An outdated bathroom can create a number of frustrating problems—leaky faucets, inefficient layouts, peeling paint, outdated designs, and whatnot that leaves you feeling uninspired. These issues reduce the functionality of your space and affect the overall value of your home. However, when it comes time to remodel, homeowners often find themselves stuck between two options: a quick, budget-friendly makeover or a luxurious, high-end upgrade. The problem lies in knowing how to make the right choice.
A cost-effective remodel can provide immediate improvements without pinching your pockets, but you might doubt if it’s worth it to invest in a more luxurious option for long-term enjoyment and home value.
Well, after reading this blog, you’ll have a clearer understanding of the different bathroom redesign options available and how to choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
Cost-Effective Bathroom Makeovers
For those looking to refresh their bathroom without spending too much, here are the expert remodeling tips:
Paint the Walls
Repainting is one of the most affordable ways to give your bathroom a fresh look. If you want your bathroom to look spacious, choose light colors like soft white or pale gray or bold with a single accent wall in navy blue or emerald green. Make sure to use semi-gloss or satin-finish paint, as these are moisture-resistant and easy to clean. If your walls have imperfections, rub them out with a bit of spackle before painting for a flawless finish.
Update Your Tiles
Updating your tiles is an affordable way to update your bathroom. For walls, backsplashes, or shower areas, peel-and-stick tile decals offer a mess-free and cost-effective solution. These waterproof decals come in trendy styles like herringbone or Moroccan patterns. If your tiles are in good condition but the grout is deteriorating, re-grouting can make them look brand new.
For flooring, consider large-format tiles that are both useful and beautiful. These tiles require less grout, making cleaning easier, and can make your bathroom appear more spacious. Opt for budget-friendly materials like matte-finished ceramic or porcelain tiles, which are slip-resistant, or choose designs that look like natural materials like wood or stone for a luxurious yet affordable upgrade.
Swap Out the Mirror
Mirrors are one of the easiest upgrades for your bathroom remodeling on budget. For a small space, choose a large mirror to reflect light and make the room feel bigger. Opt for mirrors with clean, simple lines or a minimalist frame in materials like metal or wood. Round or oval mirrors with basic metal frames or even mirrored acrylic, which costs less than glass, will give your bathroom a lavish look. You can also choose mirrors with built-in LED lighting for functionality and style or look for options with hidden storage to keep your bathroom organized.
Update Lighting
Outdated lighting can make your bathroom look dull. Replace old fixtures with something modern—wall sconces, globe lights, or pendant lights work well, depending on your space. Look for warm white LED bulbs which provide good brightness without being too harsh. You can also add adhesive LED strip lights under your vanity or around the mirror to give your bathroom a modern vibe.
Update the Hardware
Replace old and outdated hardware, such as handles, knobs, and faucets. It is a simple and impactful way to refresh your bathroom. Opt for modern finishes like brushed nickel, matte black, or polished chrome to give the space a chic and stylish look while keeping the space up-to-date.
Luxe Bathroom Upgrades
If you want to create a luxurious retreat, you can achieve high-end touches in your bathroom with the help of bathroom remodeling services. Here’s how you can upgrade your space:
Freestanding Bathtub
These tubs stand on their own without needing to be attached to the wall, which gives the space an open look. You can choose from different styles, such as modern oval tubs or traditional clawfoot designs. Freestanding tubs come in materials like acrylic, which is lightweight and affordable, or cast iron for a more premium feel. You can pair it with a stylish floor-mounted faucet or tub filler, which will increase the value of your bathroom.
Walk-in Shower with Frameless Glass & Multiple Showerheads
Frameless glass showers don’t have heavy frames like traditional ones, so they give a clear, open view that gives the space a more luxurious feel. This type of shower works well in both large and small bathrooms with a smart design. Adding different showerheads, like a rainfall showerhead and handheld sprayers, lets you customize your shower. These features help create a spa-like feel, making your shower more comfortable and relaxing with different water pressure options.
Heated Floors
Did your feet get cold on those chilly mornings in the bathroom? Heated floors can help solve this problem. The system works by running warm water or electricity through cables or mats beneath the floor tiles. As the heat rises, it gently warms the entire room, making it more comfortable, particularly in bathrooms with tile or stone floors, which can get cold. Heated floors can be installed in any bathroom. They not only provide cozy warmth, but they also help dry up excess moisture, making your bathroom more comfortable and reducing the risk of mold or mildew.
Integrated Smart Technology
You can install smart shower systems that allow you to control water temperature and pressure with ease or voice-controlled devices like Alexa or Google Assistant to adjust lighting, music, or even the shower settings. Smart mirrors can display useful information like the weather or your calendar, while heated toilets offer more comfort with features like heated seats and self-cleaning functions. Besides, you can install smart lighting to set the perfect mood, touchless faucets for better hygiene, and waterproof Bluetooth speakers to enjoy music or podcasts. These smart additions change your bathroom into a personalized, high-tech space.
Wrapping Up
Now that you are aware of both types of options—budget-friendly and luxurious upgrades—you can easily make a decision about upgrading your bathroom. If you’re on a tight budget and still want to make your space trendy, you can do so with minimal changes, as mentioned above. Whereas, if you’re focusing on luxury without worrying about the cost, follow the tips we provided. For any changes, it’s best to consult an expert for bathroom remodeling in Arlington Heights or nearby areas. Feel free to contact Illinois General Construction Services for an initial consultation. We’re here to help you renovate your space according to your requirements.
