Revitalizing Your Bathroom: Expert Tips And Tidbits

For many, bathrooms may be the smallest space in their homes but it doesn't mean that they should lack character or charisma. Unplanned design choices can unintentionally age the space and make it feel overwhelming.

Thankfully, revamping bathrooms is relatively easy. Some thoughtful replacements and adjustments can dramatically transform the environment, making it not just efficient but also a tranquil, contemporary sanctuary.

While oversized cabinets may seem like practical storage options, they tend to make a small bathroom feel even more cramped. Ayhan Erdogan, an interior designer with Xwallx, suggests avoiding such bulky vanities as they could also be a breeding ground for mildew. To create an airy and stylish ambience, Erdogan recommends sleek storage, floating vanities, or wall-mounted shelves. They provide the neatness needed without making the space look crowded.

In terms of tiling, excessively shiny and high-density tiles are a no-go. Too many competing colors or a busy mosaic blends can make the space feel chaotic. Erdogan suggests a measured mix of finishes for a sophisticated vibe. A blend of classic gloss and matte polished tiles feels fresh, modern, and refined. Also, opt for larger format tiles in a neutral palette to enhance that soothing experience. Better Place Design & Build CEO, Bar Zakheim, adds that bathrooms should evoke calmness, so soft neutrals or subtle patterns work best.

In small bathrooms, deep or dark shades can often make the space feel confined and unwelcoming, Zakheim warns. Opting for light colors like whites, creams, or pale grays is advisable, with added warmth from natural textures or beige accents to prevent a cold atmosphere.

Interior designer Tony Roberts warns against using low-quality accessories like plastic soap dispensers, flimsy shower curtains, or thin toilet roll holders: "Swap them for ceramics, glass, or brushed metal," he advises. These more resilient materials can immediately enhance the space, often at a surprisingly affordable cost.

Roberts and Erdogan agree that overtly themed or novelty decor like shell-shaped soap dishes or cartoon shower curtains have an expiration date and can make the bathroom feel outdated. Instead, subtle color palettes and soft textures are preferred: "Whisper a theme, rather than shout it," Erdogan advises.

Another tip from Roberts involves maintaining cleanliness and order. Products cluttered all over a vanity can give a messy appearance, regardless of the quality of the finishes. A neat solution is to tidy up using a stylish basket for a spa-like feel.

Lastly, Zakheim warns about the sobering effect of chipped tiles, stained grout, or brightly colored tubs and toilets. They instantly make the bathroom feel dated and neglected. Renew grout lines, replace cracked tiles and stick with timeless shades of fixtures to maintain a cleaner, fresher ambiance.