Tips to update your bathroom without a full renovation

You want your bathroom to feel fresh and modern, but not ready for a full renovation? Good news, you don’t need to gut your entire space to breathe new life into it! With a few strategic updates, you can transform your bathroom to look current, stylish, and inviting. Below are my favorite ways to update a bathroom without breaking the bank or taking on a major renovation.

1. Swap Out Fixtures and Hardware

A simple update of faucets, showerheads, cabinet pulls, and towel bars can have a surprisingly big impact. Outdated and mismatched finishes can be replaced with brushed brass, or chrome to give your bathroom an instant and timeless facelift. Keep it clean and traditional with one finish in the entire space, or create a more custom look by mixing two metals in your space. The key to mixing metals is repeating each one twice, so it comes off as intentional and not mismatched.

2. Paint or Refinish the Vanity

If your vanity is in good shape but looks a little tired, consider painting it in a trendy color like deep navy or sage green. You can also replace the knobs or handles to add a fresh look. For wooden vanities, a fresh stain or refinishing job can also work wonders. In stock vanities can be a simple budget friendly swap if your current one is past the point of a facelift.

3. Update Lighting

You’ve heard me talk about updating lighting before. Lighting plays a huge role in the overall feel of a space. If your bathroom is lit by harsh, cold lighting or old-school fixtures, consider swapping them for more contemporary options. Sconces on either side of the mirror or a statement pendant can completely elevate the look and create a warm, flattering glow. You can find some great battery operated sconces these days if you don’t want to incur the cost of an electrician.

4. Add Character on the walls

One of the easiest ways to change the vibe of a bathroom is by refreshing the walls. A fresh coat of paint in a modern neutral, like soft taupe or beige, can instantly brighten the space. For a bolder update, consider adding bead board, shiplap, wainscotting, wallpaper or colour drench the room in a bold colour. Powder rooms are the perfect space to be more daring with your design decisions.

5. Swap Out the Mirror

The mirror over the vanity is often overlooked, but upgrading it can make a big difference. Replace a dated, frameless mirror with one in a trendy shape—like an arched or circular frame. Mirrors with brass, black, or wooden frames can tie into other elements of the space, giving it a cohesive and intentional feel.

6. Incorporate Textiles and Accessories

Never underestimate the power of textiles and accessories that make a space feel finished. Use an area rug instead of a traditional bath mat for a more elevated look. Add art above the toilet or on walls to add more dimension. Pull in more color in your towels and shower curtain. Decorate with functional accents like soap dispensers, candles, or trays that reflect your personal style without making the space feel cluttered.

Making your home feel more like you doesn’t always require a full overhaul. Sometimes we need to embrace what we have, and put our own spin on things. I love working with spaces to make them feel more like you.

As always, if you're looking for additional support in your space, I’d be happy to help.