Bathroom Design Fails That Will Make You Do a Double-Take

Updated: Dec. 01, 2023

While creative, these DIY bathroom projects are hysterically horrible.

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Useless Shower Fan Via Structure Tech
via Structure Tech

Shower Fan to Nowhere

Hmmm…So it just blows back into the room? With the ductwork exiting back into the room, what’s the point? And there’s even tile over it, so relocating it will certainly be a chore.

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Ceiling Tub Spout

The bare-all window isn’t even the strangest part of this bathroom arrangement. The whirlpool tub fills from the upstairs toilet!

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Backward Toilet Tank

Believe it or not, this toilet tank was installed backwards. We hope someone didn’t spend money on a plumber for this job. Installing a toilet is actually a pretty easy DIY project — just make sure you follow the directions.

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Creative Toilet Roll Location

We’re not quite sure why this homeowner went to the trouble of cutting into the vanity cabinet to install a toilet paper holder. Mounting it on the wall would have made a lot more sense. Here are more bizarre toilet paper holders you have to see to believe.

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Shower Head Tub Faucet

When you choose a bathtub and shower combo for your bathroom, I don’t think this is what you have in mind. Plus, here are 12 things to consider when buying a new bathtub.

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There’s Enough Room for a Sink…Really

Obviously this homeowner didn’t let a small bathroom get in the way of his plans. We’re just not convinced this was the best choice for the sink location.

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Wait, the Toilet is Where?

We love to think of creative solutions for a small space — but placing the toilet in the kitchen is just a step too far. Eww.

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Got Pipes?

Sure, a grab bar in the shower is a nice safety feature (especially for seniors), but this homeowner might have gone a little overboard.

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Bath Fan Faux Pas

This bathroom fan cover is proof that you should always measure twice, cut once. Here’s how to clean a dusty exhaust fan.

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Extra Large Toilet Tank Lid

Well, this homeowner learned the hard way that one size does not fit all when it comes to toilet tank lids. Here’s how to properly replace common toilet tank parts.

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How Low Can You Go?

Looks like this shower head is at about toddler-height. Which is not exactly practical. Check out our favorite shower heads for a more relaxing shower. (Just make sure you install them at the right height.)

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A Toilet with No Privacy

So much for the one place you can get some alone time. We don’t think the open-concept floor plan trend was meant for bathrooms.

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Corner Toilet Problems

We’re not really a fan of either of these solutions, but apparently the homeowner went the money-saving route. Here’s a tip: If you have to cut into the drywall to make a toilet fit, you might need to relocate the toilet.

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Duct Tape Tile

Sure, duct tape is great for a lot of repairs, but definitely not for bathroom tile.

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Antique Toilet

Vintage furniture and accessories can add great character to your home. We just don’t think anyone wants to use an antique toilet.

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Toilet Paper Door Stop

Someone didn’t quite get the space planning right for this bathroom. The door opens directly onto the toilet paper holder. Oops.

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Difficult-to-Reach Outlet

Well here’s one argument against doing your own electrical work. You might pick the wrong outlet locations like this unlucky homeowner.

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Tub Inside Shower

We like shower and bathtub combos, but this one is pretty unique (to put it gently). For more successful shower inspiration, check out some of our favorite steam shower ideas.

Up next, check out these before and after bathroom makeovers you can do in a weekend.