7 Bathroom Design Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Renovating your bathroom can be an exciting project, but without careful planning, it can quickly turn into a costly mistake.

This video by interior designer Penny Modern explores seven common bathroom design mistakes and how to avoid them, ensuring your space is both functional and stylish. Her advice is essential for ensuring a bathroom makeover goes smoothly and the end results works for you.

Plus, she shares three bonus design tips for making a small bathroom look bigger, which is super-helpful:

1. Skipping the Planning Stage

Jumping into a bathroom remodel without a clear plan is like sailing without a map—you may have a vision, but you’re likely to go off course.

Solution:

• Create a Mood Board: Gather physical samples of tiles, countertops, and paint to see how they look in your space before making any purchases.
• Accurate Measurements: Measure everything, including doorways and hallways, to ensure furniture like vanities will fit.
• Consult a Professional: If you feel overwhelmed, a quick consultation with a professional can steer you away from costly mistakes.

2. Choosing the Wrong Materials

Selecting inappropriate materials can lead to long-term damage like mold, leaks, and warped wood, especially in a humid bathroom environment.

Solution:

• Durable Flooring and Walls: Opt for porcelain tiles, which are resistant to dampness and come in various styles.
• Natural Stone: If you prefer natural stone, ensure it’s sealed properly to prevent water damage.
• Vanity Materials: Choose materials like engineered stone or high-quality laminates that can withstand humidity. Always check reviews if purchasing online.

3. Too Many Focal Points

A bathroom with too many focal points can feel overwhelming and chaotic, similar to an orchestra where every instrument plays at full volume.

Solution:

• Choose One Focal Point: Let one feature—such as a vintage vanity or freestanding tub—be the star.
• Neutral Colors: Use neutral tones to let your focal point pop.
• Lighting: Use lighting to draw attention to your focal feature and set the mood.

4. Ignoring Storage Needs

A cluttered bathroom without adequate storage feels cramped, much like a disorganized library with books scattered everywhere.

Solution:

• Ample Vanity Storage: Opt for a vanity with deep drawers to store essentials.
• Vertical Storage: Utilize space efficiently with open shelves, shower niches, or wall-mounted cabinets.
• Hidden Storage: Recessed medicine cabinets keep countertops clear and the room feeling more open.

5. Poor Lighting Choices

Getting ready in a dim bathroom can be frustrating. Lighting is essential to both the functionality and ambiance of your space.

Solution:

• Layered Lighting: Combine overhead lights for general illumination, task lighting at mirrors, and accent lighting for architectural features.
• Dimmers: Install dimmers to adjust lighting according to the time of day or your mood.
• Natural Light: Maximize natural light through windows or skylights for a warm and welcoming feel.

6. Not Maximizing Mirror Potential

A bathroom without a good mirror is like painting without seeing the canvas. You need a proper mirror to ensure your daily routine goes smoothly.

Solution:

• Go Big: Large mirrors can make a small bathroom feel twice as big.
• Mirrors with Storage: Consider a mirror with built-in storage to keep your countertops clutter-free.
• Proper Mirror Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting around the mirror for tasks like makeup application and shaving.

7. Overlooking Decor and Art

A bathroom without decor can feel cold and sterile, like a winter garden. Adding personal touches can transform it into a warm, inviting space.

Solution:

• Incorporate Art: Choose a piece of art to serve as a focal point and inject personality into your bathroom.
• Decorative Shelving: Display beautiful containers, scented candles, or small art pieces on shelves.
• Plants: Add life to your bathroom with plants that thrive in humid environments.

Bonus: 3 Tips to Make Your Bathroom Look Bigger

Here are three additional tips to help make even the smallest bathroom feel more spacious:

1. Color Choices: Opt for light colors on walls, floors, and cabinets to create an airy feel. Dark colors are best reserved for powder rooms as they can make the space feel smaller.
2. Tile Choices: Larger tiles in lighter shades reduce visual interruptions from grout lines, creating the illusion of a more spacious room. Match the grout to the tile for a uniform look.
3. Lighting and Mirrors: Layered lighting and a large mirror can double the perceived size of your bathroom. Be mindful when choosing light bulbs; warm white often creates a flattering, relaxing ambiance.

By following these tips, you'll avoid costly design mistakes and create a bathroom that’s not only functional but a serene retreat. Happy renovating!