Whether you’re in the process of buying a home or have lived in one for some time, odds are there’s at least one room you’d like to make some improvements to. Bathrooms are among the most commonly redesigned spaces, be it for aesthetic or functional purposes. A full bathroom redesign can be a costly affair, but If you’re looking to give your powder room a glow-up while you financially prepare for a full retread, here are a few inspirational ideas.

Opportunity: Dark bathroom

While dark bathrooms can deliver on mood and drama, good lighting in bathrooms is essential for hygienic, functional, and aesthetic reasons. After all, it’s the first place you see yourself first thing in the morning and the last right before you go to bed. A few tweaks can breathe freshness and light into your space.

Here are a few ideas to help improve a dark bathroom:

Paint with light colors: Use light, neutral shades to brighten up the space. Lighter colors reflect more light and can make the room feel larger and airier. If the cabinets are structurally sound, consider painting them too! Paint is always the cheapest remodel.

Increase lighting: If there are many shadows in your bathroom, add more lighting fixtures to fill in those dark spaces. Natural light is optimal, but if that’s not an option for your room, consider replacing existing fixtures with energy-efficient daylight LED bulbs to mimic it. Add LED strip lights under vanities or around mirrors for additional illumination. Additional task lighting around the mirror can be useful while you do your daily toilette, such as applying makeup, brushing your teeth, and shaving. 

Introduce reflective surfaces: Incorporate mirrors and shiny accessories to maximize light reflection. Hang a large mirror or add a mirrored cabinet to create an illusion of space and bounce light around the room.

Opportunity: Small bathroom

In Northern California, especially in older homes, bathrooms tend to be petit and sometimes cramped. Small bathrooms can be functional, stylish, and enjoyable spaces with the right approach, without having to blow out a wall.

Here are a few ideas to improve a small bathroom:

Optimize storage: Utilize vertical space by installing shelves or floating shelves. This will help declutter the area and create a more spacious feel. Use baskets or storage containers to keep items organized and out of sight. If you have space inside cabinets, consider installing roll out shelves to help with organization. 

Install a pedestal sink or wall-mounted vanity: These space-saving options can make a small bathroom feel larger by freeing up floor space. They also create a more open and airy atmosphere. Urban Ore in Berkeley is a great resource for lightly used pedestal sinks, and a fun place to visit when contemplating home projects!

Use light-colored tiles: If your budget allows for a more significant update, choose light-colored tiles for the walls and floor. Light shades reflect more light and create the illusion of a larger space. Consider using large-format tiles or tiles with minimal grout lines to create a seamless look.

Opportunity: Outdated bathroom

While a vintage bathroom can be a real vibe — we’ve seen some spectacular color combos in our time — but over time wear and tear takes its toll with cracked tiles, worn finishes, or simply no longer aligning with contemporary design trends. This becomes especially apparent when you've recently moved into a new home, as you're eager to infuse your personal style.

Here are a few ideas to improve outdated bathrooms:

Update the hardware: Replace old faucets, showerheads, and drawer pulls with more modern and stylish options in polished chrome for a bright look. This simple swap can instantly refresh the look of the bathroom without breaking the bank. If needed, call in a plumber to make the changes to keep water leaks at bay.

Rejuvenate with paint: If the bathroom fixtures are in good condition but have an outdated color, consider using specialty paints designed for fixtures. These paints can give sinks, bathtubs, tile surrounds and toilets a fresh and updated appearance. Reglazing and resurfacing can be DIY projects, but for the best results, call in a professional. 

Install a new shower curtain: A new shower curtain and bar, plus matching mat and towels, can instantly change the look and feel of your bathroom and allow you to add your own decorative touch.

Remember, even small changes can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of a bathroom. By focusing on light colors, optimizing storage, and updating key elements, you can transform the space without a major renovation or a significant budget.

Gudrun Enger, AKBD, CID, Studio Gudrun

Gudrun is an interior designer in the San Francisco Bay Area, specializing in residential kitchen and bath design. Certified by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), and with a background in marketing and project management, Gudrun brings a unique perspective and a commitment to delivering innovative solutions. Gudrun offers full-service design, taking care of every aspect of your project from concept to completion. And for projects on a smaller scale, Gudrun provides design consultations tailored to your specific needs. Collaborate with her to transform your space into something extraordinary!