Bathrooms have long since broken free from their humble beginnings. Today, a remodel has to balance more than just the essentials: layout, fixtures, materials, and (more and more) tech all have to be brought into the mix. And then there's the added challenge of squeezing it all into the smallest room in the house. This guide takes you through the key decisions: figuring out which bathroom layout suits your place, how to pick the right tile, walls, and shower, what's actually hot in bathroom design these days, and how to get the most out of storage and other clever ideas.
Not every bathroom needs to be able to do the exact same thing, and knowing which type you're working with will shape every decision that comes after.
Bathroom design has shifted a lot over the past few years, and some trends show up in just about every remodel that's happening right now.
Tile does a lot more design work per square foot than almost any other material in a bathroom. A herringbone or chevron pattern adds sophistication on the floor, wall, or as a backsplash. You can even do a hexagonal tile to create a honeycomb effect that's both classic and current. Subway tile doesn't have to sit in a straight layout: stacked, diagonal, or herringbone arrangements are giving a familiar material a fresh look. An ombre gradient, mixed sizes and shapes, or a textured, embossed finish all add depth to the space. And you can even add some metallic accent tiles to bring a touch of glamour in. A bold tile choice on a single accent wall, a shower niche, or a floor medallion can turn a functional surface into a design feature. Wood-look tile delivers the warmth of real wood without the maintenance, and mirror-tile mosaics add both light and dimension to a smaller room.
Beyond the tile, bathroom walls have more choices to consider than most homeowners give them credit for. Ceramic and mosaic tile are the go-tos for durability, but natural stone (marble for a high-end look, travertine if you want something warmer and more laid-back, slate for some serious texture) can bring a different price point and vibe to your bathroom. Waterproof PVC or acrylic panels (some of which are laminated to mimic wood or tile) are a no-fuss option built for dealing with moisture, while waterproof paint that resists mold and mildew is the simplest and least pricey upgrade. Beadboard or wainscoting adds classic architectural flair, especially in a traditional or cottage-style bathroom, and a full or large mirror wall reflects light and makes a small room feel more spacious.
Deciding on the shower is usually the biggest decision when it comes to a bathroom remodel, and it's not just about the cost. It's also about how you'll use it every day. Options include:
Of course, choosing the right showerhead is just as important as the enclosure itself. Water-efficient and aerated heads will cut your water usage without sacrificing pressure. Smart, Wi-Fi-enabled heads let you control temperature and spray pattern from your phone, and some of them come with built-in lighting or speakers. Handheld heads are super versatile for rinsing off, cleaning the shower, or even bathing your pets. Rainfall heads deliver a broad, even cascade for a more luxurious feel, and multi-spray heads let you switch between a gentle rain setting and a stronger massage setting. When it comes to narrowing down a showerhead, think about your existing water pressure, which features are must-haves for you (like multiple spray settings, a handheld option, or smart controls), which style fits with your bathroom's aesthetic, and your budget.
Before you start adding any new storage, you need to declutter first. Expired products, unused samples, and anything you haven't touched in a year need to go. Once your bathroom is pared down, a few ideas can make the most of a small footprint: a shelf over the toilet (that spot usually goes unused), tiered open shelving for both storage and display, a mirrored cabinet that hides storage behind its reflective face, a rolling cart or under-sink organizer for cleaning supplies, and woven baskets or bins to contain clutter on open shelves. Clear labels keep everything easy to find, and matching hardware and finishes to the room's existing style keeps added storage from looking like an afterthought.
To turn your bathroom into a real spa retreat, start with a neutral, calming color palette (think whites, grays, soft blues, and greens) paired with soft, diffused lighting and some dimmer switches. Add some indoor plants to improve air quality and add some atmosphere. Plush, premium towels and robes, a heated towel rack, and a deep soaking tub (if you've got the space and budget for it) will turn your functional bathroom into a genuine retreat. A handheld or rainfall showerhead with adjustable settings, some natural materials like bamboo or stone for accessories, and some calming scents from a diffuser or candles will really help to round out the feel. If you've got the space, some comfortable seating and some nature-inspired artwork will finish off the effect. The goal is to pick the handful of upgrades that fit with your space and budget and layer them in with some real intention.
A guest bathroom is the first impression visitors get of your home, and it doesn't take much to give it a facelift. Clear out the clutter with storage baskets for your toiletries and hooks for your towels, add a soft nightlight so people aren't feeling around in the dark, a vase or some greenery to brighten things up, and a spare roll of toilet paper (you'd be surprised how often that's the little thing that saves the day), and you've got a guest bathroom that's not just functional but actually welcoming.
Ready to give your bathroom a makeover? Hogan Design & Construction has been designing and building bathroom remodels in Geneva, St. Charles, Batavia, and the western suburbs since 2000. Check out our bathroom remodeling portfolio, take a look at our bathroom remodeling pricing guide, or schedule a no-obligation chat about your project.