Remodelling a bathroom is an exciting project, full of potential to create a space that perfectly balances function with your own personal style. Whether you’re thinking of updating a guest bathroom, making the most of a small space, or transforming your main bathroom into a tranquil retreat, choosing the right elements can make a huge difference.
Here’s a guide to 10 custom bathroom ideas for your next remodel that should inspire you to craft a dream bathroom tailored to your taste and needs.
10 Custom Bathroom Design Ideas For Your Next Remodel
Home renovations are more popular than ever in the UK, with bathrooms topping the list as the most commonly updated room. According to the latest Houzz study, bathrooms accounted for nearly 29% of all home renovation projects in 2023, with spending on bathroom upgrades increasing by 39% compared to the previous year. This trend highlights homeowners’ growing focus on enhancing comfort and style in these personal spaces
Here’s a look at some top bathroom renovation ideas to inspire your next remodel, whether you’re updating for modern aesthetics, eco-friendliness, or increased functionality.
1. Opt for a Walk-In Shower as a Focal Point
Walk-in showers are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. They look sleek and modern and can be a real space-saver in smaller bathrooms. A walk-in shower with glass doors and minimal framing gives the impression of a larger floor space, adding a touch of elegance to your bathroom design. You could pair it with a rain shower head for a luxurious spa-like experience at home. And if accessibility is a concern, consider a low-threshold or barrier-free design for easy entry.
For those who prefer a minimalist look, consider pairing a walk-in shower with mosaic tiles or marble tiles on the walls. These materials add a touch of texture and contrast, bringing out the beauty in simplicity without overpowering the rest of the design.
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2. Play with Wall Tiles and Textures
The right wall tiles can make a massive difference in how your bathroom feels. Wall tiles don’t just add colour and texture; they also protect your bathroom walls from moisture. Mosaic or marble tiles make great options for a feature wall, adding a splash of elegance and turning it into an instant focal point.
For a modern bathroom with a bit of rustic charm, consider panelled walls. These bring warmth to the space and can be painted to match your chosen colour scheme. Another alternative is to go for antique mirrors or textured tiles that mimic natural materials like stone or wood, giving your bathroom an earthy, spa-inspired vibe.
3. Built-In Storage for a Clutter-Free Space
One of the best bathroom remodel ideas is incorporating built-in storage. Built-in bathroom storage doesn’t take up valuable floor space and helps keep everything organised. Consider recessed shelves within the shower or by the bath, or add a tall, slim cabinet that can store toiletries, towels, and other essentials.
Adding a vanity unit with built-in drawers is another excellent way to bring functionality to your bathroom. For a touch of grandeur, go for a double vanity unit if you have enough space – it’s ideal for busy households and can transform your main bathroom into a more practical space for everyday life.
4. Enhance Natural Light for a Bright and Airy Feel
Natural light can make even a small bathroom feel spacious and inviting. If possible, maximise any windows to let in more sunlight. You might also consider installing a skylight to add extra light without taking up wall space, a particularly helpful trick for bathrooms tucked away in areas with minimal natural light.
For those not able to add or enlarge windows, light-coloured tiles, walls, and fixtures can help bounce light around the room. Reflective surfaces, such as glossy tiles or a large mirror above the sink, can also contribute to a brighter bathroom, giving it an airy, open feel.
5. Experiment with Floor Tiles for Personality and Style
Floor tiles often don’t get as much attention, but they’re an essential part of any bathroom remodel. Classic options like marble tiles or mosaic tiles can lend a high-end look, while patterned tiles offer a way to introduce personality. Herringbone or geometric floor tiles can add visual interest without overwhelming the space.
If you’re going for a timeless look, neutral-coloured floor tiles can complement nearly any decor. Alternatively, try creating contrast by pairing darker floor tiles with lighter walls or vice versa, depending on the vibe you’re aiming for.
6. Install a Free-Standing Bath for Pure Luxury
A free-standing bath is a show-stopper that can elevate your bathroom from functional to luxurious. Styles range from sleek modern shapes to classic designs like the roll-top bath, perfect for a touch of vintage charm. Free-standing tubs work exceptionally well in primary bathrooms with ample space, creating a central point in the room and allowing for better flow around the bath area.
Consider pairing the bath with modern fixtures for a striking bathroom style that mixes traditional and contemporary elements. You might also add a small stool or tray for bath products, giving it that “ready-for-relaxation” touch.
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7. Transform Small Bathrooms with Clever Design Ideas
Even small bathrooms can feel spacious with the right design approach. Wall-mounted sinks and vanities help clear floor space, while larger mirrors can create an illusion of a bigger room. Use lighter colour schemes, such as whites, greys, and pastels, as they reflect light and give a clean look.
For small bathrooms, multi-purpose or compact fixtures are key. Consider a corner sink or a narrow vanity unit, which takes up less space without compromising functionality. And don’t forget about clever storage solutions like hooks, floating shelves, or cabinets above the toilet, which maximise storage without crowding the room.
8. Add Rustic Charm with Natural Materials
If you’re after a warm, earthy feel, natural materials like wood, stone, and brass can bring a sense of rustic charm to your bathroom design. Consider wooden cabinet doors, stone tiles, or a reclaimed wood vanity to create a laid-back, timeless look.
Using natural materials also helps create a connection to nature, making the space feel calm and inviting. You could enhance this effect with greenery, like small potted plants or hanging vines, which thrive in the humid environment of a bathroom.
9. Upgrade Your Fixtures for a Touch of Modernity
Small fixture updates can make a big impact on the overall design. Chrome or brushed gold fixtures can instantly modernise your bathroom, while matte black taps and handles bring a bold, contemporary feel. A rain shower head not only feels luxurious but also pairs beautifully with a walk-in shower, creating an immersive, spa-like experience.
And if you’re looking to add elegance to a classic bathroom style, consider antique brass or copper fixtures. They bring a bit of vintage character, perfect for bathrooms with a timeless appeal.
10. Create an Ensuite Oasis for Convenience and Comfort
An ensuite bathroom is a lovely addition if you have the space, offering a private, convenient retreat within the home. Since ensuite bathrooms are often smaller, it’s essential to make the most of every inch. Opt for space-saving solutions, like a floating vanity or wall-mounted toilet, to keep floor space open and functional.
Incorporating calming colours, dimmable lights, and a subtle fragrance diffuser can make the ensuite feel like your own mini-spa, ideal for unwinding after a long day.
Small Changes for Smaller Apartment Bathrooms
Even in a small apartment bathroom, a few thoughtful changes can make the space feel like your own personal retreat. With some inexpensive updates, like swapping out accessories and adding a splash of colour, you can transform the look and feel of the bathroom without needing major renovations. Here are some simple ideas that can elevate your bathroom, adding both style and function to the limited space.
- Change the shower head: It sounds so simple—and it is! A new shower head can totally change the look (and more importantly, the feel) of your shower with very little cost or effort. If you choose a new low-flow shower head, you can also save yourself some money and water without sacrificing a great experience. Home renovation plumbing is not always hard, because shower heads are easy to install!
- Rugs: A nice rug can cover up ugly linoleum or tile, help prevent slips and falls, and provide a soft, warm place to stand while you’re drying off after the shower. The best part of all? They can be swapped out for a new colour, size, or style whenever you want, and they’re easy to keep clean – just be sure to hang them up to dry and throw them in the washer periodically. If you want something that’s gorgeous and durable, have a look at the Teak bath mats. Want more custom bathroom ideas? Our team can help!
- Put up a new shower curtain and a fancy or fun shower rod. Even if your shower has doors, there’s no reason you can’t cover them up with a nice shower curtain to add a little flair to your bathroom. Whether you want cute kittens, psychedelic patterns, or elegant linen, there are plenty of accompanying shower rods to keep your look consistent. Powerflush your system for better performance.
- Install a new toilet seat: You wouldn’t believe the variety of toilet seats there are out there! Whatever your bathroom colour scheme or theme, we’re sure you can find a seat to match. There are hundreds of different colours of toilet seats, plus fun ocean-themed, butterfly, and even music-themed toilet seats. In addition to adding some style to your bathroom, you also get the assurance that your new (to you) toilet has a guaranteed-clean seat! Create your dream bathroom with Lazard Plumbing.
- Accessorise, accessorise, accessorise: To truly customise the room, place a small vanity mirror on the counter, install some shelves above the toilet for extra storage, or hang some of your favourite artwork (in appropriate frames to avoid mildew!). If you can match the size or get permission from your landlord, you may also be able to change out the towel bars for something a little more you.
Personalise your apartment bathroom today.
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Custom Bathroom Ideas FAQs
What are some space-saving ideas for a small bathroom remodel?
In a small bathroom, space-saving fixtures like wall-mounted sinks, floating vanities, and compact toilets make a big difference. Opting for lighter colours, larger mirrors, and glass shower enclosures can also create an illusion of more space. Built-in storage options, such as recessed shelves or cabinets above the toilet, help keep things organised without taking up precious floor space.
How can I add a luxury feel to my bathroom without a complete remodel?
Small changes can add a touch of luxury without a full remodel. Consider upgrading fixtures to matte black, brushed gold, or antique brass for a modern or vintage look. Adding a rain shower head, stylish vanity lighting, or even a free-standing mirror can elevate the space. Soft, high-quality towels, candles, and a few plants also give a sense of spa-like comfort.
What type of flooring is best for bathrooms?
Bathrooms need moisture-resistant, durable flooring. Ceramic, porcelain, and stone tiles are popular for their water resistance and durability, while mosaic tiles offer a slip-resistant option in wet areas. If you’re looking for warmth, consider adding underfloor heating beneath tiles, which can add comfort and luxury to your bathroom experience.