Bathroom Renovations: Laying It All Out
- Jennifer Reyes
- Mar 10
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 23
A bathroom renovation isn’t just about upgrading fixtures and plumbing, it’s about creating a stylish, functional, and cohesive space that reflects your personal taste. From selecting the perfect tiles to choosing the right lighting, every design choice plays a crucial role in bringing your vision to life. In this article, we talk about colors, materials, and features that may assist you in achieving your next bathroom design. Our home, built in 1940, inspired me to create a bathroom that had some elements of its' time period while still making a bold statement. Having grown up in Southern California, surrounded by the Hollywood-Spanish influences of the time, I envisioned a space reminiscent of a mid-century San Diego home. I wanted a design that captured the fun and posh essence of the ‘40s—elegant and vibrant, so I went bold. Blue and white Spanish Talavera tiles, brass fixtures, yellow walls, bead board, pedestal sink and modern style wood and cane cabinet. My shower curtain choices were slim, but I purchased one with a coordinating color palette and will continue to search for something that fits the look that I am seeking. I will know it when I see it.
Choosing a Color Palette for your Bathroom Renovations
The color palette sets the tone for your entire bathroom. Me? I always choose bold designs. The bathroom feels like the perfect space to make a statement without overwhelming the rest of the house. It’s like pairing fine jewelry with a casual outfit—just a touch of sparkle.
Consider these tips when selecting colors:
Neutral Shades: White, gray, and beige create a timeless and spa-like atmosphere.
Bold and Dark Tones: Navy, deep green, or charcoal add drama and sophistication.
Accent Colors: Incorporate soft blues, blush pinks, or earthy greens to add personality without overwhelming the space.
Selecting the Right Tiles
Tiles are one of the most important design elements in a bathroom. Here are some helpful options:
Flooring: Choose slip-resistant tiles with a matte finish for safety and durability.
Wall Tiles: Glossy subway tiles or textured stone tiles can add depth and elegance.
Accent Tiles: Consider a mosaic or herringbone pattern for a stylish feature wall.
When browsing tiles at my local home improvement stores, nothing really caught my eye. I was looking for bold, rich colors and a specific style. That’s where the internet became a great resource. Many dealers offer sample packs or single tiles, making it easy to color match and coordinate your space.
Vanity and Countertop Selection
Your vanity is the centerpiece of your bathroom, so it should be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Floating Vanities: Great for modern and minimalist spaces, making the room feel larger. Floating vanities are a game-changer when it comes to both style and functionality. Their wall-mounted design creates an open, airy feel, making even small bathrooms appear more spacious. Plus, they offer easy access for cleaning underneath—no more dust and grime collecting in hard-to-reach corners. With the added benefit of customizable heights and extra storage options, floating vanities bring a sleek, modern touch while maximizing convenience.
Wood Finishes: Add warmth with natural wood tones or go for a sleek painted finish. I chose an inexpensive mid-century style wood sideboard as a vanity cabinet. I figured that I could place a marble top on it to dress it up, and I could easily change it out later if I wanted a different look for the bathroom.
Countertops: Quartz and marble provide a luxurious feel, while concrete or solid surface materials add a contemporary edge.
I chose a pedestal sink to accommodate the small space. Elegant and appropriate for the time
Lighting Fixtures for Ambience and Functionality
Lighting can make or break your bathroom design. Consider layering different light sources:
Overhead Lighting: Recessed lights or a stylish pendant provide general illumination.
Task Lighting: Wall sconces or backlit mirrors enhance visibility for grooming.
Ambient Lighting: LED strip lights under the vanity create a soft and inviting glow.
I chose brass and round globe style lighting, and it coordinated perfectly in the space.
Updated Cabinet Mirror and Lighting
Matching Everything Together for a Cohesive Look
To achieve a well-balanced and harmonious design:
Stick to a consistent material palette (e.g., brushed brass or matte black fixtures)
Mix textures for depth—pair smooth tiles with natural wood elements
Use repeating patterns or colors in different elements to create visual continuity
Final Touches and Décor
Once the main elements are in place, complete the look with stylish décor:
Plants: Small potted greenery adds freshness and a spa-like feel.
Textiles: Plush towels, a chic bathmat, and a fabric shower curtain can enhance the overall design.
Artwork and Accessories: Minimalist wall art, candles, and decorative trays tie everything together.
Before and After:
Conclusion
At the end of the day, design your bathroom in a way that truly reflects your personal style and makes you happy. If you're not renovating for resale and will be using this space for years to come, focus on selecting elements that bring you joy every time you step inside. Choose colors, textures, and features that speak to you, and most importantly, enjoy the process—after all, this is your space to love and live in. We did keep the vintage sink which will be repurposed in another project on the property. For now, we are happy with the results and will continue to accessorize as we come across vintage pieces.
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As always, happy remodeling!!
Jennifer
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