How to Renovate Your Bathroom On A Budget

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Upgrading your basin is an excellent way to spruce up the look and feel of your bathroom without breaking the bank. A new basin can give your bathroom a modern and stylish feel while also improving functionality. There are many different types of basins available, including pedestal, wall-mounted, and countertop options, each with its unique advantages.

When selecting a new basin, consider factors such as size, style, and material. For example, a larger basin might be better suited to a family bathroom, while a smaller, more compact basin might be ideal for a guest bathroom or en-suite. Additionally, materials like ceramic, porcelain, or stone offer durability and easy maintenance, making them ideal for high-traffic bathrooms.

2. Add Some Storage

TIP:Floating shelves are an easy DIY bathroom renovation job - even for beginners!

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Adding storage, such as floating shelves, is a great budget-friendly bathroom remodel idea that can help you maximise space and keep clutter at bay. Installing floating shelves is a simple and affordable way to add storage without taking up valuable floor space. You can use them to store towels, toiletries, or decorative items to add some personality to your bathroom.

When selecting floating shelves, consider the size and weight capacity, as well as the material and finish. For example, if you have a small bathroom, opt for narrow shelves to save space. Additionally, if you're planning to store heavy items like bottles or jars, make sure the shelves can support the weight. With some basic tools and a little DIY know-how, you can install floating shelves yourself, saving even more money on your bathroom renovation project.

3. Install a New Mirror

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A new mirror is a simple and budget-friendly way to update the look of your bathroom. Not only is it a practical item that we use daily, but it can also add visual interest (almost like a piece of art) and create the illusion of more space. There are many different types of mirrors to choose from, including framed, frameless, and backlit options, depending on your style and how much space you have to play with. When choosing a new mirror, consider the size and shape, as well as the style and finish. For example, a round mirror can add a softer touch to a bathroom with many hard angles, while a rectangular mirror can create a sleek and modern look. Meanwhile, a mirror with built-in lighting can add a practical element to your bathroom.

4. Retile Your Walls & Floor

TIP:For an edgy and eye-catching look, choose brightly coloured tiles like pink and blue. For a neutral and timeless aesthetic, choose beige, white or cream. 

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Re-tiling is a fantastic budget-friendly bathroom remodel idea that can breathe new life into an outdated bathroom. A new tile backsplash, floor, or shower surround can instantly transform the look and feel of your bathroom. There are many different types of tiles available, including ceramic, porcelain, glass, and natural stone. When selecting new tiles, consider factors such as durability, style, and maintenance. For example, larger tiles can give your bathroom a modern and spacious feel, while patterned tiles can add some interest and texture to your walls or floor.

Opting for a neutral colour scheme can help create a timeless and classic look that will stand the test of time. With some basic DIY skills and the right tools, re-tiling your bathroom can be a relatively straightforward and affordable project that can dramatically improve the overall look and feel of your space.

5. Upgrade the Vanity

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Who doesn’t love a new bathroom vanity? A new vanity can help maximise storage and counter space, while also serving as a focal point for your bathroom. There are countless types of vanities available, including freestanding, wall-mounted, and corner options. There are also various materials to choose from, with materials like wood, marble, or granite adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to your bathroom. It can be a fairly straightforward DIY job if you have some building experience, but otherwise it might be a job best left to the professionals!

6. Accessorise with New Fittings

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New fittings such as robe hooks and towel rails are an easy and budget-friendly way to upgrade the look and feel of your bathroom. These small details might seem insignificant, but they can make a big impact on your bathroom's overall style and functionality. There are many different types of fittings available, including modern, traditional, and minimalist styles, each with its unique advantages.

 7. Replace the Basin Taps

TIP:Choose the same colour fittings for taps and towel rails/robe hooks for a streamlined and cohesive look. 

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If you're looking for an affordable way to spruce up your bathroom, consider replacing your basin mixers. These taps control the flow and temperature of water from your sink, and they come in various styles and finishes.

By upgrading your basin mixers – whether you choose a short basin mixer tap or tall basin mixer tap – you can give your bathroom an instant modern makeover while also enhancing efficiency and functionality. you can give your bathroom an instant modern makeover while also enhancing efficiency and functionality.

When choosing new basin mixers, consider elements like style, finish, and functionality. You could opt for traditional mixer taps with separate hot and cold handles or a sleek single mixer tap for a contemporary look. You can also choose from different materials, such as vintage antique brass, chrome, or matte black, to add a touch of elegance to your bathroom. With some plumbing know-how and a few tools, replacing your basin mixers can be an easy and cost-effective bathroom remodel idea that can significantly improve the look and feel of your bathroom.

8. Paint a Feature Wall

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If you're looking for a budget-friendly way to spruce up your bathroom, consider painting or tiling a feature wall. A feature wall is a single wall that stands out from the rest by using bold patterns, textures, or colours. By adding a feature wall to your bathroom, you can create a focal point that draws the eye and adds character to your space. You can choose to paint the wall in a bold hue or opt for tiling it with patterned or textured tiles. Either way, a feature wall can be an easy way to add interest to your bathroom without breaking the bank. Just make sure to choose a colour or tile that complements the rest of your bathroom's decor and style.

9. Upgrade Your Shower Head

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Upgrading your shower head can be a simple yet effective way to improve your bathroom without spending a fortune. A new shower head can instantly refresh your bathroom and make your daily shower experience way more fun.

You can choose from various shower heads like rainfall, handheld, or massage shower heads. If you're looking for a more eco-friendly option, you can also opt for a low-flow shower head that conserves water and reduces your energy bill.

Installing a new shower head is typically a straightforward process that you can do yourself with some basic tools. However, if you're unsure, you can always bring onboard a professional plumber.

10. Change up the Lighting

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Adding new lighting to your bathroom can be an easy and affordable way to give your space a fresh new look. Updating your lighting fixtures can instantly brighten up your bathroom and create a more inviting and relaxing atmosphere. You can choose from various options, including ceiling lights, wall sconces, or even strip lighting, depending on your style and budget. If you're looking for a more energy-efficient option, you can also opt for LED lights, which can help reduce your electricity bill.

Step 1: Set a Budget

Before you start any bathroom renovation project, it's essential to set a budget. Not only will this help you determine what changes you can afford to make, but it will also keep you from overspending. It's easy to get carried away with a bathroom renovation, and chances are you’ll end up spending more than you planned anyway (so definitely account for that in the budget).

A budget will help you stay focused on the essentials and prioritise your spending. Plus, it'll give you peace of mind knowing that you won't have to dip into your savings or take on debt to get your renovation project. So, take the time to set a realistic budget and stick to it. What’s “budget” will vary from person to person, but it’s not unrealistic to complete a bathroom renovation for $5,000-$10,000.

Step 2: Prioritise the Changes

It’s important to prioritise the changes you want to make. I know, I know – it’s boring having to fix leaks or replace essential items when all you want to do is repaint your bathroom blue, buy a beautiful new basin or retile the floors, but the functionality and safety of your bathroom are most important. So, once you have the urgent stuff out of the way (leaky shower head, anyone?) you can make a start on the cosmetic changes (the fun part, of course).

Step 3: Decide What Can Be DIY & What Needs Professional Help

Now, deciding which parts of your bathroom renovation you can do yourself and which require professional help is a crucial step in the process. While DIY projects can save you money, not everything can be tackled without professional expertise. For example, electrical and plumbing work should be left to the pros to ensure safety.

However, some projects, such as painting or installing new fixtures, can be done by a confident DIYer. Remember, taking on more than you can handle can end up costing you more in the long run if you have to call in a professional to fix your mistakes. So, be realistic about your abilities and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

Step 4: Shop Smart

When it comes to shopping for materials for your bathroom renovation, shopping smart is the name of the game. While it's tempting to opt for the cheapest option available, quality is just as important as price. Low-quality materials can end up costing you more in the long run if they don't hold up over time or need to be replaced sooner than anticipated. 

Look for high-quality materials that fit your budget, and consider buying in bulk to take advantage of discounts. It’s also worth mentioning that some branded products from big-name retailers come with a higher price tag, and you can get just as high-quality products at a lower price-point by shopping at boutique and independent homeware and building retailers. 

With some careful research and savvy shopping, you can save money while still getting the quality materials you need to make your bathroom renovation a success.

If you’re shopping for your budget bathroom remodel, head to Buildmat.com.au for a range of premium yet affordable bathroom wares, from quality basins to stainless steel tapware, towel rails, robe hooks and more.

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