Home Rooms Basem*nt
Mary HennUpdated: Jan. 17, 2023
Looking to revamp the downstairs? These basem*nt bathroom ideas will upgrade the space quicker than you think.
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The basem*nt bathroom is often overlooked when it comes to home design. Typically, this space is a small, functional room in the house—and not much beyond that. Apart from guest use, your basem*nt bathroom may not even be used on a regular basis. However, it doesn’t have to be that way.
Whether you’re planning on adding a basem*nt bathroom or looking to revamp the powder room that’s already there, you can make it a well-designed, cozy space that’s inviting to guests. You might even find yourself spending more time downstairs after a little basem*nt remodeling, too.
Just like a fun basem*nt bar, a basem*nt bathroom offers an opportunity to go bold and take risks in a room that’s not in a more visible part of the house. Let’s get to it: Here are basem*nt bathroom ideas that’ll help give a frequently unfinished space some attention and care.
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Porcelain Patterned Wall and Floor Tiles
The right tile can go a long way when it comes to bathroom design. We love a geometric-patterned tile, like the Aster by Merola Tile, an elegant black hexagon tile with an art deco feel. Penny and subway tiles look timeless in bathrooms, too. Go bold with a graphic dark grout, and experiment by mixing and matching tiles for more depth.
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Multicolored Floral Wallpaper
A dramatic, artful bathroom wallpaper is a quick way to add style to a basem*nt bathroom—no matter its size. A rich, floral wallpaper behind the vanity can immediately boost the elegance of a washroom. We dig the A-Street Anemone Multicolor Floral Wallpaper. It’s full of deep greens and blues, with a bit of orange and ivory for warmth and contrast.
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Large Towel Heater
Basem*nt bathrooms often get chilly, especially during colder months. A towel heater can keep you warm when you emerge from the steam. While the Zadro Towel Warmer isn’t necessarily a design element, you and your guests are sure to appreciate it—especially if your basem*nt bathroom is complete with a shower.
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Glass Shower Enclosure
Speaking of basem*nt bathroom showers, the right enclosure can make all the difference. We like the Vigo Winslow shower enclosure, because it’s frameless and made of glass, so it blends seamlessly into the design and doesn’t make a bathroom feel cramped. We prefer the matte black and gold finishes on this one, which contributes an industrial look.
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Mid-Century Bathroom Cabinet
In addition to being drafty, basem*nt bathrooms can feel a bit cold figuratively, too. You can make the room feel cozier by incorporating warm-toned and wooden furniture.
This Mid-Century Bathroom Pharmacy Cabinet has vintage charm and adds convenient storage. Plus, it’s glass-paneled front door not only lets you see what’s inside, but also keeps the cabinet from looking too bulky in a small to mid-size bathroom.
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Mirror with Hidden Storage
If space is an issue in your basem*nt bathroom, finding ways to sneak in additional storage is ideal. A small, sleek medicine cabinet—like this one from Wayfair—is an effortless way to pack a little extra storage in above the sink. A rounded mirror with a slender metal frame is a timeless choice that fits into just about any design scheme.
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Marple Top Sink Vanity
If you’re looking for a single sink vanity that doesn’t take up a lot of room, you don’t have to sacrifice style. This stunning Aveline Marble Top Sink hardly takes up any space, but packs a lot of charm in its exposed brass finishing. Choose between chrome, polished nickel and satin gold for the finishing touch.
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Dimmable Sconce Lighting
Add ambient lighting to your basem*nt bathroom—just like you would in any other room of your home. A dimmable wall sconce can make your home office moody, but it can also add a bit of drama to your bathroom. The Reagan Triple Globe Sconce comes in multiple finishes, and looks chic and vintage against tile.
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Under Cabinet Strip Lights
Under cabinet lighting in your basem*nt bathroom is another way to bring light and warmth to what might otherwise be a cold, dark space. Motion sensor LED lights are ideal for underneath bathroom and kitchen cabinets. While there are plenty of plug-in LED light options, rechargeable ones keep you from having to hassle with cords and outlets.
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Statement Bath Rug
Combat cold basem*nt bathroom floors with a statement rug or runner—if you have the floor space, that is. We love this landscape-inspired mustard and cream rug. It’s a cotton flatweave that’s easy to clean, which you’ll need after all the traffic that will be in and out of this updated room!
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Eucalyptus Wall Art
Adding intentional, thoughtful art to your basem*nt bathroom can make it feel homier. While we love the way a gallery wall looks, you can also add art that’s less traditional (and even practical).
This eucalyptus wall hanging kit is made of brass and twine for a pop of greenery. Even better, the strong, earthy fragrance of eucalyptus helps repel insects and spiders that often sneak into downstairs spaces.
Originally Published: January 12, 2023
Mary Henn
Mary Henn, MFA is an Associate Shopping Editor at Family Handyman. She’s also a national award-winning writer and journalist. Her expertise lies in interior design, home decor, gardening and outdoor trends. When she’s not working on the latest content at FHM, you can find her reading poetry or hiking with her dog, Henry.
