When renovating a bathroom, it’s important to remember that in any interior design project, especially in a smaller space, function and refined style are twins. Lead designer Natalie Whicker at Allison Elebash Interior Design shared her insight into how she balances both.
Whicker explained that every job starts with finding inspiration from nature around the home. “Whether it’s beachfront, overlooking the marsh or tucked into a historic downtown neighborhood, the surroundings always influence the tone of the bathroom,” she said. “We pull from the textures, colors and natural light of the setting to create something that feels grounded. Each bathroom is also influenced by the home as a whole. We want it to feel connected, not like a separate experience. The goal is always the same: to create a bathroom that feels intentional, anchored and designed to be lived in.”
Lighting is one of the most important elements in any bathroom design, Whicker added. “It’s not just about function, it’s about creating an atmosphere that feels clean, calming and elevated. We always approach bathroom lighting in thoughtful layers,” she said. “For example, at the vanity, we recommend decorative sconces either flanking the mirror or placed directly above it. While this technique is functional, it also brings personality to the space. Lighting should feel intentional, not like an afterthought. We also love incorporating a decorative ceiling fixture to add interest and warmth, especially in primary bathrooms or powder rooms where clients want that extra detail.”
For additional illumination, Whicker said she recommends specifying 2-inch recessed spots in the ceiling over each vanity. “These provide clean, focused light exactly where it’s needed without taking away from the overall design.”
Whicker emphasized that the right mix of ambient, task and decorative lighting not only enhances the beauty of the materials, but makes the bathroom feel truly finished.
For smaller bathrooms, Whicker suggested using layered lighting, including recessed spots and decorative fixtures, which add warmth and brightness without overwhelming the space. Additionally, focusing on visual continuity and thoughtful material choices make the space feel larger. “Light, tone-on-tone palettes help open up the room, especially when extended across the walls and floors,” she said. “We often use larger-scale tile with minimal grout lines to keep the room feeling seamless and uncluttered. Glass shower enclosures maintain open sightlines, while well-placed mirrors reflect light and create depth. It’s all about creating flow and keeping the eye moving, which naturally makes the space feel more expansive.”
Smart storage is also key to a well-designed bathroom, according to Whicker. “We love using recessed medicine cabinets for everyday essentials and shower niches that are both functional and visually integrated,” she said. “Woven baskets and trays add warmth while keeping surfaces tidy. In smaller baths, a skirted vanity is a great way to conceal storage while adding softness, perfect for bunk rooms or powder rooms.”
Creating privacy is also key to bathroom design, especially in a shared space. Whicker said some ideas for identifying personal boundaries are incorporating water closets or enclosed toilet areas as well as double vanities. Additionally, pocket doors are always a good idea, as are cafe curtains for windows.
While functionality is critical to the layout of a bathroom, aesthetics are, of course, a priority. What’s currently trending now in bathroom design, Whicker said, is “Refined simplicity with thoughtful and intentional spaces that feel calm and elevated. We’re seeing a shift toward seamless layouts with open wet rooms and curbless showers, creating a more spacious, spa-like feel. Natural and textural materials such as zellige tile, marble countertops and unlacquered brass fixtures age beautifully and bring depth to the space. As mentioned, layered lighting plays a key role, blending recessed spots with decorative sconces and a ceiling fixture to add both function and warmth. The result is a bathroom that feels designed, not just decorated, in a way that is clean, timeless and tailored to how the space is truly used.”
Because bathroom remodels involve a lot of moving parts including plumbing, waterproofing, tile layout and lighting plans, all of which need to work together seamlessly, Whicker recommended working with the experts. “Although DIY can be tempting, it often leads to expensive mistakes or a space that doesn’t quite feel finished,” she said. “We bring expertise, efficiency and a trained eye to every detail, so the end result looks intentional, functions well and adds long-term value to your home. We take the guesswork out of the process by creating a cohesive design from day one, sourcing the right materials and coordinating with contractors to ensure everything is installed properly and beautifully.”
A bathroom renovation usually takes between six and 10 weeks, she said, depending on the scope and lead times. “The process begins by finalizing the design, selecting tile, plumbing fixtures, lighting and finishes. Our team coordinates all of the material orders in advance to avoid delays. Once construction begins, the process includes demolition, plumbing and electrical work, tile installation, cabinetry, countertops and final fixtures. We manage the process from concept to completion, ensuring every detail is considered and the end result feels intentional, cohesive and built to last.”
If a full remodel of a bathroom isn’t in the budget, Whicker suggests upgrading one specific element. “Tile sets the entire tone of the space. It’s tactile, visual and permanent. Whether it’s a handmade zellige on the walls, a checkerboard floor in natural stone or a subtle limestone in a herringbone pattern, the right tile instantly elevates a bathroom and makes it feel intentional. It’s also one of the few elements that can bridge function and style, offering durability, water resistance and a major design moment all in one. You can keep everything else minimal and let the tile do the work.”
By Sarah Rose
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