A few weeks ago we hosted a group of friends at our home for the weekend — seven people in total. I’ll admit I was still finishing last-minute details right up until guests arrived. While I wanted the place to look welcoming, I also needed to make practical updates to comfortably accommodate everyone. The guest bathroom quickly rose to the top of that to-do list.
I’d tackled this bathroom once before, but time had taken its toll on the updates and the space no longer felt cohesive. I’d also been wanting to add a wallpaper accent wall for a long time, so this visit was the perfect excuse for a fresh, lasting makeover. I partnered with Delta Faucet to bring the vision to life and even replaced a leaky showerhead myself — a small DIY victory that saved time and stress.
My goal was a playful yet calming bathroom that feels welcoming to guests but also functions well for everyday use when we don’t have company. The wallpaper set the tone, and I pulled in black-and-white accents—towels and artwork—to tie the room together. A few colorful accents kept the space from feeling monotone and gave it personality that reflects our style.
Of course, there are still elements I’d change if it were mine to renovate permanently. We rent, so the sand-colored granite countertop and contemporary cabinets aren’t going anywhere. Instead of replacing them, I worked around those fixed features to make the room feel cohesive and intentional.
Personality
The wallpaper was the first element I chose, and it guided all other decisions. I matched patterns and colors around the wallpaper, adding black-and-white pieces to create cohesion and introducing brighter accents for an energetic touch. The result feels fresh and more true to our aesthetic without being over the top.
Renter’s note: Since we rent, I avoided permanent wallpaper installation. Instead of wallpaper paste, I used heavy-duty Command strips at the top, sides and bottom of each wallpaper panel. I aligned the pattern as if doing a standard installation, secured the panels with the strips, then trimmed excess paper with a sharp blade. This method keeps the look clean and allows for easy removal without wall damage when we move. It’s a great temporary solution for renters who want bold wallpaper without committing permanently.
Practicality
Our guest showerhead had been leaking for a while, so replacing it was a priority. I chose the Delta In2ition showerhead with H2Okinetic® technology for its water-saving benefits and easy installation. The technology adjusts flow and droplet size to create a fuller showering experience while using less water—an efficient option that still feels luxurious.
I’d never replaced a showerhead before, so I expected a longer project. To my surprise it took about five minutes to remove the old, leaky fixture and install the new one. No professional help required—just a quick, satisfying upgrade.
Renter’s note: I kept the original showerhead so I can reinstall it when we move and take the new one with us. That way the landlord’s property is intact and I take my upgrade along.
From swapping the showerhead to hanging artwork and wallpaper, the whole refresh took just a few hours. Installing the wallpaper required the most time, but once it was up the room felt transformed and guest-ready.
Photography Amelia Tatnall Lawrence
Sources
Delta In2ition Showerhead H2Okinetic® Technology (available at major home retailers) // wallpaper and decor pieces sourced to coordinate with the room // towels, art and accessories selected to complement the wallpaper and create a balanced mix of black-and-white and colorful accents // some artwork created by me; vintage and handmade pieces mixed in for texture and character.
Have a room you’ve been wanting to refresh? If you’re renting, what challenges have you faced when decorating and how have you worked around them?
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This project was completed in partnership with Delta Faucet. All opinions expressed are my own. Thank you for supporting brands that help keep creative projects like this possible.