A well-designed bathroom can be a sanctuary. But even minor missteps – like mismatched towels or rusted fixtures – can ruin the mood of an entire home. Designers know what doesn’t work, and here are eight things in your bathroom that instantly give them the “ick.”
Outdated Vanity Lighting
Vanity lights are often overlooked, but a dusty, outdated fixture casts an unflattering glow. If your lighting has seen better days, upgrade it. Cooler 5000K bulbs are best for tasks like makeup application, providing brighter, clearer illumination.
Mold-Prone Carpeting
Carpeting in bathrooms is both an aesthetic and health hazard. Bathrooms are humid, and carpets absorb moisture like sponges, creating a breeding ground for mildew and mold. If you want plush underfoot, opt for oversized, washable bath mats instead.
Vessel Sinks: A Cleaning Nightmare
Vessel sinks sit on countertops, trapping grime, watermarks, and soap scum. Their design also causes more splashing, leading to water damage. Under-mount or drop-in sinks are easier to clean and offer a more modern look.
Privacy-Lacking Barn Doors
Barn doors aren’t suitable for bathrooms due to privacy, humidity, and sound concerns. If space is tight, a pocket door is a better alternative, providing a cleaner, more sealed look.
Rusted Shower Caddies
Shower caddies are functional but rarely attractive. They rust easily. Consider shower niches for storage during renovations, or choose sleek, non-rustable caddies if that’s not possible. Uniform glass bottles for products can also help reduce clutter.
Chaotic Toiletries
Disorganized shampoo bottles and exposed cotton swabs create clutter. Store toiletries in glass containers for a cleaner, more cohesive appearance. This also saves space on countertops and inside cabinets.
A Center-Stage Toilet
An exposed toilet is uninviting. If possible, place the vanity between the door and the toilet to shield it from view. No matter how luxurious your toilet is, it can’t compete with a sleek vanity.
A Towel Free-for-All
Mismatched towels cheapen the look. Keep towels uniform in color and design, even if they’re from a big-box store. Matching towels create a more sophisticated, cohesive feel.
In conclusion, small details matter in bathroom design. Eliminating these common mistakes will transform your space into a stylish, functional retreat, not just another room in the house. A thoughtful approach to lighting, materials, and organization makes all the difference.
