I must say coming up with ideas for updating a plain bathroom was a lot easier than taking photos afterwards. With every project I complete I learn something new, which is one reason why I love a challenge.
Ideas For Updating A Plain Bathroom
It’s always a challenge taking photos in a tiny space with very little natural light. Hopefully you can see enough of the details in this skinny bathroom and forgive the shadows.
Of course, I don’t share all my DIY projects, just the ones I think you might enjoy hearing about. For example, painting over the wall murals in this bathroom and replacing the light fixtures last fall was kind of boring but well worth it now.
At the time though, I had zero inspiration for the plain vanilla bathroom and decided to just live with it for a while. Finally, I was inspired to paint the vanity which started the process of selecting a color and the rest of vision fell into place.
To give you an idea of where I started, here’s a photo of removing doors and drawers to prepare for painting.
After picking a bright shade of blue to coordinate with the navy walls around the corner in the entry, I made a list of ideas for the space.
To Do List
- Paint Vanity
- Update hardware with chrome cabinet knobs
- Touch-up paint on moulding and doors
- Re-caulk around toilet and bathtub
- New fluffy white towels
- Artwork for walls
- Toilet paper holder and towel ring
Artwork For Walls
For the longest time, my idea was to create a gallery wall reaching the ten foot ceiling. Unfortunately a small budget can only stretch so far. That’s where the idea of using posters or charts came to mind like the map I have in the entry.
For ideas on charts and maps see the post Updating The Entry Table With Flowers.
The poster artwork has a vintage look with captivating colors that contrast with the bright blue vanity. Not wanting to stick to a particular theme, I picked sea creatures, botanicals and an astrological chart.
Hanging the artwork was fast and easy with poster kits, but you can also make your own with dowels. To vary the look I painted some of the dowels, and left others in the natural wood finish.
There’s not a lot of space to decorate in the bathroom but I did manage to hang six posters. I can still squeeze in small artwork here and there as the gallery wall evolves. In fact, I already changed the clip board adding a postcard and other watercolors.
Just for fun, I switched the tropical plants and octopods posters. Nothing more amusing than having those eyes follow you. What do you think? Do you like the octopods here or on the gallery wall?
Simple Updates
When updating a bathroom don’t forget about little details such as cabinet hardware. I can’t think of a better way to show off that crisp satin finish paint than with shiny new pulls.
Another way to update a bathroom is by caulking around the tub and toilet. This one simple step makes the room look clean and fresh again.
Fluffy new towels in white complete the bathroom update and can be hung out of the way on door hooks. For more bathroom ideas see the post Fun Ways To Accessorize A Bathroom.
Be sure to follow Thistle Key Lane on Pinterest. The boards are updated daily with seasonal inspiration that you can use right now!
Thanks so much for stopping by for my ideas for updating a plain bathroom. Let me know what you think about the blue vanity.
Cheers!
©2019 Ideas For Updating A Plain Bathroom post first appeared on Thistle Key Lane.
Love that bright blue vanity! And the posters are such a fun addition!
Thanks Janet, it was a daring move but I’m so glad I went with a bright color.
Loving the blue on your cabinets!! I am such a paint person and I think it is the easiest way to change a room with a few dollars. Your watercolors are so beautiful Michelle!! That starfish is just so lovely!
Cindy, you’re so right about how easy it is to change a room with paint. I’m still so excited about the bright blue cabinets. Thanks for noticing the watercolors! 🙂
The posters are so beautiful and creative idea! They add personality and character to the bathroom, while the blue cabin makes it more peaceful and relaxing, which is exactly what everyone needs after a long day. A true modern oasis! Thanks for sharing this!
Hi Katarina, I like your description of a “modern oasis” which is exactly how this bathroom feels. Thanks so much for the sweet comments!
Adding the splash of blue with the white makes the bathroom looks so fresh and crisp! Great idea adding the large coastal artwork.
Thanks Allyson, we have enjoyed the color change so much!
I a;ways enjoy a nautical theme so I really enjoyed your prints and that bright blue. My full bathroom has robin’s egg blue walls and 18 (some very small) Monet prints! Dry off from your shower and get your art appreciation in at the same time!
Kathy, I love the idea of using a collection of Monet prints, and robin’s egg blue is so soothing. I would never want to leave! Thanks so much for commenting on the post!