Planning Your Basement Bathroom
If you already have a bathroom in your basement or are planning to make one, start by chalking out your vision onto paper. This is essential to understand which basement bathroom ideas work best for you.
Layout
Consider the layout of your basement bathroom, including its shape and size. All of these details will narrow down your design options, making it easier to decorate your bathroom. Figure out where you want to place your shower area, toilet and other essential fixtures either yourself or by consulting a professional for some expert advice.
Color Palette
Once you have your fixtures and layout decided, think of the color palette you want for your bathroom. Consider some of the trending colors for bathrooms like pastels and soft hues that make your bathroom look expansive and airy. Some good color combinations for your basement bathroom include sage green and white or baby pink and ivory. You can add in some gold accents to bring the whole look together.
Compact Fixtures
Compared to your regular bathrooms, basement bathrooms tend to be smaller in size owing to a lack of space. Due to this, choosing compact bathroom fixtures and fittings might be preferable. This might include wall-hung toilets, corner sinks, pedestal sinks, wall-mounted faucets and small shower enclosures.
Basement Bathroom Ideas
Designing a basement bathroom allows you more free reign and flexibility in terms of design choices than for your upstairs bathroom. You can go all out with these basement bathroom ideas without having to worry about the aesthetics of the entire home.
Floral Wallpaper
Floral wallpaper is an ideal choice for basement bathrooms since it might be too bold for your regular bathroom. You can choose a light-colored floral wallpaper, or a dark one based on the ambiance you want to create. Whether you apply this to all your bathroom walls or just one to create an accent, this small basement bathroom idea never fails to impress.
Bright Lighting
Since a basement often lacks many sources of natural light, using bright lighting fixtures can give your bathroom the light it needs. Use recessed ceiling lights along with a bold pendant light above the vanity to brighten up the space.
Recessed lights offer a seamless look, not taking up much space while providing even lighting, and accent lights provide targeted brightness for tasks near the sink area. You can also make use of mirrors to reflect light and make your basement bathroom appear brighter.
Classic Subway Tiles
If you’re on a budget and want to make your space look more minimalist and modern, subway tiles are the way to go. White subway tiles with dark grout in your shower space can create a sense of openness in any compact space.
Wood-Look Flooring
While tile is a popular option for many bathrooms, it doesn’t provide the natural, warm touch your basement might need. Luxury vinyl planks are ideal for your basement bathroom since they’re durable and moisture-resistant.
These planks resemble wood but are ideal for high-moisture environments and maintain a modern look. If your basement tends to get cold, consider adding radiant floor heating under the planks.
Touch of Greenery
This basement bathroom idea uses potted plants and succulents to liven up your bathroom. Greenery makes your space appear warm and welcoming, adding a natural touch to your bathroom. Opt for plants like snake plants, which thrive in limited light and offer air-purifying benefits.
If you have a window, placing these plants on a windowsill or hanging them along the window can create an inviting look. You can also place a small potted plant on a shelf or countertop for a subtle touch. Artificial plants can be a good option as well if you think maintaining plants might pose a problem.
Warm Metal Tones
Warm metal tones like copper, gold and brass on your lighting and plumbing fixtures can brighten up your bathroom. This is especially useful for bathrooms that receive limited natural light since they counter the cooler undertones of basement lighting.
Photo Frames and Wall Art
Adding a personal touch to your basement bathroom can make the space appear more elegant and homely. Photo frames of your recent trip or your pets can infuse warmth in your space, while wall art can add a hint of charm. You can incorporate LED lighting to highlight these pieces and use colorful frames to make a statement. When choosing frames, opt for metal, good-quality plastic ones or acrylic glass frames since these are more resistant to moisture. Framed inspirational quotes are also a good addition to your basement bathroom.
Floating Vanity
A floating sink or vanity is an ideal option for your basement bathroom due to the limited space available. This small basement bathroom idea clears up the floor space while adding functionality, making your bathroom appear bigger and better. Utilizing wall space is essential in compact spaces, which is why you should consider incorporating wall-mounted faucets and towel rings as well.
Decorative Storage
Choose a storage solution for your basement bathroom that’s both beautiful and practical. This can include storage niches to hold fresh towels and toiletries or floating wooden shelves.
Also, consider using a leaning ladder in warm metal tones to place your towels, making your bathroom look more appealing. Wall-mounted cabinets and mirror cabinets are also a good solution that takes up limited space but adds value.
Basement Shower
You might need a shower space in your basement bathroom if your basement also doubles as a gym or guest room. There are multiple shower options available that don’t take up much space, ideal for a basement bathroom. Whether you choose a wall-mounted shower head or a compact shower enclosure, these fixtures can transform the look of your bathroom. Choose warm tones or statement finishes for the shower head for a modern look.