White bathrooms have been in demand and continue to be the desired look. White naturally recedes and reflects light which makes any space look bigger. In the bathroom, white gives the feeling of seamlessness and adds an airy feeling. You can add character by using different shades of white in molding, by using pale stone and tile accents, or using wood, black, or greys. A fresh coat of paint can go a long way. It immediately and dramatically changes the appearance of any room and is perhaps the most cost-efficient home improvement.

If white is not your thing, then don’t make it be! A big, open effect can be obtained with a tone-on-tone palette. Warm beige, soft greys, or faint hues like powdery blue do the trick just right. Bold colors highlight lines and can give the feeling of a confined space. If you are including tile, pick the tile and then choose a wall paint that compliments the hues within the tile. Use the same color for your walls and ceilings.

Adding a natural source of light can be expensive and may not even be structurally feasible for some homeowners. But if you have a budget to work with and the right architecture, windows and skylights are worth it. Windows tend to add value to your home and allow for fresh air to flow through, which is important for bathrooms to prevent mildew/mold. Skylights add unique ambiance and the sky above adds a sense of openness. The next thing to focus on is artificial, electrical lighting. You want to add at least two sources of light. Ceiling lights and lights above or surrounding the mirror are good ideas. This will limit shadow, leaving your bathroom bright and airy. Opt for energy star bulbs to save money!

It is common real estate and design knowledge that mirrors give the illusion of a larger space. However, they also reflect more light into the room and are extremely useful for personal care reasons. Go for a large mirror, at least as big as your vanity. Frameless mirrors are simple and the best choice for space. Try and find a tarnish-resistant coat so it will last you.

Go easy on decorations if you want to maximize space. Although that towel basket may look cute alone, when you add a bunch of accessories in a small area, it gives a busy and crowded feel. Too many shelves and items just take up space. Think about how much you use each thing in your bathroom, and if you really need it out and about. Place it in your vanity drawer if you can! Often times, less is more.

How the heck can you raise your ceiling? Well, you probably can’t, but you can give the impression of it!  By installing a crown molding around the ceiling and painting it the same color as the ceiling, you can make your ceiling look raised which makes the bathroom seem bigger. This feature adds depth and illudes space. Look at the top of the image… doesn’t it look like the ceiling is high up?

Floating vanities are chic options for small bathrooms. It adds an extra layer of storage if you need it, and if not it will supply breathing room to the bathroom. You will be surprised; in a very small space, having a little bit more room to plant your feet can make a big difference.

Our final suggestion, but one of the most dramatic ways to upgrade your bathroom, is by replacing your shower curtain with a glass panel. This creates a visual wall which makes it seem like there is another section of the bathroom, making it seem like there is extra square footage. If you are invested in the bathroom remodel, and have a standard tub, considering getting rid of it and installing a walk-in shower. Walk-in showers are in style and usually have great ROI. By removing your porcelain tub, you free up walking space, reduce obstruction, and improve functionality and safety.