Reading Time: 5 minutes 10 Design Ideas for Decorating a Bathroom
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This is a collaborative post by Hannah with tips on decorating bathrooms.
It is easy to find hundreds of articles that explain how to make a small bathroom look bigger. But, what if a home has one or more extra-large bathrooms?
Some older houses were built with luxury master baths, homeowners might have enlarged original spaces, and builders often include spa-like baths to attract buyers. Decorating a more-substantial area is less complicated than trying to work with a room the size of a closet, but bigger rooms still present some challenges.
However, with a few tips from professional decorators, anyone can turn an oversized bath into an inviting personal retreat.
10 Design Ideas for Decorating a Larger Bathroom
1) Emphasize the Airy Feeling
Understandably, a homeowner facing the task of decorating a large bathroom might be tempted to fill it with as many elements as possible to create a cozy feeling. However, professionals often suggest doing just the opposite.
Why not take advantage of all that space to fabricate a light, airy oasis? For example, instead of installing two large vanities in a vast area, why not add a single unique 60 inch vanity with double sinks? It provides enough function for more than one person and still leaves an open expanse.
2) A Large Space Could Accommodate a Shower and Bath
Homeowners with bonus-sized baths also have the luxury of adding a huge tub and a spacious shower. Some rooms can accommodate oversized, freestanding soaking tubs. It may be possible to add an enclosed, spa-like shower in one area and still have room for an eye-catching, freestanding tub elsewhere.
3) Choose Colors Wisely
Although a bigger room makes it easier to use several colors without overwhelming a space, the current trend is toward using a narrow color palette in spacious baths.
For example, an all-beige scheme can work if the elements include a variety of finishes such as matte, glossy, structural, and semi-polished. According to tile specialists Paradyz Ceramika, geometric decorations and warm, natural accessories can give a cozy feel to cooler colors.
4) Install Smart Lighting
Larger baths comfortably accommodate a variety of lighting that adds function, interest, and beauty. Ceiling lamps placed in strategic areas highlight especially exciting features. Some homeowners add chandeliers to create a gracious, luxurious ambiance.
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It is wise to choose ceiling and vanity lighting first and then consider other areas of the room. Vanities need task lighting, while the ceiling and wall lamps help create atmosphere. Showers and bathtub areas need to be well lighted for safety. Some owners install under-cabinet lighting that creates a warm, welcoming environment.
5) Use Understated Storage Solutions
It might seem logical that a big room means more area for storage cabinets, but too many elements can become jarring and overwhelming. Everything in a room should have a function, and it is smarter to opt for hidden storage than install a number of cabinets. Choosing pieces in natural colors also helps maintain a light, bright feeling but still ensures that the room has enough storage to remain uncluttered.
6) Pick Tile With a Theme in Mind
Creating a cohesive, pleasing decorating theme is easier if essential elements like tiles form the foundation. That is why homeowners must choose tiles that will tie in and highlight their decor. For example, Houzz experts suggest using classic subway tiles to give rooms a historic feeling. Adding traditional brass or copper fixtures and lighting add to the old-world feel.
Wall tiles can also be used creatively. No rule says they have to match. Professionals often create stunning designs by combining several complementary shades in the same shape. Using different types of tiles in various forms can also define specific areas of rooms.
7) Consider a Multifunctional Space
Very large bathrooms make ideal multi-function rooms. Owners have the luxury of fabricating spaces that do not resemble classic bathrooms in any way.
For instance, many decorator baths include armchairs, tables, chests of drawers, and straight chairs. Adding extra pieces can turn sections of bathrooms into dressing areas or places to put on makeup. Comfortable lounge chairs may also become a place to relax. The idea works best in huge spaces, and each element must be arranged to enhance the decorating theme.
8) Use Moderation When Adding Features
A vast bathroom space could provide the opportunity for homeowners to installing features like the extra-big, uncovered shower alcove they have always wanted. While these types of elements can add a feeling of luxury, owners should be careful that every addition meshes with their overall scheme. Incorporating too many must-have features can reduce the sense of airiness and calm. Everything should have a function.
9) Decorate With the Rest of the House in Mind
Decorating a bathroom may be the first chance owners get to create that ultra-sleek, modern space they admired in other homes, but it might not be the best choice in a home furnished in a rustic or farmhouse style.
In fact, every room should fit a house’s overall theme, but that does not always mean giving up original ideas. It is possible to add ultra-modern touches and still maintain a more classic look. For instance, owners could pair a stand-alone tub in a sophisticated shape with traditional brass or copper hardware and add sleek vessel sinks to a vintage-style vanity.
10) Stamp Your Personal Style on Decor
Homeowners who use professional decorating tips do not need to slavishly follow any particular trend. Expert ideas can serve as guidelines that help owners avoid classic mistakes while maximizing available space, but each person can put their own personal touch on projects.
For example, experts might suggest a monochromatic color theme, but that doesn’t mean it has to be limited to light or neutral shades. DIY decorators can use their own favorite colors and add elements that meet their needs. They are far more likely to enjoy finished results that reflect their personal tastes.
Homeowners who are lucky enough to have large bathrooms still face decorating challenges, but professionals have a few tips that can help. Experts advise owners to avoid clutter, use color to create impact, and choose tiles that create a theme. Decorators also suggest creating multifunctional baths, matching spaces with the rest of a home’s decor, and ensuring that a bathroom’s style reflects the homeowner’s tastes.
Rachel is an Austin blogger, educator, mom, wife, young breast cancer survivor writing about health, saving money, and living a happy life in Austin, Texas.
Rachel has written for HuffPost and Hometalk and has been featured on KXAN, Studio 512, Fox 7 Austin, and CBS Austin.