Don't let your bathroom decor be an afterthought! Whether it's chic paint colors, statement artwork or a trendy mirror, seemingly small details can bring personality into your modern bathroom. In fact, because bathrooms tend to be the smallest rooms in your house, they're actually the perfect space to flex your creativity — think moody wallpaper, geometric tiles or vintage rugs.
We've rounded up designer-approved bathrooms that prove you don't need to spend a lot of money — or time — to upgrade your bathroom. For example, you can replace an outdated faucet, apply peel-and-stick wallpaper or swap in modern hardware in only a few hours. Regardless of your style, these beautiful bathroom decor ideas will help you fall in love with your layout.
1
Modern Meets Vintage
With a statement rug, wallpaper and lighting, Hattie Collins of Hattie Sparks Interiors brings unexpected layers of texture and interest to a bathroom. The vintage wool rug elevates the space in a way a simple bath mat can’t.
Photo by: Jacqueline Marque
2
Geometric Tiles
Uninterrupted from floor to wall, these playful geometric shower tiles help create the illusion of a larger bathroom. A transom window shows off the surrounding forest, while the thick shower wall is the perfect depth for displaying greenery — "a tangible way of bringing nature inside," says designer Regan Baker.
Photo by: Suzanna Scott
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3
Dramatic Wallpaper
In this sunny bathroom with a floating white vanity, a dark floral wallpaper creates depth and drama. Weave in gold accents, just as Elle Du Monde does here, for added character.
Photo by: Marc Mauldin Photography
4
Colorful Vanity
Add a hit of color in a white bathroom. The green vanity (painted in Benjamin Moore's Dakota Shadow) and Moroccan rug add personality to this spacious primary bathroom, located in designer Heather Lucas' 1920s home.
Photo by: Jess Isaac
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5
Warm Woods
Layer in organic textures, namely warm woods to create a spa-like retreat. Here, designer Ryann Swan adds off-center wood paneling around the tub to increase the zen feel.
Photo by: Read McKendree
6
A Mirror Over the Window
If you're short on space, suspend a unique mirror in front of the window and ensure natural light can enter from behind. For a pop of pattern, designer Marian Louise also hangs cafe curtains.
Photo by: Kerry Kirk
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7
Drenched in Color
Purple is having a moment in interior design. We're seeing more rich and moody shades in the bathroom, like this deep eggplant (Wine Stain by Dunn-Edwards).
8
Tile Accent Wall
Striking geometric tiles turn a wall behind the sink into a design moment. We love that interior designer Margarita Bravo weaves in gold accents with a modern vanity mirror, artistic sconce and wall-mounted faucet.
Photo by: Tahvory Bunting
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9
Nature-Inspired Hues
Embrace an earthy color palette — think sandy whites mixed with sage green, subtle pink and light gray. To tie the space together, Elle Du Monde brings in organic texture with warm wood furniture and wool rug.
Photo by: Marc Mauldin Photography
10
Spa-Like Curbless Shower
Transport to a luxury spa every time you enter this sunny shower. White subway tiles on the walls and penny tiles on the floor pair beautifully with a small wooden bench and trailing plant.
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11
Modern Makeover
For this modern Moroccan bathroom makeover, vertical shiplap walls cover up old textured walls and a secondhand dresser is transformed into a vanity. The star of the show? Custom sea glass floor tiles.
12
Leaning Shelf
Swap your bathroom cabinet for a ladder shelf — a more stylish way to store bathroom essentials like toiletries and extra towels. You can even make one yourself with plywood.
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13
Geometric Wallpaper
Whether it's an abstract design or floral print, geometric wallpaper adds a touch of whimsy to any space. We love that designer Jessica Risko Smith pairs it with black herringbone floor tiles for added dimension.
Photo by: Leela Cyd Photography
RELATED: 16 Latest Wallpaper Trends That Designers Are Loving
14
Persian Rugs
Add rich color and warmth to your bathroom design with a patterned area rug, just as designer Raili Clasen does in this texture-filled bathroom. Embrace vintage reds, gorgeous greens or creamy neutrals — or a combination of all three.
Photo by: Karyn Millet
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15
Unexpected Lighting
Frame a window above the bathtub with decorative wall sconces. Here, designer Candace Shure matches the matte black and gold fixtures with a black bathtub faucet, then tops a stool with dried flowers.
Photo by: Michael Clifford
RELATED: Interiors That Display Brilliant Bathroom Lighting Ideas for Every Style
16
Floor-to-Ceiling Tile
Balance dramatic floor-to-ceiling tile with a standout piece of wall art and a stylish pendant that won't overwhelm the overall design scheme.
Photo by: Sara Ligorria-Tramp
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17
Pops of Personality
Don't be afraid to infuse a bathroom with personal touches. Take note from designer Julia Chasman and install playful tiles in the shower and on the floor, then weave in last-minute touches like framed photos, floral curtains and a chic wicker basket.
Photo by: Sara Ligorria-Tramp
18
High Contrast
Celebrate the beautiful combination of deep black walls and a bright white vanity. Here, designer Emily Henderson stains the reclaimed wood walls to ensure a dramatic bathroom design.
Photo by: Sara Ligorria-Tramp
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19
Pattern Play
Chevron tile wall on one side, floral wallpaper on the other. This trendy bathroom, designed by Ginny Macdonald, is proof that two totally different patterns can complement each other when used correctly.
Photo by: Jessica Bordner
20
Faux Flowers
Rather than replacing fresh flowers every week or two, find fake blooms that look just like the real thing. In this pattern-filled bathroom, designer Jessica Dorling displays faux florals in ceramic white vases for a pop of color.
Photo by: Kara Mercer
RELATED: 15 Best Fake Flowers That Look Shockingly Real
Monique Valeris
Home Design Director
Monique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand's home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, "What's in My Cart."
Alyssa Gautieri
Associate Lifestyle Editor
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.