This builder basic bathroom was in need of some character, personality, and warmth to really bring the space to life. The vision was a modern, southern California spa feel, to be achieved with only cosmetic upgrades and humble budget. For a primary bathroom, the space is pretty small, but equipped with a beautiful walk-in shower and white oak vanity that we wanted to build off of and complement.

I knew a wall treatment would help to elevate the space, so in keeping with the modern esthetic of the home, added a double layer of half-round moulding just shy of the ceiling, which added some visual interest and playfulness, while also making these 8’ ceilings feel taller. The walls are painted a timeless beige with dusty apricot undertones (Behr lambskin), which warms up the colder feeling shower and floor tile. Swapping out the vanity light fixture for one with wood and black accents also brought in more natural elements and coordinated with new wavy cabinet pulls and toilet paper holder, also in a black finish. This bathroom was in desperate need of storage to declutter the limited countertop space. We added a surface-mounted medicine cabinet with black frame and rounded edges that balances out the more square features of the vanity and tile, and the added storage is a game changer. Lastly, we swapped out the towel bars for earthy, speckled handmade ceramic hooks that add a touch of whimsy, while also being much more functional and tripling the hanging space.

Styling was the last element to give this bathroom it’s spa vibes - we added a few faux plants (because of no natural light), candles, a trendy wavy bowl, waffle towels in relaxing sage green, DIY Matisse-inspired artwork, and some wood accents to keep decor items together, like the small stool and countertop riser.