Dated bathrooms can cost upwards of $10,000 in many regions to meet modern standards. Yet, whether you’re selling your home, moving into a new one, or renting a new apartment, you might want to try to make it look a little nicer, even if you don’t have the budget to do a complete overhaul. The following ideas may help you spruce up your dated bathroom and help you feel better about this space.
Freshen Up with Paint
Painting is one of the most cost-efficient ways to brighten up any room, specifically the bathroom, since lighting tends to be brighter, and it’s usually a small space. First, choose a color that makes the room look crisp and clean. After selecting your color, purchase paint that can withstand mildew and mold. It’ll cost a little more but is worth the extra expense.
Replace Old Lighting
Lighting can quickly date a bathroom. Many bathrooms today still have the old marquee styles or are just dim and unattractive. Not only that, but they’re also inefficient. To spruce up your bathroom, try adding the following lights:
- Cracked glass or alabaster frosting
- Pendant lights
- Small chandelier
- Modern wall sconces
- Bath bars with three to four bulbs
You may also want to go with an LED-lined vanity mirror. These are more costly but may save you from spending money changing out mirrors depending on what you want. Whatever type and style you choose, avoid fluorescent and find bulbs that simulate natural light.
Change or Refresh the Vanity
Changing or refreshing your vanity is an easy and cost-effective remedy to freshen up your bathroom. Today, you can choose to buy a new vanity, revive your old one, or upcycle other fun furniture to suit your purpose.
Buying New Vanity
Before buying a new vanity, decide what style and features you want. Next, carefully measure how much space you’ll need and know how many inches you’ll have to play with when attaching your plumbing. This is helpful when you start your search to buy.
Refreshing Old Vanity
Painting can revive a worn vanity nicely:
- Remove all hardware and cabinet doors.
- Clean off any dirt, dust, and grime.
- Gently sand the vanity’s surface to prep for painting. Choose a color that compliments your bathroom. As you paint the vanity, it may require a couple of coats.
- Buy and install some new hardware to make it look brand new.
Upcycling
If you want to try something fun but can’t afford a brand-new vanity, try using preowned furniture as a DIY upcycled vanity. Check your local thrift stores, Habitat for Humanity ReStores, and consignment shops for old furniture. You can transform a dresser, vintage table, and upcycled wood into a fantastic vanity.
Other DIY Projects
Even when working within a budget, surprisingly, there is a lot you can do. Other DIY projects to beautify your bathroom include:
- Purchasing updated faucets, hardware, towel racks, and toilet paper holders
- Painting your bathtub and tile
- Buying a new mirror or adding flair to the existing one
Use your imagination to add small touches throughout your room. Think shower curtains, bath rugs, and curtain rods. Then, clean your grout (or hire a professional to steam and touch it up).
Ready to Plan Your Move?
While you’re planning your bathroom updates, let us handle the heavy stuff! Contact us today to obtain a free quote.