27 Affordable DIY Farmhouse Bathroom Improvement Ideas

2/7/20255 min read

clear shower stall
clear shower stall

1. Add Shiplap Walls

Shiplap is one of the signature elements of farmhouse decor. It gives your bathroom a cozy, rustic vibe. You can install shiplap on all the walls or just on an accent wall behind the mirror or vanity. It’s relatively easy to install, and you can paint it in a light color like white or soft gray to create a clean, fresh look.

2. Install a Barn Door

Swap out your traditional bathroom door for a sliding barn door. It’s a striking feature that instantly adds farmhouse appeal. You can find barn door kits at your local home improvement store, and the process of installation is fairly straightforward with a bit of patience.

3. Upgrade to a Pedestal Sink

Swap out your bulky vanity for a charming pedestal sink. These sinks save space and give your bathroom an elegant, minimalist look. Choose a simple, classic white sink for a traditional feel, or go with a more unique design to make a bold statement.

4. Paint the Bathroom Cabinets

If your bathroom cabinets are looking a bit tired, give them a fresh coat of paint. Farmhouse style loves neutral shades like soft whites, grays, or muted greens. You can even add a distressed look to the cabinets by lightly sanding the edges after painting for a vintage touch.

5. Add Vintage Mirrors

A large, vintage-style mirror can be a beautiful focal point for your modern farmhouse bathroom. Look for mirrors with wooden frames, whether weathered or distressed, to complement the rustic aesthetic. A round mirror also adds a contemporary flair that pairs well with farmhouse design.

6. Create Floating Shelves

Install floating shelves made from reclaimed wood to display towels, plants, or decorative items like candles and small pottery. The rustic look of the wood will instantly add farmhouse charm, while providing extra storage or display space.

7. Install a Rain Showerhead

If you’re looking to make your shower feel like a luxurious spa, swap out your old showerhead for a rainfall showerhead. This will not only upgrade your showering experience but also contribute to the sleek, modern side of the farmhouse look.

8. Repurpose an Old Ladder as Towel Rack

Take a weathered wooden ladder and repurpose it into a stylish towel rack. This DIY project adds a rustic and functional touch to your bathroom. Simply lean the ladder against the wall or mount it to the wall for a space-saving towel storage solution.

9. Add a Wooden Bath Tray

A wooden bath tray that sits across your tub is perfect for those who love long, relaxing baths. Not only does it give a rustic look, but it’s also practical, holding everything from your favorite book to candles and bath accessories.

10. Install a Vessel Sink

For a modern twist on farmhouse style, consider swapping your traditional sink for a sleek, ceramic vessel sink. These sinks sit on top of the countertop and come in various shapes and sizes. Choose one in a neutral tone to keep with the rustic vibe, or pick a more dramatic shape for an unexpected pop.

11. Hang a Distressed Wood Sign

Wooden signs with funny or inspirational sayings are a hallmark of farmhouse style. Hang one above your bathroom mirror or on an open wall. You can easily create your own custom sign using reclaimed wood and stencils or vinyl decals.

12. Add Woven Baskets

Woven baskets are an easy way to bring texture and warmth to your bathroom. Use them for towel storage, toilet paper, or even to hold your favorite beauty products. They’ll look right at home next to your bathtub or vanity.

13. Create a DIY Barnwood Mirror Frame

Take an ordinary mirror and turn it into a statement piece with a barnwood frame. By using reclaimed wood, you can give it that rustic feel that perfectly complements your farmhouse aesthetic. You can even leave the wood in its natural state for extra authenticity.

14. Switch to Matte Black Fixtures

Farmhouse style often mixes modern elements with rustic charm. One easy way to incorporate a modern touch is by switching out your bathroom hardware (like faucets, showerheads, and towel bars) for matte black fixtures. These bold black accents will add a chic contrast against lighter tones in your bathroom.

15. Add a Wooden Floor Mat

Nothing says farmhouse like natural textures. Replace your standard bath mat with a large, wooden bath mat for a rustic touch. It’s durable, functional, and adds an unexpected twist to your bathroom decor.

16. Install a Bathtub Caddy

Another great addition for bath lovers is a bathtub caddy. Make one yourself by repurposing a wooden board or using reclaimed wood. It’s the perfect spot to hold a glass of wine, your favorite book, or a small plant while you soak and unwind.

17. Upgrade Lighting with Industrial Fixtures

Lighting is key when creating the perfect ambiance, and industrial-style fixtures bring just the right amount of farmhouse flair. Look for pendant lights with metal or glass shades for a sleek, modern feel, or go for a vintage chandelier if you want a more ornate look.

18. DIY Rustic Bathroom Shelving

Create additional storage space by installing rustic wooden shelves. These are perfect for organizing toiletries, displaying candles, or even holding small potted plants. Make sure to choose sturdy wood and style them in a way that adds charm and warmth.

19. Add Some Greenery

Indoor plants are a perfect way to add life and color to any space. Place a few potted plants in your bathroom to introduce a natural element. Choose plants that thrive in humidity, like ferns, spider plants, or aloe vera, to enhance the farmhouse feel.

20. Use Glass Jars for Storage

For a more organized look, use vintage glass jars to store cotton balls, swabs, and other bathroom essentials. Not only does it give your space a neat appearance, but it also creates a rustic vibe when placed on open shelves or countertops.

21. Create a DIY Wall Planter

Turn a simple wall into a vertical garden by hanging small wooden crates or repurposed boxes and filling them with succulents or small flowers. This adds a natural, rustic element to your bathroom and creates visual interest.

22. Use a Rustic Ladder Towel Rack

Take a vintage wooden ladder and mount it on the wall as a towel rack. This is an easy way to add a rustic touch while providing storage for towels. Plus, it’s a functional DIY project that doubles as decor.

23. Install a Hexagon Tile Floor

Hexagonal tiles give a modern yet vintage vibe, making them perfect for the farmhouse bathroom. Use them for the floor or even as a backsplash behind the sink. These tiles are available in a variety of colors and materials, from classic white to chic black, so you can choose one that fits your vision.

24. DIY Wood Framed Shower Curtain

Instead of a standard shower rod, try building a wood-framed shower curtain rod. This simple project can elevate the look of your bathroom with the same rustic charm you’d see in a modern farmhouse.

25. Add a Chunky Knit Throw Blanket

For an extra cozy vibe, add a chunky knit throw to your bathroom. Drape it over a towel rack, or even place it on a wooden stool. It’s a simple way to bring warmth and texture to your bathroom without spending too much.

26. Repurpose an Old Window as a Mirror

Give an old, weathered window a new purpose by turning it into a mirror. This is an easy and affordable way to add character to your bathroom. Simply attach mirror glass to the back of the window frame and hang it up for a stylish statement piece.

27. Create a DIY Wooden Sink Vanity

If you’re up for a more ambitious project, build your own wooden sink vanity. Use reclaimed wood for a rustic look, and you can even add a farmhouse-style sink to complete the transformation. This project will take a bit more time and effort but will give your bathroom a custom, high-end feel.

Wrapping It Up

With these 27 DIY ideas, you have a ton of ways to inject some modern farmhouse charm into your bathroom. From simple updates like painting your cabinets to more involved projects like installing shiplap or a barn door, there’s something for everyone here.

Whether you’re transforming a small guest bathroom or revamping your master suite, these DIY ideas will help you create a relaxing space that feels both rustic and modern. So, grab your tools, get creative, and enjoy the process of making your bathroom a farmhouse oasis.