DIY Primary Bathroom Remodel:

A Bright Spa-Like Transformation

Primary Bathroom Remodel

Project Snapshot

Project: Primary Bathroom Remodel
Location: Primary Bathroom
Project Type: Bathroom Renovation / Room Makeover

What Changed:
• Removed fiberglass tub shower
• Installed tiled shower
• Added wallpaper and updated lighting
• Installed marble mosaic floor tile
• Updated vanity, mirrors, and hardware
• Repainted walls and refreshed the entire space

Goal:
Create a bright, spa-like bathroom using natural materials and timeless design while dramatically improving function.

Before

After

Our primary bathroom was very builder-basic and dated with brown tones, basic fixtures, and a fiberglass tub shower that made the space feel heavy and outdated. I wanted something completely different, a bright, calming bathroom that felt more like a spa.

For this remodel, I demoed the tub, tile, vanity, mirrors, toilet, and hardware so I could completely refresh the space. I installed new marble mosaic floor tile, updated lighting, added wallpaper for texture and personality, and created a much more elevated design.

One important goal was finishing the project before my husband had surgery so the bathroom would be easier for him to use during recovery. Unfortunately, half of my floor tile arrived broken, and the shower tile went missing in shipment, so it just didn't happen on my hopeful timeline... but I pivoted and persevered until I got it done.

While he was recovered actually used a tall shower curtain because it made access simpler. Eventually, we will install a custom shower door, but the space already functions beautifully.

The result is a bright, fresh bathroom with natural textures and timeless finishes that won’t feel dated for many years.

Design Strategy

• Removed the fiberglass tub shower to create space for a brighter, more open shower design
• Marble mosaic floor tile adds texture and a timeless, natural material to the space
• Warm wood vanity balances the cooler tones of the marble and keeps the room feeling inviting
• Polished brass mirrors and lighting add warmth and elevate the overall design
• Wallpaper introduces pattern and personality while still keeping the space light and fresh
• Neutral palette keeps the bathroom feeling calm, timeless, and unlikely to feel dated quickly

DIY Lessons Learned

Bathroom remodels are very doable, but there are a few things I learned along the way.

• Demo takes longer than expected. Plan extra time for removing tile and fixtures.
• Always shut off the water before removing plumbing fixtures.
• Tile layout matters. Dry-fit your tile first so you avoid awkward cuts.
• Wallpaper can completely change a room, but proper wall prep is essential.
• Lighting placement is important for both function and design, especially around mirrors.
• If accessibility might be needed, a shower curtain can temporarily work well before installing a glass door.

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