A bathroom remodel is one of the best home improvements you can do to increase the value of your home. However, many homeowners hesitate to take on such a project because they think it will be too expensive.
If you have a small bathroom that feels outdated and cramped, don’t despair. It is possible to completely transform your small bathroom space on a modest budget if you’re willing to get creative.
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Planning and Budgeting
The first step is to carefully plan your bathroom remodel project and set a realistic budget. According to the National Association of Realtors, the 73% of homeowners believe that a remodeled bathroom is a major selling point for prospective buyers.
However, it’s easy to go over budget if you’re not careful. Decide how much you can realistically spend and stick to it. Get quotes from multiple bathroom contractors to get a sense of pricing. You may be surprised at how much you can accomplish for $1,000-$3,000 with some DIY elbow grease.
Maximize Storage Space
One of the biggest challenges with small bathrooms is lack of storage, which a thoughtful bathroom remodel can helpfully address. Get creative with maximizing every nook and cranny. Replace your old vanity with a sleek floating vanity that has drawers and open shelves built in.
Add over-the-toilet storage by installing an attractive wall-mounted cabinet. Replace basic towel bars with stylish multi-tiered racks. Add baskets and bins underneath the sink and inside cabinets to corral items. Organizing will make your small space feel more open and functional.
Replace Fixtures
New fixtures can completely transform the look and feel of your bathroom without much cost. Upgrade your faucet, showerhead, and other hardware to modern styles in chrome or brushed nickel finishes.
Replace an old tub with a smaller, sleek walk-in shower. Not only will it save space, but it’s a low-cost way to bring your bathroom into this decade. For around $300, you can install a new shower, faucet, and toilet – a huge impact!
Consider consulting with a qualified bathroom contractor for guidance navigating plumbing and building codes when transforming even a small bathroom.
Opt for Tile Accents
Tile is an affordable way to add character, pattern, and visual interest to your bathroom walls. Consider tiling just one accent wall or the area around your tub/shower rather than the whole space. Choose large-format tile in a neutral tone that won’t overwhelm the small space.
Pair it with easy-to-clean grout in a coordinating shade. The tiled area will draw the eye up and make the room feel more open.
Maximize Natural Light
One way to make a small bathroom feel bigger is by maximizing natural light. Replace an old opaque window with a clear glass block window or skylight to allow light to filter in. If you don’t have existing windows, consider adding a small window near the shower.
Not only will it brighten up the space, but it adds ventilation which is important in bathrooms. Make sure any new windows maintain adequate privacy.
Go Bold with Color and Pattern
While all-white everything may seem like the safe choice, it can also make a small bathroom feel smaller. Consider painting one bold accent wall in a vibrant hue and pairing it with white walls, fixtures, and tile. Or go for a large-scale wallpaper with an eye-catching pattern on the accent wall.
Use it strategically behind your toilet or vanity to draw the eye up. Layer in colorful towels and accessories to tie the space together.
Final Touches
Once the major renovations are complete, finish up with some inexpensive finishing touches. Replace old light fixtures and hardware with modern brushed nickel or oil-rubbed bronze styles. Add a framed mirror, floating shelves, or artwork to the walls.
Stock the space with fragrant candles or fresh flowers. Consider a bath mat, rug, or window treatments in a coordinating print. These final flourishes will elevate the space and make it feel complete.
Conclusion
By focusing on maximizing storage, updating fixtures, adding tile accents, bringing in natural light, and finishing with bold colors and patterns, you can completely transform even the smallest bathroom on a modest budget.
With some creativity and DIY skills, you’ll end up with a spa-like retreat that increases your home’s value – all without breaking the bank.
Juan Farr is an avid home blogger, with the goal of helping his readers find inspiration and ideas for their next project. He writes about everything from small design projects to large renovations. His goal is to help people transform their homes into something that reflects who they are.
