Bathrooms may be one of the smallest areas in a home, but they get used all the time, and judged by anyone who goes in there. It turns out, some decor and designs can instantly make a bathroom look outdated, or worse, chaotic and tacky. The upside is that they’re also one of the easiest rooms to refresh and update so they’re not just functional, but modern and calming, too.
These are the things in the bathroom that interior designers suggest you may want to reconsider:
- Bulky vanities - Sure, those oversized cabinets give you a lot of storage space, but they can make a small bathroom feel cramped and crowded. Take inspiration from boutique hotels that often have floating vanities or wall-mounted shelves, which are much less clunky in tight spaces.
- Glossy or mismatched tiles - Busy mosaic mixes, clashing colors and tiles that are too glossy are officially out, according to design experts. Instead, they recommend mixing finishes, but not too much, and sticking with larger format tiles with a “consistent, neutral palette.”
- Dark paint colors - In a small bathroom, they can make the space feel smaller and cave-like, so stick with warm whites, creams and pale grays to make the bathroom feel inviting.
- Plastic accessories or fixtures - Flimsy shower curtains and plastic soap dispensers will crack, discolor and make the space look cheap, and the same goes for faux chrome or brass fixtures. Swap them for ceramics, glass or real brushed metal that will last longer and elevate the space.
- Themed decor - Sorry to break it to you, but the shell-shaped soap dishes, cartoon shower curtains and nautical ropes instantly date your bathrooms and make it look tired and kitschy. Instead, designers recommend looking for color palettes and textures that “whisper a theme, rather than shout it.”
- Damaged or outdated surfaces - Chipped tiles and stained grout can leave your bathroom looking neglected, no matter how clean it may be. Invest the time and money in replacing those tiles and fixtures to upgrade the room with a fresher aesthetic.
Source: Martha Stewart