17 Tips That May Help You Achieve A Stunning Bathroom Look

Transforming your bathroom from ordinary to extraordinary doesn’t have to mean a full remodel. With thoughtful touches and strategic updates, you can create a space that feels both luxurious and personal.

Here are 17 practical tips to help you achieve a magazine-worthy bathroom look, keeping in mind that results may vary based on your bathroom’s size, layout, and existing fixtures.

1. Choose a cohesive color palette

Selecting the right colors makes all the difference in bathroom design. I recommend limiting your palette to 2-3 complementary shades that create harmony and flow.

Soft blues paired with white create a spa-like atmosphere, while black and gold offer dramatic luxury. Consider your lighting when choosing colors natural light allows for darker tones, while bathrooms with minimal windows benefit from lighter hues.

The right palette ties everything together, from your walls to your accessories. If you’re hesitant about committing to bold colors, start with neutral walls and add color through towels, rugs, and accessories that can be easily changed when you’re ready for something new.

2. Add a statement mirror

A striking mirror can instantly transform your bathroom from basic to breathtaking. Instead of the standard builder-grade rectangle, try an ornate gold frame, a backlit round mirror, or one with a unique geometric shape.

The size matters tremendously a larger mirror creates the illusion of more space and bounces light around the room. For maximum impact, choose a mirror that extends almost the full width of your vanity. Don’t forget to consider the practical aspects too.

Fog-resistant mirrors are perfect for steamy bathrooms, while mirrors with built-in storage or lighting serve double duty. This single upgrade can become the focal point that elevates your entire bathroom’s look.

3. Upgrade your lighting fixtures

Harsh overhead lighting can make even the most beautiful bathroom look unflattering. I switched my dated light fixtures for wall sconces on either side of the mirror, creating that perfect, shadow-free illumination for my morning routine.

Layered lighting makes all the difference combine ambient ceiling lights with task lighting near the mirror and perhaps some accent lighting to highlight architectural features. Dimmers are game-changers, allowing you to adjust brightness for different moods and times of day.

When selecting fixtures, think of them as jewelry for your bathroom. Brushed brass sconces or a mini-chandelier can add personality and style while complementing your overall design theme. The right lighting elevates everything else in the space.

4. Incorporate floating shelves

Floating shelves add both style and function without eating up precious floor space. I installed three staggered wooden shelves above my toilet, creating an instant display area for decorative items and everyday essentials.

The key to stylish shelf styling is balancing practical items with decorative ones. Try arranging fluffy rolled towels, a small plant, and elegant containers for cotton balls or bath salts. Metal, glass, or wood shelves each create different vibes choose materials that complement your existing fixtures.

If you’re renting or hesitant about drilling into tile, try freestanding ladder shelves that lean against the wall or over-the-toilet storage units that require no installation. Either way, you’ll gain valuable storage while adding visual interest to previously empty wall space.

5. Use stylish storage baskets

Woven baskets instantly add warmth and texture while hiding bathroom clutter. I use a large seagrass basket for extra towels and smaller matching ones for toiletries and cleaning supplies. Mix and match different sizes for visual interest, but stick to similar materials for a cohesive look.

Wire baskets with fabric liners offer a modern industrial feel, while wooden crates bring rustic charm. The right baskets become both functional storage and decorative elements. For maximum organization, designate specific baskets for different categories one for hair products, another for skincare, and perhaps a small one for guests’ essentials.

Labels add a personalized touch, though beautiful baskets with thoughtfully arranged contents often speak for themselves. This simple addition keeps necessities accessible but neatly contained.

6. Install a modern faucet

The faucet is like jewelry for your sink a seemingly small detail with major impact. When I swapped my basic chrome faucet for a matte black waterfall model, visitors immediately noticed the upgrade. This relatively inexpensive change completely modernized my vanity area.

Today’s options go far beyond standard chrome. Brushed brass adds warmth, while matte black creates dramatic contrast against light countertops. Consider the shape too sleek single-handle designs offer minimalist appeal, while widespread models with separate handles feel more traditional. Beyond aesthetics, look for water-saving features and touchless technology.

If you’re replacing the faucet yourself, ensure compatibility with your existing sink configuration. The right faucet balances form and function, becoming a focal point that elevates your entire bathroom’s style quotient.

7. Add a decorative shower curtain

A shower curtain occupies significant visual real estate in most bathrooms, making it the perfect opportunity for a style statement. I replaced my plain white curtain with a subtle geometric pattern that ties together all my accent colors, instantly transforming the room.

Height matters tremendously with shower curtains. Hanging yours near the ceiling (rather than at the top of the tub) creates the illusion of higher ceilings and more spacious surroundings. High-quality fabric curtains drape more elegantly than plastic ones, though a liner remains essential for water protection.

Don’t overlook the curtain hooks either decorative rings in brushed gold or matte black can add another layer of sophistication. The shower curtain essentially functions as the largest piece of artwork in many bathrooms, so choose one that truly reflects your personal style.

8. Include a plush bath mat

The humble bath mat offers both practical benefits and surprising design impact. I replaced my thin, faded mat with a thick, absorbent one in a complementary accent color, instantly adding warmth and comfort to my bathroom floor. Materials make all the difference here.

Cotton and microfiber offer absorbency and washability, while memory foam provides cushioned comfort. For a touch of luxury, consider a wooden bath mat made from teak or bamboo these create a spa-like atmosphere and resist mold better than fabric options. Size and placement deserve attention too.

A generously sized mat that extends beyond the shower or tub area feels more intentional and luxurious than a tiny rectangle. When selecting colors and patterns, look for options that complement your towels and shower curtain without creating visual competition in the limited space.

9. Use scented candles or diffusers

Scent creates atmosphere in ways visible elements simply cannot. I keep a vanilla sandalwood diffuser on my vanity and light matching candles during evening baths, creating an instantly relaxing environment that feels intentionally designed.

Different scents serve different purposes in bathroom settings. Eucalyptus and mint energize morning routines, while lavender and chamomile create calming evening vibes. Citrus scents work wonderfully for guest bathrooms, offering fresh, clean impressions without overwhelming personal preferences. Beyond fragrance, candles provide soft, flattering light that transforms ordinary bathrooms into spa-like retreats.

Group several varying heights for dramatic effect, but always prioritize safety with proper holders and placement away from flammable items. For maintenance-free options, flameless candles with timer functions offer similar ambiance without safety concerns, while essential oil diffusers provide consistent fragrance without flames.

10. Opt for a frameless glass shower door

Frameless glass shower doors instantly elevate bathroom aesthetics while making the entire space feel larger and more open. When I replaced my shower curtain with clear glass, my bathroom suddenly appeared twice as spacious, showcasing my beautiful tile work rather than hiding it.

Though the initial investment exceeds other options, the visual impact and durability make it worthwhile. Frameless designs minimize metal hardware for a cleaner, more contemporary look than traditional framed versions. The uninterrupted glass creates an airier feeling throughout the bathroom. Maintenance requires some commitment regular squeegee use prevents water spots and soap scum buildup.

For easier upkeep, consider glass with protective coatings that repel water and minimize cleaning frequency. If full replacement isn’t feasible, semi-frameless options offer similar benefits at lower price points while still significantly upgrading your shower’s appearance.

11. Install under-cabinet lighting

Under-cabinet lighting transforms ordinary bathrooms into extraordinary spaces while serving practical purposes. I installed inexpensive LED strips beneath my floating vanity, creating a gorgeous glow that doubles as a perfect nightlight for midnight trips.

The options range from peel-and-stick battery-operated lights to hardwired professional installations. Motion-activated versions eliminate the need for switches, illuminating automatically when you enter the room. The soft illumination highlights beautiful flooring while creating depth and dimension otherwise missing from bathroom lighting schemes. Beyond vanities, consider adding this lighting beneath medicine cabinets, along toe kicks, or inside shower niches.

The unexpected light sources create ambiance similar to high-end hotels and spas. Many options now include color-changing capabilities and dimming functions, allowing you to adjust the mood from energizing morning brightness to relaxing evening warmth with simple remote control.

12. Add greenery or small plants

Living plants bring vibrant energy to bathroom spaces unlike any other decorative element. I placed a cascading pothos on my window ledge and small succulents on floating shelves, instantly adding life and color to previously sterile surfaces.

Humidity-loving varieties thrive in bathroom environments with minimal care. Try ferns, peace lilies, or snake plants for low-maintenance options that purify air while adding visual interest. Even artificial plants have become remarkably realistic, offering greenery benefits without maintenance concerns. Strategic placement maximizes impact a tall plant in an empty corner, small potted varieties on countertops, or hanging planters that draw the eye upward without consuming valuable surface space.

Beyond aesthetics, plants connect us to nature, creating subtle psychological benefits in self-care spaces. The organic shapes and natural colors soften bathroom hardscapes, balancing the typically angular, hard surfaces with welcome organic elements.

13. Use coordinated towels and linens

Fresh, coordinated towels create instant bathroom luxury with minimal investment. I replaced my mismatched collection with a set in my accent color, adding hand towels in complementary patterns for layered sophistication that guests always notice. Quality matters tremendously here.

High-quality cotton towels with substantial weight and proper folding techniques elevate the entire bathroom’s appearance. Consider displaying them artfully rolled in baskets, stacked on open shelving, or hanging from decorative hooks or rings rather than standard bars. For maximum impact, coordinate your shower curtain, bath mat, and towels without exact matching.

Perhaps choose solid towels that pull a color from your patterned shower curtain, or vice versa. This thoughtful coordination creates a pulled-together look that suggests intentional design rather than haphazard collection. Periodically rotating seasonal colors keeps the space feeling fresh without major renovation.

14. Keep countertops clutter-free

Minimalist countertops instantly create a sense of luxury and intentional design. I limited my vanity display to just three items a marble soap dispenser, a small plant, and a decorative tray corralling essential items, transforming the space from chaotic to serene.

Effective bathroom organization happens behind the scenes. Drawer dividers, cabinet organizers, and medicine cabinet maximizers keep necessities accessible but hidden from view. The items worthy of display become more impactful when they’re not competing with clutter. If your morning routine requires multiple products, consider beautiful containers that coordinate with your decor.

Amber glass bottles with simple labels unify mismatched packaging, while pretty trays group smaller items into visually pleasing collections rather than scattered individuals. This countertop discipline creates the high-end hotel bathroom feel we all crave clean, spacious surfaces that suggest order and calm.

15. Update drawer pulls and hardware

Hardware functions as bathroom jewelry small details with outsized impact. I swapped my builder-grade chrome knobs for matte black pulls, immediately modernizing my vanity without replacing the entire cabinet. This project offers tremendous bang for minimal buck.

For under $50 and about 30 minutes, you can completely transform the look of existing cabinetry. The key is consistency across all bathroom hardware towel bars, toilet paper holders, and cabinet pulls should coordinate in both finish and style for a cohesive, designed appearance. When selecting new hardware, consider both function and aesthetics.

Longer pulls typically offer easier grip for frequently used drawers, while simple knobs work well for less-accessed areas. Bring an existing pull when shopping to ensure new hardware fits existing drill holes, saving yourself unnecessary patching and drilling. This seemingly minor update signals thoughtful attention to detail that elevates the entire space.

16. Hang tasteful wall art

Art isn’t just for living rooms bathroom walls offer prime real estate for personal expression. I hung a set of three watercolor botanical prints in simple frames, bringing color and personality to previously blank walls. Humidity considerations matter when selecting bathroom art.

Properly framed prints with glass protection work well, as do canvas pieces sealed with protective spray. For worry-free options, consider water-resistant materials like metal prints or tile murals that embrace the bathroom environment. Scale and placement create maximum impact.

A single large piece above the tub creates a focal point, while a gallery arrangement of smaller pieces adds interest to a powder room. Whatever you choose, art introduces color, texture and personal style that elevates your bathroom beyond merely functional space into something truly special and uniquely yours.

17. Introduce metallic accents

Metallic elements add instant sophistication to bathroom spaces. I incorporated brushed gold fixtures, towel bars, and a matching tissue holder, creating cohesive sparkle that elevates the entire room without major renovation. Mixing metals can work beautifully when done intentionally.

Perhaps matte black faucets with brass lighting fixtures, or chrome hardware with copper accessories. The key is consistency within categories all plumbing fixtures in one finish, all lighting in another creates purposeful contrast rather than haphazard mismatching. Small metallic accessories make big impact with minimal investment.

Try a gold-framed mirror, brass soap dispenser, or silver tray for organizing vanity essentials. These reflective surfaces bounce light around the room, adding brightness and dimension. For maximum effect, limit yourself to 1-2 metal finishes that complement your overall color scheme while providing just enough contrast to create visual interest.