9 Savvy Ways to Fake a Bathroom Renovation

It never ceases to amaze us how a few, small tweaks can completely transform your space. Take your bathroom, for example. Installing a new light fixture, adding a standalone soaking tub, or trading in your pedestal sink for a Jack and Jill duo can turn your bathroom into the place where you quickly brush your teeth and comb your hair to an oasis where you can draw a luxurious bath and relax. 

Problem is, remodeling your bathroom is by no means cheap. According to Angie’s List, a typical project can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $23,000. Oh, and did we mention they usually require a lot of time and energy? Um, no thank you.

But just because you don’t have the budget or time for a full-fledged renovation project doesn’t mean you have to kiss your bathroom dreams goodbye. The good news is there are plenty of easy (and affordable!) ways to hit the refresh button on your space. Go ahead, check out these nine designer-approved ways to fake your way to a stunning bathroom:

“Wallpaper is not so expensive and can completely transform a space.” —John Robshaw, textile designer

“Wallpaper is so fun and accessible now, and chances are, if it’s a small bathroom, you’ll only need a few rolls. So it won’t break the bank!” —Maggie Griffin, interior designer

(Psst… check out our favorite temporary wallpaper styles here!)

“Swap out that standardized mirror for one that makes a statement, flanked by a pair of chic sconce lights. Instant glam!” —Maggie Griffin

“If you are a talented painter, and are stuck with those annoying blue or green wall tiles and enameled tubs, paint it all white.” —Maggie Griffin

“Don’t have room in your budget to replace your old tile? One solution is to paint your floor and then use a stencil to “paint” a tile pattern. There are a variety of videos and tutorials on YouTube that will walk you through this step by step. The end result is a tile look without the price!” —Ashley Moore, founder and principal designer at Moore House Interiors

“Lighting is the jewelry of your home, so swap out those bathroom lights for some pretty, updated ones!” —Ashley Moore

“We’re all for rugs in bathrooms! They add color, texture, and warmth. Grab a pretty runner to give your bathroom a whole new vibe.” —Ashley Moore

“If you have dated towel racks or toilet paper holders, replace them with some that are more current. Towel hooks are also a bit more modern than towel racks, and that’s an easy change to make.” —Ashley Moore

“Instead of replacing your cabinets, replace the cabinet hardware to give it a new look without spending a ton of money.” —Jade Joyner, co-founder and principal designer at Metal + Petal

“Replacing your old shower curtain with a new, brightly colored curtain is so simple, but can make a huge impact.” —Jade Joyner