How to Update the Master Bathroom on a Small Budget

 September 26, 2014

Remodeling a master bathroom is a big project due to the high cost of bathroom fixtures. In fact, bathrooms are considered to be the most expensive rooms to remodel – second only to kitchens. However, homeowners looking to remodel their bathrooms on a budget should not despair. They can make small, beautiful updates without breaking the bank. Share these tips with sellers who want to create gorgeous master bathrooms on limited budgets.

Paint can Change the Ambiance Instantly

Nothing transforms a room as quickly as paint. It is an inexpensive way of sprucing up a space. Bathrooms are generally small in size and are perfect places for experimenting with different colors and patterns. Sellers can paint their bathroom walls bright orange, sunny yellow, or any other color that appeals to many buyers. They can use semi-gloss paint to add a certain glimmer and embellish the look further with stenciled details or a wallpaper border.

Sellers going for a minimalist look should paint their bathroom walls neutral shades. Such colors offer timeless appeal and work well with any color. They also make small bathrooms appear bigger. Pale colors are also a good choice for contemporary bathrooms as they complement a variety of shades. Walls form the base of a bathroom and should enhance the space in every way.

Stylish Storage

Beautiful shelves can quickly transform a plain bathroom. These can be bought at any local hardware store. Sellers with a small master bathroom can install the shelves above the toilet to provide storage for bathroom essentials. Those with neutral colored bathrooms can get dark shelves and those with dark bathrooms can get light colored shelves.

Give the Vanity a New Look

A vanity is a popular fixture in bathrooms. It is large in size and makes a big impact on the overall look of the room. However, the wrong one can make a bathroom look outdated. Sellers should update their bathroom vanities to create a cohesive look. They can refurbish their old vanities instead of buying new ones. Most bathroom vanities can be painted, but homeowners can also try tiling or decoupage.

Bring in Natural and New Sources of Lighting

The right lighting can change the entire look of a bathroom. It also enables buyers to see themselves at their best. If a seller has a bathroom with poor lighting, advise him to add another fixture or two. He can also replace heavy window coverings with sheers to let in natural light. Grooming light should also be installed above the mirror or to the sides.

New Flooring

Worn resilient flooring and old carpets can make bathrooms look ugly and unpleasant. Additionally, outdated carpets can give off bad smells which may put off buyers. Sellers can replace such flooring with vinyl tile, ceramic tile, or sheet vinyl. Those with good tile flooring can clean it. They can scrub the grout with oxygen bleach or other powerful cleaners to restore the new look.

Inexpensive Art

Art does not have to be pricey to offer a gallery-like look. Sellers can give their master bathrooms instant facelifts with personalized artwork. They can use small paintings, computer-generated images, or framed pictures. Simple artwork is an inexpensive update solution and is easy to install. It draws attention to walls when beautifully arranged. Advise sellers to choose artwork which adds color and interest to their master bathrooms.

Repurpose Furniture Items

Homeowners on a small budget can repurpose their furniture. For instance, they can transform unused nightstands into vanities. Modern nightstands are sophisticated alternatives to vanities and offer the look of high-end models. Those that are still functional can provide storage for small bathroom items. Tell sellers to treat their nightstands with lacquer finish to make them water-resistant.

This season use these ideas to share with your clients to ensure their master bathroom is comfortable for their needs without breaking the bank! For more renovation ideas – look to the iHouse blog.


Ronique Gibson

By Ronique Gibson

Ronique Gibson is an Associate Architect and a LEED Accredited Professional, who has been in the design industry for over 13 years. She started her design blog in 2009 and today it has become a premier destination for helping homeowners with everyday lifestyle challenges. Her readers check in daily for help with their homes, DIY project ideas, recipes, crafts, and inspiration to beautify and enjoy their homes.