12 Ways To Make Your Bathroom Feel Luxe

By Amanda Mushro , Lowe Saddler
Contributor, Editor
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If the design, decor and organization in your bathroom have you throwing in the towel, it’s time to give your bathroom a luxe remodel. When you walk into the space, you can feel like you’re stepping into a fabulous hotel or amazing spa retreat that just happens to be in your home. Whether you’re working with an ensuite or a powder room, creating luxury does not have to cost a lot.

These 12 tips will help you create a luxury bathroom in a flash.

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1. Splurge on the Towels

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If the towels in your bathroom are mismatched and beginning to look tattered and threadbare, splurging on luxe replacements will be a treat that instantly makes your space look more luxurious. While you may be tempted to grab few towels in different colors, white options are the easiest to maintain and can create a spa like feel in your bathroom.

Since white towels won’t lose their color or fade, you won’t have to replace them as often. When choosing, opt for thick and soft fabric that make you feel like you’re staying in a five star hotel.

2. Ditch the Builder Grade Tub

The tub is one of the most distinctive features in the bathroom. If you’re planning a full remodel and want to add instant luxury, stay away from the traditional builtin tub and opt for a freestanding version instead. From a soaker tub to a clawfoot, a gorgeous freestanding basin adds instant luxury to any bathroom and creates a dramatic focal point in the space.

The tub will look like a piece of art. Added bonus: Since the freestanding tub is not attached to any walls, it will creates the illusion of more space. This is a great design trick to make your smaller bathroom look bigger and feel more spacious.

3. Upgrade the Showerhead

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Not only will it give you a more enjoyable bathing experience, but an upgraded shower head will also give the entire room a more sophisticated look. It’s a cheap bathroom upgrade that makes an impact. In many cases, swapping out the shower head is simply a matter of unscrewing the existing shower head and replacing it with a new one. If you’re adding more than one shower head or moving the plumbing, you’ll want to talk to an expert first.

4. Declutter the Space

It’s time to clear the countertops in your bathroom, streamline the products in your shower and put your bathroom storage solutions to work. A cluttered bathroom may create a lived-in vibe, but that’s not necessarily luxurious. So minimize the amount of items that are on display in the bathroom and carefully choose containers to house the items that you leave in view.

Add a few hooks for towels and robes and coordinating containers for the other items that need to be hidden in plain sight for easy access.

5. Elevate the Lighting

Great lighting is a must in any bathroom, but you don’t have to choose boring and basic options to illuminate the space. Over the tub, swap out a builder grade fixture and replace it with a chandelier that matches the bathroom aesthetic (as long as you follow National Electrical Code guidelines for your state). Glam up the vanity lights and make sure the recessed lighting is updated so it doesn’t give off a yellow tone.

A lighted vanity mirror will also help give your bathroom a modern look. Plus, the ability to adjust the brightness will quickly become your favorite feature. Pro tip: Put your other lighting on a dimmer so you can create a relaxing mood and have the option to go darker for a spa experience and brighter when you are getting ready.

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6. Incorporate Smart Bathroom Trends

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Go ahead and treat yourself to some smart home tech that will transform your bathroom into a luxurious retreat that feels almost futuristic. From heated towel racks and warming drawers that keep your bathroom linens feeling toasty and smart showers that turn on and warm the water to the perfect temperature, these upgrades will make the bathroom your favorite room in the house.

Even voice activated lights, self cleaning toilets and a bidet add comfort and convenience to your bathroom.

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7. Pull up a Chair

The cabinets aren’t the only furniture you can put in your bathroom. If you’re designing in a space that has plenty of room, add a touch of luxury by adding well placed seating options. Try a gorgeous chaise lounge, a modern wooden stool, an upholstered bench or a fabulous chair to create a place that allows you to relax, put up your feet and enjoy your beautiful space. In the shower, a bench could also be a fabulous addition for design and comfort.

8. Hang Art

Don’t leave the walls in the bathroom bare. Instead curate art that looks and feels like it would work in any room in your home. For larger spaces, choose oversize designs and for smaller spaces, opt for matching frames and create a small gallery wall of beautiful images. Adding art to your bathroom doesn’t have to break the bank, but it can make a big difference in the overall design.

9. Bring in Flowers and Plants

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Add a little life to the bathroom by bringing in blooms and some greenery. From hanging eucalyptus in the shower to adding a beautiful monochromatic bouquet in a vase to the counter and hanging a few airplants, adding a bit of nature will create a luxe feeling that’s more than fresh.

10. Take a Look at the Mirror

If you’re able to replace more builder grade items, the mirror can be next on your list. This is where you can get creative and have fun with your choice. Add a pair of metal frame mirrors from the flea market or choose an ornate option with tons of personality. If you’re stuck with the oversize slab of mirror on your wall, grab a mirror framing kit and DIY this project for a quick fix.

11. Replace the Bath Mat

If your bath mat has seen better days, it’s time to toss it. However, when you’re looking for the replacement, browse other rug options for a more sophisticated space. While the fluffy bath mats feel cozy, a Persian rug in the bathroom will add texture, color and plenty of personality.

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12. Refresh the Hardware

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If the current hardware in your bathroom is looking drab and dated, it’s time for a modern refresh. This small change is something you can DIY for a huge difference in the overall look of the room. Go with matte black to stay on trend or opt for brass or warm gold for a more classic look.

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