7 Bathroom Upgrades That Will Increase Your Home’s Value

A bathroom renovation can feel deceptively simple. Unlike kitchens, the footprint is usually smaller, the material palette more contained, and the upgrade list shorter. However, that doesn’t make the decisions any easier. With high costs, tight timelines, and little room for error, every choice matters—especially if resale value is part of the equation.

Some changes simply refresh a space, while others fundamentally improve how it functions, and how it’s perceived by buyers. The most valuable ones do both. Ahead, we asked interior designers to identify the bathroom upgrades that are most worthy of your investment.

Custom Vanity

When it comes to worthy bathroom upgrades, a custom vanity consistently tops the list. Unlike off-the-shelf options, a bespoke design allows storage to be tailored to the way you use the space, maximizing every inch, while reducing visual clutter.

“Custom cabinetry also allows you to create a home for every special-use or permanently plugged-in item, like electric toothbrushes and hair tools—in a way that feels intentional, rather than overwhelming,” says Arrie Oliver, general manager at Copper Sky Design and Remodel.

Additional Shower Head

Sometimes, a small change makes a big difference, like installing another shower head. According to Oliver, this addition provides a spa-like experience for a single user, while also improving efficiency for two people sharing the same space and routine.

From a resale perspective, it’s the kind of upgrade that feels thoughtful—an improvement that suggests the bathroom was designed with real life in mind.

Freestanding Bathtub

If you have the space, then a freestanding tub is a top-tier upgrade. It provides more room and usability than a standard built-in tub, and it also sets the aesthetic direction for the entire bathroom.

“From a resale standpoint, it’s a feature that carries real weight,” says Oliver. A well-proportioned, freestanding tub adds intention and balance, appealing to buyers on both practical and aspirational levels.

Built-In Shower Niches and Storage

If you’ve ever balanced shampoo bottles on the edge of a tub or wished for somewhere to sit while shaving your legs, then consider adding a built-in shower niche and bench.

“This is something buyers increasingly value when evaluating a bathroom,” says Sasha Bikoff, founder of Sasha Bikoff Interior Design. “Because these features are integrated into the structure of the shower, they read as part of the original design, rather than an afterthought.”

Smart, Stylish Storage

No matter how beautiful a bathroom looks, it has to work. Storage is one of the first things homeowners notice, and one of the quickest frustrations when it’s missing.

“It’s non-negotiable in a bathroom, and the most valuable spaces balance beauty with practicality,” says Bikoff. “While pedestal sinks and consoles are aesthetically appealing, most homeowners need functional storage. I love a mix of drawers and open shelving, which lets you conceal clutter, while keeping everyday essentials within reach.”

Timeless Tiles

When it comes to bathrooms, longevity matters more than novelty. Trendy finishes can feel exciting in the moment, but they’ll quickly look outdated, says Jamie Robb, owner and creative director of Marlborough Tiles.

Instead, Robb suggests using classic layouts, neutral but personality-filled tile palettes, and durable materials. “Handmade tiles are particularly effective, as their subtle variation adds warmth and authenticity,” he says.

From a buyer’s perspective, a cohesive tiled scheme signals confidence. “Buyers are far more comfortable investing in a home where the bathroom won’t need immediate replacement, and a well-executed tile design suggests longevity and quality,” Robb says.

Enlarge the Shower

Many buyers now list generous, walk-in showers as a must-have.

“If your layout and budget allow, replacing a cramped enclosure with a larger, walk-in shower improves usability, while also making the bathroom feel more spacious and modern,” says Robb. “When paired with quality tiles, it becomes a design feature, rather than just a functional element.”

Even modest tweaks, like removing a bulky shower door, using lighter tiles, or opening the layout slightly, can make the shower feel more generous—without calling for a major renovation.