Bathrooms don’t have to be drab just because they’re utilitarian by nature. These 20 makeovers show how architects and designers have turned humdrum interiors into something extraordinary.

From Builder-Grade to Retro-Chic for $17K

Before: The original, builder-grade materials in this 40-square-foot bathroom did not suit its design-minded owner, who reached out to Design Bar Detroit with a vision for the client called a “’60s Italian Dystopia” transformation. " layout="" credit="Courtesy of Design Bar Detroit" photoUserId=""/>

An Open-Air Shower With Its Own Rooftop Courtyard

A Tiled En Suite for a Narrow Brooklyn Townhouse

11-foot by 30-foot frame—into a comfortable main suite, with a portion of the hallway converted into the bathroom." layout="" credit="Courtesy of ERA" photoUserId=""/>