Here’s How to Do a Bathroom Reno on a Budget

Make a Plan and Budget

The first thing to do when planning a bathroom refresh is to make a budget and to stick with it. Determine which elements you would like to replace, and which ones can be updated or kept as-is. For instance, you don’t have to add a new tub to update your space. You can simply swap in a new shower curtain and bath mat to create a new aesthetic, or go a step further and replace the shower head and faucet.

Update Your Bathroom Colour

Nothing starts a bathroom refresh off with a bang like updating the colour. Adding a fresh coat of bathroom paint is one of the easiest ways to update your bathroom without breaking the bank. Some of the most popular bathroom paint colours include taupe if you want warmth, light blue if you’re looking to create a serene environment for relaxation, or browns and greens for a healthy, earthy vibe. Here’s a few more on-trend bathroom colour ideas to consider:

• Pistachio

• Light green

• Creamy white

• Bright white

• Cerulean blue

• Charcoal

• Light grey

Install a New Medicine Cabinet

Your bathroom medicine cabinet is a focal point of the room so updating it will have a big impact. Many stylish options are available that implement bright colours, earthy wood grains, and even curves and fun textures. If your current is full now would also be a good time to upgrade to a larger unit so you have more space for medications, vitamins, supplements, and various toiletry items.

Hang a New Bathroom Mirror

If your bathroom setup has a separate medicine cabinet and mirror you might want to change up your vanity mirror as well. Framed bathroom mirrors are always in style and can be found in round, oval, square and rectangular designs. Today’s trends also reflect a growing desire for unique finish options, such as rustic wood, graphite and gold. You can also opt for a bathroom mirror with lights. This can add warmth to the room and lend clarity when shaving or putting on makeup.

Change Up Your Bathroom Faucet

Updating your bathroom sink faucet is another easy way to enhance the look of your vanity area. It won’t require any plumbing work, and you can choose colours and textures that will complement your other upgrades. Chrome faucets are always in style, and matte black bathroom faucets lend an element of sophistication to the room. Hands-free faucets are also available and can help reduce water usage. Here’s a few other styles and finishes to consider:

• Single-handle faucets 

• Widespread faucets 

• Waterfall faucets

• Stainless steel faucets 

• Nickel faucets 

• Gold faucets

• Bronze faucets

Replace Your Bathroom Vanity

Installing a new bathroom vanity can do wonders for your bathroom, and it doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. You can easily find a model that will fit around your existing pipes, which eliminates the need for plumbing changes or cutting the vanity to size. If you like your existing cabinet you can simply swap in a new vanity top. If you want a whole new look go for a complete bathroom vanity with sink.

Replace Your Shower Fixtures

Swapping out your tub and shower faucets can easily be done with an adjustable wrench and a bit of plumber’s tape. A wide variety of bathtub faucets are available to refresh the look, including single-handle, two-handle and freestanding styles. Rainfall shower heads are increasingly popular, while a handheld shower head offers convenience and versatility. If you want to ensure a uniform new look you can opt for a shower kit complete with shower head, shower handle, and tub faucet.

Replace Your Bathroom Lighting

Changing your bathroom lighting can also be a quick and inexpensive upgrade. The key here is to choose bathroom light fixtures that can be installed utilizing the existing wiring. A wall sconce can add warmth and ambience, and gooseneck lighting is a fashionable option for over the vanity. Flush mount lighting is ideal for small bathrooms, but if you have a higher bathroom ceiling you can even opt for an elegant mini-chandelier.

Install New Bathroom Flooring

Budget-friendly bathroom flooring is another great upgrade to include in your bathroom refresh. Vinyl flooring is your best choice here as it’s inexpensive, water-resistant, and comes in many textures and colours. It’s also easier to lay down than tile so you won’t need to hire professional installers.

Switch Up Your Bathroom Accessories

A few new accessories can add the perfect finishing touches to your bathroom refresh. Choose colours and textures that coordinate well with your other upgrades and overall bathroom décor. Here’s some ideas: 

• Soap dispenser 

• Soap dish 

• Toothbrush holder 

• Towel bars & rings 

• Toilet paper bar

• Toilet brush 

• Towels 

• Trash can