For as long as I can remember, I’ve dreamed of having a bathroom that feels like a retreat — a little sanctuary tucked away from the chaos of the day. The kind of space that greets you with calm in the morning and lets you exhale at night. What I didn’t expect was that my 1920s rental apartment would be the place where that dream finally took shape.
When I first teamed up with Danielle to refresh my apartment, we didn’t even include the bathroom in the plans. It was already freshly painted, in decent shape, and not high on my list of priorities. But as we wrapped up the other rooms, I realized that this small space deserved just as much love. After all, it’s where I start and end every day — why shouldn’t it feel special?
Here are five small but impactful ways I elevated my little rental bathroom into a space that feels like my own private spa.
1. Embrace the Power of Paint (Yes, Even the Ceiling)
I’ll admit, painting the bathroom gave me pause at first — especially since it’s a rental. But once I took the leap, I was amazed at how transformative a coat of paint could be. Danielle encouraged me to use the same soft pink I had in my kitchen, a shade that reads more like a neutral than a bold statement. The warmth of the color completely shifted the mood of the room.
And here’s the thing: it’s an easy update to reverse when moving out. If you’ve been hesitant to paint in a rental, consider starting in the bathroom. Even painting the ceiling can create a cocoon-like effect that makes the space feel intentional and cozy.
2. Upgrade the Sink (Without Breaking the Bank)
The original sink in my bathroom dated back to the 1920s, and while it had charm, it had definitely seen better days. I swapped it for a clean white pedestal sink from Signature Hardware, and suddenly the entire space felt refreshed.
If a new sink isn’t in the cards, there’s an old-school design trick worth trying: add a sink skirt. It hides the plumbing, creates a softer look, and even offers hidden storage underneath. A simple DIY touch like this can go a long way in making a dated bathroom feel considered and charming.
3. Don’t Overlook the Hardware
Sometimes the smallest swaps make the biggest impact. Changing out my faucet and bathroom hardware (think towel racks, toilet paper holder, and hooks) gave the room a luxe yet personal touch. I gravitated toward pieces with a vintage feel that still looked fresh and modern.
Here’s something I learned along the way: don’t be afraid to mix metals. While the rest of my apartment leans heavily on polished brass, I went with nickel finishes in the bathroom. The subtle contrast added character without looking mismatched. It’s proof that your home doesn’t need to follow a single “rule” — it just needs to feel like you.
4. Invest in a Custom Shower Curtain
A shower curtain might seem like an afterthought, but I discovered it can actually be a design moment. I had a custom curtain made with a green trim that tied back to other elements in my apartment. By hanging it from ceiling height rather than just above the tub, we created the illusion of taller ceilings and a more open space.
It’s a small shift with a big payoff: suddenly, the bathroom felt tailored, airy, and more polished. Whether you choose a bold pattern or keep it minimal, treating your shower curtain like décor instead of utility instantly elevates the room.
5. Layer in Thoughtful Accessories
Just like an outfit, accessories are what finish a room. I splurged a little on details like a wicker laundry hamper with a lid and matching storage baskets. These pieces added texture and warmth while also keeping the space tidy. Danielle put it perfectly: sometimes the simplest textures bring the most depth.
It’s amazing how much of a difference these little touches made. The before-and-after transformation wasn’t just about style — it was about creating a space that feels cared for.
Final Thoughts
I never imagined that my historic rental bathroom could become such a calming, personal retreat, but it has. By focusing on manageable upgrades — paint, hardware, a sink swap, and a few accessories — I was able to transform it without a full renovation.
What I love most is that the changes reflect my style while still being renter-friendly. It’s proof that you don’t need a massive budget or a permanent home to create a space that feels special. Sometimes, all it takes is attention to detail and the willingness to give even the smallest rooms the love they deserve.
