundation for a refreshing bathroom.

PHOTO: Anson Smart; DESIGN: Arent & Pyke

51

Lean Your Artwork

Rather than hanging fine art on the walls, simply lean it on the counter for effortlessly cool elegance, as done in this moody bathroom designed by Arent & Pyke.

PHOTO: Christopher Stark; DESIGN:

52

Paint the Ceiling

In this primary bathroom designed by Julie Rootes Interiors, the white marble shower, walls, and vanity set the tone for a luxe, cohesive look. The gallery-esque floor lamp doubles as modern art, which contrasts nicely with the traditional elements throughout. And the high-gloss ceiling feels both contemporary and fresh while the timeless, neutral color keeps the space classic. (Pro tip: The higher the paint sheen, the easier it is to clean and maintain—especially in high-moisture areas, like a bathroom).

Dustin Askland; DESIGN: Elizabeth Roberts

53

Use All Available Space

Use all available surfaces as makeshift shelves, whether it’s a windowsill or mantle, as designer Elizabeth Roberts did here. While fireplaces aren’t exactly frequent bathroom fliers, we’re digging this one as an unexpected statement. The floating tub clearly steals the spotlight, though.

PHOTO: Matthew Williams; DESIGN: Studio DB

54

Add a Step Stool

When decorating a child’s bathroom, opt for colors and motifs that are both youthful and timeless. In this bathroom designed by Studio DB, the neutral green colors and geometric tiles do the trick. Then add a fun step stool under the sink so the little ones can reach it (and to make the space feel more playful).

Reid Rolls; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Interiors

55

Go Understated Glam

This sweet bathroom designed by Leanne Ford is a lesson in small upgrades that can make an outdated space feel brand new. The contrast between the hyper-realist, gritty photograph against the classic black-and-white striped wallpaper and glitzy chandelier creates a nice juxtaposition. She added an accent magazine rack, custom linen curtains, a hand towel ring, and a case to polish things off without having to replace the existing sink and toilet.

Hecker Guthrie

56

Loosen Up

A bathroom is a perfect place to have a little fun with pattern, shape, and color. And there’s no place better to look for fun bathroom inspiration than 2LG Studio’s portfolio. In this bathroom, they assert a strong sense of symmetry with double sinks featuring round vanity and linear frame. These two shapes are played up in the mock wood floor tiles and oval sinks.

Shannon McGrath; DESIGN: Robson Rak

57

Make the Tub the Star

Now, this is how you design an approachable yet fancy bathroom. Robson Rak chose the perfect placement for it to be the star: Right beneath the window and flanked by romantic sheers for just a touch of privacy. The low-hanging pendant adds some offbeat charm, too, without stealing the show.

Peter Murdock

58

Use Vertical Space

It’s easy to overlook a room when it’s super tiny, especially because there simply isn’t enough useable space for décor. But it’s definitely possible—and well worth it—to elevate and personalize these little rooms. Take this powder room in Ailana Michelle Ralph’s home, for example. With a light blush pink wall color and a surrounding gallery of eclectic artwork, the small room packs a lot of punch.

PHOTO: Max Kim Bee; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Interiors

59

Add an Extra Powder Room

If your space allows, call your contractor and put a powder room under the stairs on the main floor—an extra guest bathroom on the main floor will always come in handy. The southwestern vibes in this one designed by Leanne Ford make it casual and inviting.

Alexandra Rowley; DESIGN: Studio DB

60

Pull Up a Vanity

The velvet stool and light-up mirror make makeup application easier and more style in this Studio DB-designed space. A vanity is a perfect addition to the main bathroom. So if space allows, take note.

Stephen Kent Johnson

61

Try Vintage Meets Modern

Designer Nina Farmer decided to keep this New England home’s vintage corner sink but gave it a new look with marbleized wallpaper and a vintage mirror. The original wainscoting was repainted in Farrow & Ball’s Plummet.

Felix Forest; DESIGN: Arent & Pyke

62

Swap Out Hardware

Small upgrades can make a major difference. Case in point? The mod metallic and black wall hook in this bathroom designed by Arent & Pyke, which also provides an extra place to hang towels. And instead of opting for classic wood shelves, consider a red marble one instead.

Alexander Design

63

Embrace the Space

Design firm Alexander DB softens up the large factory-style windows and gritty concrete floors in this industrial space with a plush area rug and striped hand towels. Though they’re decidedly more bohemian, they fit in with the modern black tub and warehouse vibes because they stay within that monochrome palette.

Hecker Guthrie

64

Use a Cheerful Color

Double sinks are always a win, especially when they’re as farmhouse chic as the ones in this space by Hecker Guthrie. The sunny yellow backsplash and overhead lighting make it impossible to not smile.

Nicole Franzen; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Interiors

65

Install Glass Doors

For a romantic, open atmosphere, consider installing glass doors. These white French doors in this main bathroom designed by Leanne Ford draw our eye straight to that dreamy bathtub (the moody artwork above it helps, too). And the concrete floors add an edgy touch.

Tom Ferguson; DESIGN: Arent & Pyke

66

Fill a Small Space With Personality

Though it may seem like a clean, stark white backdrop would maximize a small bathroom, that’s not always the case. In fact, sometimes the modern empty look can make tiny rooms feel even tinier. Instead, pack some punch with contrasting tiles, eye-catching hardware, and fun accents. The bright, fun pieces in this Arent & Pyke-designed bathroom prove that you don’t need a ton of square footage to go all out.

Lucas Allen

67

Highlight Your Passions

Themes work especially well in interiors when inspired by your own passions and interests, but with a design-savvy touch. This primary bathroom designed by Alexander Angle is the perfect example. His client had a large collection of ship paintings, so they decided to anchor the main bath with them. The vintage trunks, light blue walls, and gold pendant are tasteful nods to maritime adventure.

Matthew Williams; DESIGN: Studio DB

68

Mix Materials

Studio DB seriously knows how to design a killer bathroom. From the vanity peaking out in the back to the romantic metallic wall mural and cocktail trail by the tub fastened to the wall, there are so many great details. Our biggest takeaway is to use a variety of materials in the bathroom, both for aesthetic and functional reasons. The marble slab under the tub is essential for splashing, while the hardwood floors make it approachable, and the luxe velvet carpet in the hall adds some glamour.

Alexandra Ribar; DESIGN: Leanne Ford

69

Paint the Floors

Instead of laying new tiles—which can be super expensive and time-consuming—consider using paint instead. Hand-painted details add a personal touch you can’t get in many other ways. Get inspired by this graphic painted floor situation by Leanne Ford if you’re not sure where to begin.

Robson Rak

70

Find Your Light

Robson Rak made this narrow bathroom feel expansive with a large mirror round mirror and skylight window, which brightens up the entire room. If you don’t have a ton of natural light, reflective surfaces and oversized vanity mirrors will at least make it feel a little sunnier.

Dustin Askland; DESIGN: Elizabeth Roberts

71

Think Outside the Bathroom Box

This bathroom by Elizabeth Roberts is full of smart, stylish storage solutions. Even the sink is built into the wall and tucked behind cabinet doors. This way, when the cabinets are closed, we can focus on the shapely bathtub, modern light fixture, and grooved painted greige walls. The hidden mini fridge is also a nice touch—perfect for a romantic champagne tub moment or for storing beauty and skincare products that are more effective when cooler than room temp.

Anson Smart; DESIGN: Arent & Pyke

72

Repurpose Old Furniture

If you don’t want to install built-in shelves for whatever reason—renovation costs, rental limitations, or personal style—create more storage space with an armoire. This unexpected item is both traditional and quirky, especially when paired with Fornasetti’s cloud-print wallpaper and a modern aubergine stool, as done in this bathroom decorated by Arent & Pyke.

Courtesy of Tessa Neustadt

73

Add a Plant

Proof that a potted plant can go a long way. Combined with tons of natural light, this bathroom design by Amber Interiors is a true oasis.

Annie Schlechter

74

Keep Things Open

This unique shower designed by Cathy Chapman is, in a word, perfect. The circle motif on the floor and rounded asymmetrical marble wall slab make the shower special but the open concept and curtain design ensure a seamless flow with the rest of the room.

David Tsay

75

Choose Invigorating Colors

Shampoo storage never looked so chic. In Justina Blakeney’s “Jungalow,” the shower’s niche is inset with a vintage mirror. This blue and gold color combo will make a morning shower even more energizing, too.

Maura McEvoy

76

Play With Patterns

This spa-inspired bathroom gets tons of character from the tiled patterned floor and the palm leaf wallpaper. We’re dying over the bronze palm chair.

PHOTO: Shannon McGrath; DESIGN: Hecker Guthrie

77

Make It Feel Like a Spa

With warm marble floors and romantic pink marble surfaces, this bathroom designed by Hecker Guthrie is more like a five-star spa. And with a towel rack like that, who needs a linen closet?

House Beautiful

78

Ocean-Inspired

Fish wallpaper adds a playful note to a Bahamian bathroom. Even if you don’t live by the beach, you can still feel like you’re there.

Björn Wallander

79

Have Fun With the Floor

These are not your grandma’s white bathroom tiles. The geometric black-and-white pattern of the floor adds just the right amount of flair to this simplistic bathroom.

Pieter Estersohn

80

Give it a Farmhouse Feel

Nothing says rustic more than chicken wire. Use the screening in place of glass cabinet doors to up the country feel and show off stacks of fresh towels.

Shannon McGrath; DESIGN: Hecker Guthrie

81

Opt for Offbeat Placement

Rather than tucking the bathtub faucet between the window and tub, Hecker Guthrie decided to give it the spotlight by floating it in the center of the room. The edgy matte black finish, luxe marble floors, and neutral colors throughout ensure a polished whole with just a touch of eccentricity.

PHOTO: Dustin Askland; DESIGN: Elizabeth Roberts

82

Upgrade the Basics

In this bathroom designed by Elizabeth Roberts, our eye is immediately drawn to the pretty linen towels, marble hooks, hexagonal floor tiles, and whimsical floral wallpaper. The strategic decorating and upgraded hardware make unsightly essentials, like toilet paper, blend in seamlessly and go unnoticed. For a similar effect, make your toilet paper blend in or look cooler than it is with a wall-mounted holder.

Shannon McGrath; DESIGN: Hecker Guthrie

83

Experiment With Lighting

We’ve been seeing statement bathtubs under the chandelier or dramatic pendant spotlight for years. And while there’s nothing wrong with this design combo, a sole sconce or floor lamp can be a fun way to experiment and create new, interesting bathroom vignettes. The single pearl-like sconce in this bathroom designed by Hecker Guthrie is the perfect example.

PHOTO: Felix Foret; DESIGN: Arent & Pyke

84

Focus On the Details

Even something as simple as hanging a robe can make all the difference. As seen in this Arent & Pyke-designed bathroom, it makes the space feel more lived in. The small Art Deco area rug also plays up the blue tones throughout while introducing pattern and a pop of coral.

Felix Forest; DESIGN: Arent & Pyke

85

Lay Tiles Creatively

A non-repeating tile pattern infuses this bathroom designed by Arent & Pyke with just a touch of visual interest. The colors and shapes ensure enough consistency without looking matchy-matchy or formulaic.

Thibault Jeanson

86

Opt for Local Accents

In this bathroom in Kenya by Suzanne Kasler, a vintage bathtub sits next to a vivid rug from a crafts market in Nairobi. The windows have canvas shades and zippered screens to thwart mosquitoes.Matthew Williams; DESIGN: Studio DB

87

Lighten the Mood

A light wallpaper like in this bathroom designed by Studio DB keeps things feeling sweet and airy. The modern mirror above the sink as well as the contemporary blush pink bulb make it feel like the perfect blend between elegant and on-trend. For a similar look, try a neutral and whimsical (yet understated) wallpaper but then bring in modern touches and rich materials to add character.

Trevor Tondro

88

Choose Whimsical Tiles

The tile in this 1970s beach house bathroom is similar to that of a cement floor in Spain, but the pattern is based on a block print from India.

Alexandra Ribar; DESIGN: Leanne Ford

89

Float Your Sinks

You’ve heard of kitchen islands but have you heard of bathroom sink islands? Designer Leanne Ford introduced intrigue to this space by floating the sink vanities instead of keeping them against the wall.

Anson Smart; DESIGN: Arent & Pyke

90

Go Halfsies on Wallpaper

Not only is it a good idea to keep wallpaper out of splashing range, but it can also cut your cost in half if you only buy enough for half the square footage. The white tiles in this bathroom designed by Arent & Pyke keep things feeling fresh while the wallpaper adds a little more personality. It’s the perfect bathroom upgrade when you’re craving a refresh on a budget.