It’s easy to forget that the bathroom is more than just a necessity; although most homeowners are content with giving their bathroom a Spartan look consisting of little more than the basic amenities, overlooking the design potential of one of the most commonly used rooms in your home can also mean overlooking your maximum potential for comfort and style.

So how does one update their bathroom to accommodate for a more serious interest in interior design?

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Add new lighting.
Have you got a murky yellow bulb in your bathroom socket? Try getting rid of it and installing attractive fluorescent fixtures on the walls or ceiling. For those who have softer tastes, using colored lights can provide a wide range of atmospheric moods while still toning down the brightness, from the relaxing effects of green lighting to a more exotic, daring red. Still not convinced? Renovate your bathroom to let in a little natural light: Add large windows (with concealing drapes, of course) and enjoy as the sun’s gently filtered rays.

Choose a color scheme.
The easiest way to spruce up a neglected room is to give it life through color! Pick your favorite—or a color you feel most comfortable in—and start deciding how you’d like to incorporate it into your bathroom space. Painting the walls seems like an obvious choice, but what about the rest of your decor? Don’t forget to pick out mats, vases, furniture, and plants to complement your new color choice. Even a plain white landscape can be livened up by purchasing just a few bold accents in a bright color like orange or purple.

Remember the little touches.
Update your faucets, sink, and tub, and even toilet cover and soap dishes, should you need to. Even the little things count, and sometimes, they can be what make or break your bathroom makeover: Make the most of your smaller items by coordinating them with your idea of the perfect bathroom setting. Going for a minimalistic look? Then don’t leave those exaggerated faucets or particularly ornate, fluffy towels out to clash with your new design!

Interior design for the bathroom doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Using only a few tricks of the trade, you can make your bathroom a pleasant place to relax and a visually appealing room in your home, not just a necessary daily pit stop!