BUDGET TO LUXE A tale of three different bathroom scenarios
Have a bathroom ready for a refresh and not sure how much to spend? Here’s how to do an affordable update, a mid-range makeover and an extensive redesign
budget renovation
Paint, accessories and smart styling touches are the go-tos if you have a tiny bathroom budget
Make a tight budget work by keeping what you can and focusing on affordable cosmetic changes. Even $1000 can go a long way with simple DIY updates such as painting, swapping out cabinetry handles, updating your splashback and adding floating shelves.
“Also high on the agenda is replacing a dated vanity, tapware, lighting or accessories such as towel rails,” says Ania Forster, creative director at Gold Coast design studio Zephyr + Stone. “To really make an impact, concentrate on changing whatever is letting your bathroom down the most, or updating larger surface areas.”
Paint will give you the biggest bang for your buck. “You can transform your bathroom for less than $600,” says Dulux brand manager Romy Nayagam. Look for specialist paints, such as the Dulux Renovation Range and White Knight Kitchen & Bathroom Range, which can be used to jazz up dated laminate, melamine and timber cabinetry doors as well as floor and wall tiles.
Consider adding a heated towel rail, something you’ll really appreciate in winter. “It can have a power outlet or be hardwired – the most cost-effective option is one you can plug into a power outlet,” says Daniela Santilli, bathrooms and kitchens merchandising lead at Reece.
Finally, banish clutter and create Zen-like calm with smart storage. “Look at freestanding shelving or trolley options, and maximise vanity storage with drawer inserts and storage containers,” says Amy Hare, an interior designer for Ikea Australia. “Also ensure there are enough towel rails for everyone – it seems obvious, but this is something people often forget.”
From there, aim to style like a pro. “Add indoors plants – they can make a huge difference to the look and feel of the space – and fluffy new towels, beautiful candles and soap dispensers,” says Frances Cosway, design director at Melbourne’s White Pebble Interiors. If your mirror is too small, consider swapping it for a larger style that bounces light around. “I prefer oval or round mirrors,” she says, “to break up all the straight edges that are traditionally in a bathroom.”
The bottom line is this – if you want to save some dollars, be prepared to do the legwork. “Shop around for fixtures and fittings and get three quotes from trades to ensure that you pay a fair price for any work that’s done,” says Ania.