Bathroom Updates You Can Make in a Weekend

Beautiful bathroom design doesn’t have to be costly. With these seven simple tasks, you can refresh your bathroom — and you don’t need to be a master DIYer to do them.

Scrub down the whole space

Before you make any big decisions, give your washroom a thorough cleaning. Remove rust from metal curtain rods and light fixtures, along with hard water stains in the tub and soap scum on tiles.

After seeing a spick-and-span space, you’ll have more insight into where you need updates. For instance, if you can’t buff out rust stains on a metal light fixture, it’s time to replace it. Or, while scrubbing the tub, you may realize you need to recaulk the perimeter.

Cover your walls

Adding color or texture to walls is a quick and easy way to dramatically update a small space — like a bathroom.

In a cozy powder room, you can be adventurous and apply a funky wallpaper or pick a bright and bold bathroom paint. To add a polished, custom look to the walls, install bathroom wainscoting instead of tiles.

Update your metals

Don’t underestimate the impact of cabinet knobs and drawer pulls. New hardware can transform the appearance of outdated cabinets.

Also consider updating faucets, towel rods, and toilet paper holders. For a sleek and contemporary look, go with nickel. And if you’re looking to warm up the space, try a metal like bronze.

Put some light on the subject

Replace old fixtures, or consider installing sconces on either side of the mirror, or contemporary vanity lighting overhead. If you’re short on wall space, a pendant light fixture is the best route.

To see yourself in the best light, install sconces on either side of the vanity at eye level. A fancy chandelier highlights unique features, like a clawfoot tub, and emphasizes lofty ceilings.

Accessorize appropriately

Accessorize the space with a new bathroom mirror or medicine cabinet. Smaller bathroom decor, like a soap pump, tissue box cover, and beautiful textiles, are easy and affordable ways to adorn your restroom.

To create a spa-like retreat, decorate with soothing shades of blue and white, and accessorize with organic elements like woven baskets, lush plantings, river pebbles and a teak bathmat.

Add more storage

Small spaces call for smart storage. Installing shelving above the toilet and doorway, along with tucking away organizing bins in cabinets, are great options for bathroom storage.

Bathrooms naturally are tight spaces with not much square footage or wall space, so don’t be afraid to use height to your advantage. If you have the space, wheel in a compact multishelf cart, or tuck a tall, narrow cabinet in the corner.

Update surfaces

If a vanity looks outdated and can’t be brought back to life with a can of paint or shiny new hardware, then it’s time to replace it. Prefabricated vanities from big-box hardware stores come in standard sizes and can easily be popped into place.

If tile is chipped or cracked, tear it out and replace it with a classic white porcelain tile or natural slate that will stay relevant years down the road.

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