Vintage Inspired Bathroom Makeover
As a real estate agent, I know bathrooms sell houses. People want to see bathrooms and kitchens, so when it came time to update our builder grade hall bathroom, I wanted it to be a timeless style using smart updates that would appeal to future buyers. The transformation is not only beautiful, but it’s also a strong investment in our home’s overall value.
From Basic to Beautiful: Design Details That Made All the Difference
The before photo shows a space that was clean but uninspired with dark cabinetry, builder grade finishes, and hardwood floors that weren’t practical for a high-moisture bathroom. Actually, the hardwoods had warped from repeated water expose between the toilet and the shower. The goal for the after was clear: create a space that feels fresh, curated, and collected, while also being highly functional for everyday family use. If you read my previous post, you’ll know that I designed the bathroom based around the green vanity.
Here are all the details of the bathroom upgrade!
1. Swapped Out the Non Practical Hardwood for Geometric Mosaic Tile
One of the first design decisions we made was to remove the hardwood flooring and install a mosaic tile with a soft geometric pattern. Hardwood may look beautiful, but it doesn’t perform well in bathrooms. This patterned tile adds just the right amount of texture and movement, and its muted tones ground the space beautifully. Tile is a more durable, water-resistant choice, and the classic geometric pattern appeals to a wide range of buyers looking for both style and practicality.
2. Replaced Chrome Fixtures with Brushed Gold Hardware
We updated the shower curtain rod and all hardware to a brushed gold finish, which instantly warms up the space and complements the other brass details throughout the room. While the acrylic shower/bath combo is not my favorite, it was in perfection condition and this is a hall bathroom. To rip out the insert, redo the plumbing, buy a tub, tile the surround, etc would have added at least $5K to this small project. Replacing the hardware was an easy, and inexpensive way to update the shower.
3. Installed a Custom Vanity with Brass Hardware
We swapped the dark, standard vanity for a new wood vanity in a sage green hue with brushed brass drawer pulls and a marble-look quartz top. This piece adds storage, elevates the entire room, and acts as a strong focal point. The green adds depth and drama without overwhelming the small space. It pairs beautifully with the wall stencil and the pattern of the floor tile for a layered, intentional look. Green is nature’s neutral and I see it that way inside a home as well for vanities and kitchen cabinets.
4. Upgraded the Mirror and Light Fixture
The original mirror was a basic builder-grade piece with no frame or character. We replaced it with a warm wood-framed mirror that adds contrast and softness. Above it, a glass globe sconce adds charm and better illumination. Updated lighting improves function and sets the mood. Both of these updates were under $100 a piece and so easy to swap out!
5. Painted and Stenciled the Walls with a Vintage Poppy Print
One of the most transformative changes was the addition of a stenciled floral motif across the walls. We painted the base Sherwin Williams “Shiitake” and layered on a hand-stenciled white Turkish poppy pattern for a vintage-inspired, boutique hotel feel in Sherwin Williams “Greek Villa”. I had leftover paint from our living room and just went with that. Stenciling is such an affordable way to add wallpaper-like character without the cost or commitment. A nice stencil is around $50, where as wall paper can be $100-200 a roll! The key to stenciling is to use a small foam roller and to have just a little bit of paint on the roller. Less is more!
It also photographs beautifully for listings a major plus in today’s visual real estate market.
6. Replaced the Shower Curtain Rod and Curtain
We added a new brushed gold tension rod and a dramatic floral curtain in a darker palette to tie together the tones of the vanity and floor. The heavier pattern balances the bright stencil and gives the space a cozy, high-end feel. Curtains are often overlooked in bathroom design, but they can completely shift the tone. A patterned curtain helps define the space and adds softness without sacrificing function.
Why Bathroom Updates Are Worth Every Penny
As a real estate agent, I often tell clients that kitchens and bathrooms sell homes. They’re the spaces that buyers remember most and they’re often the most expensive to renovate. By doing the work now, you not only enjoy a more beautiful space, but you also set your home up to stand out in a competitive market.
Even though it’s a secondary bathroom, updating it has elevated the entire feel of our home and that’s something buyers will notice!
If you need real estate or design help in Paducah, please book a time to chat with me!
Jessica,
Your Paducah real estate and design expert
The Epic Group/eXp Realty
