How to Design a Bathroom: A Step-by-Step Guide

Today I’m sharing how to design a bathroom from start to finish. Designing a bathroom is more than just picking pretty tiles and fixtures—it’s about creating a functional space that reflects your personal style.

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Whether you’re starting from scratch or renovating an existing layout, this guide will walk you through the entire process. I’m also sharing what I learned while designing the bathrooms in my home so you don’t make the same mistakes I did.

For an in-depth visual guide, don’t forget to check out my YouTube video! Below is a detailed breakdown of the process with timestamps so you can follow along.

This post is all about how to design a bathroom!

READ MORE>>> Room Inspiration On Inspired Design Talk 2024

Bathroom Inspiration (0:44)

Before making decisions, it’s important to gather inspiration. This will shape your design vision and help you avoid costly mistakes later.

When designing any space pull all your ideas into a Pinterest board and then narrow them down to your top three. This will help you avoid overwhelm and stay focused. 

• Where to Look: Explore Pinterest, Instagram, and interior design blogs. Search for specific styles like coastal bathrooms, spa-inspired baths, or minimalist designs.
• Showroom Visits: If possible, visit showrooms or home improvement stores to see materials and finishes in person.
• Save Strategically: Save or pin ideas that feel timeless, and avoid overly trendy designs unless you’re willing to update them in a few years.

Go Timeless, Not Trendy

When designing a bathroom, aim for a timeless look rather than chasing trends. Here’s why it matters and how to achieve it:

• Think long-term: Bathroom remodels are a big investment, so choose finishes that will stand the test of time. Focus on classic materials for:
  • Tile
  • Flooring
  • Countertops
  • Cabinets
  • Fixtures
• Beware of showroom traps: Tile showrooms often display trendy looks or mix several styles in small spaces to showcase options. These designs aren’t meant to be copied exactly and can quickly feel dated. Instead, pick versatile, timeless materials that you won’t tire of in 10–15 years.
• Incorporate trends wisely: Add trendy touches with decor, pillows, or accent furniture. These are affordable and easy to swap out when styles change.

By going timeless with your bathroom’s hard finishes, you’ll create a space that feels fresh and stylish for years to come.

Floor Plan (2:30)

The foundation of any great bathroom design is a solid floor plan. Here’s how to get started:

1. Measure Everything: Grab a measuring tape and take note of your bathroom’s dimensions, including doorways, windows, and ceiling height.
2. Note Plumbing Locations: Moving major fixtures like toilets or showers will add more cost to your job so factor that into your budget.
3. Analyze Traffic Flow: Think about how you’ll move around the space. Is there enough room to open doors and drawers without obstruction?

Bathroom Layout Design (3:34)

Once you’ve nailed down the floor plan, it’s time to refine the layout.

• Optimize Functionality: Keep essential fixtures (toilet, sink, shower) within easy reach while maintaining enough space to move comfortably.
• Add Storage Solutions: Recessed shelves or built-in cabinets can maximize space in smaller bathrooms.
• Think Ahead: If this is a family bathroom, will it still meet your needs in five years?

Bathroom Updates

We changed the tub shower combo to a walk-in shower because we have a bathtub on the second floor. I also wanted to change the full-length cabinet to a free-standing vanity with a rectangular under-mount sink.

Centering the vanity off the wall only changed the plumbing by a few inches so the plumber said it was ok when I double-checked with him.

We wanted the bathroom to feel like a hotel or guest bathroom. Hotel bathrooms often have an open-bottom vanity and that’s the look we were going for.

The other change we made was the lighting. We planned to change the overhead vanity light to sconces on either side of the mirror.

Wall, Floor, and Shower Bath Tile (5:39)

Tiles play a huge role in setting the tone of your bathroom. It’s a hard finish and not changing any time soon so it’s very important. 

In a bathroom, the tile selection determines the color palette so it can make or break the design. Here’s what I used and why:

• Shower Walls: Classic white subway tiles which are timeless and easy to clean. I paired them with contrasting Warm Grey grout for added dimension.
• Floor Tiles: Matte black hexagon tiles for a bold yet neutral base.
• Shower Niche: White quartz niche box for functionality and to tie back to the countertop material.

Shower Walls: White Subway Tile

Having learned my lesson the hard way I knew I wanted white subway tile for the shower walls. It’s about as classic as you can get and I was going for a timeless but updated look. Just because you go with subway tile does not mean your bathroom design will be boring. 

There are so many subway tiles to choose from and I probably looked at them all. I ordered samples of any I liked online and I suggest you do the same.

Bathroom Floor: Black Hexagon Tile

Next, I looked for the black hexagon tile that was in my inspiration images. For this, I searched Tilebar for hexagon tile. I ordered different sizes and colors because I like to see my options in person. 

Aside from the main floor which would be the larger hexagon pattern I also ordered the smaller 1” hexagon tile for the shower floor. This is something I learned the hard way.

I was told after the fact that your shower floor tile should be two inches or less or it will crack and that’s exactly what happened in our upstairs bathroom.

Warm Grey Mapei Grout

I went with warm grey ready mixed unsanded grout by Mapei for both bathrooms. The walls and floor have the same grout color.

Grout plays a big role in the look and durability of your bathroom tile. Here’s how I approached it:

• Light grout color concerns: Light-colored grout can get dirty over time, but if it does, you can stain it darker later. I chose Mapei grout, which is high-quality and should hold up well.
• Thin grout lines:
  • Subway tile: 1/16” grout lines for a clean, seamless look.
  • Floor tile: 1/8” grout lines for added durability.
• Sanded vs. unsanded grout: Wider grout lines typically require sanded grout for strength. Always consult with your tile installer to confirm the best option for your specific tiles and space.

Thin grout lines and quality materials make a big difference in creating a polished and durable finish!

Design Mood Board (9:30)

Once I had the tile samples the next step was to create the design mood board. This is the fun part where you get to try different ideas and bring your design to life.  

A design mood board is your roadmap for creating a cohesive space.

• What to Include: Photos of tiles, countertop samples, paint swatches, and images of fixtures or furniture you plan to use.
• Stay Focused: Select one statement element (like a bold floor tile) and keep the rest of the design neutral to avoid visual clutter.

Bathroom Vanity (10:10)

The vanity is often the centerpiece of the bathroom. Here’s how to choose the right one:

• Size Matters: Pick a vanity that fits your space without overwhelming it.
• Customization: I spray-painted my vanity hardware gold to match the rest of the fixtures. Small tweaks like this can make a big impact!
• Storage: Opt for drawers over cabinets if you want to keep your bathroom organized.

Vanity Selection

I looked at white vanity styles from Lowe’s and in the end, decided on the one with less storage and the open bottom. It’s still available in 3 colors and 5 sizes. Other than the symmetrical look I liked that this vanity did not have the countertop included. 

Open Bottom Vanity // Cabinet Vanity

When the countertop is included it will usually be ¾” thick as opposed to 1 ¼ thick and it has predrilled holes which can limit your faucet selection. I wanted a consistent look so the countertop, 4” backsplash, shower sill, niche box, and door threshold were all made out of the same quartz material.

The only thing I wanted to change on the vanity was the silver handles because I knew I was going with gold. I did look at two-tone cabinet pull options but just spray-painted the silver black and added gold rub and buff.

Four years later it has held up pretty well. This is a simple change so don’t let the handle on the vanity stop you from buying the one that fits your space best.

Cambria Quartz Countertop (12:41)

For a high-end, durable finish, I chose a white quartz countertop. The countertop fabricator came to the house and took measurements.

When it comes to bathroom design you’ll usually have fewer options because stone or quartz are available in full slabs. They will usually not cut a small countertop from a large slab and be left with all that waste. 

• Why Quartz? It’s non-porous, stain-resistant, and easy to maintain—perfect for a bathroom.
• Seamless Look: Using the same quartz for the backsplash and shower niche created a clean, cohesive aesthetic.

Cambria Quartz

Below are a few popular colors and patterns from Cambria quartz which is a high-end designer brand to give you an idea of the variety. 

It’s important to look at the entire quartz slab when making a decision. The sample piece is meant to show you a section of the larger pieces.

For example, this one is a condensed area of the larger slab but there’s a lot of white which you wouldn’t know from just looking at the small piece.

So keep that in mind when making a decision. If at all possible look at the full slab or remnant in person. You could also ask to have a picture sent to you, look on the website, or search Pinterest.

Kohler Purist Faucet Collection (15:16)

Early in the process, I decided I wanted gold fixtures and I really liked the look of the Kohler purist faucet in the vibrant brushed modern brass. I have an obsession with faucets and knew this was going to be the star of the show.

It comes in several finishes and styles. I ordered both the low gooseneck spout with cross handles and the low spout with the lever handles so I could see them in person.

Low Gooseneck Spout Cross Handles // Low Spout Lever Handles

Faucets are like the “jewelry” of your bathroom. They’re great for adding a touch of luxury and personality.

• My Choice: The Kohler Purist collection in brushed gold.
• Why I Love It: The sleek design and warm finish add elegance without feeling too flashy.

Sticking with one collection and finish will make the process go much smoother. You may be tempted to cut costs and mix and match but don’t do it. The time you’ll waste trying to get things to match is not worth it.

Purist Handheld Showerbar

We just went with the bar handheld shower option which looks beautiful. I heard that wall-mounted heads give you the best pressure, but the hand shower has worked perfectly for us.

[PIN IT FOR LATER]

I love that it’s adjustable so you can move it up or down depending on the person. It’s also great for cleaning because you can take it off the bar and reach the opposite end of the shower for easy soap cleanup. 

Bathroom Mirror Ideas (19:26)

Now let’s talk about the mirror selection for this bathroom design. For this, I kept it simple. I knew I wanted a round mirror and pulled options I liked online but then I got lucky at Homegoods and found this round 30” gold mirror for $55. 

This is another place where you can go crazy with all the options. There are different shapes, mirrors with LED lights, and medicine cabinets if you need more storage.

If you go with backlit mirrors the built-in lights should be damp-rated for bathroom use. Always check with your electrician to make sure it’s up to code.

Bathroom mirrors are both functional and decorative. Here are some ideas:

• Statement Pieces: Oversized or uniquely shaped mirrors can double as artwork.
• Frameless Mirrors: For a minimalist vibe, choose a frameless design.
• Lighting Considerations: Place mirrors where they can reflect natural or artificial light to brighten the space.

Lighting Ideas (20:32)

Lighting can make or break your bathroom design.

• Layer Your Lighting: Combine overhead fixtures, task lighting, and accent lighting for a balanced look.
• Sconces: I added wall sconces on either side of the vanity mirror for even, shadow-free lighting.

Exhaust Fan (22:04)

For the exhaust fan we went with one that’s so quiet you can hardly even hear it. It’s called the whisper exhaust for a reason.

An exhaust fan is a must-have in a bathroom for good air quality and preventing moisture buildup.

• What to Look For: Choose a fan with the right airflow capacity for your bathroom size.
• Style Options: Newer models are quieter and come in sleek designs that won’t distract from your aesthetic.

Selecting the Right Toilet (22:37)

Let’s talk about the least glamorous but most essential part of the bathroom: the toilet. However, I’d argue that a sleek wall-mounted toilet can be quite stylish! Here are the four most common toilet types to consider:

1. Round Bowl – Perfect for smaller bathrooms due to its compact size.
2. Elongated (Oblong) Bowl – Offers more comfort and is ideal for larger bathrooms.
3. Low-Height Toilet – Suited for children or shorter individuals, making it great for family bathrooms.
4. Comfort-Height Toilet – Comparable to a standard chair height, making it easier to sit and stand.

Other styles to consider:

• Two-Piece Toilets: Budget-friendly and traditional.
• One-Piece Toilets: Easier to clean and more modern.
• Wall-Mounted Toilets: Space-saving but typically more expensive.

For this bathroom, we chose an elongated, comfort-height toilet. While it does take up more space, it’s a noticeable upgrade in comfort compared to the low round toilet in our master bathroom, which I now want to replace.

Although the standard handle is silver, I’m exploring whether a matching gold Kohler handle can be swapped onto the Delta toilet we installed. I’ll keep you updated!

Paint and Wallpaper (23:48)

For this bathroom, we used BM Fresh Start Primer to prep the walls and BM Aura Bath & Spa in Simply White (OC-117) with a matte finish for the walls and ceiling. I went for a clean, crisp white that feels timeless. While premium paints like Benjamin Moore may cost more, their coverage and durability make them worth it.

Wallpaper is trending and a fabulous way to add texture or pattern. For bathrooms, use water-resistant vinyl wallpaper—either peel-and-stick or glued. You can even find vinyl options that look like grasscloth for a high-end look!

In powder rooms without showers, you can go beyond vinyl and choose any wallpaper that complements your style.

Bathroom Decor and Storage (24:44)

Decor is what makes a bathroom feel complete, but it’s important to keep things simple and functional. Here’s how I balanced style and practicality in my bathroom:

• Keep counters clear: If you use your bathroom to apply makeup or get ready, free counter space is a must. I just added only a faux flower vase and a ring holder.
• Towel storage solution: Without a storage closet, I needed a stylish way to store towels. I found a short gold étagère that fit perfectly in the 17″ of space next to the vanity. It holds:
  • Six rolled towels.
  • A basket for toilet paper on the bottom shelf.
  • Canisters for Q-tips and cotton balls on the top shelf.
• Slim garbage can: With limited space near the toilet, I added a sleek black slim garbage can that fits perfectly.
• Elevated toilet brush: Instead of the typical plastic brush, I went with a black metal one for a more polished look.

These small, intentional details make the bathroom functional, stylish, and clutter-free!

• Accessories: Add trays, soap dispensers, and a small vase of greenery.
• Material Choices: Opt for natural materials like wood or stone to add warmth.

Adding Artwork for Personality

Don’t forget artwork—it’s an easy way to add color, style, and personality into your bathroom design.

For this bathroom:

• I repurposed a “Hello Gorgeous” art piece from HomeGoods, relocating it to a new wall.
• I DIYed framed art by designing and printing fun sayings, creating a budget-friendly but impactful statement piece.

Artwork is an easy, budget-friendly way to elevate your bathroom and make it feel truly yours!

The Shower Door Dilemma (27:12)

Let’s talk about the shower door—or rather, the lack of one! Here’s why I skipped it and what I used instead:

• Cost and installation: Shower doors are expensive and often require custom work, especially for non-standard spaces. In my experience with our master bath steam shower, we had to go custom. For this bathroom, the contractor didn’t handle doors, which is typical.
• Original plan: I considered a freestanding shower grid panel. It would have been centered on the 6” shower curb, leaving a 27” clearance to get in and out. While fine for my family, I decided against it for Airbnb guests to avoid potential issues with usability.
• Final decision: I’m so glad I waited! The open design makes the bathroom feel larger and more expansive. If I ever add a door, it’ll likely be a simple, floor-to-ceiling glass panel like in our master bath.
• Current setup:
  • Two white fabric liners and two waffle-texture shower curtains.
  • Gold ceiling-mounted shower rod to draw the eye up and make the space feel taller.
  • Shortened curtains with a simple straight stitch for a perfect fit.
  • Repurposed plastic rods from old blinds for easy curtain movement.
  • Affordable gold double shower curtain hooks from Target. (The gold tone is slightly off but unnoticeable from a distance.)

This budget-friendly, stylish setup works beautifully and keeps the space open and airy!

Bathroom Mistakes to Avoid (29:18)

Here are two final tips from my bathroom design journey I wish I had known earlier:

1. Heated Tile Floors – If your budget allows, go for it! I regret not installing them in our master bathroom.
2. Tile Dye Lots – Always confirm your tiles come from the same dye lot to avoid mismatched shades.

Key takeaway: Home renovations don’t always go as planned. Sometimes, you have to adapt, find a solution, and move on. In the end, it all comes together, and the results are worth it!

Final Thoughts

Designing a bathroom can feel overwhelming, but breaking it into smaller steps makes the process manageable—and even fun! By focusing on timeless choices and adding personal touches, you can create a space that’s both stylish and functional.

You now have a detailed step-by-step guide to bathroom design, complete with lessons from my own experience to help you avoid common pitfalls.

If you love this type of content, check out my course, Designer Home 101—a complete guide to making your home look expensive without a designer.

This post is all about how to design a bathroom!

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