If you’ve been following along for a while, you know we recently renovated both our guest and primary bathrooms. Since we were on a budget, my husband did all the remodeling work himself, making both projects true DIY bathroom renovations.
From chatting with many of you, I know bathroom remodeling is a popular home improvement project; however, it can also be one of the most expensive.
So today I’m sharing some of my best tips and tricks for a successful DIY bathroom renovation, including budget-friendly ideas, essential tools and supplies, and key factors to consider before starting your project.
With a little bit of creativity, some basic DIY skills, and careful planning, you can transform your bathroom into the space of your dreams — without breaking the bank.
DIY Bathroom Remodeling Tips
To give you an idea of what we were working with, here are some “before” and “after” photos of our principal bathroom project.
Our primary bathroom before:
Our primary bathroom after:
We postponed remodeling this bathroom for years — mainly due to the overwhelming prospect of removing all that beige tile. But if you’re considering a DIY bathroom renovation, let me encourage you — it’s well worth it!
I love that we were able to give our primary bathroom an entirely new look (and increase the value of our home) while keeping the total cost low for a project of this size and staying within our budget.
See my post, Our Master Bathroom Renovation, for all the details on our DIY bathroom renovation.
Budgeting
The first step in any successful DIY bathroom renovation is to establish a budget.
To save some money, we originally planned to paint our existing master bathroom cabinets, which we did in our guest bathroom remodel.
However, that would have involved ordering custom-made countertops, since the existing vanities were odd sizes.
And once we added up the cost for paint, new door fronts, new countertops and sinks, it actually came out cheaper (and easier) to order new vanities, which came complete with the sinks and quartz countertops installed.
Determine how much you’re willing to spend on materials and labor, and make a list of all the items you’ll need, including paint, flooring, fixtures, and tools.
Look for budget-friendly options such as recycled materials, second-hand items (we sold our old vanities and corner tub on Facebook Marketplace), and sales or discounts at home improvement stores.
Planning
Proper planning is essential to any DIY bathroom remodeling project.
Before you start tearing down walls or ripping out tiles, make a detailed plan of the changes you want to make.
Consider the layout of your bathroom, the amount of space you have, and your storage needs.
Make sure to measure your bathroom accurately, including the height, width, and length, to ensure that everything fits properly.
Almost anything goes when it comes to creating your dream bathroom. You can mix metals, finishes, colors, and styles to make the space reflect whatever feeling you want to achieve.
When I planned our master bathroom remodel, I knew I wanted it to feel calm, elegant and spa-like. And, while I’ve incorporated modern coastal style throughout the rest of our home, I wanted to incorporate a classic, timeless aesthetic in this space.
Here’s a look at the design board I put together before we began our primary bathroom renovation:
Tub // Tub Faucet // Vanity // Lighting // Mirror
// Floor Tile // Faucet // Rug // Linen Cabinet // Towels // Stool
While a few things changed along the way, I knew I wanted to incorporate these essential features in our newly-remodeled bathroom:
- removing the old vanities and replacing them with these
- removing the corner tub and installing this freestanding tub and this tub filler
- adding new mirrors
- updating the pendant light fixtures which hang over the vanities
- new floor tile
- a fabric Roman shade on the window
- new sink faucets
- updated pulls on the vanities in polished gold/brass
- new wall tile and floor tile in the adjacent shower area
- a spot to sit next to the tub
- new quartz countertops (which came with the vanity cabinets)
- a new linen cabinet
- a pretty runner or rug to tie everything together
Of course, your list of essentials will probably be completely different, but just make sure you have a plan in place before you begin remodeling!
Essential tools and supplies
Having the right tools and supplies is crucial to the success of any DIY bathroom remodeling project.
Make sure you have a good set of basic tools, including a drill, saw, screwdrivers, and pliers.
You’ll also need supplies such as paint brushes, rollers, and trays, as well as tile cutters, grout, and adhesive for tiling projects.
Flooring
One of the most important decisions you’ll make in your DIY bathroom remodel is the flooring.
Look for durable, waterproof options such as marble, porcelain, or ceramic.
If you’re on a tight budget, you might consider painting your existing tile floors. Etsy is a great source for floor stencils.
Fixtures
Replacing your bathroom fixtures is an easy way to give your space a fresh new look.
Look for budget-friendly options such as chrome or brushed nickel faucets, tub fillers, and showerheads.
If you’re on a tight budget and your faucets are still in good shape, you might consider re-using your existing fixtures instead of replacing them.
See my post, A Simple Guide to Mixing Metals in the Bathroom, for more tips for choosing the right faucets and fixtures for your bathroom renovation.
Lighting
Good lighting is essential in any bathroom.
I love the brass sconces, faucets, and millwork in this lovely classic bathroom design:
Molly Basile Interiors – sconces
Look for energy-efficient options such as LED bulbs, and consider installing dimmer switches to create a relaxing ambiance — which is especially nice if you like relaxing in the tub.
If you have a small bathroom, consider using mirrors to reflect light and make the space feel larger.
Where to Shop for Bathroom Fixtures and Decor
Below are a few of my favorite places to shop for affordable bathroom fixtures, accents, decor, and lighting:
Serena & Lily
Pottery Barn
Home Depot
Rejuvenation
Overstock
Amazon
West Elm
And here’s a selection of cabinets, faucets, mirrors, door and drawer pulls, and lighting.
Vanity and Linen Cabinet Ideas
Bathroom Faucet Ideas
Bathroom Lighting Ideas
Bathroom Mirror Ideas
Cabinet Pulls and Knobs
A diy bathroom remodel can be a rewarding project, but it requires careful planning, budgeting, and having the right tools and supplies.
By following these tips, you can transform your bathroom into a beautiful, functional space without breaking the bank.
I hope you found this post helpful and that it will inspire you to start planning your DIY bathroom renovation.
Please let me know if you have any questions about budget bathroom remodeling. Just remember — don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it! xo Jane
Kate Abt Design – Photo by Jenn Verrier
For more bathroom ideas and inspiration, you might also be interested in these related posts:
Beautiful Bathroom Design Trends, Styles & Decorating Ideas for 2024
A Simple Guide to Mixing Metals in the Bathroom
2024 Home Decor Trends: 10 Ideas to Try This Year
Our Master Bathroom Renovation
Our Guest Bathroom Remodel: Before and After
Modern Bathroom Design Ideas You’ll Love
How to Paint Bathroom Cabinets
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