12 Budget Bathroom Remodel Ideas That Only Look Expensive
Revamping your bathroom may seem like a costly undertaking. But by planning ahead and getting a little creative, you can pull off a remodel that won't break the bank. From pretty powder rooms to modern master baths, these 12 beautiful makeovers prove you don't need a big budget to execute a high-style transformation.
1. Play up contrasts.
You don't have to spend a ton to transform a space. A fresh coat of jet black paint — such as Downing Street by Valspar — creates eye-catching contrasts between the walls and existing tile in this bathroom makeover by Kimberly over at Swoon Worthy. The wood floor laminate and a few potted plants infuse the room with a warm organic feel.
2. Even starting from scratch can be done with a budget.
We get it, the idea of a gut job is daunting. But sometimes starting from scratch is the right move. Mandi from Vintage Revivals completed this bathroom redux for less than $1,000! Instead of trying to find items to fit into an existing setup, you can be in control of the layout and the materials.
3. Instead of the whole room, focus on a few pieces.
Brianna Heiligenthal's recipe for success in this simple-by-design bathroom were white walls, brass wall sconces, and a vintage dresser that she cleverly turned into a vanity and painted pink. Each element was thoughtfully selected, nothing superfluous — and it paid off tenfold.
4. Opt for a statement-making patterned tile.
This eye-catching makeover by Aniko from Place of My Taste came together in just five weeks. Even more amazing is that some of our fave features are super affordable, such as the cute wooden planters, towel rings, and bamboo accessories. Also, can we talk about that midcentury-inspired floor tile?
5. Mix high and low pieces.
In this master bathroom transformation, Elsie Larson from A Beautiful Mess splurged on these stunning sconces above the vanity, but saved by DIYing her ceiling fixture. She purchased a decorative ceiling medallion on Amazon and paired it with a $7 LED light (in lieu of a chandelier) to cut costs. Genius!
6. Swap out the shower curtain.
A shower curtain is an easy and inexpensive way to amp up your bathroom's personality. We love the stunner that Sarah Sherman Samuel paired with a brass rod and hooks in this lovely remodel.
7. Maximize space with a sliding door instead of a swing door.
Can you believe this streamlined farmhouse bathroom by Manda over at The Merrythought was originally a closet? The sliding barn door and charming details bring the bucolic-meets-modern vibe to life, and on a budget no less.
8. Prioritize storage.
Jenny from Little Green Notebook showed this loo some major love. Instead of installing pricey built-ins, she opted for a blue vanity with plenty of storage that looks super chic and helps to keep clutter at bay.
9. Don't hire someone else when you can do it yourself.
Labor is expensive. We're not suggesting you start sledgehammering walls, though there are some tasks you can totally tackle. In this remodel, Mr. Kate did all the tiling and grouting which meant major savings.
10. Breathe new life into things you already own.
How gorgeous is this tub? It looks like it would cost a pretty penny, but in fact Elsie from A Beautiful Mess achieved the custom effect courtesy of a little paint, complemented by a matte black faucet.
11. Don’t over decorate.
If you're on a budget, the last thing you want is to overdo it with cheap tchotchkes. You're better off putting your money towards functional items (like a marble topped vanity) plus a few choice accents. New Darlings bloggers Robert and Christina's master bathroom is picture-perfect proof!
12. Create a focal point.
By investing in one standout element — like Kristin Jackson from the Hunted Interior did by hanging this framed black and white photo of 007 alum Roger Moore — you can get away with being thrifty in other parts of the room.