Pro Tips: Skip These 13 Bathroom Design Mistakes!

As an interior designer, I’ve had the privilege of transforming countless bathrooms into stylish and functional spaces that reflect the personalities and preferences of their owners. Over the years, I’ve come across numerous design choices that make me cringe. 

In this article, I’ll share my insights on several design elements I’d never include in a bathroom. 

13. Ignoring Privacy

In crafting a master bathroom design that prioritizes privacy, meticulous consideration of the placement of windows, doors, and bathroom fixtures is paramount. Windows, for instance, should be strategically positioned to allow for natural light while safeguarding personal space. Frosted glass or window treatments can be employed to strike a balance between illumination and seclusion.

12. Inadequate Ventilation

Proper ventilation is paramount in a bathroom. I’d never design a bathroom without a sufficient ventilation system. Poor ventilation can lead to mold and mildew issues, which can damage both your bathroom’s aesthetics and your health.

Ensure your bathroom has a functional exhaust fan or a window that can be opened to allow fresh air circulation.

11. Floor-to-Ceiling Tile

For home owners looking to make an impact in their bathroom, floor-to-ceiling tiles can be an expensive and difficult-to-update choice. Rather than going wall-to-wall, consider using tiles strategically for accents or focal points to achieve an elegant, luxurious look.

This approach will create a more timeless style that won’t be outdated as trends change.

10. Over-the-Top Color Schemes

While bold color choices can be enticing, an excessive or clashing color scheme can quickly overwhelm a bathroom. As an interior designer, I’d never opt for chaotic colors in my designs.

Instead, I recommend choosing a well-balanced color palette that incorporates soothing neutrals with subtle pops of color through accessories, towels, and décor items.

9. Black Toilets

While black toilets may seem chic and modern, they can be challenging to keep clean and might remind some of less-than-pleasant restroom experiences. A white toilet may show dust, watermarks, and smudges, but a black one can hide grime and buildup.

If you want to introduce a moody-chic look, consider using black accents in towel rods and fixtures instead.

8. Unprotected Wallpaper

For homeowners with smaller spaces, wallpaper can be a great option to add a stylish touch. However, not all types are suitable for bathrooms. If you’re looking to add wallpaper to a bathroom, I recommend peel-and-stick wallpaper with a vinyl material. This type of wallpaper is more resistant to water damage than paper-based alternatives.

If you prefer more traditional wallpaper, you can add it to a powder room or half-bath without fear of water damage. Just remember to apply a protective coating to the wallpaper to prevent any damage.

7. Countertops

Grid tiles add a stylish personal touch to your bathroom, but their grout can be a real headache to maintain. High-traffic areas like bathroom vanities or kitchen countertops can cause dirt and discoloration from soap, makeup, and lotion to quickly accumulate.

Save yourself the frustration and opt for using grid tiles as a backsplash or on shower walls instead – you’ll have the beautiful appearance without the hassle of cleaning grimy grout.

6. Themed Artwork

Treat your bathroom walls like you would any other room in your house by selecting artwork that both inspires and complements the home’s color scheme. Make sure to choose pieces that can withstand the steam to avoid mildew formation.

Elevate the look of your bathroom with art that adds personality and style, instead of settling for strictly bathroom-themed artwork.

5. Frameless Vanity Mirrors

Beveled-edge frameless mirrors might be a safe choice, but they can give off an outdated vibe. Amp up your space with a framed mirror that ties in with your color palette and existing hardware finishes to create a unified look.

With a framed mirror, you can make a statement and elevate the style of your bathroom.

4. Pedestal Sinks

Pedestal sinks may be stylish, but most home owners should steer clear – they offer limited storage and counter space, making them impractical for most homes. Unless you have a separate storage solution nearby. 

In my opinion the only caveat is a powder room where there just isn’t sufficient space for anything else.

3. Insufficient Storage

Storage is essential in any bathroom design. I’d never overlook this aspect of design, as inadequate storage can lead to a cluttered and disorganized space.

Incorporate clever storage solutions such as built-in cabinets, shelves, or floating vanities to keep bathroom essentials neatly organized, maintaining a clean and visually pleasing environment.

2. Cheap Bathroom Accessories

Tired of plastic accessories detracting from the look of your bathroom? Upgrade to non-plastic, higher-quality options like metal or ceramic finishes to give your space a touch of luxury and charm. Not only will it add a polished look to your bathroom, but also increase its visual appeal. 

Stylish and sophisticated, metal and ceramic bathroom accessories provide a timeless feel that won’t sacrifice on quality.

1. Flat or Matte Paint

For home owners, glossy paints are the best way to protect bathroom drywall from moisture damage. Unlike flat or matte paints, glossy paint won’t absorb moisture, leaving your bathroom better protected. Switching to semi-gloss or high-gloss paints can provide superior protection without sacrificing your desired aesthetic.

My goal is to create beautiful, functional, and harmonious spaces that reflect my clients’ tastes and needs. By avoiding these design choices in your bathroom, you can ensure that your space remains visually appealing, functional, and a joy to use.

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