Is your bathroom feeling a little behind the times? Perhaps you’re yearning for a more comfortable and stylish space, or maybe you’re considering safety features for aging in place? Whatever your motivation, embarking on a bathroom remodel can significantly enhance your home and daily life. Bathrooms are in constant exposure to water and humidity, which can wear a bathroom down over time. Recognizing the signs that it’s time to update your St. Louis bathroom to the modern times is the first step. Drawing inspiration from a recent bathroom remodel we completed for a family in St. Louis Hills, we’ll explore some key indicators that your bathroom needs a refresh, along with practical suggestions to make it happen!

Is My Bathroom Outdated?

If you’re finding yourself wondering if your bathroom is stuck in a time warp, you might be onto something. It’s easy to overlook the gradual decline, but a few telltale signs can indicate it’s time for an upgrade.

Let’s consider the evidence with some surefire indicators it’s time to upgrade your space. Are you surrounded by avocado green or bubblegum pink? Outdated color schemes are a major giveaway. 

The St. Louis Hills family was excited to get rid of the mid-century design they had in their shower, which featured dated aqua green tiles with black accents. This color scheme was popular in the 1940s!

Take a look around at the fixtures. Worn-out faucets, shower heads, and vanities not only look tired but can also be less efficient

Now, consider this: Is your bathroom layout working against you? An inefficient use of space can make your daily routine a frustrating obstacle course. 

If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to give your bathroom a bit of a facelift. Don’t feel bad about it. Upgrading your bathroom is inevitable if you live in a place long enough. Recognizing the problem is the first step toward creating a bathroom that’s both functional and stylish.

How to Plan and Design A Bathroom Update

Updating your bathroom starts long before your St. Louis contrators pick up a wrench. Careful planning and design are crucial to achieving a bathroom that meets your needs and reflects your style. 

Here’s how to approach this initial phase:

• Assess Your Space and Needs: What works in your current layout and what gives you some headaches? Consider the size, layout, and functionality. Understanding your needs and the limitations of your current space will guide your design choices.
• Set a Budget: Establish a realistic budget, as remodels can range widely in cost. Prioritize your needs and factor in expenses for labor, materials, and unexpected issues.
• Create a Mood Board: Gather ideas from magazines, websites, and social media. Visualize your desired aesthetic, including colors, textures, materials, and fixtures. This will help you define your style.
• Consult with a Designer: A licensed designer and architect in St. Louis can help you figure our your budget and customize your bathroom to meet your unique needs. 

Remember, thorough planning and a clear vision will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. Don’t rush this crucial first step.

Flooring

Selecting the right flooring is crucial for a modern bathroom, balancing performance, durability, and appearance. Beyond traditional choices, consider using uniform wall and floor tiles for a streamlined look. 

Also, consider the following materials:

• Tile: Durable and versatile, with porcelain being more waterproof than ceramic.
• Luxury Vinyl Plank/Tile (LVP/LVT): Recreates the look of stone or wood at a lower cost; waterproof and easy to clean.
• Stone: Natural and rustic, but requires more maintenance.
• Cork: Sustainable and water-resistant, but not waterproof.
• Epoxy: Sturdy, customizable, and water-resistant.

For added luxury, explore installing a heated floor or incorporating floor lighting to create a spa-like ambiance. When choosing your bathroom flooring, consider balancing performance, durability, and appearance.

Wall Finishes

Dated walls are a common bathroom woe. Thankfully, a refresh can work wonders! Modernizing your wall finishes is a simple way to give your space a stylish boost.

Consider replacing traditional tiles with textured walls for a minimalist and spa-like retreat. In fact, the family in St. Louis Hills requested a patterned niche to help give an accent point in their new (and gorgeous shower). This seamless look offers a clean, contemporary vibe. 

Another clever trick is using color block tiles. Lighter shades on top and darker shades below can visually expand the room, making it feel more spacious and inviting.

Showers & Tubs

Showers and tubs are central to any bathroom, and modernizing these spaces can significantly impact both style and functionality. If you’re planning for the future, consider a walk-in shower, especially beneficial for aging in place. These showers eliminate the need to step over a high tub wall, offering a safer and more accessible bathing experience.

Another impactful change is replacing shower curtains with sleek glass shower doors or a full glass enclosure. For those with a shower-tub combo, consider a curved glass splash guard for a modern upgrade that minimizes water splashing

For more extensive renovations, St. Louis contractors can transform your bathroom into a luxurious retreat. Custom tile work, including intricate patterns or large-format tiles, can create a stunning focal point. 

Contractors can also install spa-like features such as multiple showerheads, body sprays, or even a steam shower system. The family in St. Louis Hills installed a shower head with three different nozzles for a invigorating showering experience. 

For those with ample space, consider a wet room design where the entire bathroom becomes the shower area. This is one of the hottest bathroom trends of 2025, as it creates a seamless and modern look

Vanities & Storage

Modernizing your bathroom’s vanities and storage can dramatically transform the space, creating a sleek and functional oasis. Contemporary bathroom design often features streamlined vanities with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic. These vanities offer smooth surfaces, hidden hardware, and integrated sinks for a clutter-free look that’s both stylish and easy to maintain.

To maximize space and maintain a modern feel, consider incorporating floating shower shelves. These shelves are often made of materials like marble or solid surface. They provide practical storage without compromising on style. 

For those looking to push the boundaries of modern design, suspended toilets and bidets are gaining popularity. These fixtures create a sense of spaciousness by freeing up floor area, making your bathroom appear larger and easier to clean.

Lighting & Mirrors

Lighting and mirrors are the glue that ties together all other design elements in a bathroom transformation. Strategically placed mirrors can dramatically amplify natural and artificial light, which is why full-wall mirrors have grown in popularity. These dramatic options can make even the smallest bathrooms feel more spacious and inviting. 

Modern light fixtures, such as LED-integrated mirrors and sleek vanity lights have also become commonplace in modernized bathrooms. They provide excellent illumination while adding an elegant touch of style to the space. 

Smart lighting solutions are revolutionizing bathroom ambiance. From dimmable LED fixtures to color-changing bulbs, these technologies allow for personalized settings that can transform your space from an energizing morning routine area to a relaxing evening retreat. 

Track lighting offers flexibility in directing light where it’s needed most. Meanwhile, recessed lighting provides a clean, contemporary look. 

Incorporating modern lighting techniques and reflective surfaces is key to elevating your bathroom’s aesthetics and functionality. These elements work together to foster a space that feels both luxurious and up-to-date.

Modern Bathroom Updates in St. Louis

Ready to transform your outdated bathroom into a modern oasis? At Mosby Building Arts, we understand the importance of a bathroom that reflects your personal style and meets your functional needs. Just like our stunning transformation in St. Louis Hills, we can help you create a custom bathroom that enhances your daily life and increases your home’s value. 

From design consultation to professional installation, we’ll guide you through every step of the remodeling process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. Contact us today or call 304.909.1800.