The secret to decorating your bathroom like a pro (when you aren't one)

Let's face it, bathrooms often get neglected when it comes to decorating. We pour our hearts into living rooms, kitchens and bedrooms, but the bathroom often remains a bland afterthought.

At DIYgirls, we’re all about helping you craft a beautifully curated home that’s uniquely you—and that includes every room! We believe that transforming this overlooked space isn't about dropping a fortune on renovations or chasing the latest trends, it’s about creating a place that feels comfortable, meets your needs and reflects your personality. And you shouldn’t need a degree in interior design or a hefty budget to do it!

We’ve figured out how to transform just about any bathroom into a spa-like sanctuary, so you don’t have to!

Even if you have zero design experience, you can follow these simple steps to give your bathroom a luxurious glow-up:

1.  Start With a Vision

Before you grab a paintbrush and haphazardly splash some colour on the walls (again), take some time to define your vision. Flip through magazines and browse Pinterest. There's a whole world of bathroom inspiration out there, from sleek and modern to rustic and charming.

Don't get overwhelmed by trying to copy a specific look, instead focus on elements you love – a particular colour palette, a unique tile pattern or a statement mirror.  Then think about the feeling you want to create. Do you crave a serene escape or an invigorating morning boost? This will guide your design choices.

 

2.  Colour Me Happy

Let’s talk hues. Selecting the right colours will set the tone for your bathroom. While there are no right or wrong answers when it comes to styling your bathroom, we recommend starting with a neutral base of whites, beiges or greys. These colours create a calm and timeless backdrop that can easily be refreshed with accessories. To add depth and character, punch it up with accent colours.

3.  Turn Your Walls Into a Work of Art

Don’t overlook the transformative power of wallpaper in your bathroom (especially powder room). With a vast array of patterns and textures available, wallpaper can instantly elevate your space, adding interest and personality. You can use it throughout your bathroom or create an accent wall. From bold botanicals (like the one below from Ardmore) to more subtle geometric patterns, this element can infuse your bathroom with character, making it a stylish showstopper with minimal effort.

 

4.  Create a Sense of Space

If you want to fool everyone into thinking your bathroom is twice its size, mirrors and glass are your secret weapons and can completely transform your bathroom’s appearance.

Can't afford a whole new remodel? While replacing the fixtures in your bathroom may be beyond your budget, by simply swapping your shower cubicle for a frameless glass shower enclosure, you can create a sleek and modern look that will make your bathroom feel more open.

A large mirror can also visually expand the space, making it feel bigger, brighter and more airy, while statement mirrors add a touch of glam.

 

5.  Add Dimension With Texture

Texture creates visual interest and is your bathroom’s best friend!  Ditch the thin towels and spoil yourself with high-quality, thick towels and bath robes. Not only do they add a touch of luxury to your bathroom but they also feel absolutely divine after a shower or bath. Win-win! Opt for textures and fabrics that contribute to the overall aesthetic and make you go “ahhh” every time you touch them.

 

6.  Incorporate Decorative Elements

Don't underestimate the power of little things! Small, thoughtful details can elevate your bathroom’s decor. Use chic soap dispensers (like these from Cape Island) to add sophistication to your sink area and store bathroom essentials in stylish baskets or trays to keep the space organised and welcoming.

 

7.  Bring the Outside in

Nothing breathes life into a space like a bit of greenery and fortunately for us, house plants like ferns, pothos or peace lilies thrive in the humid environment of a bathroom. Not only do they add a pop of colour but also help purify the air.

Feeling extra fancy? You can also hang a eucalyptus bundle from your shower head to infuse the space with a spa-like scent and add a touch of freshness. It not only enhances the atmosphere but also creates a relaxing, aromatic experience during your showers.

 

8.  Make It Smell as Good as It Looks

A killer scent can take your bathroom experience to the next level. High-quality scented candles or diffusers can create a pleasant aroma and enhance the ambience. It can also further complement your chosen theme adding a new dimension to your style and turning your bathroom into a multi-sensory experience.

 

9.  Add Personal Touches

Make your bathroom undeniably yours with some personal flair.  Hang framed art or photos that reflect your style. A well-chosen piece of art can add a calming element to your bathroom that helps to create a serene atmosphere, while also reflecting your distinct style.

10. Less is more

A cluttered bathroom is the enemy of luxury and minimalism can be your BFF. To keep things tidy and organised, invest in a vanity with plenty of drawers and compartments. This will help you stash away toiletries and other bathroom essentials.

By keeping surfaces clear and avoiding unnecessary items, you can enhance your bathroom’s sense of serenity and make it feel more spacious. A clutter-free bathroom not only feels more relaxing but it looks more luxe too.

Bottom Line

There are no hard and fast rules in bathroom decorating. It's all about creating a space that makes you feel good. With a little creativity and these simple tips, you can transform your bathroom from a neglected space into a stylish sanctuary even if you're not a decorating pro.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or sprucing up your existing space, these tips will help you nail a professional look and feel.