Whether you’re adding self-decorated shelving, swapping out your shower curtain, adding a new shower head or changing the floor, there are plenty of budget-friendly ways to revamp your bathroom. Get started with one (or more!) of these tips, which will transform your bathroom from simple to stunning in an instant.
- A quick change of aging fixtures can make all the difference. Depending on the vibe you’re going for, you can change the entire feel of the bathroom. Look for vintage-inspired designs that channel Victorian-era grace or opt for modern, clean lines in pewter that give your bathroom a refreshed appearance. Prefer something classic? Look to the graceful curves of brushed nickel. Of course, go beyond faucets — swap out your towel rack, light fixtures and drawer pulls to put together a seamless, coordinated look.
- Nothing makes a dramatic impact as much as paint. Not only is it instantly noticeable, it’s also extremely affordable. Remember that bathroom paint requires some serious attention — you’ll be painting around the toilet, tub or shower and sink as well as light fixtures and the floor. A meticulous job will yield flawless results.
- Update the color scheme. If you’re satisfied with your existing paint and don’t want to make any huge changes, shifting the bathroom’s color palette in another direction could make all the difference. From soap dispensers to shower curtains to towels, almost nothing is left untouched when going all out with color. If you’re channeling a nautical look, for example, a navy and white palette will convey it perfectly. If it’s all-out drama you’re after, sexy crimson and even black can have a strong impact.
- Shower heads can make or break your bathroom. Whether it’s a luxurious waterfall shower that feels as if it belongs in a five-star resort or a classic handheld with multiple massage settings, changing a shower head can make showering feel like less of a chore and more of an invigorating, spa-like experience.
- Storage space is always a concern, but you don’t have to invest in expensive shelving to hold your bathroom essentials. Adding floating shelves is a quick, affordable and surprisingly easy way to add some attractive decor to the bathroom. You can make your own if you’re DIY-savvy, but otherwise there are plenty of inexpensive options in a myriad of attractive colors and designs. Open shelves are perfect for holding candles, colorful towels and small knickknacks that add a little personality to the space.
- Authentic wood flooring is not recommended in the bathroom (as moisture may cause damage over time), but that’s where the beauty of laminate comes in. It can usually be placed over your existing flooring, and adds a classy touch to the bathroom without much effort. Faux wood looks elegant, but laminate flooring is available in many styles to complement any setting.
- A new bathroom vanity is perfect if you need more functional storage and counter space. Available in a variety of finishes, the vanity is a marriage of fashion and function: It can be remarkably stylish, and many offer plentiful drawers and cabinets.
- Dress up your mirror. There are several ways to do so, from installing a mirror frame to adding decorative trim. A basic white frame alone will do the trick, but the addition of crown moulding or even mosaic tiles has an especially dramatic impact on the room.
- Granite is no longer that inaccessible feature of old. Today, it’s easy to find granite vanity tops that include undermount sinks. Available in various colors, granite countertops add a little luxury to even the smallest bathrooms.
- The devil is in the details. Don’t overlook those little changes that may make a big difference, such as the shower curtain rod. A straight rod is typical, but a curved style, plus a new curtain and hooks, brings a touch of modernity to the bathroom.
- Get creative with basic features. In lieu of a traditional towel holder, try one of the more advanced designs, like a heated towel rack (many of which hold multiple towels at once), a towel hook to match your faucets or a towel ring for a more discreet appearance.
- There’s nothing especially pretty about a bottle of mouthwash, but there’s an economical way to make it look fancy. Seek out a decorative bottle, be it a mouthwash dispenser or a glass decanter. You might even recycle an old wine or liquor bottle and turn it into a chic mouthwash bottle. The fluid inside — be it blue, green, amber or red — will look striking against the countertop.
- Mason jars are having a moment, but these handy receptacles are far more than just a trend. They’re sized just right for holding your bathroom essentials, from cotton swabs and cotton balls to makeup brushes and toothbrushes. Line them up on a shelf for neat, uncluttered storage.
- Use this opportunity to express your artistic side. Hang a framed photograph on the wall (all the better if it’s your own handiwork!) or add a touch of color via a pretty portrait over the toilet. The options here are endless.
- A calm space sets the tone for a relaxed day or evening. Lavender and eucalyptus candles, a bamboo plant and decorative stones all add low-key ambiance to the space. Coupled with a relaxed wall color, the effect is calming and soothing.
