Back when Anneliese first shared her bathroom makeover, we were excited to show it to our readers. Now she’s sent photos of her second bathroom renovation, and it’s just as lovely and thoughtfully executed. Below is Anneliese’s summary of the project and a selection of before-and-after images that highlight smart small-bathroom solutions, material choices, and styling details that make a big impact.
Many elements of this redo echo our previous master bath renovation: a calm wall color, rich espresso accents, a fondness for IKEA solutions, and pops of orange for warmth and personality. But in this tiny room—only 5′ by 7′—we managed to fit a full-sized Jacuzzi tub, install porcelain floor tiles that convincingly mimic wood planks, and hang a large vintage storefront sign because I love a good antique. Hope you enjoy the before and afters! – Anneliese
The dated before:
And the refreshed afters demonstrate how careful choices in layout, finishes, and decor can transform a cramped, outdated bathroom into a stylish, functional retreat. In this case, the renovation balanced classic elements—like a freestanding tub silhouette and vintage signage—with contemporary materials such as large-format porcelain tiles rendered in a realistic wood-grain pattern. Those tiles give the floor warmth and texture while remaining waterproof and easy to maintain, a practical upgrade for any bathroom renovation.
The color palette plays a major role in the updated look. A soothing, neutral wall color creates a serene backdrop while allowing darker espresso elements—cabinetry, shelving or trim—to anchor the space visually. Small, bright accents of orange introduce energy and personality without overwhelming the room, giving each vignette a fresh, curated feel. This balanced approach is a helpful guideline for anyone planning a small bathroom renovation: choose a calm base color, add darker contrast for depth, and finish with a few strategic accent colors to liven the space.
Storage and layout are especially important in a five-by-seven bathroom. Here, Anneliese used compact, thoughtfully placed storage solutions—many inspired by IKEA—to keep toiletries organized and surfaces uncluttered. Open shelving and a few closed cabinets create a mix of display and hidden storage, which helps the room feel larger and more intentional. Lighting also plays a key role: layered lighting, combining overhead fixtures with task lighting around mirrors, brightens the space while creating an inviting atmosphere for bathing or getting ready.
One of the standout choices in this renovation is the full-sized Jacuzzi tub. Installing a larger tub in a small footprint requires careful planning, but the payoff is a luxurious bathing experience that elevates the entire bathroom. Coupled with the durable porcelain faux-wood floor tiles, the space balances comfort and practicality—both important considerations for a successful bathroom remodel.
Finally, the vintage storefront sign adds a bold, personal touch. Mixing an antique or statement piece with contemporary materials is an effective design strategy: it introduces character and a story, anchoring a modern scheme with history and personality. The result here is a bathroom that feels cohesive, lived-in, and stylish—proof that even compact bathrooms can deliver on design and function.
Everything from the soothing wall color and complementary orange accents to the dramatic vintage sign and realistic faux-wood porcelain tiles makes this project a standout small bathroom renovation. Thanks to Anneliese for sharing the photos and inspiration. If you’re working with a tight footprint, take cues from this makeover: prioritize layout, choose durable materials that mimic the look you love, and add a few personal touches to make the space uniquely yours.