Master Bathroom Ideas: Cottagecore Inspired Bathroom Inspiration

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from our kitchen reno, it’s that people love a good before-and-after moment—but sometimes the before the before is just as fun. One of my most-read blog posts to this day is me rambling about ideas, half-made mood boards, and a kitchen that was very much under construction. So today, I thought I’d do the same for our master bathroom ideas.

We’re deep in the planning stage over here—dreaming, sourcing, and figuring out what we want this little space to become. It’s not demo day just yet, but I wanted to share what we’re thinking, the vibe we’re going for, and a few pieces I’ve already snagged.

So if you love cottage charm, earth tones, and peeking behind the scenes of a home reno… pour yourself a cup of coffee and let’s chat.

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Master Bathroom Ideas: The Vibe We’re Going For-Cozy + Earthy Cottage Core

I want our bathroom to feel like a warm hug.

Cottage core has my whole heart right now—especially the grounded, earthy version. I’m dreaming of a space that’s soft and homey, with natural textures, old-meets-new details, and just enough charm to feel special without being over-designed.

Here’s what’s inspiring me:

• Earthy tones: warm whites, soft oat, dusty sage, maybe a touch of rust or clay
• Vintage details: unlacquered brass, antique-style mirrors, wood cabinetry
• Softness: linen curtains/shower curtains, warm lighting
• Peaceful utility: a walk-in shower with beautiful tile and a vanity with drawers that actually work

I want it to feel like it could’ve always been part of this house—but with fresh functionality that makes everyday life easier.

Here’s a mock up of what I’m thinking:

What’s On Our Must-Have List

We’re not looking for a Pinterest-perfect bathroom. We just want it to be beautiful, functional, and full of little details that make us smile. Here’s what’s currently on the non-negotiable list:

1. Double Vanity with Drawers– A must with two adults who actually use their bathroom. I’m leaning toward something warm wood, maybe vintage-inspired with updated storage.
2. Statement Yet Subtle Wallpaper. I’m toying with the idea of a patterned floor tile—maybe something classic and cottagey like a soft floral motif or a checkerboard in neutral tones.
3. Bigger Walk-In Shower– We’re ditching the tub/shower combo and going for a tiled walk-in with vintage-style fixtures.
4. Warm Lighting – Soft, warm sconces and an overhead fixture that doesn’t feel too “builder-grade.” I’m looking for something that feels like a pretty lamp in disguise.
5. Natural Materials + Texture– Wood accents, maybe some beadboard or tongue-and-groove walls, and natural fibers where we can swing it.

Before Photos, Layout, & Dimensions

Let’s talk about where we’re starting—because it’s not what would want to pop up when you type in “master bathroom ideas” 😅

Our current master bathroom is tiny, and honestly doesn’t work for us. It feels small for a master bathroom, so we’re taking some of the space outside of the bathroom to expand it.

Here’s what we’re working with:

• A single vanity tucked into a corner
• A shower cave with dated BLUE tile and a door that barely opens/shuts
• One tiny window that brings in very little natural light
• A linen closet outside of the bathroom that’s way to narrow to use.
• Builder-grade everything—mirror, lighting, flooring, you name it

Before Photos:

If you’re reading this and thinking “Yikes” same. It is time to update this blue bathroom.

What I’ve Sourced So Far

We’re still in the dreaming + decision-making phase, but here’s what I’ve either bought, bookmarked, or have sitting in my cart:

• Vanity – love the clean lines and subtle vintage vibes, and we actually got this one!
• Floor – feels cottagey but still neutral enough to last (and what’s in our whole home)
• Shower Fixtures– going for a rain shower so that we don’t actually have to move any plumbing and also my husband has always wanted to have this!
• Lighting– something with warmth and a hint of character.
• Paint Colors We’re Considering:
  • Sherwin Williams Alabaster (a creamy, soft white)
  • Benjamin Moore Natural Cream (a warm greige)
  • Behr Swiss Coffee (another creamy, soft, white)
  • Farrow & Ball Light Blue (a dusty green/blue that’s very calming)

Still Deciding On…

There are a few things I’m still chewing on—and I’d love your thoughts if you have strong opinions!

• Mirror finish: Black? Brass? Wood-framed? I love them all.
• Wall treatment: I’m really tempted to add vertical paneling or beadboard… but do we go full height? Half?
• Storage solutions/filling spaces: Baskets? Built-ins? Wall shelves? The possibilities are endless (and overwhelming).

Let me know in the comments—I seriously love hearing what you’d do.

Where We’re At + What’s Next

Right now, we’re finalizing design and starting demo! We’re hoping to get this done before baby number four comes (currently 23 weeks pregnant-tbh no clue if that will happen lol). I’ll keep sharing updates here and on Pinterest as we go—from mood boards and material picks to the messy middle and the big reveal.

I’ll also come back and update this post as we finalize products—so if you’re planning your own remodel, bookmark it or save it on Pinterest for later!

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