5 Easy Upgrades to Create a Small Bathroom Oasis — Besides Showering: Ideas for Multitasking in the Shower

This guest post is from our friend Brittany of By Brittany Goldwyn. Check out more of her style and design tips on her blog. 

I’m excited to share five easy upgrades to create a small bathroom oasis. Don't think you have to completely renovate your existing bathroom to implement some of these tips - no matter what state your bathroom is in, these projects will help polish your space and make it feel more relaxing.

1. BUILD A BATHTUB TRAY

When we decided to put in a freestanding tub, I knew I wanted some sort of bathtub tray. You can buy a fancy bathtub tray, or you can make a really simple one. I shared a tutorial last week for the one I made to fit our new tub.

2. SWAP EXISTING CABINET HARDWARE

In order to save money, I decided to keep the existing vanity and vanity top, but wanted to give each a little upgrade too. By simply swapping out the builder-grade chrome knobs for $20 worth of brushed nickel pulls, we were able to transform the entire piece's aesthetic. The change only took a few minutes’ worth of measuring and drilling, too.

3. UPGRADE YOUR FIXTURES

You caught a peek at the wall-mounted tub filler in the previous photo, which is the Delta Zura Wall Mount Faucet. We love the sleek look it gives the tub nook, and it doesn’t take up much space.

There's also just something about a rainfall shower head that makes your shower feel more like a spa. A rainfall shower head was actually one of my husband's only wishes for the new shower. Delta has tons of shower heads that fit a variety of different styles, but when we saw the Vero Monitor 14 Series Shower Trim set, we knew it was the one! How sleek does it look in our new shower? We were worried it would come out too far from the wall for the small shower, but it's the perfect length.

4. BRING PLANTS IN

If you're lucky enough to have a window in your bathroom, this one is easy! There are many varieties of plants that will thrive with even a small amount of light. You can still have plants if you don't have a window, though—try bromeliads, snake plants, golden pothos, and certain ferns. Air plants could also be a great option depending on the amount of ambient light your bathroom gets. If you go for air plants, hang them in terrariums for added visual appeal.

5. CREATE A BATH SALT BAR

Part of the reason why we wanted to re-do our bathroom was to create a calming space by accentuating the tub. I am a huge tub lover! The best thing about a relaxing tub is the scented bath salts, which are very easy to make at home. Check out my tutorial on making baked bath salts for easy and customizable recipes, including warm lavender and refreshing citrus.