Ideas for a Budget-Friendly Bathroom Remodel That Looks Luxe

The nationwide average cost of a full, upscale bathroom remodel is close to $80,000. Of course, this is luxury spending that isn’t feasible for most homeowners. Many of us stay within the basic-to-midrange average of $10,000-$25,000.

However, you may not even need to pay that much to give your bathroom a much more luxurious look and feel. If you need upgrades ASAP but aren’t ready for a full remodel (let alone a high-end one), keep reading. 

These budget-friendly bathroom remodel ideas can help ramp up a basic remodel or optimize what you already have. 

$$$$: Replacing your shower

Replacing tubs and showers is usually the most expensive part of a bathroom remodel. A new walk-in shower will run you anywhere from $3,000 to $15,000–and that’s without any customization. 

If you have plumbing problems or damage, the cost is well worth it. But in many cases, the shower itself is fine. Its appearance could just use a little updating.

$$: Replacing your shower enclosure

For a fraction of the price, a new frameless glass shower enclosure immediately transforms the space. You might even have enough budget left over to upgrade the shower head for an even more luxe makeover. 

$$$$: Spending big on expanding the space

Linens, hygiene, and grooming–a luxury bathroom experience should include room for everything you need. 

Unfortunately, the cost of feeling less cramped can easily exceed $10,000. Adding or expanding a closet, knocking down walls, rearranging utilities, and more is a big-budget move. 

$$: Investing in smart storage solutions

When it comes to bathroom storage, you have options. Your current linen closet or under-vanity cabinet storage can be customized for greater capacity and efficiency. 

You can also invest in a vanity area with larger drawers and the ideal inserts to organize your belongings. Tidiness and easy access in a small space always feel luxurious, and it’s possible for 80-90% less than the cost of demo and expansion.

$$$: Upgrading the entire vanity and sink

A basic new vanity and sink can cost about $1,500 uninstalled, no customization. This purchase is very worth it if your current vanity has moisture damage, a poor finish, or other structural problems. 

It might not be as luxe as you like, but having basic needs met is always a good first step.

$$: Upgrading the countertop and faucet 

If there’s nothing structurally wrong with your current vanity, and you just want an upgraded look and feel, try this instead. Make the base a DIY project with a fresh coat of carefully applied paint and polished hardware.

Then, take that portion of the remodel budget and invest it in a quality stone countertop and sleek new faucet. For the cost of a basic remodel, you’ll have the luxe look of a much higher-end ($$$$) remodel.

$$$$: Splurging on a new tile floor

New tile work is one of the top three most expensive bathroom remodel requests, and for good reason. Installing tile requires special skill and great attention to detail. 

Done properly, tiled floors can look and function beautifully for decades. But they also cost thousands, depending on your square footage. 

$$: Exploring LVT

Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) is a durable, attractive, and much more budget-friendly bathroom remodel strategy. 

It’s designed for moist or humid environments, available in a wide range of colors and finishes, and can accommodate other luxurious elements of a bathroom, like underfloor heating.

More cost-effective details for an upgraded look

Here are a few more ideas to take a budget bathroom makeover to the next level. 

• Add new sconces around the vanity mirror 
• Invest in higher-quality plush towels and rugs
• Choose larger-format tiles for floors 
• Opt for a custom ceramic tile backsplash 
• Get a statement mirror or add a decorative frame to your old mirror
• Have your old tub reglazed instead of replaced
• Refinish or replace old hardware and metal fixtures
• Look into moisture-repelling wallpaper for an accent wall 

Build your ideal bathroom with The Designery

At The Designery, partial remodels and budget-cautious upgrades are never an issue. Our designers can grant you instant access to premier countertop materials, the latest in stylish hardware, innovative flooring solutions, or all of the above. 

Plus, we offer experienced, top-quality installation. Full-scale remodels and single projects alike begin with your complimentary consultation.