52 Bathroom Decor Ideas Designers Say Can Transform Your Space
You don't need a major renovation to make a big impact.
The bathroom is often an overlooked space when it comes to design. But according to pros, this room presents some interesting design opportunities. Some of the bathroom decor ideas designers love include details like bold tiles, playful wallpaper, and chic finishes. While some of these ideas would be overwhelming in a larger space, the small space of the powder room or bathroom can be the perfect place to add a little bit of drama to your design. Whether you’re all-in on the earthy vibrancy trend or want a timeless all-white bathroom, there’s sure to be an idea here that inspires you.
One thing designers emphasized is that a bathroom decor upgrade doesn’t have to be an expensive or time-consuming project. Something as simple as hanging a piece of art, adding a vintage vase to the vanity, or swapping out the handles on the cabinets can make a surprising impact. Plus, many of these makeover ideas can be completed in a single afternoon.
Ahead, experts share the bathroom decor ideas they love for modern homes. If you’re looking for more inspiration, read up on the best bathroom paint colors, the top bathroom design trends of the year, and the bathroom design mistakes experts want you to avoid.
Install Playful Wallpaper
Adorn a powder room with whimsical wallpaper. A vintage print (like these delicate flowers) or a modern pattern will instantly define the room. To play into the antique feel, design firm PBF Homes hangs a sconce that resembles a taper candle, installs bronze fixtures and paints the vanity blue.
Photo by: Lara Kimmerer
Go Gold
From the glamorous gold mirror and sleek sconces to the cabinet hardware and soap dispenser, gold fixtures take center stage in this modern bathroom. And don't stress if your faucet is another finish — Darci Hether achieves this golden look with a chrome faucet.
Photo by: Kelsey Ann Rose
Don't Shy Away from Color
In this colorful kids' bathroom, Rosanna Bassford of Memmo Interiors takes abstract wallpaper all the way to the ceiling. Although it's only on one wall, the pattern completely revamps the room.
Photo by: Lauren Andersen/SEN Creative
Layer Shades of Blue
Often associated with relaxation, blue is a popular color choice for bathrooms — especially lighter shades that can act as a neutral. Here, design firm J.P. Hoffman pairs a white and blue floral wallpaper with a gray-blue vanity.
Photo by: Lara Kimmerer
RELATED: Stunning Blue Bathrooms That Are Sure to Bring a Sense of Calm
Hang Large-Scale Artwork
Don't skimp on gorgeous art in the bathroom. Take note from Rosanna Bassford of Memmo Interiors and hang a large piece over a soaking tub. Just keep in mind the bathroom's humidity when selecting art — unsealed canvas or untreated wood can be vulnerable to mildew or warping.
Photo by: Lauren Andersen/SEN Creative
Blend Modern With Vintage
With a statement rug, wallpaper and lighting, Hattie Collins of Hattie Sparks Interiors brings unexpected layers of texture and interest to a bathroom. The vintage wool rug elevates the space in a way a simple bath mat can’t.
Photo by: Jacqueline Marque
Install Geometric Tiles
Uninterrupted from floor to wall, these playful geometric shower tiles help create the illusion of a larger bathroom. A transom window shows off the surrounding forest, while the thick shower wall is the perfect depth for displaying greenery — "a tangible way of bringing nature inside," says designer Regan Baker.
Photo by: Suzanna Scott
Showcase Dramatic Wallpaper
In this sunny bathroom with a floating vanity, a dark floral wallpaper creates depth and drama. Weave in gold accents, just as Elle Du Monde does here, for added character.
Photo by: Marc Mauldin Photography
Play up Warm Woods
Layer organic textures, namely warm woods, to create a spa-like retreat. Here, designer Ryann Swan adds off-center wood paneling around the tub to increase the zen feel.
Photo by: Read McKendree
Hang a Mirror Over the Window
If you're short on space, suspend a unique mirror in front of the window and ensure natural light can enter from behind. For a pop of pattern, designer Marian Louise also hangs cafe curtains.
Photo by: Kerry Kirk
Go Monochromatic
We're seeing more rich and moody shades in the bathroom, like this deep eggplant (Wine Stain by Dunn-Edwards). While it adds a dramatic touch to the space, it also manages to create a cozy atmosphere.
Tile an Accent Wall
Striking geometric tiles turn a wall behind the sink into a design moment. We love that interior designer Margarita Bravo weaves in gold accents with a modern vanity mirror, artistic sconce and wall-mounted faucet.
Photo by: Tahvory Bunting
Lean on Nature-Inspired Hues
Embrace an earthy color palette — think sandy whites mixed with sage green, subtle pink and light gray. To tie the space together, Elle Du Monde brings in organic textures with warm wood furniture and a wool rug.
Photo by: Marc Mauldin Photography
Bring in a Leaning Shelf
Swap your bathroom cabinet for a ladder shelf — a more stylish way to store bathroom essentials like toiletries and extra towels. You can even make one yourself with plywood.
Lay a Persian Rug
Add rich color and warmth to your bathroom design with a patterned area rug, just as designer Raili Clasen does in this texture-filled bathroom. Embrace vintage reds, gorgeous greens or creamy neutrals — or a combination of all three.
Photo by: Karyn Millet
Try Unexpected Lighting
Frame a window above the bathtub with decorative wall sconces. Here, designer Candace Shure matches the matte black and gold fixtures with a black bathtub faucet, then tops a stool with dried flowers.
Photo by: Michael Clifford
RELATED: Interiors That Display Brilliant Bathroom Lighting Ideas for Every Style
Play Up the Drama
Balance dramatic floor-to-ceiling tile with a standout piece of wall art and a stylish pendant that won't overwhelm the overall design scheme.
Photo by: Sara Ligorria-Tramp
Bring in Pops of Personality
Don't be afraid to infuse a bathroom with personal touches. Take note from designer Julia Chasman and install playful tiles in the shower and on the floor, then weave in last-minute touches like framed photos, floral curtains and a chic wicker basket.
Photo by: Sara Ligorria-Tramp
Play With Pattern
Chevron tile wall on one side, floral wallpaper on the other. This trendy bathroom, designed by Ginny Macdonald, is proof that two totally different patterns can complement each other when used correctly.
Photo by: Jessica Bordner
Decorate With Faux Flowers
Rather than replacing fresh flowers every week or two, find faux blooms that look just like the real thing. In this pattern-filled bathroom, designer Jessica Dorling displays artificial florals in ceramic white vases for a pop of color.
Photo by: Kara Mercer
Monique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand's home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, "What's in My Cart."
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) leads Good Housekeeping’s gift guide strategy. She writes and edits commerce content, where she analyzes lifestyle trends, shopping data, and works closely with the Good Housekeeping Institute to recommend top-tested products. Previously, she was the associate lifestyle editor for GH and wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, BobVila.com, and Unique Homes Magazine. When she’s not tracking down buzzy products, you can find her walking her dog, Skye, around Jersey City.
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