Table of Contents:
Upgrade Bathroom Hardware
Rejuvenate Walls with Paint or Wallpaper
Add Strategic Lighting
Enhance Shower Area
Use High-Impact Accessories
Add Greenery
Transform Storage
Dreaming of a bathroom that feels straight out of a high-end spa, but your budget is a bit more DIY? You're in the right place.
The good news? You don’t need a six-figure budget to turn your bathroom into a retreat that looks—and feels—expensive.
Whether it’s outdated fixtures, lackluster walls, or a shower needing a facelift, creating a space that radiates elegance can feel out of reach. But. . .
With a few clever upgrades, you can create a stunning transformation on a dime.
1. Upgrade Bathroom Hardware
Why it Works: Changing out old hardware like faucets, towel holders, and vanity cabinet pulls can give your bathroom a clean, modern look without having to do a lot of work.
Tips:
- Choose hardware in luxurious finishes like matte black gold tones, or champagne bronze
- Consider coordinating sets for a unified design, lending a put-together look
Budget Range: Starting as low as $20 per piece for stylish options
Sources: Contractors.com, Home Depot Guides.
2. Rejuvenate Walls with Paint or Wallpaper
Why it Works: Fresh paint or an accent wall with a bold wallpaper choice can dramatically elevate the aesthetic.
Tips:
- Choose soothing tones like sage green, sky blue, or dusty pink tones for a spa vibe
- Consider peel-and-stick wallpaper for easy installation and removal
Budget Range: Paint ($25–$50); Wallpaper ($20–$40 per roll)
3. Add Strategic Lighting
Why it Works: One note, bright lights can feel overly stark, stimulating, and frankly unflattering. However, well-placed lighting enhances functionality, adds mood, and makes you feel more like you’re in a spa and less like a retail store.
Think about how you want the space to feel when choosing your lighting and bulb options.
Tips:
- Use statement fixtures like sconces or pendant lights
- Combine warm and cool lighting for versatility
- Use dimmers for perfect mood lighting
- Backlit mirrors can look high-end are flattering
Budget Range: Fixtures can start at $30.
4. Enhance the Shower Area
Why it Works: A refreshed shower area can turn your everyday bathing ritual into something calming and refreshing.
Tips:
- Add a new shower caddy or replace a moldy, outdated curtain with something more modern that fits with your refreshed decor
- Replace your leaky or poorly functioning shower head for something with the right pressure and coverage – and doesn’t annoy you! It’s the little things that can make a difference.
Budget Range: Showerheads ($60–$200); Curtains ($15–$40)
5. Use High-Impact Accessories
Why it Works: Thoughtfully chosen accessories can tie the room together. Choose a striking finish or a material upgrade (from plastic to ceramic, for example)
Tips:
- Upgrade to matching soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, or storage baskets
- Display plush towels on a towel ladder for a luxury hotel look
- Pour bath products into luxe-looking containers – rather than their original packaging
Budget Range: $5–$20 per accessory
Sources: Contractors.com, The Spruce.
6. Add Greenery
Why it Works: Plants soften the space and improve air quality. Bringing nature into our spaces creates a tranquil environment as well, like an everyday sanctuary.
Tips:
- Choose low-maintenance plants like ferns or pothos that thrive in humid environments
- Use hanging planters or sleek ceramic pots for display
- Even fake plants, when used strategically, can create a nice atmosphere and are low maintenance
Budget Range: $10–$50 for plants and planters
7. Transform Storage
Why it Works: Organized spaces feel more luxurious. Cluttered spaces can look like a yard sale in your bathroom – which looks and feels chaotic.
Tips:
- Add floating shelves
- Upgrade cabinet hardware on vanities and storage units
- Use matching storage bins or baskets to reduce visual clutter
- Do an audit: throw out old or expired products and organize like items so you use what you have more efficiently
Budget Range: Starting at $10–$30 for small storage solutions
Final Thoughts
By focusing on these affordable upgrades, you can achieve a luxurious bathroom look without a hefty price tag. Little details add up, so focus on low-budget upgrades that lend a little extra flair. Before you know it, you’ll have a luxe-looking bathroom you can be proud of.
Sources of Inspiration
Contractors.com
Better Home & Gardens
The Spruce
