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There are many ways to level up your bathroom without undergoing an expensive renovation. With a little creativity and some basic home improvement skills, you can transform yours into a more attractive and functional space.
In this article, we’ll explore 21 budget-friendly ideas to upgrade your bath, from simple, do-it-yourself (DIY) projects to clever storage solutions.
Highlight the Bath Architecture
One of the easiest ways to refresh your bathroom is by accenting its structural features. A simple coat of contrasting paint can make your molding, shelving, window casing, and wainscoting pop.
For instance, painting over plain white molding with a fresh green can add depth to your space. To make the room look cohesive, use the same accent color on several features. You can create even more visual interest by adding small decorative touches such as framed mirrors or artwork.
Shown: Elan Kitchen & Bath Mid-Sheen Finish in Garden of Paradise, valspar.com
Contrasting Clawfoot Tub
If you’re lucky enough to have a classic clawfoot tub, why not make it your bathroom’s focal point? A contrasting paint job can transform this vintage item into a stunning centerpiece.
Choose a bold color that complements the room’s overall palette, but don’t be afraid to mix and match bold shades or introduce metallic elements.
Tip: Most clawfoot tubs are cast iron or acrylic. If you want a long-lasting paint job, choose a paint that’s compatible with your tub’s exterior.
Dramatic Bathroom Drapes
Instead of standard blinds or shades, hang floor-length drapes. Choose a pattern or color that complements your existing decor.
Avoid sheer or see-through fabric that is sensitive to humidity. Instead, choose drapes that can provide complete privacy when drawn and resist moisture.
Upcycle the Bathroom Classics
Repurposing vintage furniture is a cheap, clever way to add storage space to your bathroom. In just a few minutes, you can convert a vintage desk into a one-off sink cabinet.
First, pick a desk with deep drawers that can hold bathroom essentials. Then, use a jigsaw to cut out a spot for your sink. Once you’ve installed it, add a coat of lacquer or paint and switch out the drawer knobs.
Wood Appliques on a Vanity
Small details can make a significant impact on your bathroom. One easy way to elevate the look of a plain vanity is by adding decorative wood appliqués.
You can find appliques at home improvement stores or online. They come in various styles, such as classic, farmhouse, and modern, and they’re relatively simple to install. Once you’ve added it to your vanity, apply your choice of paint.
Similar to shown: Meredith Header, vintagewoodworks.com
Prefab Bathroom Counter
Achieving the look of a custom stone countertop doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Prefabricated stone countertops offer a cost-effective alternative that doesn’t sacrifice style.
These ready-made countertops come in various sizes and styles and often include an integrated sink. You can find options that feature granite or engineered stone, two durable materials that look high-end but are much cheaper than custom stonework. Installation is usually straightforward, making this an excellent option for moderately experienced DIYers. Level up the area with a matching backsplash or edge treatments.
Similar to shown: Pegasus 49-inch Granite vanity top with an under-mount sink, homedepot.com
Spruced-Up Bathroom Storage
Don’t overlook the potential of your existing medicine cabinet. With some creativity, you can transform this functional piece into a stylish storage solution that complements your bathroom’s decor.
A fresh coat of paint can work wonders, especially when coordinated with your vanity or other bathroom elements. We also recommend updating the hardware—knobs or pulls can give your medicine cabinet a whole new look. Choose finishes that match other metal elements in your bathroom, such as faucets or light fixtures. Add hand-painted details to personalize it.
Similar to shown: 1 1/4-inch Antique Black Milk Glass cabinet knobs, dlawlesshardware.com
Multihued Mosaic Bath Floor
Adding a pop of color to your bathroom floor doesn’t require a complete tile overhaul. You can customize plain mesh-backed floor tiles with colorful accents to create an eclectic focal point that’s inexpensive and upcycle-friendly.
Start by designing a pattern on paper. Then, carefully remove some of the installed tiles from the mesh backing. Finally, arrange your new tiles or tile pieces on the exposed mesh and grout them into place. For cohesion, you can echo other colors throughout the room in the mosaic. Combine tiles of assorted shapes and sizes.
Similar to shown: American Olean 12-by-12-inch Sausalito Mosaics white porcelain tile, lowes.com. For the accents, search overstock bins at tile showrooms.
Trim Out and Tie Together Your Bathroom
Small details can make a big difference in tying your bathroom’s look together. One simple way to achieve this is by coordinating your textiles and accessories with thoughtful trim choices.
For instance, you can tie your shower curtain, window treatments, and even floor mats together by trimming their edges with the same ribbon. Choose a color that complements your towels and other bathroom accents. This slight touch can create an affordable but polished, cohesive look throughout. Trim out your towels and bathmats if uniformity is your thing.
Shown: Basic 1 1/2-inch blue-satin ribbon, 20-yard roll, michaels.com
Salvaged Sink Support
Repurposing furniture is an excellent, low-cost way to add charm while creating functional bathroom storage. With very little effort, you can upcycle an old table into a one-of-a-kind sink console.
This project works best with wall-hung sinks. Find a table that’s short enough to fit neatly under the basin and a tabletop that is wider than the sink. If you create enough space between the table and sink, finish the tabletop by tiling it or adding a salvaged granite, marble, or sealed concrete slab. Opt for tables with built-in drawers or shelves to maximize storage and organization.
Bath Accessories That Shine
Adding matching metal hardware is an easy and affordable way to elevate your bathroom’s look and functionality. Coordinated towel holders can create a clean and polished setting.
When shopping for additional bathroom hardware, we recommend choosing a finish that harmonizes with your existing fixtures. Chrome, brushed nickel, and oil-rubbed bronze are popular choices that complement various styles. Install your new hardware at heights and locations that are accessible to all household members. Other matching add-ons like soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, and tissue box covers can further unify the look.
Similar to shown: Moen Yorkshire 24-inch towel bar and ring, amazon.com
Old World Elegance in the Bathroom
Installing a freestanding tub is one of the most impactful ways to transform your bathroom. If you’re working with limited space, you might place the tub on a diagonal, which can create the illusion of more room without taking on a costly renovation.
When positioning your tub, leave a few inches between its rim and the walls. This extra breathing room can make a small space feel more open. For a budget-friendly option, consider shopping at salvage yards—they usually cost a fraction of new models. Add period-appropriate fixtures and hardware if you’re going for a vintage look.
Similar to shown: Vintage cast-iron claw-foots, oldhouseparts.com
Statement Bath Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting your bathroom’s mood. A chandelier or vintage pendant light can highlight and refine an otherwise utilitarian space.
When selecting a statement light fixture, consider your bathroom’s scale. A larger piece can draw attention to high ceilings, making the space seem bigger. Look for rewired and ready-to-install chandeliers at salvage yards. We recommend adding a dimmer switch.
Safety tip: Before buying an antique lighting fixture, inspect its wiring and confirm that it meets modern electrical requirements. Also, choose a wet-rated light, which is safe to use in damp environments and will last longer in a bathroom setting than non-wet-rated fixtures.
Ornate Privacy Windows
Privacy is essential in a bathroom, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style or natural light. Replacing a plain glass window with a stained-glass or leaded-glass panel adds personality while maintaining privacy.
If you can’t find a panel that fits your window perfectly, hang one from chains in front of the existing window. You can find vintage panels at flea markets, antique stores, or online marketplaces. Installing decorative window film is another budget-friendly option that offers privacy and style.
Built-In Bathroom Charm
Give your drop-in tub a refresh by adding paneling to its exterior.
To protect against moisture damage, build the deck using plywood and waterproof laminate, and reserve the solid wood only for edging. For the sides, opt for exterior-grade beadboard plywood, which is durable and looks classic. Finish the bottom with baseboard molding and top it off with decorative trim or molding. To mimic custom installation, paint all components to match.
Floating Shelves for Bathroom Storage
Maximize your bathroom’s storage potential by installing wall-mounted shelves.
For decorative items or toiletries that see infrequent use, hang a shelf high above the tub or toilet. We recommend installing a shelf or two within arm’s reach of your shower arm sink to house daily essentials. Choose durable brackets and waterproofed shelving materials that complement your bathroom’s overall style. Use decorative jars and add a thoughtful arrangement of keepsakes or small plants to make the shelves pop.
Similar to shown: Ekby Valter and Ekby Tryggve wall shelf in unfinished pine, ikea.com
Peg-Rail Towel Rack
Turn your wainscoting into a functional zone by swapping out the standard wood cap with a peg rail.
Either paint the peg rail to match your paneling or blend it with the upper wall for a subtle contrast. With the right coat of paint and hooks, this quick addition offers a practical space for robes and towels that looks good, too.
Shown: 3 1/2-inch-tall Plain Shaker peg rail in lengths of 12–90 inches, meadowbrookcreations.com
Classic, Low-Cost Bathroom Wall Coverings
From bold paint colors to ceramic tiles, horizontal wainscoting, and washable wallpaper, DIY wall coverings can be durable, attractive, and budget-friendly. Below are a few of our experts’ favorites.
Bold Paint
Bold paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to transform your bathroom. A vibrant hue can highlight woodwork and create a striking accent point.
When choosing colors, we recommend a scheme that ties the room together. For example, pairing gold with eggplant creates a rich, luxurious feel. Use a paint that can withstand moisture and frequent cleaning. Before painting, clean, sand, and prime your walls to ensure a smooth, long-lasting finish.
Shown: Kitchen & Bath Paint in Pure Joy and Purple Rain, benjaminmoore.com
Ceramic Squares
Use the same ceramic tiles on both the walls and floor of your bathroom to create a dramatic, monochromatic effect. This approach can make your space feel larger and polished while providing a durable, water-resistant surface perfect for bathrooms.
Dark gray matte ceramic tiles can mimic the look of more expensive materials like soapstone while offering better traction. Large format tiles (think 12-by-12 inches or more) will reduce the number of grout lines you’ll need to maintain. As always, use a waterproof grout sealer to protect against moisture and staining. Add matching soap dishes and toothbrush holders for a uniform, sophisticated effect.
Shown: Florenza tile in Azzuro, daltile.com
Horizontal Wainscot
For a fresh take on traditional wainscoting, install your panels horizontally instead of vertically. This unexpected orientation can make a small bathroom feel roomier.
To keep costs down and simplify installation, opt for moisture-resistant medium-density fiberboard (MDF) sheets with milled profiles instead of individual wood planks. This material is ready-to-install and more affordable than raw solid wood, making it an excellent beginner DIY project. Choose a style that complements your bathroom’s overall design, whether that’s a classic beadboard or modern shiplap. Finish it off with a bathroom-ready paint.
Similar to shown: Nantucket Beadboard 8-inch Channel Bead, beadboard.com
Washable Wallpaper
Wallpaper can add color, pattern, and personality to your bathroom without breaking the bank. For longevity and ease of cleaning, we recommend using a washable, vinyl-coated wallpaper that will withstand high-humidity environments.
When selecting a pattern, think about the scale of your bathroom. Larger prints can make smaller bathrooms seem more spacious. Depending on the style, botanical designs, like the one pictured above, can create a Victorian or organic and bohemian feel. As our interior design experts advise, clean and sand your walls before priming them with a mold-resistant adhesive.
Similar to shown: Thibaut’s botanical Berkshire design in sage, thibautdesign.com