For as long as I can remember, I’ve always envisioned my bathroom as a place of serenity—a sanctuary where I could relax, unwind, and feel at peace. But I never imagined that vision would come to life in my current 1920s historic rental apartment. When I first moved in, I didn’t plan on tackling the bathroom at all. It was functional enough, with freshly painted walls, and there were other areas that demanded more immediate attention. However, as time went on, I realized that my bathroom—though small—had the potential to become one of the most important spaces in my home. After all, it’s the place where I start my day and decompress at night. Why shouldn’t it reflect the atmosphere I want to create for myself?
So, after some thought and a bit of convincing, I decided to make a few updates to transform my tiny rental bathroom into the sanctuary I had always dreamed of. Here are five small, yet impactful, changes I made that completely altered the vibe of my space.
1. Paint It—And Don’t Forget the Ceiling!
I’ll admit, the thought of painting a bathroom initially made me nervous. But I’m so glad I took the plunge! Painting can be one of the easiest and most affordable ways to refresh any room, especially a bathroom. Plus, in a rental, it’s a change that can easily be reversed when you move out.
The first step was deciding on a color. My designer, Danielle, suggested a soft pink—a hue that mimics the warm, inviting tones of my kitchen. While white walls can be safe, they can also feel a bit uninspired. This pink, though, is surprisingly versatile and neutral enough to complement a variety of other colors and accessories. It turned out to be the perfect backdrop for my bathroom, giving the room a fresh, calming vibe without being overpowering.
Don’t be afraid to take it a step further and paint the ceiling, too! Painting the entire room the same color—including the ceiling—creates a cohesive, seamless look that enhances the space. It may seem like a small detail, but it makes a significant difference in the overall feel.
2. Upgrade the Sink—It Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive
My original sink was a relic from the 1920s—cream-colored and in dire need of replacement. It was functional, but not aesthetically pleasing. I decided to swap it out for a classic pedestal sink from Signature Hardware. It was an affordable update that instantly elevated the space. While pedestal sinks are a great option, they aren’t the only choice. If you’re looking for something even more luxe, consider a console sink with gold hardware for a statement piece that feels both vintage and modern.
However, if you’re in a rental and can’t replace your sink, Danielle had a brilliant suggestion: consider a sink skirt. This affordable trick can hide unsightly pipes and create extra storage space while still allowing you to add personality to the bathroom.
3. Swap Out the Hardware
Upgrading hardware is another simple yet effective way to refresh your space. I decided to swap out my sink faucet for something a bit more luxurious—again from Signature Hardware. The new faucet has a vintage charm that complements the other elements in the bathroom and ties the room together beautifully.
I also replaced all the other hardware, from the towel racks to the toilet paper holder, to maintain a cohesive, vintage-inspired aesthetic. One thing I learned through this process is that you don’t have to be afraid of mixing metals. While the rest of my apartment features polished brass, I opted for a combination of polished and brushed nickel for the bathroom. The contrast of different finishes added visual interest without feeling chaotic. Mixing metals can be a beautiful way to personalize your space and create a harmonious balance.
4. Customize Your Shower Curtain
One of the easiest ways to make a bathroom feel more polished and intentional is by upgrading the shower curtain. Rather than opting for a mass-produced, off-the-shelf curtain, I decided to have one custom-made. This allowed me to choose my fabric, add a personal trim, and determine the length—whether it grazed the floor or stopped just short. This customization helps the curtain fit perfectly into the space, making the room feel more tailored and luxurious.
I chose a simple white fabric with a green trim to tie in with the other green accents throughout my apartment. Hanging the curtain as high as possible also creates the illusion of more space by drawing the eye upward, making the room feel larger and more open.
5. Accessorize for Style and Functionality
Just like with any other room in the home, accessories are key to making a bathroom feel cohesive and well-designed. I firmly believe in the power of well-chosen accessories to elevate a space. For my bathroom, I added a few key pieces, such as a wicker laundry hamper with a lid and matching storage baskets. These additions not only helped organize the space but also enhanced its overall aesthetic. The texture of the wicker complements the vintage elements in the room, adding warmth and depth.
Danielle was spot-on with her advice: “Sometimes, the simplest and smallest of textures can add so much depth and layer to a room.” A few well-chosen accessories can really make a bathroom feel complete and put-together.
These five simple updates completely transformed my bathroom into a space that now feels like a sanctuary. From the soft pink walls to the luxurious hardware, every detail has been carefully chosen to create a serene and welcoming atmosphere. The best part is that these changes didn’t require a huge renovation or an extravagant budget. Instead, they focused on thoughtful, small upgrades that have had a big impact on how I experience the room.
Now, when I step into my bathroom, I feel a sense of calm and tranquility—whether I’m starting my day with a warm shower or unwinding in the evening. It’s the perfect place to retreat and recharge, and I couldn’t be more grateful that my dream bathroom is now a reality, even in a rental.
If you’re thinking about transforming your own bathroom into a sanctuary, remember: it’s all about the details. A little paint, a few strategic upgrades, and the right accessories can go a long way in creating a space that feels both functional and beautiful. Your bathroom deserves to be a retreat, too!