A new bathroom can quickly cost several thousand euros – and remodeling is usually not an option in a rented apartment anyway. But there are other ways: with clever tricks, fresh colors and the right accessories, you can transform your bathroom into a feel-good oasis. Tips for a bathroom makeover without tradesmen, a building site or a big budget.
Seven o’clock in the morning, your first walk is into the bathroom – and you stare at beige tiles from the 1990s, a yellowing shower curtain and a shelf full of cosmetic products that you never use. The reality: a new bathroom can easily cost 10,000 euros or more. And if you’re renting, a complete remodel is off the table anyway. The good news? You don’t need a tiler or new sanitary ware to transform your bathroom into a room you feel comfortable in. Sometimes all it takes is a weekend, a little paint and the right ideas.
Redesigning small bathrooms: How to make little space look generous
Small rooms in particular call for clever solutions. The most important principle: less is more. Start by tidying up and getting rid of everything you don’t use regularly. Cosmetic samples, old towels, three different hair styling products that you never use – get rid of them.
Make use of the vertical: floating shelves, wall cabinets or even simple wall shelves with pretty boxes createstorage space without weighing down the floor. This makes the bathroom look more airy. A wall-hung WC also contributes to the spacious look.
Maximum effect, minimum cost for a bathroom makeover
You don’t have to replace the entire bathroom fittings to give your bathroom a new look. Sometimes even small changes can make a big difference. Replace old fittings with modern models – this can often be done in a few simple steps and doesn’t cost the earth. Brushed brass or matt black are currently on trend and add a sophisticated touch to any bathroom.
New towels, a chic shower curtain or a fluffy bath rug can also work wonders. Make sure the colors and materials match. A consistent color concept – such as white with accents in sage green or terracotta – creates harmony.
DIY projects are your best friends when it comes to a budget makeover: paint your bathroom furniture a fresh color, cover old tiles with waterproof stickers or redesign a wall with paint. Replacing silicone grouting also costs little, requires a little patience but makes a huge visual difference.
Green roommates for the bathroom
Plants are the secret weapon for any bathroom makeover. Not only do they bring fresh greenery into the room, they also improve the indoor climate and create a relaxed spa atmosphere. Ferns love the high humidity and thrive magnificently on the edge of the bathtub or on the shelf. Ivy is not only easy to care for, but also looks spectacular hanging from a shelf.
Monstera and philodendron add a tropical flair – perfect if you have enough space.
Sansevieria or Zamioculcas are suitable for windowless bathrooms or those with little daylight – both are forgiving of forgotten watering days.
Place plants at different heights: small succulents by the washbasin, medium-sized green plants on a stool, hanging plants on the wall. This creates a lively, green overall picture.
The right colors for a modern bathroom makeover
You have more leeway than you think when choosing the color for your bathroom makeover. Classic white is timeless and can be combined with almost any accent color. Currently on trend: warm earth tones such as terracotta, sand and ochre as well as soft green tones from sage to eucalyptus. These colors create a calming, natural atmosphere.
Brave natures opt for dark walls – anthracite, dark green or navy blue look classy and luxurious, but need good lighting. In small bathrooms, it is advisable to design only one wall in color and leave the others light.
When it comes to decoration, the rule is: quality before quantity. A few high-quality pieces are better than lots of odds and ends. A beautiful art print in a frame, an elegant ceramic soap dispenser, a soft bathrobe on a chic hook – the stylish bathroom is complete.
The right accessories for the bathroom makeover
Accessories are the icing on the cake of a bathroom makeover. Invest in good quality fluffy towels – not only do they feel better, they also look more upmarket. Roll them up on a shelf or hang them on stylish towel rails.
A tray or wooden board on the edge of the bath transforms your bath into a private spa area. Place a candle, a book and perhaps a glass of wine on it – pure relaxation.
Baskets and boxes in various sizes create order and look decorative at the same time. Natural materials such as rattan, bamboo or linen are perfect for the bathroom and bring warmth to the room. Store everyday objects in closed containers and only display selected, beautiful items. A wooden stool not only serves as a shelf, but also as a stylish design element.
Small beauty tools can also be part of your makeover: an elegant vanity mirror with lighting or a beautiful storage stand for your care products turn the bathroom into a place for self-care.
A breath of fresh air instead of a large construction site
As you can see, a bathroom makeover doesn’t require a lot of money or a complete renovation. With well thought-out colors, clever lighting and the right accessories, you can transform your bathroom into a room you love to spend time in. Start with small changes – it’s often the details that make the difference.
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