Are you tired of staring at outdated tiles and fixtures in your bathroom but don’t have a big bathroom budget? 


Don't flush your renovation dreams down the toilet! With smart planning and savvy shopping, it’s possible to upgrade your bathroom without breaking the bank.


How? 

Amber has the answer! We’re here to share our expert advice on how to renovate a bathroom on a budget.


If you’re on the fence about jumping into a bathroom renovation, here’s some food for thought. Bathroom renovations not only transform and enhance the look and functionality of your bathroom; they can also prove to be a wise financial investment.

 

According to a 2022 report from LJ Hooker, the bathroom is one of the most profitable rooms in a house to renovate. For every dollar you spend on renovating your bathroom, you could get up to four dollars back when you sell your home!


Now, back to the question, “How to renovate a bathroom yourself on a budget?”


Let’s look closely at six cost-effective tips to take your bathroom from worn-out to wow.

 

Tip 1: Start With the Walls and Floors

If your budget doesn’t allow for replacing your bathroom’s fittings, new floor and wall tiles will work wonders. They can make your current fittings look like they belong in the space or divert attention from them.


What if you’re unable to replace all the wall tiles in your bathroom? Don’t stress- you still have options! Consider retiling just the wet areas, like the shower walls or sink backsplash. Or go for a tiled accent wall that complements the rest of your bathroom to help refresh the room's vibe.


When choosing new floor and wall tiles, the choices are endless. 

  • Lighter, neutral tiles: White or beige tiles brighten a bathroom and make it feel more spacious.
  • Darker tiles: Charcoal or deep blue tiles add character and depth. 
  • Subway tiles: These classic tiles are available in different colours and finishes for a clean, timeless look that works with various design styles.
  • Natural stone tiles:  Marble, limestone, and sandstone tiles create a high-end and luxurious spa-like feel. 
  • Patterned tiles: These add a splash of style and visual interest. 
  • Timber-look tiles: Mimicking the look of natural timber, these durable porcelain tiles provide warmth and rustic charm.

Painting the walls of your bathroom is also a cost-effective way to brighten the space and make it feel cleaner. It's also an opportunity to introduce new colours to change your bathroom's mood and complement existing fixtures. 

 


Light shades like whites and pastels can make a bathroom feel bigger, while neutral colours like beige and grey work well with different fixtures and accents. If you want to add drama, consider a bold accent wall in a darker or on-trend colour (after researching social media or home design magazines). 

Tip 2: Replace the Fittings and Hardware

New fittings and hardware will give your bathroom an instant facelift with minimal effort and cost. 


Bathroom "hardware" typically refers to functional and decorative components. 


What are the options for upgrading your bathroom’s hardware?

  • Sink, shower, and bathtub tapware: Change out old taps for contemporary designs to instantly elevate the look of your bathroom, with chrome, white, black, gold, rose gold, copper, and more options available.
  • Showerheads: A new rainfall or handheld showerhead will transform your daily routine into a spa-like experience. 
  • Vanity door and drawer handles or knobs: These small items make a big impact. Switch to modern stainless steel or natural wood handles or knobs to update the look of your existing vanity.
  • Towel racks and hooks: Replace outdated towel racks and hooks with sleek designs that improve functionality. 
  • Toilet roll holders: Choose a toilet roll holder that matches other new hardware for a cohesive, finishing touch to your bathroom. 
  • Soap holders: A stylish wall-mounted soap holder will look fantastic alongside other new hardware.

"Fittings" includes the following updateable bathroom items:

  • Basins and sinks: An above-counter basin makes a sophisticated statement, while an under-counter basin creates a seamless, more traditional look. Sink materials vary from ceramic to concrete.
  • Toilets: Replace a discoloured, bulky toilet with a pristine, slimline design. 
  • Bathtubs: Freestanding bathtubs come in round, oval, and rectangular shapes, each offering a distinct look and feel. A round tub becomes a luxurious focal point, while a rectangular one offers clean lines that fit well in minimalist designs.
  • Cabinets: A shaving cabinet with a mirrored front serves dual purposes without taking up extra space.
  • Vanities: Choose a free-standing vanity for easy installation and a clean aesthetic or a floating vanity to free up floor space and lend a minimalist, contemporary vibe.
  • Mirrors: A well-placed mirror can make a small bathroom look bigger and brighter. As for shape, a rectangular mirror is classic, a round mirror softens the space, and an arched mirror encapsulates a Meditteranean style.
  • Lighting fixtures: Replace dated lighting with modern fixtures to transform the atmosphere in your bathroom. Popular options include vanity, recessed, and pendant lights, each offering a unique blend of function and style.

Any of these budget-friendly upgrades will make a big difference to your bathroom.

 

 

Tip 3: Consider Wallpaper

Wallpaper offers an affordable way to add texture, colour, and visual interest to your bathroom. 


For instance

  • A botanical print can instil a fresh, tranquil vibe.
  • A bold geometric pattern can infuse the space with dynamic energy. 
  • A bright, colourful design can inject personality into a neutral palette. 
  • Textured wallpaper can add depth to a small space.

However, it's important to consider the downsides of using wallpaper instead of wall tiles. While moisture-resistant vinyl wallpaper can be a practical choice for bathrooms, wallpaper is generally less moisture-resistant, durable, or long-lasting as tiles. 

Tip 4: Paint or Stain the Vanity Cabinet

Applying a fresh coat of paint or stain to your bathroom vanity cabinet can take it from drab to fab in no time! 


Crisp white paint can give your vanity a clean and bright look. On the other hand, a dark stain lends a sleek, modern vibe, and a vibrant hue makes a statement.


While painting or staining your vanity cabinet doors or drawers is a cheap option you can accomplish in a few days, there are some disadvantages. 

  1. The painted finish can chip or peel over time.
  2. Paint won’t adhere well if you don't properly prep the cabinets, resulting in an uneven, ugly finish. 
  3. Staining or painting is not possible on laminated and polyurethane cabinets.

Consider investing in a new vanity for a more long-term solution. There are plenty of stylish and affordable options here at Amber.

Tip 5: Paint the Ceiling

The bathroom's moisture can cause the ceiling to develop mould, mildew, and peeling paint. It's not a pretty sight! 


So, hitting your ceiling with a fresh coat of paint is a quick and easy solution. 


A light colour like classic white will help your bathroom feel larger, and a matte finish will minimise glare from natural and artificial lighting, plus hide imperfections like bumps or uneven textures.

Tip 6: Consider Amber’s Bathroom Renovation Packages 

While not impossible, starting a budget bathroom renovation can have its challenges. It's a delicate balance between finding cheaper renovation materials and products and avoiding DIY disasters!


If you’re considering renovating your bathroom on a budget, Amber's bathroom renovation packages are convenient and affordable.


Our bathroom renovation experts will take the time to understand your design and budget requirements for a stress-free renovation project from start to finish.


We offer 16 bathroom renovation packages and counting that incorporate the latest design styles and high-quality materials. 


For example, our three Coastal bathroom packages are inspired by the beautiful Australian coastal landscape, featuring soothing seafoam blues, refreshing eucalyptus greens, and creamy neutral colours. Experience the inviting and relaxed vibes of a beachside retreat in your bathroom. 


Our three Country bathroom packages are all about rustic allure and homey comfort. They harmoniously blend honeyed creams and calming duck-egg blues with the rugged, natural textures of bare timber and stone tiles.


The best part? Our range of bathroom renovation packages caters to various budgets!


For more information about these packages, read our comprehensive Bathroom Renovation Questions Guide.

 

 

Need Help Planning a Bathroom Renovation?

Embarking on a budget bathroom renovation might seem daunting, but it's doable! Implementing any of the tips we’ve discussed can breathe new life into your bathroom without spending too much time or cash. 


But for a genuinely hassle-free renovation, consider our extensive range of bathroom renovation packages. We can help turn your dream bathroom into a reality without draining your bank account!


Wondering how to renovate a bathroom on a budget? Contact us by filling in this online form, or find your nearest Amber store's location and phone number here.