If your bathroom is doing nothing more than serving as a functional space, it’s time to inject some creativity into its design.

There are plenty of ways to add unique touches to even a small bathroom. If you’re looking for inspiration, these unconventional design ideas should help you transform your bathroom into a space that feels fresh and stylish.

Statement Ceilings

Most people focus on the home’s walls and floors, and we’re all used to seeing a statement floor in a bathroom—but how about a statement ceiling?

Consider going for a bold ceiling color or even use patterned wallpaper (yes, this actually can look incredible) to add a unique flare to your bathroom. Don’t trust yourself to do a good job? Hire a professional home painter like pemcopainting.com.

If you want something even more dramatic than a wallpapered ceiling, consider installing a skylight. Flooding your bathroom with natural light will instantly make the space feel bigger and more inviting. Just make sure it ticks the boxes for privacy!

Unconventional Materials

Who said that bathrooms had to be limited to tile and porcelain? Some of the most interesting bathroom designs we’ve seen use concrete, raw plaster, and even wood to create a stunning, unique look.

If you’re looking to be inspired, consider installing a sealed wood vanity or a teak shower floor to add warmth to your bathroom, or hop on the industrial trend with brushed metal sinks.

Open Concept Showers

Having a conventional shower cubicle is becoming a less and less attractive bathroom design feature—not to mention all the extra cleaning work required.

If you want to give your shower a sleeker, more spa-like feel, upgrade to a frameless, walk-in shower with minimal barriers. And if your bathroom has a lot of space, you might even want to go for a completely open shower with no door, floor, or curtain (just make sure the floor is slightly sloped to direct the runoff to the drain).

Freestanding Tubs in Unexpected Places

If you like the look of freestanding tubs, don’t just shove one in the corner of your room as you would with a built-in model.

Depending on your bathroom size and layout, your options could be endless: putting the tub near a window creates a relaxing space with a view, and you could even integrate the tub into your bedroom if you have an en-suite bathroom and want to feel like you’re living in a 5-star hotel.

For a more sculptural look, consider investing in a black, matte stone tub. The contrast against light-colored walls looks incredible.

Humidity-Loving Plants

Plants instantly make any room feel more welcoming—and why should your bathroom be any different? Certain plants, like ferns and snake plants, love warm, humid conditions, making them perfect for this space.

If you have enough light, you might also want to decorate with orchids or peace lilies to add a soft natural touch. And if you don’t trust yourself as a plant mom, you always have the option of an artificial alternative.

Takeaway

Your bathroom should feel just as stylish and welcoming as the rest of your home. Making these unconventional design choices can help you turn it into a space that feels fresh, luxurious, and unique to your personal tastes.