When it comes to bathroom decorating, one often-overlooked area is the space above the toilet. This little section can transform from plain and empty to stylish and functional with a few simple decor choices. Whether your bathroom is small or spacious, the area above the toilet offers the perfect opportunity to express your creativity and add personality. From wall art to floating shelves, there are endless possibilities to enhance your bathroom’s look while maintaining practicality.
In this blog post, we will explore 10 above toilet decor ideas that will make your bathroom feel polished, inviting, and well-designed. Each idea balances beauty with functionality, so your bathroom not only looks better but also works better for your daily routine.
1. Add Floating Shelves
Floating shelves are one of the most popular and practical ways to decorate the space above your toilet. They add dimension, storage, and a touch of modern elegance. You can use wooden shelves for a rustic or farmhouse feel, or go with sleek black metal shelves for a modern minimalist look.
Place everyday essentials such as towels, cotton jars, and small baskets neatly on the shelves. To balance utility with style, mix in decorative items like candles, a framed photo, or a small plant. Remember to keep it simple—too many items can make the space look cluttered.
Tip: Install two or three shelves in a staggered layout to create visual interest and make the most of vertical space.
2. Display Framed Wall Art
A great way to personalize your bathroom is by hanging framed art or prints above the toilet. Choose artwork that complements your bathroom’s theme—coastal prints for a beachy vibe, black-and-white photography for a modern aesthetic, or floral art for a soft, feminine touch.
You can hang one large piece for a bold statement or arrange a set of smaller frames in a gallery-style layout. Make sure the art is moisture-resistant or well-sealed in a frame to protect it from humidity.
Tip: Align your artwork with other elements in the room, such as mirrors or towel racks, to create visual harmony.
3. Create a Green Corner with Plants
Adding greenery is a beautiful way to bring life and freshness to your bathroom. Plants add color, purify the air, and create a spa-like ambiance. The space above your toilet can be perfect for displaying small potted plants or hanging planters.
Some great low-maintenance plant options for bathrooms include pothos, snake plant, and peace lily. You can place a small potted plant on a floating shelf or hang one from the ceiling to add a natural touch.
Tip: If your bathroom doesn’t have natural light, opt for high-quality faux plants that look realistic but require no care.
4. Use Baskets for Storage and Style
Decorative baskets can make your bathroom look more organized and stylish at the same time. Place woven or wire baskets above your toilet to store extra toilet paper, rolled-up towels, or toiletries. They bring warmth and texture to your space, especially if your bathroom decor feels too sterile.
You can stack baskets on floating shelves or mount a set of small woven baskets directly on the wall. This setup adds functionality while maintaining a clean, cohesive look.
Tip: Choose baskets in neutral tones such as beige, brown, or gray to blend seamlessly with your bathroom decor.
5. Hang a Statement Mirror
If your bathroom is small or lacks natural light, adding a mirror above the toilet can make a huge difference. Mirrors reflect light, creating an illusion of more space and brightness. A uniquely shaped mirror—such as round, oval, or arch-shaped—can serve as both a functional and decorative element.
You can choose a mirror with a wooden frame for a warm, rustic feel, or go with gold or black metal for a modern twist. The mirror can act as the focal point of your bathroom, especially if it’s surrounded by other minimal decor.
Tip: Make sure the mirror is centered and not too large for the wall. A perfectly sized mirror keeps the design balanced.
6. Incorporate Wall-Mounted Cabinets
For those who need extra storage, a wall-mounted cabinet above the toilet is a practical and stylish solution. It provides hidden storage for toiletries, cleaning products, and extra towels, helping you keep your bathroom neat and clutter-free.
Choose a cabinet design that complements your bathroom’s style. White cabinets offer a classic look, while natural wood or matte black cabinets suit modern or rustic themes. You can also add decorative touches like small plants or candles on top of the cabinet.
Tip: Consider open shelving at the bottom of the cabinet for frequently used items, combining convenience with aesthetic appeal.
7. Add a Ladder Shelf
Ladder shelves are trendy, versatile, and easy to move around. They lean elegantly against the wall above your toilet and provide multiple tiers of storage. You can use them to display folded towels, candles, small baskets, or decor accents like framed photos or ceramic vases.
This type of shelf works beautifully in both small and large bathrooms. A wooden ladder adds warmth and charm, while a metal ladder shelf brings a more industrial or minimalist feel.
Tip: Keep the bottom shelves for practical items and the top for decorative pieces to maintain a balanced look.
8. Use a Wall Sign or Typography Art
Adding a stylish wall sign or quote art above your toilet can instantly add personality to your bathroom. Wooden signs with phrases like “Relax,” “Wash,” or “Fresh & Clean” can be playful yet elegant additions.
If you prefer a more contemporary approach, framed typography prints with minimalist fonts can make the space look chic and sophisticated. Signs also work well in themed bathrooms—farmhouse, coastal, modern, or vintage.
Tip: Choose simple, legible fonts and neutral colors so the sign enhances the room without overwhelming it.
9. Install Decorative Wall Hooks
Wall hooks are a great way to combine utility and design. You can use them to hang towels, robes, or decorative items like macrame or hanging baskets. Above the toilet, a row of stylish hooks adds character while serving a useful purpose.
Brass or matte black hooks work well in modern bathrooms, while wooden or rustic metal hooks fit perfectly in farmhouse or vintage spaces. You can also hang lightweight decor, like small hanging plants or woven wall pieces, to add visual interest.
Tip: Space hooks evenly and keep them at a comfortable height for both aesthetics and functionality.
10. Create a Mini Gallery Wall
For those who love art and design, a mini gallery wall above the toilet can become a unique statement piece. Mix and match different frame sizes, colors, and art styles to create a cohesive look. You can combine photos, prints, and even small mirrors for variety.
Keep the arrangement symmetrical for a clean, modern vibe, or go asymmetrical for a more eclectic and artistic appearance. Just make sure to balance the composition with the rest of your bathroom decor.
Tip: Stick to a consistent color palette or theme—such as black-and-white photos, botanical prints, or coastal artwork—to tie everything together.
How to Choose the Right Decor Style for Your Bathroom
When decorating above the toilet, it is important to consider your bathroom’s overall design theme. Here are some tips to help you decide:
- Modern Bathrooms: Opt for clean lines, metal accents, and monochrome art. Floating shelves with simple decor pieces work beautifully.
- Farmhouse Style: Choose wood shelves, woven baskets, and rustic wall art. Add greenery to soften the look.
- Boho Bathrooms: Use layered textures like macrame wall hangings, woven baskets, and potted plants.
- Coastal Vibe: Decorate with beach-inspired prints, light wood, seashell decor, and white or pastel tones.
- Minimalist Spaces: Keep it simple with one or two well-chosen pieces like a framed print or sleek floating shelf.
Your above-toilet decor should enhance your bathroom’s atmosphere without making it feel overcrowded. Always aim for balance—combine beauty, function, and open space.
Decorating Tips for a Polished Look
- Maintain Proportion: Avoid oversized decor that overpowers the space. Choose items that fit well above the toilet without feeling cramped.
- Add Layers: Combine different heights, textures, and materials to create depth and interest.
- Balance Color: Use a consistent color palette that ties in with your bathroom fixtures and walls.
- Use Vertical Space: Take advantage of the height above your toilet by layering shelves or tall artwork.
- Keep It Functional: Incorporate items you actually use, like towels or toiletries, to avoid unnecessary clutter.
Final Thoughts
The area above your toilet doesn’t have to remain empty or boring. With a little creativity, it can become one of the most stylish and functional parts of your bathroom. Whether you choose floating shelves, framed art, or a touch of greenery, the right above-toilet decor can completely transform your space.
Decorating this often-overlooked spot is all about blending practicality with personality. Think about how you use your bathroom, the atmosphere you want to create, and your overall style preferences. Once you bring it all together, you’ll have a bathroom that feels cohesive, elegant, and uniquely yours.
In summary, these 10 above toilet decor ideas will help you design a space that is both attractive and useful. From modern shelving to charming wall art, you can turn a simple blank wall into a beautifully styled focal point that enhances your entire bathroom experience.
