Is your bathroom stuck in a time warp? From avocado green tiles to outdated brass fixtures, many elements can make your bathroom look like it’s a relic from the past. Fear not, as there are plenty of ways to bring it up to speed with modern times.
Whether you’re looking to make small tweaks or significant changes, we’ve got you covered with 26 reasons your bathroom might look dated and, more importantly, what you can do to refresh it!
1. Avocado Green Tiles
Avocado green was a hit in the ’70s, but now it’s more of a fossil than a favorite. These tiles scream retro, but not in a good way. The color can make your bathroom look dreary and outdated. Luckily, replacing them with neutral or vibrant tiles can breathe new life into your space.
Consider options like subway tiles or soft pastel colors for a more contemporary look. With a little tile work, your bathroom can transform from drab to fab in no time!
2. Brass Fixtures
Brass fixtures once had their moment, but that moment has passed. Today, they often look tarnished and tired. The good news is, swapping them out for sleek chrome or brushed nickel can instantly modernize the space.
Not only do new fixtures bring a fresh vibe, but they also work better with today’s water-saving technologies. Plus, the change can be a fun DIY weekend project if you’re feeling handy. Revitalize your bathroom’s appeal with just a few new fixtures!
3. Floral Wallpaper
Floral wallpaper might remind you of grandma’s house, and that’s not ideal for a modern bathroom. Peeling corners and faded patterns can make the space look neglected. If you want a fresh start, consider repainting the walls with trendy colors.
Alternatively, use contemporary wallpaper designs that add a touch of elegance without overpowering the room. It’s time to say goodbye to the garden party and hello to sleek sophistication!
4. Carpeted Floors
Carpeted bathroom floors are a relic of the past. They harbor dirt and moisture, making them both impractical and unhygienic. Rip out that carpet and opt for tiles, laminate, or vinyl flooring. These materials not only provide a clean and modern look but are also much easier to maintain.
Plus, they offer the opportunity to introduce pattern and color, adding another layer of style to your bathroom.
5. Hollywood Vanity Lights
The Hollywood vanity lights might have you feeling ready for your close-up, but they don’t do your bathroom any favors. These bulbs can cast harsh shadows and make the space feel dated. Swap them out for modern LED fixtures or backlit mirrors.
These alternatives provide better lighting and a more contemporary feel. With new lighting, your bathroom can shine in a whole new way, making it both functional and fashionable.
6. Popcorn Ceilings
Popcorn ceilings once seemed like a good idea, but now they just collect dust. These textured surfaces are difficult to clean and can make your bathroom feel like a relic. Smooth it out by scraping or covering it with a new layer of drywall.
The effort will open up the space, making it look larger and more inviting. A fresh ceiling can be the perfect finishing touch for your bathroom update.
7. Pastel Bathtubs
Pastel bathtubs are like a splash from the past, and not in a refreshing way. These tubs often look worn and out of place in modern homes. Consider reglazing or replacing them with a classic white or a modern freestanding bathtub.
The change will not only update the style but also improve the functionality. A fresh tub is a great investment, turning your bathroom into a serene sanctuary.
8. Curtain Shower Dividers
Curtain shower dividers might seem functional, but they can date your bathroom quickly. Instead, install glass shower doors to add a sleek, contemporary touch. Glass doors are easy to clean and can make the room feel more spacious and open.
Plus, they allow you to show off beautiful tile work. Say goodbye to the curtain call and usher in a more elegant divider that enhances your bathroom’s appeal.
9. Corner Shelves
Corner shelves may keep your toiletries organized, but they can also make your bathroom look cluttered and cramped. Swap them out for built-in storage solutions or sleek wall-mounted cabinets. These alternatives provide a cleaner look and better utilize the space.
Not only will you gain more room for essentials, but your bathroom will also feel more open and inviting. Smart storage is key to a modern, tidy bathroom.
10. Frosted Glass Windows
Frosted glass windows can block natural light and make your bathroom feel dim and closed off. Replace them with clear or frosted glass panels that maintain privacy while allowing more light in. Consider adding window treatments like blinds or shades for style and function.
With the right changes, your bathroom can feel brighter and more welcoming. Let the sunshine in and see your space in a new light!
11. Over-the-Toilet Storage
Over-the-toilet storage might seem practical, but it can also appear cluttered and outdated. Instead, opt for recessed shelving or cabinets that blend seamlessly into the wall. These alternatives offer a cleaner look and more space for essentials.
By minimizing visible clutter, your bathroom will feel more spacious and modern. Rethink your storage solutions and embrace a more streamlined aesthetic!
12. Mismatched Hardware
Mismatched hardware can create a disjointed and chaotic look in your bathroom. To update the space, choose matching fixtures and finishes for a cohesive appearance. Opt for materials like brushed nickel, matte black, or polished chrome to create a unified look.
This small change can make a significant difference in making your bathroom feel more put-together and modern. Harmonize your hardware for a polished transformation.
13. Worn-Out Faucets
Faucets that have seen better days can drag down the entire look of your bathroom.
Swap them out for sleek, modern designs in brushed nickel or chrome. This simple change can inject a fresh, updated feel.
It’s an easy, budget-friendly way to bring a touch of modern elegance to your bathroom.
14. Beige Walls
Beige walls can make your bathroom look bland and uninspired. To refresh the space, consider painting with bold or neutral colors that add a touch of personality. Alternatively, use wallpaper or wall panels to introduce texture and interest.
A new coat of paint or a unique wall treatment can dramatically change the ambiance, making your bathroom feel more lively and inviting. Embrace color and transform your space!
15. Cluttered Countertops
Cluttered countertops can make even the most modern bathroom feel chaotic and messy. To combat this, invest in storage solutions like organizers, trays, or under-sink storage. Keep only the essentials on display, creating a clean and tidy appearance.
With a little organization, your bathroom will look more spacious and serene. A clutter-free countertop is key to a relaxing and inviting space.
16. Traditional Towel Racks
Traditional towel racks can make your bathroom look old-fashioned and uninspired. Swap them out for modern, stylish alternatives like heated towel rails or sleek hooks. These options not only add a touch of luxury but also enhance functionality.
With updated towel storage, your bathroom can feel more contemporary and inviting. Upgrade your towel racks and enjoy a more stylish and efficient space.
17. Wood Paneling
Wood paneling might have had its heyday, but now it can make your bathroom feel dark and dated. Consider removing it and replacing it with painted drywall or tile. This change will open up the space and give it a modern refresh.
Alternatively, if you love the wood look, opt for lighter, more contemporary finishes. Revamp the walls and watch your bathroom transform into a brighter, more inviting room.
18. Outdated Medicine Cabinets
Outdated medicine cabinets can make your bathroom feel like it’s stuck in a time warp. Replace them with sleek, mirrored cabinets that offer both storage and style. These modern alternatives can enhance the space’s aesthetic and provide better functionality.
With a new cabinet, your bathroom will look more organized and appealing. Upgrade your storage solutions and enjoy a refreshed, contemporary vibe.
19. Old Shower Heads
Old shower heads can make your bathroom feel outdated and inefficient. Upgrade to a modern, water-saving model that offers better performance and style. This small change can enhance your shower experience while reducing water consumption.
With a new shower head, your bathroom will feel more modern and eco-friendly. Enjoy a refreshing update that combines style with sustainability.
20. Dated Lighting Fixtures
Dated lighting fixtures can make your bathroom feel dark and unwelcoming. Replace them with modern, energy-efficient options like LED or pendant lights. These upgrades can improve both the aesthetics and functionality of the space.
With better lighting, your bathroom will feel brighter and more inviting. Illuminate your space with style and enjoy a more pleasant ambiance.
21. Plastic Soap Dishes
Plastic soap dishes can make your bathroom feel cheap and outdated. Replace them with elegant, modern soap dispensers or trays made from materials like glass or ceramic.
These alternatives add a touch of sophistication and improve the overall look of the space. Upgrade your soap storage and enjoy a more contemporary and stylish bathroom.
22. Vinyl Shower Liners
Vinyl shower liners can make your bathroom feel outdated and unkempt. Swap them out for fabric liners or glass doors for a cleaner, more modern look.
These choices not only improve the aesthetics but also enhance the functionality of the space. With a new shower liner, your bathroom will feel fresher and more inviting.
23. Heavy Curtains
Heavy curtains can make your bathroom feel dark and dated. Replace them with light, airy window treatments like blinds or sheer curtains.
These options allow more natural light to enter, creating a brighter and more welcoming space. With updated window coverings, your bathroom will feel more open and stylish.
24. Rusty Radiators
Rusty radiators can make your bathroom feel old and inefficient. Consider replacing them with sleek, modern heating solutions like underfloor heating or wall-mounted radiators.
These upgrades not only improve the aesthetics but also enhance the comfort and efficiency of the space. With a new heating solution, your bathroom will feel more modern and inviting.
25. Outdated Vanity
An outdated vanity can make your bathroom feel tired and uninspired. Replace it with a modern, stylish alternative that offers both functionality and style. Consider options with clean lines, ample storage, and contemporary finishes.
With a new vanity, your bathroom will feel more organized and appealing. Upgrade your space and enjoy a refreshed, modern vibe.
26. Old Tile Patterns
Old tile patterns can make your bathroom feel like a relic from the past. These intricate designs, often in muted or drab colors, create a sense of clutter and age. This visual complexity is a hallmark of bygone eras, leaving the space feeling cramped and outdated.
Modernize the space by opting for sleek, simple tiles in neutral tones. Consider subway tiles or large-format tiles that promote a cleaner aesthetic and give the illusion of more space.
The change in tiles can significantly affect the overall ambiance, making it fresher and more inviting.