A bathroom remodel is one of the most popular home renovation projects, and for good reason. Updating your bathroom can significantly increase your home’s value, improve its functionality, and provide a fresh, modern look.
Whether you’re planning a full overhaul or just a few simple upgrades, a bathroom renovation can create a more personal and serene space.
From major layout changes to small, impactful updates, here are 21 bathroom remodel ideas to help you get started on your project.
Foundational Changes & Layout
These ideas are for those looking to make a significant impact by changing the structure or layout of their bathroom.
Install a Walk-In Shower
Replacing an old tub-and-shower combination with a spacious, walk-in shower instantly modernizes small bathroom. A glass enclosure or a frameless design can make the space feel larger and more open, providing a clean, contemporary aesthetic.
Create a Wet Room
For the ultimate in modern design, a wet room combines the shower, toilet, and sink area into a single, fully waterproof space. This design is highly functional, easy to clean, and provides a sleek, minimalist look, especially in a small bathroom.
Move the Toilet or Sink
Relocating the main fixtures can dramatically change the flow and functionality of your bathroom. Even a small shift can make the room feel less cramped and allow for better use of the available space.
Add a Half-Wall or Pony Wall
A half-wall can be a great way to separate the toilet from the rest of the bathroom without completely enclosing it. This adds a sense of privacy while keeping the room feeling open and airy, which is especially useful in smaller spaces.
Fixtures & Finishes
These ideas focus on updating the core elements of your bathroom, from the floor to the faucet.
Choose New Flooring
Replacing outdated or worn flooring can make the biggest impact on a bathroom’s look. Options like large-format porcelain tile, natural stone, or water-resistant luxury vinyl can provide a fresh, modern foundation.
Install a Tile Accent Wall
A tiled accent wall can turn a simple shower or vanity area into a stunning focal point. You can use anything from bold geometric patterns and vibrant colors to elegant marble-look tiles to create visual interest and personality.
Upgrade the Vanity and Countertop
The vanity is often the central piece of a bathroom. Replacing an old vanity with a new one—perhaps a floating vanity for a modern look or a traditional cabinet for more storage—can completely change the room’s style.
Update the Faucet and Hardware
Changing out the faucet, showerhead, and cabinet hardware is an easy and affordable way to give your bathroom a facelift. Choosing new hardware in a modern finish like matte black, brushed gold, or polished nickel can make a big difference.
Add a Freestanding Tub
If you have the space, a freestanding tub can serve as a luxurious centerpiece and a design statement. From classic clawfoot tubs to modern sculptural shapes, it can create a spa-like retreat in your own home. If you like round mirrors then you can try japandi bathroom designs.
Replace the Toilet
An outdated toilet can be an eyesore. Replacing it with a modern, sleek, and more water-efficient model can update the look of your bathroom and save on utility costs.
Storage & Organization
A well-organized bathroom is a functional bathroom. These ideas focus on smart solutions for keeping your space tidy and clutter-free.
Install a Recessed Medicine Cabinet
Instead of a bulky cabinet that sticks out from the wall, a recessed medicine cabinet is installed within the wall, providing hidden storage without taking up visual space. Some modern models even come with built-in lighting or charging outlets.
Add Floating Shelves
Floating shelves are a great way to add open storage for towels, toiletries, or decorative items. They provide a minimalist look while making use of vertical wall space that would otherwise go unused.
Use a Shower Niche
A built-in shower niche is a much more elegant solution for holding shampoo and soap than a caddy hanging over the showerhead. It’s a clean, seamless design element that looks polished and is easy to clean.
Install a Wall-Mounted Towel Rack
Mounting a towel rack or hooks on the wall frees up floor space and keeps towels neatly organized. There are many stylish options, from modern ladder-style racks to simple, elegant hooks.
Incorporate Open Vanity Storage
Instead of a traditional vanity with doors, a console-style or open-shelf vanity can be a great way to make a small bathroom feel more open. You can use baskets or bins on the shelves to keep essentials organized and hidden from view.
Style & Small Touches
These small changes can have a huge impact on the final look and feel of your bathroom.
Update the Mirror
The mirror can be a statement piece in itself. Replacing a standard builder-grade mirror with a framed, backlit, or uniquely shaped one can instantly elevate the room’s style.
Upgrade the Lighting
Bathroom lighting needs to be both functional and stylish. Installing new sconces on either side of the mirror or adding a single statement chandelier can completely transform the look and mood of the space.
Change the Paint or Wallpaper
A new coat of paint is the easiest and most affordable way to refresh a bathroom. You can also add a waterproof wallpaper with a bold pattern to create a striking design that makes a big impact in a small space.
Add a Bold Color
If your bathroom is mostly neutral, adding a single pop of a bold color through towels, a shower curtain, or a small piece of furniture can give it new life. You may also like to know various color bathrooms as well.
Incorporate Greenery
Plants that thrive in high-humidity environments, like ferns or air plants, can add a touch of life and freshness to a bathroom. They can be placed on shelves, on the windowsill, or hung from the ceiling.
Update Your Towels and Accessories
Sometimes, the simplest changes make the biggest difference. Investing in new, high-quality towels, a stylish soap dispenser, or a new shower curtain can make the whole bathroom feel new again.
Conclusion
A bathroom remodel is a fantastic investment in your home’s comfort and value. Whether you’re planning a complete overhaul or just looking to refresh your space with a few simple updates, there are countless ways to transform your bathroom into a more functional, stylish, and personal sanctuary. By focusing on a combination of foundational changes, updated finishes, and intentional decor, you can create a space that you will love for years to come.
FAQ
How much does a bathroom remodel cost?
The cost of a bathroom remodel can vary significantly based on its size, location, and the extent of the changes. A small, cosmetic update might cost a few hundred dollars, while a full renovation can range from $5,000 to over $20,000.
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
A full bathroom remodel can take anywhere from three weeks to two months, depending on the complexity of the project and the availability of materials and contractors. Smaller updates, like painting or changing a vanity, can often be completed in a single weekend.
What is the best way to start a bathroom remodel?
Start by setting a realistic budget and creating a list of your priorities. Decide what you want to change (layout, fixtures, style) and then research contractors, materials, and design inspiration to refine your plan before you begin the work.
