Modern Small-Bath Makeover

Inspired by the clean, rectilinear lines of Palm Springs architecture, this guest bathroom was remodeled in a midcentury-modern style paired with shades of black, white and gray. Its neutral palette allows for accessories in virtually any accent color. The violet accents give an overall masculine appearance. By switching the accents out for hot pink, sea foam or lavender, however, the space can easily take on a more feminine feeling.

Prior to the remodel, this contractor-grade 7x9 bathroom lacked architectural detail, color and personality. With a budget just under $10,000 and a timeline of three weeks, the midcentury-modern style of Palm Springs inspired this open, airy, clean and unfussy space.

To accommodate the budget, this remodel used a mix of high- and low-end materials. While the modern, square-profile commode was a splurge, the ready-made vanity was picked up at a national modern home furnishings retailer for less than $300, a fraction of what similar styles cost at designer showrooms.

Art is often overlooked in bathroom design. To give utilitarian spaces such as bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms a more personal touch, consider how and where you can introduce pieces. To add an artistic touch of Palm Springs flair, photography featuring a home in one of the city's most iconic neighborhoods, Las Palmas, was printed and framed in black. To hang art properly on a tiled wall, use a ceramic drill bit as well as heavy-weight anchors, then add a screw and attach the art with picture wire.