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How To Accessorise Your Bathroom | A Complete Style Guide
Your bathroom might just be one of the most important rooms in your house to accessorise. This is down to the fact that bathroom accessories are usually functional in the sense that they serve more purpose than just adding aesthetics to your space. While bathroom accessories and décor can reflect your style and enhance your overall interior design, they’re also practical. We’ve put together a complete guide that takes you through the steps for how to accessorise your bathroom and get the most out of your bathroom décor. Plus, we’ll cover why bathroom accessories are important and take a look at how much you should be spending on this project. Let’s dive in!
Explore our full range of bathroom products to suit every space and interior design style.
Image credit: Hemma Interiors | The Palm Co
What Do You Need to Accessorise Your Bathroom?
Accessorising your bathroom involves more than just picking out a few decorative items; it requires a thoughtful approach to selecting pieces that enhance both the room's aesthetics and functionality. Your list of essential accessories includes mirrors, storage solutions, towel rails, bath mats, decorative lighting, and more. Plus, you also have to consider decorative items such as plants, artwork, stylish vanity additions, and other key elements.
The key is to choose items that not only look great but also contribute to an organised, relaxing environment.
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Image credit: Hemma Interiors | The Palm Co
Image credit: Hemma Interiors | The Palm Co
How Much Should You Spend on Bathroom Accessories?
Everyone’s budget for their bathroom accessories will vary. The total amount you want to spend will depend on your overall goals and the quality of the items you’re aiming for. It’s definitely possible to find budget-friendly options that look chic and are durable, but investing in high-quality pieces can elevate your space significantly.
Setting a budget beforehand is crucial, and remember, it's often better to opt for a few well-chosen, high-quality items rather than cluttering the space with numerous pieces.
Mood board created by The Sanctuary Interior Design on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
Mood board created by Studio Avalyn on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
What Are You Trying to Achieve with Bathroom Accessories?
In the initial stages, it’s important to determine what you’re trying to achieve by accessorising your bathroom. Usually, the answer is pretty straightforward, enhance the functionality while expressing your style. But really have a think about what accessories will achieve that. Is it less clutter on your vanity? Changing the style of your bathroom? Or, maybe you’re not sure what needs to be changed, so you’re looking for inspiration.
The right accessories can make your bathroom more efficient and enjoyable to use, reduce clutter, and add touches of luxury or personality. Whether you're aiming for a minimalist, modern, coastal, or a mix of all three, your accessories should align with your overall design vision while making your daily routine more peaceful and streamlined.
Image credit: @orton.haus | Orton Building | The Palm Co
Image credit: @orton.haus | Orton Building | The Palm Co
Step 1: Define the Interior Design Style of Your Bathroom
Before purchasing any accessories, it's important to define the interior design style of your bathroom. Are you leaning towards a contemporary, minimalist, traditional, or perhaps a coastal style? Your chosen style will influence the types of accessories you select, ensuring a cohesive and harmonious look. For instance, a coastal bathroom might feature a range of white pieces with natural décor, whereas a modern bathroom might take a more tonal, monochromatic approach.
Explore 12 Japandi Bathroom Ideas for some bathroom inspiration.
Image credit: The Palm Co
Image credit: The Palm Co
Step 2: Define the Functional Bathroom Accessories You Need to Purchase First
Before you dive head first into gorgeous bathroom décor, it's essential to choose your functional bathroom accessories first. This way, you can prioritise the important pieces that will serve and enhance your everyday life. Then, you can choose additional accessories and décor that take more of an aesthetic approach.
By following this method, you will also reduce the amount of clutter and unwanted purchases that can use up your budget pretty quickly. For example, you know your bathroom lacks storage solutions, so you may need to think about purchasing baskets, drawers, or shelves to solve this problem. You can then decorate around this functional piece, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
It’s just important to consider what you need to make the space work better for you. This might also include a heated towel rail, extra hooks, or even an LED mirror. These essentials should not only serve their purpose but also blend seamlessly with your chosen design style.
Mood board created by Sixoaksoasis on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
Round 400mm Vitreous China Counter Top Basin from Raymor on Tradelink
Step 3: Make a Bathroom Mood Board
So, now that you’ve got your budget, your chosen interior design style, and essential pieces, it’s time to make a mood board. Creating a mood board can help you visualise how your various accessories will look together in your space. This step is especially important to ensure your functional must-haves work with your chosen style. Plus, if you head to our mood board library, you can view thousands of bathroom mood boards with plenty of inspiration to help you with your project.
Looking for even more bathroom mood board inspiration? See how mood boards worked to bring this renovation project to life.
Mood board created by Jas and Jac on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
Mood board created by Olivia Steel on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
Step 4: Balancing Accessorises in Your Bathroom
Now it’s time to bring your mood board to life within your bathroom. In this step, you’ll begin placing your accessories, so, it’s important to consider the balance of your space, how each item will function, and how they will contribute you your daily routine. Remember less is often more, so avoid overcrowding just one section of your bathroom.
A few small key things we recommend are including trays to organise smaller items, placing hand towels in a subtle location where guests can still access them, and trying to match any above counter accessories, such as soaps and hand lotion, with the base colour of your bathroom. This way, your bathroom will feel more balanced and cohesive.
Image credit: Studio Haus Co | Villa Styling
Step 5: Incorporate Textiles for Comfort and Style in Your Bathroom
Textiles play a crucial role in the bathroom, adding warmth, texture, and colour. We recommend opting for high-quality towels that complement your bathroom's colour scheme. Consider a plush bath mat that not only feels luxurious underfoot but also ties the room's design together.
Image credit: The Barberae | The Palm Co
Image credit: The Barberae | The Palm Co
Step 6: Upgrade Your Bathroom Lighting
Lighting is a key element in creating the right ambiance in your bathroom. Consider layered lighting solutions: task lighting for practical purposes, accent lighting to highlight features, and ambient lighting to set the mood. For example, a dimmer switch can instantly adjust the atmosphere, while chic pendant lights or wall sconces can add both illumination and style. Ensure the lighting fixtures align with your bathroom's overall design theme.
Image credit: AM Interior Studio | Mitchell Guy Kemp Photographer
Step 7: Introduce Greenery to Your Bathroom
Plants can transform a bathroom, adding vitality and a touch of nature. Choose species that thrive in humid environments, such as ferns, bamboo, or aloe vera. Not only do plants enhance the room's aesthetics, but they also improve air quality.
Image credit: Paradigm New | Hap & Co | Nira Creative
Accessorising your bathroom is an opportunity to infuse the space with your personal style while enhancing its functionality. By carefully selecting accessories that align with your design vision and meet your practical needs, you can transform your bathroom into a more inviting, personalised space. Remember, the best bathroom is one that reflects your unique taste and lifestyle, creating a haven that you look forward to using daily.
Mood board created by House of Hali Designs on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you accessorise a bathroom on a budget?
Repurpose Items: Consider how items from other parts of your home could be repurposed in the bathroom. For example, a small stool can become a plant stand or a bath side table.
Focus on Small Changes: Sometimes, replacing small fixtures like handles, towel rails, or a small feature tile can significantly impact the room's look.
Use Paint: A fresh coat of paint on the walls or cabinetry can dramatically change the space without a hefty cost.
How can I make my bathroom nicer?
Deep Clean: Start with a thorough cleaning. A sparkling clean bathroom instantly feels more luxurious and allows you to declutter.
Update Fixtures: Changing out dated tapware, light fixtures, or hardware can modernise the space instantly.
Introduce Textiles: Invest in plush towels, a quality bath mat, and stylish reusable hand towels.
Add Plants: Bring in greenery suited for humid environments to add life and colour.
Incorporate Art: Hang art prints to add a touch of vibrancy or framed photos to personalise the space.
What colour makes a small bathroom look bigger?
Light and bright colours make a small bathroom feel larger. Whites, soft pastels, or pale greys can reflect light, making the space appear airier and more open. Consider painting the ceiling the same color as the walls to blur the boundaries between wall and ceiling, creating an illusion of height.
How do you plan a bathroom layout?
Assess Your Needs: Consider who uses the bathroom and how it's used. A family bathroom has different requirements than a guest bathroom or an ensuite.
Measure Your Space: Accurate measurements are crucial. Note the location of existing plumbing, windows, and doors.
Consider the Essentials: Determine the placement of the main fixtures: toilet, sink, and shower/bath. Remember the clearance needed for each and how they'll be used together.
Think About Storage: Plan for where you'll store toiletries, towels, and other essentials. Ensure there's enough space for cabinets or shelves.
Seek Professional Advice: If possible, consult with a designer or contractor who can offer insights and help optimise the layout for both function and style.
