When it comes to home design, a full remodel can be a huge investment of time, money, and effort. But what if I told you that you can give your bathroom a fresh, updated look with just a few simple changes? In 2024, I gave my bathroom a subtle refresh that transformed the space without the need for a major overhaul. Here’s how:
The 2024 Refresh: Softening the Space
In 2018, I completely remodeled my bathroom, transforming it from a cramped, outdated space into a luxurious retreat. I replaced the flooring with beautiful Carrara marble herringbone tiles, put in a new shower with updated finishes, and reconfigured the layout to make it feel more spacious and inviting. But in 2024, I wanted to make some updates to soften the overall look and add a little more warmth.
Here's what I did:
Swapped Out Mirrors and Lights. The original mirrors were bold hexagons, and the light fixtures were sleek and rectangular. While they were great at the time, I was craving a more serene and gentle vibe. So, I replaced the mirrors with pieces that had soft, rounded edges and did the same with the lighting. The curves immediately added a sense of calm and flow, giving the space a much more relaxed atmosphere.
A New Vanity Color I made a simple but impactful change by painting the vanity from a bold black to a soft, warm cream color. This change helped brighten the room and gave it a more inviting feel. The cream shade complements the Carrara marble flooring beautifully and enhances the bathroom’s natural light.
New Vanity Hardware I wanted the sharp edges of the pulls to be softened so I replaced them with round unlacquered brass knobs.
A Cozy Runner Rug. To add a touch of warmth and texture, I added a runner rug. It ties together the color scheme while making the floor feel a little softer underfoot. Plus, it’s a simple change that brings in a bit of personality to the space.
The Power of a Small Refresh
The beauty of this 2024 refresh is how little effort it took for such a big impact. A few new pieces, a coat of paint, and a little strategic design can completely alter the feel of a room. This is a lesson I often share with my clients, especially when helping them envision the potential of a space.
As a realtor, I’ve seen firsthand how a little refresh can make a big difference, whether you’re buying or selling a home.
Helping Buyers See Potential
When I work with buyers, one of the most common things I encounter is outdated finishes or spaces that feel stuck in the past. Often, buyers have a hard time seeing beyond the old fixtures or worn-out flooring. But what they don’t realize is that with just a few thoughtful changes, they can completely transform a space. A new coat of paint, updated lighting, and modern fixtures can make a world of difference—and in many cases, these updates don’t require a full remodel.
When I help my clients look beyond the dated finishes, I encourage them to think of potential rather than imperfections. A bathroom with outdated fixtures could easily be turned into a modern retreat with some small updates—like the mirror and lighting swap I did in my own bathroom.
Helping Sellers Maximize Their Home’s Value
For sellers, it’s all about maximizing your home’s appeal before it hits the market. While major renovations can certainly add value, small, cost-effective updates can have an outsized impact on both how the home is perceived and the return on investment.
Bathrooms are one of the key areas that can make or break a sale, and simple updates like painting cabinets, changing hardware, and updating lighting fixtures can instantly elevate the space. These small changes can be done in a weekend and, in many cases, offer a high return on investment, which is critical when preparing a home for sale.
Why Small Changes Matter
Sometimes, buyers or sellers are hesitant to make changes because they think it will be too expensive or time-consuming. But as my 2024 bathroom refresh demonstrates, small changes can have a huge impact on both the aesthetics and functionality of a space. In the case of my bathroom, I didn’t need to tear out tiles or completely redesign the space to create a fresh, inviting atmosphere. It was all about thoughtful updates that gave the bathroom a softer, warmer look—without breaking the bank.
If you’re thinking about updating your own space, remember: you don’t have to do it all at once. A small refresh, like the one I did, can completely change the energy of a room, and it’s a great way to boost both the value of your home and your enjoyment of it.
Before & After
Below, you can see the transformation my bathroom underwent—from the original, bold 2018 remodel to the softer, updated look of 2024. It’s proof that even small changes can make a big difference.
Original Bathroom Pre-2018
Here is the the original pre-2018 version below.
2018 Version
The 2018 version with black/navy vanity and sharper lines is below:
2024 Version
The 2024 version with softer lines and warmer feel is below.
What do you think about the difference?
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re preparing your home for the market, looking for a quick refresh in your own space, or simply wanting to update a few features, don’t underestimate the power of a small change. A few simple updates can completely transform your bathroom or any room in your home—and if you need guidance, I’m here to help! As a realtor, I can guide you through every step of the process, from envisioning the potential of a space to maximizing its value with strategic updates.
Credits:
Photography: Laura Parker Photography and Jessica Brydson Photography
Sources:
Vanity Mirrors: Pottery Barn Leelah Wall Mirror
Vanity Lights: Thomas O'Brien Vendome Single Sconce at Visual Comfort
Cabinet Knobs: Corston Antique Brass Bayswater Furniture Knob
Flowers: Casa V Studio Danville
Runner Rug: Serena and Lily Hillsborough Rug in Natural
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