There’s something uniquely challenging about decorating an apartment bathroom. You don’t have endless space, and half the time, you’re dealing with dated tiles, harsh lighting, or restrictions on what you can change. I’ve been in plenty of those spaces staring at the beige walls and wondering how to make them feel even a little inspiring. But here’s what I’ve learned experimenting in my own rentals and helping friends revamp theirs: you don’t need a full renovation to create a bathroom that feels fresh, personal, and genuinely enjoyable to use. Whether you’ve got 3 square meters or 6, small adjustments like rethinking lighting, choosing the right colors, and adding texture can completely change the energy of the room. In this article, I’ll share 15 of my favorite apartment-friendly bathroom ideas that actually work, based on real projects and personal trial-and-error.
Rethink Your Mirror: Go Big or Add Light
One of the first things I changed in my last apartment was the mirror. The original was a sad little rectangle above the sink barely big enough to see my face, let alone style my hair. I replaced it with a large, frameless oval mirror measuring 80 cm x 60 cm (31.5 in x 23.6 in). Instantly, the room felt brighter and more open.
But here’s the pro tip: if you can’t swap the mirror (or want something even more dramatic), install a lighted medicine cabinet. I helped a client do this in a dim 4.5 m² (48 sq ft) bathroom, and the difference was night and day. LED-lit cabinets add both function and ambiance. Look for models with frosted glass and touch sensors they feel luxe and are easy to install over existing cabinets.
Avoid this: Tiny mirrors that don’t reflect enough of the room. They make the space feel smaller and darker.
Paint the Ceiling a Bold Color
This one surprises people, but hear me out. Most bathrooms have white or off-white ceilings. It’s safe. It’s boring. I once painted a bathroom ceiling in a soft matte sage green (RAL 6011), and it completely changed the mood of the room. The color wasn’t loud, but it added warmth and depth you don’t get from white.
Use a moisture-resistant paint—matt or eggshell finish works best—and apply two coats. For renters, peelable paint is a game-changer. Brands like Lick or Samplize offer high-quality peelable paints that come off cleanly. I used a peelable navy on a rental bathroom ceiling, and when I moved out, I just peeled it like wallpaper—zero damage.
Pro tip: Darker ceilings can make a room feel cozier, but in very small bathrooms, stick to soft, muted tones. Test a sample first.
Upgrade Your Lighting with Plug-In Sconces
Apartments rarely have wall sconces near the mirror, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have them. Plug-in sconces are a renter’s best friend. I installed a pair of black metal plug-in sconces on either side of my mirror, running the cord behind the cabinet and down to an outlet. From the front, you’d never know they weren’t hardwired.
Choose sconces with warm white bulbs (2700K–3000K) for a flattering glow. I prefer LED filament bulbs—they look vintage but use minimal energy. Installation took me 20 minutes and cost under ₹4,500 (about $55).
Avoid this: Overhead lighting only. It casts harsh shadows on your face and makes the room feel flat.
Use a Freestanding Vanity (Even Temporarily)
If your bathroom has a pedestal sink or a bulky built-in vanity, consider replacing it with a freestanding one. I did this in a 5 m² (54 sq ft) bathroom using a secondhand wooden console table, 70 cm wide x 45 cm deep (27.5 in x 17.7 in), and a vessel sink. I connected it to the existing plumbing with flexible hoses—no permanent changes.
For renters, this is a bold move, but totally reversible. Just make sure the floor can support the weight when filled with water. I placed a waterproof mat underneath to protect the flooring and added rubber feet to prevent scratching.
Pro tip: Look for vanities with open shelving. They make the floor visible, which tricks the eye into seeing more space.
Add a Floating Shelf with Integrated Lighting
Storage is always tight in apartment bathrooms. My solution? A floating shelf with built-in LED strips. I built one from walnut plywood (60 cm x 20 cm / 23.6 in x 7.9 in) and added a 24V LED strip underneath. It holds my skincare, candles, and a small plant—plus, the soft glow at night is magical.
Mount it at 140 cm from the floor (55 in)—high enough to avoid splashes but easy to reach. Use wall anchors if you’re drilling into drywall. For renters, consider a tension rod-mounted shelf or a heavy-duty adhesive bracket system.
Avoid this: Overloading shelves. Keep it minimal—3–5 items max for a clean look.
Swap Out the Hardware
This is the easiest win. I once transformed a tired bathroom just by replacing the faucet, towel bars, and cabinet pulls with matte black fixtures. The whole space looked instantly more modern.
Spend time choosing cohesive finishes. I prefer matte black or brushed brass—they hide water spots better than chrome. Replacing a faucet takes about 45 minutes with basic tools. I bought a single-hole faucet for ₹3,200 ($40) and did it myself.
Pro tip: Take photos of your existing setup before buying new hardware. Measure the distance between mounting holes (the “centres”) to ensure compatibility.
Hang a Large Art Print (in a Frame)
Bathrooms are often art-free zones, but they shouldn’t be. I hung a 50 cm x 70 cm (19.7 in x 27.6 in) framed botanical print on the wall opposite the shower. It’s protected with a UV-resistant acrylic cover, so humidity won’t damage it.
Choose subjects that feel calming—botanicals, abstract watercolours, or vintage maps. Avoid paper prints without protection. I learned this the hard way when a foggy shower curled the edges of an unframed poster.
Avoid this: DIY canvas prints from online marketplaces. They sag over time and look cheap.
Install a Recessed Niche in the Shower
No room for a shower caddy? Build a niche. In one project, I created a shallow recess between two wall studs, lined it with waterproof cement board, and tiled over it. The niche is 30 cm x 30 cm (11.8 in x 11.8 in)—perfect for shampoo and soap.
For renters, use a corner shelf with strong silicone adhesive. Brands like Umbra make sleek, rust-proof options. Just make sure the wall is clean and dry before applying.
Pro tip: Angle the shelf slightly forward so water drains off.
Use Large-Format Tiles (Even as a Decal)
If retiling isn’t an option, try large-format tile decals. I used peel-and-stick marble-look tiles (60 cm x 30 cm / 23.6 in x 11.8 in) on the backsplash behind the sink. They’re easy to cut with a utility knife and look surprisingly real.
Apply them slowly, using a squeegee to remove air bubbles. I’ve had mine for 18 months with no peeling. For a more permanent look, grout the seams with silicone caulk in a matching color.
Avoid this: Small, busy patterns. They make tiny bathrooms feel cluttered.
Add a Small Indoor Plant
A single plant can breathe life into a sterile bathroom. I keep a ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) in a matte black pot on my vanity. It thrives in low light and needs watering only once a month.
Other great options: snake plant, pothos, or a small fern in a hanging planter. Just make sure it’s in a waterproof container with drainage.
Pro tip: Wipe the leaves monthly with a damp cloth. Dust builds up fast in humid environments.
Use a Textured Bath Mat (Not a Fluffy One)
Fluffy bath mats trap moisture and mildew. I switched to a jute and cotton blend mat (60 cm x 40 cm / 23.6 in x 15.7 in)—it dries faster and adds natural texture.
For safety, use a non-slip pad underneath. I prefer rubber mesh pads—they’re breathable and stay in place.
Avoid this: Thick, sponge-like mats. They’re cozy but high-maintenance.
Paint the Floor with Decorative Concrete Stain
If your bathroom has concrete or tile flooring, consider a decorative stain. I used a water-based concrete stain in warm grey to refresh a dingy floor. It took 3 hours, including drying time, and cost under ₹2,000 ($25).
Apply two coats and seal with a matte polyurethane for water resistance. For renters, this is removable with paint stripper—just test in a small area first.
Pro tip: Use painter’s tape to create geometric patterns. I did a simple border that made the floor look custom.
Add a Towel Ladder or Rail
Towel bars are functional but forgettable. I replaced mine with a freestanding towel ladder made of eucalyptus wood. It holds three towels and doubles as a drying rack for delicates.
Place it near the shower or behind the door. If floor space is tight, install a wall-mounted rail with hooks. I used one with brass finish—adds warmth and works in both modern and vintage spaces.
Avoid this: Overcrowding with too many towels. Rotate them regularly for a tidy look.
Use a Statement Shower Curtain
Don’t underestimate the power of a bold shower curtain. I found one with a hand-block printed Moroccan pattern—it instantly became the focal point of the room.
Look for mildew-resistant fabric with a weighted hem. I prefer cotton-linen blends. Hang it from a curved rod to prevent billowing.
Pro tip: Wash it every 6–8 weeks to prevent mildew buildup.
Add Scent and Ambiance with Candles
Light a candle, and suddenly the bathroom feels like a spa. I keep a soy wax candle in eucalyptus and mint on the edge of the tub. It’s not just about scent—it’s about ritual.
Place it on a heat-resistant dish, away from water and towels. For safety, never leave it unattended.
Avoid this: Scented gels or sprays. They can irritate allergies and leave residue.
FAQs
Can I paint my bathroom tiles?
Yes, but only if they’re ceramic or porcelain and in good condition. Clean them thoroughly, sand lightly, and use a bonding primer followed by epoxy-based paint. It’s durable but takes 5–7 days to fully cure.
How do I hide exposed pipes?
Build a simple box frame with moisture-resistant MDF and paint it to match the wall. Or use a slatted wood cover—it’s ventilated and looks intentional.
What’s the best color for a small bathroom?
Light neutrals like warm white, soft grey, or pale sage make spaces feel larger. But don’t be afraid of dark colors—they can feel cozy if balanced with good lighting.
Can I install a new toilet in a rental?
Generally, no—unless you have written permission. But you can upgrade the seat, lid, or add a bidet attachment, which is often allowed.
How do I prevent mold in a windowless bathroom?
Run the exhaust fan for 20–30 minutes after showers. If there’s no fan, use a dehumidifier or moisture absorber. I use a silica gel bucket that lasts 60 days.
What’s the most cost-effective upgrade?
Hardware and lighting. For under ₹5,000 ($60), you can change the faucet, mirror, and add plug-in sconces—transforming the whole feel.
Final Thoughts
A few thoughtful tweaks can transform an apartment bathroom from “make-do” to “made for you.” Every suggestion I’ve shared comes from real projects and lived-in spaces, not just from glossy magazines. Some updates might challenge you; a few could even become your favorite new DIY habit. It’s not about achieving some impossible standard, but about making changes that genuinely upgrade your daily routine. Try one idea or try them all what matters is crafting a bathroom where you love to start and end your day. And if you hit a snag or crave some feedback, trust me, we’ve all been there. Enjoy the process, and here’s to many bright, beautiful mornings ahead!