The main bathroom in Palm Springs originally had only one small window and opened directly into the master bedroom. Our priorities were to increase natural light, add privacy, and introduce a bold color to define the space and make it feel special.
The Layout Plan
To keep costs down after adding another bathroom elsewhere in the house, we kept this bathroom’s original footprint. Below is how the bathroom looked when we bought the house.
At purchase, the vanity area was open to the bedroom and two walk-in closets, while the toilet and shower sat behind a half wall.
For privacy, we decided to add a door to the toilet and shower area. To keep the bathroom feeling open, we selected an antique wooden door with character that will operate as a sliding barn-style door.
We built an archway where the door will slide behind the wall when open, and fully cover the arch when closed. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in function and character.
The Color Palette
Because the vanity area flows into the bedroom, we chose a deep green to maintain cohesion. The vanity is a cool-toned green—leaning toward teal but still clearly green—and all of the metal accents will be brass. We’ll be swapping the vanity’s current faucets and hardware for brass finishes to warm up the palette.
Behind the arch, the shower will be clad in a vibrant 4×4 Cadmium yellow zellige tile. It’s an unexpected, sunny pop that will be hidden until you open the arch, creating a delightful contrast with the green vanity.
To bridge the green and yellow, we selected a patterned wallpaper for the walls adjacent to the shower. The wallpaper adds warmth and visual interest, helping the transition feel intentional and layered rather than abrupt.
The Bathroom Design
Above is a mock-up of the vanity area. Similar to the setup in our Los Angeles main bathroom, we’re using two mirrors, but this time the mirrors are flanked by four brass sconces. We’re avoiding ceiling fixtures to limit ceiling penetrations, so wall lighting will provide both function and ambiance.
I’m still deciding how to treat the long blank wall opposite the vanity—options include art, towel bars, or a large textile piece. The wall next to the shower is another challenge: it needs to accommodate a sconce and functional towel storage in a tight footprint.
Below is a collage of items that will help complete the space and communicate the overall mood.
Green 72″ Vanity (similar model) | Vintage Sconce | Gold Sconce | Patterned Wallpaper | Yellow Zellige Tile | Vintage Moroccan Rug | Gold Mirror
Adding Natural Light
Because adding new windows wasn’t feasible, we installed two solar-powered fresh-air skylights. The skylights immediately brighten the room and improve ventilation, transforming the feel of the space without altering exterior walls.
To Do List
Remaining decisions and tasks include:
- Select brass hardware to replace the existing silver hardware on the vanity.
- Resolve placement for the shower door, hooks, sconce, and towel storage in the tight area around the shower.
- Decide how to fill the large wall opposite the vanity with an artful and functional solution.
We’re excited about how this room is coming together and would love to hear your thoughts and suggestions.