4 ways to Take your Bathroom from Tired to Eye-catching

Ok, so do you have a run-down bathroom and ready to make some substantial changes?

Want to know the most effective changes you can make recommended by an Interior Designer?

A subtle but sophisticated mixing of brass and brushed nickel in this bathroom by Bria Hammel Interiors.

 Well, I’m glad you’re here because in this blog I’m going to outline the important elements to focus on if you are ready to improve your bathroom (but you’re not signing up for a full-blown renovation).

These make over designer tips are worthwhile areas to invest your budget into to truly transform your bathroom. Let’s get into it….

Designer tips for a bathroom makeover

  1. Update Your Hardware.

They say hardware is like jewellery to a space, it really does elevate and finish off your bathroom. By updating your vanity handles, toilet roll holder, shower and basin tapware you have an opportunity to stamp your style on your bathroom.

Tips

  • Consider your overall style when choosing your hardware. Do your choices reflect what you want to say in your home?

  • You can certainly mix metals throughout your home by using the variation in more than one space.

  • Mixing knobs and handles also adds more interest to your vanity.

  • When replacing shower faucet remember to choose a water saving option and assess combinations like a hand held/shower head option if you have young children or pets.

A custom curved vanity to complement the curved basin and mirror - so much to love here. Jen and Rob from Loughlin Furniture.

2. Replace a tired vanity.

Updating your vanity will always bring a huge impact to your bathroom. You can paint your existing vanity, but if yours has structural or water damage it might be time for a replacement. You can add more colour, textural elements and shapes to your bathroom through your vanity choice.

Tips

  • If you have lots of hard lines in your bathroom, consider a vanity with some curves to add interest and soften your space.

  • Look for vanities in standard sizes for more affordable options.

  • Consider the function you need your vanity to have. Now is the time to add an extra sink or more bench space if your layout and plumbing allows.

  • Choosing a vanity with a stone, stone look top is a way to produce a more sophisticated look.

The impact of one small area of feature tile cannot be underestimated! A beautiful example by Simone Mathews of Soul of Gerringong.

3. Feature Tiling.

If you are happy with the majority of the tiling in your bathroom you could consider adding a feature tile to one area of your space. The most impactful way to do this is to choose an area that you will see and appreciate most often. Often behind the vanity, or behind a bath are good places to add a feature tile.

Tips

  • Choose a feature tile that is cohesive with the other tiles you currently have in your bathroom.

  • Consider a different shape, size or texture for your feature tile so that it adds visual interest.

  • For a more affordable option consider painting over some areas of wall tile in your bathroom and adding a small area of feature tile in one area only for maximum impact.

A stunning example of feature lighting in a bathroom by Studio Black Interiors.

4. Swap out Lights.

Replacing tired looking ceiling lights or wall lights brings an instant transformation to a bathroom makeover. If you only have down lights in your bathroom now might be the time to think about adding a feature pendant next to your mirror, or matching wall lights. You will be amazed at the change updated lighting will bring!

Tips

  • Depending on your ceiling height consider swapping out a central ceiling light with a pendant.

  • When choosing a pendant or wall lights to go next to your mirror think about the height the light will be at, so that they will be functional as well as beautiful.

  • Choose a warm white LED for a less clinical feel than a cooler white can bring.

  • Choosing light fixtures in a different metal to your vanity handles or tap ware can be a sophisticated way to add interest to your space.

And there you have it …some designer tips for a bathroom makeover that will transform your bathroom from tired to eye-catching!

These changes are a great way to update your bathroom without removing walls, changing plumbing or having to demolition the whole space. They are much kinder on your budget but I think you’ll find the changes pretty impactful for how you use your bathroom day to day.  

Not looking at doing this level of change to your bathroom?  Here’s some tips on how to simply refresh your bathroom with some simple but super effective ideas.  

What about those of you needing tips on a full bathroom renovation?  Stay tuned as part 3 to this blog series will be outlining my designer tips on what to focus on when planning a bathroom renovation. See you then!

Lastly, if you need more individualised help with your bathroom - it could be advice on the layout, tile options or suggestions for lighting then feel free to reach out to me here. We can jump on a phone call and I can learn more about what you need - I’d love to help.

Want to stay in touch with me and receive my monthly newsletter? There you will find useful design tips to help you in the design of your home. Would you like my free styling guide to help you make styling your spaces easier? Sign up here if interested.