Bathroom shelves over toilet decor is an excellent way to maximize space and add style to your bathroom. These shelves are perfect for storing toiletries, towels, and decorative items, creating a functional yet aesthetically pleasing look. With a variety of materials and designs available, you can easily find options that complement your bathroom’s theme.
Incorporating bathroom shelves over the toilet also helps to keep the space organized and clutter-free. Whether you prefer a minimalist design or something more ornate, these shelves provide a smart solution for both storage and decor, elevating the overall ambiance of your bathroom.
29 Excellent Bathroom Shelves Over Toilet Decor
When it comes to bathroom design, every inch of space counts. One area often overlooked is the wall space above the toilet. However, this empty space can be an excellent opportunity to add both functional storage and stylish decor. Bathroom shelves over the toilet can be an ideal solution to maximize storage in smaller bathrooms while enhancing the overall aesthetic.
In this article, we’ll explore 29 creative ideas for using bathroom shelves over the toilet, from functional storage solutions to chic decorative accents that make the most out of this often-underused space.
1. Use All The Vertical Space You Can
Image source: Erin Williamson Design
When designing small spaces, using all the vertical space you can is key to maximizing storage and functionality. Walls are often underutilized, but they offer great potential for shelving, hooks, and other storage solutions.
By installing shelves or cabinets high up, you can store items you don’t need access to daily while keeping the lower areas more accessible and free from clutter. This approach is particularly effective in bathrooms, kitchens, or living rooms where floor space is limited.
Not only does using vertical space enhance storage, but it can also add an interesting visual element to your room’s decor.
2. Stick With the Classics
Image source: Reena Sotopra
When it comes to home decor, sticking with the classics ensures timeless elegance and versatility. Classic designs, such as neutral colors, traditional furniture styles, and simple patterns, never go out of style. This approach creates a calming, cohesive atmosphere that stands the test of time.
By choosing classic pieces, you can build a strong foundation for your home’s aesthetic. These items pair well with almost any decor change, making it easier to update your space without needing to replace everything.
Opting for the classics also adds value to your home, as these enduring styles appeal to a wide range of tastes.
3. Implement Minimalist Touches
Image source: arbor & co
Implementing minimalist touches in your home can create a serene, clutter-free environment. By focusing on simplicity, clean lines, and functional decor, you can achieve a stylish yet unobtrusive look. Minimalism emphasizes quality over quantity, allowing each piece in the room to stand out.
Instead of overcrowding your space with unnecessary items, choose key elements that serve a purpose and add to the aesthetic. Neutral colors, subtle textures, and decluttered surfaces are hallmarks of minimalist design.
This approach not only makes your space feel more spacious but also promotes a sense of calm, fostering a peaceful and organized atmosphere.
4. Go for Glass
Image source: Reena Sotropa
“Go for glass” is a design choice that adds a touch of elegance and openness to any space. Glass elements, whether through furniture, decor, or accessories, create a sense of lightness and can make a room feel more expansive. Transparent surfaces allow for visual flow, preventing the space from feeling crowded or heavy.
Glass also offers versatility, easily blending with any interior style, from modern to traditional. It’s a timeless material that can elevate both minimalistic and luxurious settings.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, glass is easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical choice for any home.
5. Try Out Brass
Image source: Jessica Nelson Design
“Try out brass” is a design trend that brings warmth and sophistication to any space. Known for its rich, golden tone, brass adds an element of luxury without being overly flashy. It pairs beautifully with a variety of materials, such as marble, wood, and glass, creating a balanced, timeless look.
Incorporating brass in light fixtures, hardware, or accessories can subtly elevate your decor. Its reflective quality brightens rooms and adds a touch of glamour, perfect for both modern and traditional interiors.
Brass is also durable and ages gracefully, developing a unique patina over time that enhances its character and charm.
6. Keep It Simple
Image source: Desiree Burns Interiors
“Keep it simple” is a design philosophy that embraces clean lines, minimal decoration, and a focus on functionality. By prioritizing simplicity, you can create a space that feels organized and calming, free from unnecessary clutter. This approach works well in any room, allowing each element to shine without overwhelming the senses.
Simplicity also means choosing quality over quantity. A few well-chosen pieces can make a bigger impact than an overcrowded space. Neutral colors, straightforward furniture, and subtle decor help to maintain a peaceful atmosphere.
Adopting a “keep it simple” mindset not only enhances the aesthetic but also promotes a more balanced, stress-free lifestyle.
7. Go Long and Narrow
Image source: arbor & co
“Go long and narrow” is a design strategy that maximizes the use of limited space while creating a streamlined look. By opting for elongated furniture and accessories, you can make a room appear larger and more open, especially in smaller or narrow spaces.
This approach works well in hallways, entryways, and tight living areas, where traditional bulky furniture might not fit. A long, narrow table or shelf can provide plenty of surface area without overwhelming the room’s proportions.
Long and narrow pieces also add visual interest, helping to guide the eye along the space while maintaining a sense of balance and harmony.
8. Consider Classic Black
Image source: Cathie Hong Interiors
“Consider classic black” as a timeless design choice that adds sophistication and depth to any space. Black elements create a striking contrast against lighter tones, enhancing the overall aesthetic of a room. Whether in furniture, decor, or accents, it brings a bold, elegant touch.
Black is versatile, seamlessly integrating into various design styles, from contemporary to traditional. It can ground a space, providing a sleek and refined backdrop for other colors and textures to shine.
Furthermore, classic black is easy to maintain and works well with different materials, ensuring it remains stylish for years to come.
9. Bring in Retro
Image source: Desiree Burns Interiors
“Bring in retro” is a fun and vibrant way to infuse nostalgia and personality into your space. Retro design elements, from bold patterns to colorful furniture, can instantly liven up a room. Whether it’s mid-century modern pieces or funky 70s vibes, retro decor adds character and warmth.
Incorporating retro accents, such as vintage lighting or retro-inspired textiles, can create a playful and unique atmosphere. These items bring a sense of history, connecting past trends with modern-day styles.
By mixing retro elements with contemporary pieces, you can achieve a balanced, stylish look that feels both timeless and fresh.
10. Use Shelves to Show Off Decor
Image source: Laquita Tate
“Use shelves to show off decor” is a great way to display personal style and add character to your space. Shelves provide the perfect platform for showcasing decorative items such as vases, books, or framed art, turning everyday objects into visual focal points.
Not only do shelves offer ample display space, but they also help to keep your surfaces clutter-free. With a variety of shelf designs available, you can find options that complement your room’s style and enhance its overall aesthetic.
By thoughtfully arranging decor on shelves, you can create a curated, personalized look that feels both functional and stylish.
11. Don’t Forget Wicker
Image source: JC Design
“Don’t forget wicker” is a design trend that brings a natural, earthy charm to any space. Wicker pieces, such as baskets, chairs, or storage containers, add texture and warmth, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Their organic feel pairs beautifully with both modern and rustic interiors.
Wicker is incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into various design schemes. It’s perfect for adding contrast to sleek, contemporary furnishings or complementing a boho-inspired setting.
Not only is wicker stylish, but it’s also practical. Lightweight and durable, wicker furniture and accessories offer functional storage solutions while enhancing your home’s aesthetic appeal.
12. Floating Shelves for a Minimalist Look
Floating shelves above the toilet offer a sleek, modern feel that is both functional and stylish. They are perfect for a minimalist bathroom design, keeping the space feeling open and uncluttered. You can use these shelves to display small decorative items, such as plants, candles, or framed pictures. A floating shelf also provides a place to store extra toilet paper or towels without sacrificing style.
Pro Tip: Opt for a light wood or white finish to maintain the clean, airy vibe of a minimalist bathroom.
13. Rustic Wooden Shelves for Warmth and Texture
If your bathroom leans toward a rustic or farmhouse aesthetic, wooden shelves over the toilet can add a warm, textured element to the space. Reclaimed wood or weathered finishes work well in creating an inviting, cozy vibe. You can display vintage jars, candles, or small potted plants to enhance the rustic feel.
Pro Tip: Pair wooden shelves with industrial-style hardware or black brackets for a stylish contrast.
14. Glass Shelves for an Elegant, Open Feel
Glass shelves can give your bathroom a refined, open feel. Their transparency helps to keep the space looking less cluttered and more spacious. You can place delicate glassware, perfume bottles, or simple decorative items on these shelves to add an elegant touch to your bathroom.
Pro Tip: Make sure the glass shelves are securely installed, especially in a high-moisture environment like the bathroom.
15. Bamboo Shelves for a Natural, Eco-Friendly Touch
Bamboo is an eco-friendly and sustainable material that adds a natural touch to your bathroom. Bamboo shelves are lightweight, durable, and water-resistant, making them an excellent choice for the space above your toilet. The neutral tones of bamboo pair well with a variety of bathroom styles, from modern to traditional.
Pro Tip: Use bamboo shelves in combination with other natural materials, such as stone or wicker, to enhance the organic feel of your bathroom.
16. Wall-Mounted Cabinet Shelves for Extra Storage
If you’re looking to maximize storage above the toilet, consider wall-mounted cabinet shelves. These enclosed shelves can store extra toilet paper, cleaning supplies, or personal items out of sight, giving your bathroom a more organized and tidy look. The cabinet doors help keep everything neat and protected from humidity.
Pro Tip: Opt for cabinets with a mirrored or matte finish to add sophistication and elegance to your bathroom.
17. Open Shelving for a Scandi-Inspired Vibe
Scandinavian design is all about simplicity, functionality, and clean lines. Open shelves above the toilet can be styled with a mix of storage baskets, minimalist decor, and practical items, creating a perfect Scandi-inspired look. This storage method makes everything easily accessible while keeping the design light and breezy.
Pro Tip: Use monochrome or muted tones for your accessories and decor to maintain the calm, neutral atmosphere typical of Scandinavian design.
18. Industrial Shelves for a Bold, Modern Look
Industrial shelves with metal brackets and dark wood can add an edgy, modern touch to your bathroom. The combination of raw materials creates a bold contrast to the softer textures found in most bathroom designs. These shelves are ideal for storing toiletries and adding decorative items, such as a small plant or metal trays, to emphasize the industrial aesthetic.
Pro Tip: Combine industrial shelving with other metal accents, such as chrome faucets and towel bars, to create a cohesive look.
19. Wire Basket Shelves for a Casual, Functional Touch
Wire baskets mounted on shelves above the toilet offer both storage and a casual aesthetic. These baskets are perfect for organizing toiletries, towels, and extra toilet paper while keeping the space looking tidy. The open wire design keeps everything visible yet organized.
Pro Tip: Add labels to the wire baskets for a more streamlined and organized look.
20. Tiered Shelving for a Stylish Display
If you’re looking to create a statement with your bathroom shelves, consider tiered shelving. These multi-level shelves create a cascading effect and provide plenty of storage space. You can store towels on the bottom tier, toiletries on the middle tier, and decorative items on the top tier for a balanced, visually appealing display.
Pro Tip: Mix and match different textures on each tier to add dimension and interest, such as pairing woven baskets with glass jars or candles.
21. Vintage Ladder Shelves for a Unique Look
For a quirky and unique look, try using a vintage ladder as a shelf over the toilet. Ladder shelves are a great way to add height and character to a bathroom while providing functional storage. You can hang small towels, place decor items, or store toiletries on the rungs for a stylish, vintage-inspired touch.
Pro Tip: Paint or distress the ladder for an even more rustic or shabby-chic look.
22. Tiled Shelves for a Custom, Integrated Look
If you want to achieve a seamless, integrated look, consider adding tiled shelves above the toilet. These can be custom-designed to match your bathroom tiles, creating a cohesive feel throughout the space. Tiled shelves are perfect for small decorative items or for displaying scented candles, toiletries, and plants.
Pro Tip: Use glass or mosaic tiles for a more intricate, eye-catching design that adds a touch of luxury to the bathroom.
23. Mirror Shelves for Dual Functionality
A mirror shelf above the toilet combines two important elements: functionality and style. This type of shelf allows you to store essentials while also serving as a mirror for everyday use. Mirror shelves can open up your space, reflect light, and make the bathroom appear larger.
Pro Tip: Choose a mirrored shelf with a sleek, modern design or a vintage frame for a timeless touch.
24. Suspended Shelves for a Floating Effect
Suspended shelves, or hanging shelves, are an innovative way to use space above the toilet. These shelves are typically attached to the ceiling with chains or cords, giving the space a floating effect. This option creates a unique, contemporary look while offering additional storage for bathroom essentials.
Pro Tip: Keep the suspended shelves minimal, as too many items can make the space feel cluttered.
25. Custom Shelves with Built-In Lighting
For a more luxurious and high-tech touch, consider custom shelves with built-in lighting. These shelves provide storage and decorative space, while the integrated lighting helps illuminate your bathroom in a soft, ambient way. Whether it’s LED strip lights or spotlights, lighting will add both style and practicality.
Pro Tip: Use dimmable lights to control the ambiance and create a relaxing environment.
26. Mirrored Cabinet Shelves for Elegance and Storage
Mirrored cabinets above the toilet are not only stylish but also provide valuable storage space. The reflective surface can make your bathroom feel brighter and larger, while the cabinet’s interior can store toiletries, cleaning supplies, or extra towels.
Pro Tip: Choose a cabinet with ornate detailing or bevelled edges for a more luxurious, sophisticated look.
27. Floating Glass Jar Shelves for an Organized Look
Glass jars and containers on shelves above the toilet are a simple yet effective way to store small bathroom essentials like cotton balls, swabs, or bath salts. Floating glass shelves with neat rows of jars create an organized and visually appealing display.
Pro Tip: Label the jars or use coordinating jars to maintain a clean and uniform aesthetic.
28. Modern Metal Shelves for an Urban Vibe
Metal shelves can lend an industrial and urban flair to your bathroom. Whether they’re sleek black metal or copper-toned, these shelves are perfect for adding an edge to your space. Use them to store rolled towels, toiletries, or add a few stylish decorative objects for a modern vibe.
Pro Tip: Choose a shelf with an open-frame design to avoid making the space feel too heavy.
29. Vintage Apothecary Shelves for a Touch of History
For a vintage-inspired bathroom, consider using apothecary-style shelves above the toilet. These shelves typically feature glass containers and compartments, ideal for organizing and storing small bathroom essentials in a visually interesting way. The vintage charm adds character and history to the space.
Pro Tip: Pair these shelves with antique or retro accessories, like old-fashioned perfume bottles or vintage medicine cabinets, for a cohesive look.
Conclusion
The space above your toilet is one of the most underutilized areas in the bathroom, but with a little creativity, it can become a focal point that is both functional and beautiful. From floating shelves and vintage ladders to custom-designed tiles and mirror shelves, there are countless ways to incorporate storage and style above your toilet.
By using these 29 ideas for bathroom shelves over the toilet, you can create a space that’s not only organized but also reflects your personal taste and design style. Whether you prefer modern minimalism or rustic charm, there’s a shelving solution to suit every bathroom.
Related Article