Home Improvement Ideas: Easy Bathroom Makeovers

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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With our perennial capacity to modernize our living conditions, we stand a high chance of improving the functionality of our residential areas on a daily basis. Depending on their actual size, limited or perfect dimensions, and budget limits, there are a number of bathrooms that can come up with a fresh and bright look without you hurting your wallet.

There are a lot of trendy bathroom ideas that we opted for. One of them is to ensure we develop as much functional space as possible. Please know that this is why some of the easiest and most budget-friendly makeovers for bathrooms we’ve put together include making a bathroom more accessible and secure.

Hence, you shouldn’t forget that these little time-saving steps will really convert to a higher value of your house. That could be the case for some of the solutions, whereby you only will be able to view the decorative items when the professional divers know the location of the wreck.

Advantages of Getting Bathroom Makeovers

There are several advantages of having a bathroom makeover, including the following:

1. Increased functionality: A bathroom makeover does not just improve its functionalism but upgrades the essentials, including the number of storage places, and overall layout.

2. Improved aesthetics:A bathroom renovation can quite literally turn your existing bathroom into an elegant and inviting place useful to also unwind in. A fresh color scheme, adding new tile or flooring, and upgrading dated lighting can all contribute which can create a more visually appealing bathroom.

Image Credits: sprucingupmamahood.com

3. Increased home value: A well-designed and updated bathroom increases the value of your home. If you plan to sell your home, a bathroom makeover can be a worthwhile investment.

4. Improved hygiene: A bathroom makeover can also improve the hygiene of your bathroom. Replacing old and worn-out fixtures can reduce the risk of mold and mildew while upgrading the ventilation system can improve air quality and reduce the risk of moisture buildup.

5. Increased energy efficiency: Bathroom remodeling projects may also put your bathroom’s system on an energy-saving mode. Installing low flush toilets, showerheads, and taps save the major portion of your water consumption while by switching your lighting fixtures to energy efficient one your electricity consumption is cut down.

Potential Downsides of Having Unplanned Bathroom Makeovers

There are several potential disadvantages of bathroom makeovers that you should consider before embarking on such a project:

  • Conversions, especially if they involve a ‘starting completely from scratch approach, can turn to be extremely expensive. For starters, contractors may need to be hired and stainless steel budget costs are needed to cover new installation and labor costs.

Image Credits: bhg.com

  • Bathroom upgrades may be one of the most draining tasks, especially when you are the one who does it. Generally, it takes many days or even several weeks for a countertop to be replaced or a new tile to be set.
  • Bathroom renovations may severely affect your normal way of life, especially if you are used to having a single bathroom for use at home. You will maybe go to the temporary bathroom or to the shower somewhere else instead of it at your home.
  • When renovating a bathroom, you will on your own sometimes discover unseen issues which could be plumbing problems or physical damages, that is just going to add more cost and time to the work too.
  • Besides the fact that some homeowners can make the necessary bathroom upgrades, some can involve getting professional advancement. DIY bathroom projects may be much cheaper than hiring a professional plumber, but messing with something out of your skill level might damage your bathroom and even cause potential injuries to you.
  • While good bathroom design may be the key to enhancing your home’s appearance and worth, its quality or appeal to buyers may diminish your home’s market value.

Tips To Help You Have Easy Bathroom Makeovers

If you are doing a bathroom makeover, you can explore the following tips:

1. Create a vision board: Collect images that inspire you and visually represent what you want your bathroom to look like. It will help you to better communicate your vision to contractors or designers.

2. Choose a color scheme: Decide on a color scheme that reflects your style and that you’ll be happy with for years.

Image Credits: lettalondon.com

3. Choose durable materials: Bathrooms are high-traffic areas exposed to water and moisture, so it’s important to choose durable and easy-to-clean materials.

4. Remember lighting: Good lighting can make a big difference in the look and feel of your bathroom. Consider installing a combination of overhead and task lighting around the vanity area.

5. Update fixtures: Replace outdated fixtures with new ones. It can include faucets, showerheads, lighting fixtures, and towel racks. Choose fixtures that fit with your theme and color scheme.

6. Paint or wallpaper: Add fresh paint or wallpaper to your walls adds a new color or pattern to your space.

7. Add storage: Install new storage options, such as cabinets or shelves, to help organize your space. This can also include updating your vanity with new storage options.

Image Credits: apartmenttheraapy.com

8. Add decor: Finish your bathroom makeover with decorative items, such as new towels, rugs, and artwork. Choose items that complement your theme and color scheme.

Bathroom Makeovers That Bring More Life And Light To Your Home

To save money when renovating your bathroom, you don’t have to be penny-pinching or use up all your budget. We’ve looked at some home improvements that are easy to do and don’t require much outlay but add a ton of character to your home. As much as you can spend on a bathroom makeover, spending twice as much will mean you get a double vanity bathroom. So, here are the options.

  • Bringing more natural light into your basic bathroom is one of the easiest ways to brighten up your cramped space while making the space appear larger.

Image Credits: stylebyemilyhenderson.com

  • When installing or repositioning lights, you can opt for the traditional method of adding new fittings. Alternatively, you can reposition your existing fittings. The first option is more traditional and easy to install.

Image Credits: rojgaraurnirman.in

  • However, if you opt for the second, you’ll have a whole host of different fittings and can select one to suit your needs. You’ll also get better lighting coverage if you do the repositioning;
  • You can also reconsider the storage area while making a bathroom transformation. Adding bathroom storage areas such as soap dispensers and a powder room is a great way to create more storage space for things like shampoo and conditioner, toiletries, and your favorite beauty products.

Image Credits: sprucingupmamahood.com

  • One of the most important things you can do to add more open storage space is to get a freestanding shower. It’s great for storing toiletries and beauty products and a handy space for doing the family or guests’ hair.
  • Adding a new showerhead or shower curtain can brighten up a master bathroom and add space. You can choose different colors and materials for a new shower curtain, especially in the kid’s bathroom.

Image Credits: ar.javamem.com

You will notice in the store shower curtains fashioned out of several material ranging from the most common glass, aluminum, metal types all the way to the plastic curtains. Some curtain fabrics are derived from bamboo, cotton, silk or linen, and other options like nylon or silken. However, the nylon used for shower curtains produces lots of micro plastics and is often discarded after a short period of time. You could also choose for shower curtains made with cork. However, during my school years, I have noticed that learning has not always been an easy or straightforward process.

  • You can also play around with the available designs. You’ll find some great alternatives for a new showerhead, including the most modern and futuristic designs and the traditional wooden ones.

Image Credits: homedit.com

  • For the purpose of getting the most benefit from your shower head, you can take advantage of a number of different technologies all at once, including the use of touch activated showerheads or electronic water-saving showerheads which can help to warm water.
  • Currently, a smart trail is making changes to make a home feel modern without the need to invest into new bathroom suites. On one side, you could think that a traditional bathroom design should be just a clean and functional space, the same way many people think. However, if your bathroom is looking for something fresh, you’re just a part of the people looking for bathroom improvements.

You can do plenty of things to your primary bathroom to make it look modern without breaking the bank. It’s up to you to decide which design option will work best for you and which design project is costly.

Bathroom Makeovers Appliances and Services

Bathroom makeovers can involve a wide range of appliances and services depending on the scope of the project. Here are some common appliances and services you might consider for your bathroom makeover:

1. Shower and Bathtub: Upgrading your shower or bathtub makes a huge difference in the look and feel of your bathroom. Options range from a simple showerhead upgrade to a full remodel with a new tub or shower enclosure.

Image Credits: marthastewart.com

2. Sink and Vanity: Replacing your bathroom sink and vanity can be a relatively simple and affordable way to update the space. Choose from a wide variety of styles, sizes, and materials to fit your design preferences and budget.

Image Credits: homedit.com

3. Toilet: A new toilet can not only improve the look of your bathroom, but it can also save water and improve functionality. Consider options like a low-flow toilet or a dual-flush model for added efficiency.

4. Flooring: New flooring can completely transform the look of your bathroom. Popular options include tile, vinyl, and wood.

5. Plumbing: If you’re doing a major bathroom remodel, you may need to upgrade your plumbing to accommodate new appliances or fixtures. This involves hiring a professional plumber to install new pipes or reroute existing ones.

6. Painting and Wallpaper: A fresh coat of paint or new wallpaper can give your bathroom a new look without breaking the bank. Consider neutral colors for a timeless look or bold colors for a statement.

Factors To Consider When Doing Bathroom Makeovers

When considering a bathroom makeover, there are several factors to take into account to ensure that you create a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. Here are some key factors to consider:

1. Budget

The cost of bathroom renovation can be affected by diverse conditions like bathroom size, the materials to be utilized and the scope of the changes necessary. One of the most important things to do is to set a reasonable budget for the renovation process first and make sure that the project would be possible to do within the available resources.

By the budget also sets a standard for the primary changes and their effective usage of funds. Using a professional will enable home owners to actually come up with the most suitable materials and designs that will not only be available within the stipulated budget but also provide the desired outcome.

2. Space

The room’s dimensions and configuration will strongly impact the aesthetics and functionality that the room should have. The idea of bathroom design can change from a small and confined space to a bigger and freer one. Smaller bathroom might require adjustment as it may need to be optimized to make the most of the available space.

Image Credits: housing.com

Tile-shower enclosures, built-in storage, and the choice of fixtures are all among the design elements that affect the space’s feel of scale and the practicality of its use. It is essential to take into account the existing space and custom designing with the help of a professional to create a functional and spatial efficient model that would provide the homeowner with the expected service and adapt to the given space.

3. Layout

Tile-shower enclosures, built-in storage, and the choice of fixtures are all among the design elements that affect the space’s feel of scale and the practicality of its use. It is essential to take into account the existing space and custom designing with the help of a professional to create a functional and spatial efficient model that would provide the homeowner with the expected service and adapt to the given space.

Image Credits: architecturaldigest.com

A designer that is professional can help in making a layout which merges all the available space and on the other hand, it will perfectly meet the expectations of the homeowner. Reading the scheme plan can also help to minimize the time when the plumbing and electrical works are being executed and therefore save on cost.

4. Lighting

Correct lighting helps a lot with the efficiency, safety, and mood of the particular space. Good lighting promotes detail work of applying makeups or shaving while also gives calming and friendly sort of atmosphere. Room’s illumination can be provided by a mixture of task, general and ambient lighting.

Image Credits: thespruce.com

The right lighting is also a key element and the choice of the lighting fixtures, such as downlight, wall scone or pendant lamps, and where these fixtures should be placed in the room also should be considered. Partnership with a lighting design expert might become an excellent approach for homeowners to choose appropriate light fixtures which are meeting their purposes and improving the general appearance of their homes.

5. Style

The style factor of consideration in a bathroom remodeling brings about the theme that characterizes the whole bath. The style should include elements of individuality according of a homeowner’s personal preferences and at the same time consider composition of the whole house in particular. If personal style preferences are traditional, modern or somewhere in between, there are the plenty styles available, and your selection will significantly inprove the bathroom look.

Beside color schemes, finishes, materials can also as well affect the styling of the room. A professional designer may be able to help homeowners in the development of their unique style, where the design and decorative pieces can be efficiently incorporated with the rest of the home.

6. Functionality

The bathroom needs to be design properly to suit the requirements of the homeowner and make it a practical and comfortable area. The main factors that have to be analyzed include the installation of a potable water reservoir, a sink, and a shower in order to create the traffic flow and ease of use for the users. Furthermore, you can add storage structures like cabinets or shelves to help provide enough room for your medicines and other essential requirements.

Image Credits: thefamilyhandyman.com

Besides this, the safety apparatus needs to be put in place, which includes anti-skid flooring, grab bars and proper lighting, which will guide in fall prevention and the wellbeing of the user. Professional designers can use their knowledge and experience to help homeowners to identify the special needs and create a beautiful and functioning design which corresponds with the general aesthetic of their space.

7. Plumbing

The examination of the condition of the existing plumbing system is necessary to understand if you need repairs or upgrades before the beginning of renovation. Besides that, the alteration of the layout/ fixture positioning may call for the redesign of the plumbing, but you need to be careful when you do it to avoid any damage or complication.

Image Credits: housebeautiful.com

Safety and compliance are paramount when it comes to plumbing work. Hence, it is a must to have a licensed plumber that can guarantee that all works are completed to code and in keeping with local regulations. A professional designer is very helpful to the owner since they can point out the plumber problems and work together with the plumber to set up a better home use through putting everything in order. Effective management of plumbing would also allow us to prevent problems that are not only affordable but cause long-term effects.

8. Timeline

The period of the project will be conditioned by some features, such as the dimension of work that needs to be done, materials accessibility, and the contractor’s schedule. A timeline should be determined in advance to be managed throughout the reworking of the makeover and to ensure that it will be finalized within a reasonable timeframe.

Delays may be costly and inconvenient, so make sure to work a contractor who has managed to keep this promise. Additionally, it is important to notify the contractor about any reservations about schedule and proceed with commitment and adjust the timeline as needed to prevent any conflicts. Working hand in hand with the designer and contractor enables a house owner to come up with a realistic timeline as everything progresses well thus operates efficiently and effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions On Bathroom Makeovers

1. How can I change my bathroom cheaply?

There are several ways to give your bathroom a makeover on a limited budget. Here are some tips:

  1. Paint the walls if they are overly dark
  2. Include new hardware by including gold hardware
  3. Add some new accessories, such as a pedestal sink
  4. Change the lighting
  5. Refinish or paint the bathtub or clawfoot tub
  6. Add some plants

2. How do you start a bathroom makeover?

Starting a bathroom makeover can be an exciting and fun project! Here are some steps to help you get started:

  1. Set a budget: Decide the budget you will allocate to your bathroom makeover. This will be helpful as you determine the best course strategy, and select which materials to use.
  2. Decide on a style: As for the overall style and design of the bathroom space in mind. This will also involve a color scheme, grouting, and a fixture style.
  3. Assess your current bathroom: Do some self-analysis beforehand and find out the specific areas in your current bathroom that need improvements. Here goes the things such as obsolete tiles, broken tiles or the lack of proper storage.
  4. Plan your layout: Establish if you want to relocate or alter the design of your bathroom. It could be a case of rearranging the plumbing fixtures that will obligate professional expertise.
  5. You have decided to use tiles, flooring, paint, and fixtures as a material for your bathroom remodeling. See that they don’t upset your bank account or your preferences.
  6. Hire a professional: If the room makeover that you are planning for your bathroom involves significant works or structural changes, then going for the service of a professional contractor will be helpful for you. They can offer know-how and make sure standards are met in terms of safety and job execution.
  7. Start the renovation: The next and very exciting step is gathering your prepared outline and the materials on hand and commence the project. During this DIY process, you will face some inconveniences to your daily routine, and therefore be a responsible user by following all safety rules when operating power tools and plumbing.
  8. Enjoy your new bathroom: When the renovation is over, it is vital to give yourself sometime to get accustomed to the changed bathroom environment. It can turn out to be a perfect place of recreational facilitation and rejuvenation!

3. How can I make my small bathroom look expensive?

You can make a small bathroom look more expensive and luxurious without breaking the bank in several ways. Here are some tips to get you started:

  1. Add a statement mirror
  2. Upgrade your lighting
  3. Use high-quality materials
  4. Add some greenery
  5. Use a neutral color palette
  6. Declutter
  7. Invest in high-quality towels and bathrobes

4. What color makes a small bathroom look bigger?

General, using bold colors, makes the room appear larger and brighter highly. Moreover, it will be a great idea if you use the same color for the wall as for the ceiling, because it will give a visual effect of great height and your tiny bathroom will look bigger. Some good color choices for a small bathroom include:

  1. White
  2. Light gray
  3. Light blue
  4. Pale pink
  5. Beige
Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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