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Decoration

Old bathroom? 4 steps to make it charming and full of life

With well-thought-out and targeted interventions, old bathrooms gain functionality, updated aesthetics, and a more pleasant user experience.

By CASACOR Publisher

Submitted at Nov 18, 2025, 10:00 AM

08 min de leitura
Luisa Mano - Banho Violeta. Projeto da CASACOR Minas Gerais 2025.

Luisa Mano - Banho Violeta. Projeto da CASACOR Minas Gerais 2025. (Jomar Bragança/CASACOR)

The need to renovate old bathrooms often arises when the projects no longer meet everyday use - whether due to natural wear, outdated aesthetics, or lack of functionality. Many of these projects were designed for other routines and require updates to improve circulation, thermal comfort, lighting, and organization.

Therefore, renewing the bathroom goes beyond the visual aspect: it involves bringing back efficiency and practicality to one of the most used rooms in the house.

Fernanda Zulzke Interiors - Winter Garden. Project of CASACOR São Paulo 2025.

Fernanda Zulzke Interiores - Jardim de Inverno. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2025. (Israel Gollino/CASACOR)

When planning the renovation, it is important to understand that not all transformations require complex interventions. In many cases, specific adjustments - such as updating finishes, changing metals, repositioning fixtures, or replacing key pieces - create significant impact without the need for heavy construction. The aim is to find a balance between aesthetics, durability, and maintenance, respecting the original characteristics of the projects.

What to observe before renovating old bathrooms


Before starting any changes, it is essential to carry out a careful reading of the space to avoid reworking. Old bathrooms often have hidden problems such as leaks, mold, deteriorated joints, or plumbing failures. Identifying these points ensures that the aesthetic renovation is safe and long-lasting. A technical inspection, when possible, helps to map what needs immediate correction and what can be updated gradually.

Fichberg Architecture and Interiors - Déjà Vu. Partners Eloy and Felipe Fichberg combine memories of the art nouveau style with the exuberance of Brazilian fauna, flora, and culture in a contemplative nook of 49 m². In the bathroom area, the stained glass depicting Indigenous peoples and the Atlantic Forest draws attention. The mosaic floor, made with reused porcelain, displays figures of tropical fruits such as cacao, açaí, pineapple, jabuticaba, and cashew. In the living room, the professionals bridge the past and present with a mix of classic furniture and examples of contemporary design. A reflection on female representation comes to light through the work of artist Silvana Mendes.

Fichberg Arquitetura e Interiores - Déjà Vu. Os sócios Eloy e Felipe Fichberg combinam memórias do estilo art nouveau com a exuberância da fauna, flora e cultura brasileiras em um recanto contemplativo de 49 m². Na área do banheiro, chamam a atenção os vitrais que retratam povos indígenas e a Mata Atlântica. Já o piso de mosaico, produzido com porcelanato reutilizado, exibe figuras de frutas tropicais, como cacau, açaí, abacaxi, jabuticaba e caju. Na sala, os profissionais fazem uma ponte entre passado e presente com a mistura de móveis clássicos e exemplares de design contemporâneo. Uma reflexão sobre representatividade feminina vem à tona por meio da obra da artista Silvana Mendes. (Bia Nauiack/CASACOR)

Another important aspect is to evaluate ventilation and lighting. Projects with little entry of natural light or no air renewal tend to accumulate moisture and accelerate wear. When renovating old bathrooms, considering solutions such as efficient exhaust fans, well-positioned fixtures, and large mirrors transforms not only the aesthetics but the daily experience of use.

Solutions for renovating old bathrooms


Small interventions can make a big difference in the sense of comfort and modernity. In this sense, the most indicated solutions are:

Revitalizing paint for old finishes

The use of special paints for tiles and humid surfaces is a practical alternative for those looking to modernize the bathroom without construction. Epoxy paint creates uniformity and updates the look, especially in environments with dated finishes or very striking colors.

Vinyl stickers and overlay solutions

Water-resistant stickers and clicked vinyl floors allow you to renew walls and floors without removing the original. They mimic wood, burnt cement, or natural stones, offering a quick and accessible update.

Senac Project - Tropicália Bathroom. CASACOR Ribeirão Preto 2025 Project.

Projeto Senac - Banheiro Tropicália. Projeto da CASACOR Ribeirão Preto 2025. (Felipe Cuine/CASACOR)

Changing metals, sanitary ware, and accessories

When renovating old bathrooms, replacing faucets, showers, valves, towel racks, and even the sink brings a contemporary air with controlled investment. Metals in matte black, brushed stainless steel, or soft gold create a contrast with simple finishes and elevate the whole.

Updating the shower enclosure and glass elements

Thinner profiles, new hardware, and transparent glass make the project feel lighter. This change is especially impactful in old bathrooms with acrylic shower enclosures or heavy structures.

How to choose materials when renovating old bathrooms


The selection of materials defines both the aesthetics and durability of the renovation. Prioritizing easy-to-maintain materials is essential to ensure longevity. Non-slip porcelain tiles, quartz surfaces, resin countertops, and low-porosity finishes prevent premature wear and facilitate daily cleaning. Furthermore, more technological grouts, such as epoxies, increase resistance and reduce leaks.

Amanda Bomfim - Samaúma Bath. CASACOR Goiás 2025 Project.

Amanda Bomfim - Banho Samaúma. Inspirado na integração entre o natural e o urbano, o banheiro propõe um diálogo sensível sobre como esses mundos podem coexistir de forma harmoniosa. Elementos da Floresta Amazônica, como cores, formas, texturas e aromas, foram incorporados para criar uma experiência sensorial imersiva. As grandes janelas integram o verde externo ao interno, ampliando a conexão com a natureza. Curvas suaves e materiais orgânicos reforçam o acolhimento, oferecendo um respiro no caos da cidade — um espaço onde somos parte da floresta e levamos algo dela conosco. (Edgard César/CASACOR)

Another important point is to maintain visual coherence. In small bathrooms, light tones enhance the sense of space, while neutral lighting highlights textures and creates a balanced atmosphere. Choosing materials that converse with each other helps create an updated project, but without excess - allowing elements such as mirrors and accessories to bring personality.

Maria Eduarda Werlich and Danielle Ceriotti - Refuge Capsules - Functional Bathrooms. Project of CASACOR Santa Catarina | Florianópolis 2025.

Maria Eduarda Werlich e Danielle Ceriotti - Cápsulas Refúgio - Banheiros Funcionais. Projeto da CASACOR Santa Catarina | Florianópolis 2025. (Lio Simas/CASACOR)

CASACOR Publisher is a creator of exclusive content, developed by the technology team of CASACOR based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.