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Luxury Look Bathroom Remodel for Under a Hundred Bucks

Bathrooms, often the smallest rooms in a home, present an unparalleled opportunity for creative expression and style experimentation. Their compact nature means you won’t need to invest a fortune in materials or labor, making them the perfect canvas for a budget-friendly makeover. More than just a practical space, your bathroom is a sanctuary you visit daily, making its aesthetic and functional appeal incredibly important. A stylish, well-designed bathroom can significantly uplift your mood, turning routine mornings into a more pleasant experience. Who wouldn’t want to start their day in a space they truly love?

At Remodelaholic, we’ve embarked on numerous bathroom makeovers across our properties, from our charming Park House to the elegant Logan House. Currently, we’re diving into a new transformation at our Canyon House, and we can’t wait to share the progress! It’s consistently amazing to witness the sheer personality and charm you can inject into a compact room, often without breaking the bank. Today, we’re thrilled to feature a remarkable project from our guest blogger, Teryn, who took a standard, builder-grade bathroom and gave it a chic, unforgettable makeover—all for less than $100! This incredible transformation proves that style and budget can go hand-in-hand.

Are you unsure about your personal bathroom decorating style? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many people struggle with defining their aesthetic. To help you find your inspiration, we’ll explore a few distinct styles below. Afterwards, dive into the exciting details of Teryn’s unbelievably chic and budget-friendly bathroom transformation. Get ready to be inspired to create the bathroom of your dreams, no matter your budget or design preference!

Discover Your Bathroom Decorating Style

A bathroom makeover is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space that reflects your personality and offers comfort. Understanding different decorating styles can help you pinpoint what truly resonates with you. Here are some popular bathroom styles to spark your creativity:

Calm Blue Kids’ Bathroom Makeover | The 36th Avenue
Embrace tranquility with a calm blue palette. This style is perfect for creating a serene and refreshing atmosphere, ideal for a kids’ bathroom or any space where relaxation is key. Light blues evoke a sense of peace and cleanliness, making the room feel larger and more inviting.

Elegant Master Bath Makeover | Golden Boys and Me featured on Remodelaholic
For those who desire sophistication and luxury, an elegant master bath remodel is the way to go. This style often features refined finishes, classic fixtures, and a cohesive color scheme that exudes timeless beauty. Think subtle textures, polished surfaces, and perhaps a touch of sparkle to elevate the space.

Farmhouse Bath Makeover | Breida with a B
The farmhouse style brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of rustic charm to your bathroom. Characterized by natural wood elements, vintage-inspired fixtures, and often a neutral color palette with pops of subtle color, it creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It’s about blending functionality with a relaxed, lived-in feel.

Colorful Bath with Board and Batten Tutorial | DecorChick
If you love adding architectural detail and a splash of personality, a colorful bathroom featuring board and batten could be your ideal choice. Board and batten wainscoting adds texture and depth, while vibrant colors can infuse energy and playfulness into the space. This style allows for a perfect balance between classic structure and modern zest.

Now that you’ve seen a glimpse of various styles, let’s turn our attention to Teryn, who will walk us through the incredible transformation of her own bathroom. Get ready for practical tips, budget-savvy ideas, and a healthy dose of DIY inspiration!

$100 Chic Budget Bathroom Makeover
by Teryn of Vintage Romance

Let me begin by expressing my profound gratitude and excitement to be featured here on Remodelaholic. This platform has always been a wellspring of inspiration for me, igniting my passion for DIY projects and motivating me to tackle new challenges in my own home. Seeing the creativity and ingenuity showcased here continually fuels my enthusiasm.

So, with that heartfelt introduction, allow me to properly introduce myself.
I’m Teryn Ashley, the creative mind and voice behind the blog Vintage Romance, where I share my journey in home decor, DIY, and lifestyle. Beyond the blog, I’m also a passionate jewelry designer for Teryn Ashley Jewelry, blending my love for all things vintage and romantic into unique wearable art.
You might have stumbled upon some of my previous projects on Pinterest, such as my popular reclaimed wood fence sign, my charming DIY ruffle lampshade, or perhaps my unique Anthro-inspired seafoam necklace. These projects are a testament to my evolving passion for creating and transforming.
It’s hard to believe that just three years ago, the thought of spray painting anything, venturing into thrift stores for decor gems, or regularly checking the Target home décor clearance section was completely foreign to me. My style was markedly different back then.
Before my husband and I purchased our current home, our first house together, my interior decorating palette consisted primarily of beige, various shades of red, gold, and bold animal prints like leopard and zebra. It was a style that suited me at the time, but it certainly wasn’t the “shabby chic” aesthetic I now adore.
You might also find it astonishing how I, with my past decorating preferences, managed to envision and execute such a dramatic transformation of a guest/kids’ bathroom for under $100! But I’m here to tell you it’s entirely possible, and I’m excited to share every detail of how I achieved this budget-friendly miracle.
So, without further ado, let me show you how to bring chic style to your bathroom on a dime!

The “Before” Story: From Builder-Grade to Blank Canvas


These photos capture the bathroom’s state shortly after we moved into our first home. Back then, my decorating inclinations led me to paint it a dark beige, a choice that, while safe, left the room feeling rather uninspired and generic. It was a classic “builder-grade” bathroom – functional, but lacking any distinct personality or charm. The space was dull, forgettable, and certainly didn’t reflect the evolving style my husband and I were developing for our home.

After living with this rather bland setup for a while, a strong desire for a radical change began to grow. I wanted a complete 180-degree shift in style, something fresh, bright, and truly reflective of my new aesthetic.

Cue the vision of distressing, painting everything white, and embracing a chic, slightly shabby style! This dramatic shift in perspective marked the true beginning of my DIY life, a journey of transforming spaces on a budget and infusing them with character. It was time to say goodbye to the beige and hello to a new, vibrant design era.

Essential Tools for Your Budget Bathroom Makeover

To embark on a DIY bathroom transformation like this, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference. While many of these are common household tools, they are indispensable for achieving a professional finish. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
Hammer: Essential for demolition and nailing the board and batten.
Skill Saw: Crucial for precise cutting of wood slats for the board and batten feature. Accuracy here ensures clean lines.
Finishing Nails: For securing the wood slats discreetly, minimizing visible fasteners.
Tape Measure: An absolute must for accurate measurements, from wall heights to wood lengths. Measure twice, cut once!
Paint Brushes & Rollers: For a smooth application of primer and paint on walls and cabinetry. Choose roller sizes appropriate for the surfaces.
Level: Imperative for ensuring your paint line and board and batten slats are perfectly straight and even.
Pencil: For marking measurements and drawing guide lines.
Electric Screwdriver: Ideal for safely hanging heavier items like mirrors and chandeliers. Always use appropriate anchors for drywall.
Tape (Painter’s Tape and Duct Tape): Painter’s tape for crisp paint lines and protecting surfaces, duct tape for mirror demolition safety.
Sandpaper: For prepping surfaces before painting and achieving a smooth finish, especially on cabinets.
(A note on budget: I was fortunate enough to already have all these tools on hand, which significantly contributed to keeping the overall project cost down.)

Your Step-by-Step Guide to a Chic Budget Bathroom Makeover: HERE’S WHAT I DID

Transforming a bathroom on a tight budget requires a strategic approach and a willingness to get your hands dirty. Here’s how I revitalized my space, bringing it from bland to beautiful:
1. Mirror Demolition with Confidence:
The old, builder-grade mirror had to go. To ensure safety, I first meticulously taped the entire mirror surface with duct tape. This crucial step helps contain shattered glass, preventing shards from scattering. With protective eyewear and gloves on, I then carefully but firmly hit the mirror with a hammer, breaking it into manageable pieces. After collection, I disposed of them properly. For me, breaking a mirror isn’t about bad luck; it’s about breaking free from the old and making way for new blessings and style!
2. Cabinet Transformation with Crystal Glam:
The dated cabinet was given a new lease on life with a fresh coat of white paint. I began by thoroughly cleaning the cabinet, followed by a light sanding to create a smooth surface for paint adhesion. I then applied Valspar semi-gloss ultra white paint directly from the can. Semi-gloss is an excellent choice for bathrooms due to its durability and moisture resistance. After the first coat dried, I lightly sanded again and applied a second coat for a flawless, bright finish. To complete the upgrade, I replaced the old knobs with sparkling crystal ones, instantly elevating the cabinet’s appearance from drab to fab.
3. Two-Tone Wall Painting and Strategic Division:
This step involved creating a sophisticated two-tone effect on the walls. I chose to paint the upper third of the walls a serene gray, while the remaining two-thirds (below the gray line) and the board and batten would be crisp white.
First, determine the desired height for your board and batten. Mark this point on the wall. Using a reliable level, draw a continuous, perfectly straight line across all the walls. This line will serve as your guide. Then, paint from the ceiling down to this marked line with your chosen gray color. Don’t stress too much if this line isn’t absolutely perfect; the upcoming wood slats for the board and batten will elegantly conceal any minor imperfections.
The specific paint color I selected for the upper wall was Olympus paint and primer in one, in the beautiful shade of SECRET PASSAGE. This muted, tranquil hue created a calming contrast with the bright white.
4. Adding Character with Board & Batten:
Board and batten instantly adds architectural interest and a custom feel to any room. For this project, I made a deliberate choice not to use MDF (medium-density fiberboard). Instead, I opted for sturdier 3/4-inch thick, 6-foot-long wood slats, which I sourced from Lowe’s for a very affordable price of $1.50 each. I preferred the added depth and durability of real wood. The technique is similar to popular MDF board and batten tutorials, but with a more robust material.
First, I measured the entire width of the wall for the top horizontal slat (let’s call it slat #1). I cut this piece to size and then carefully mitered the edges at a 45-degree angle where it met the corners of the room. This ensures a seamless, professional joint. I then nailed it securely to the wall using finishing nails, making sure it was level.
Next, I measured the length for the vertical slats (slat #2). These would extend from the top horizontal piece down to the existing baseboard. For these vertical pieces, I also cut the bottoms at a 45-degree angle to sit perfectly over the existing baseboard, creating a clean, integrated look. These were then nailed into place at evenly spaced intervals, which you’ll determine based on your wall size and desired aesthetic.
Lastly, to complete the grid, I measured each individual small space between the vertical slats (#2) at the top and bottom. I cut smaller horizontal pieces to fit these gaps and nailed them securely. This creates the classic board and batten pattern, adding incredible depth and sophistication.
5. Caulking and Painting the Board and Batten:
Once all the wood slats were firmly in place, the next crucial step was caulking. This fills any small gaps between the wood and the wall, and between the wood pieces themselves, creating a truly seamless and finished appearance. It’s a detail that makes a huge difference. After the caulk dried, I painted all the board and batten slats, as well as the lower two-thirds of the wall, with the same crisp white paint used for the cabinet. This cohesive white brightens the room and makes the architectural detail pop against the gray.
6. Chandelier Refresh and Crystal Embellishment:
A plain, thrifted chandelier was transformed into a focal point. After cleaning it thoroughly, I applied a few coats of spray paint in a complementary metallic shade to give it a fresh, elegant look. Once dry, I meticulously added individual crystals, turning a simple light fixture into a dazzling, chic statement piece that adds a touch of vintage glamour.
7. Hanging the Yard Sale Mirror:
The new mirror, a fabulous yard sale find, was carefully hung above the vanity. Choosing the right mirror can dramatically impact a bathroom’s style and perceived size. My gold, curvy mirror added an antique, romantic touch that perfectly complemented the new aesthetic.
8. Thoughtful Accessory Placement:
Finally, I styled the bathroom with carefully selected accessories. This includes a new shower curtain, a unique chicken wire photo holder, and other small decorative items that tie the whole look together. Accessories are the finishing touches that infuse personality and warmth into the space, making it feel truly complete.
I sincerely apologize that I wasn’t able to capture step-by-step process photos of every detail. Juggling a busy schedule with kids meant I was often racing against the clock to get things done, and sometimes the camera just wasn’t the top priority! However, I hope the detailed descriptions provide a clear roadmap for your own DIY endeavors.

The Incredible Cost Breakdown: Achieving Chic on a Shoestring

One of the most rewarding aspects of this bathroom makeover was demonstrating that a significant transformation doesn’t require a hefty budget. Smart shopping, thrifty finds, and DIY elbow grease can save you a fortune. Here’s a transparent look at the expenses:
DIY Board & Batten: $30 (An incredible value for adding such significant architectural detail and character to the walls).
Gold Mirror (yard sale find): $10 (A true treasure! Finding key pieces like this second-hand is crucial for budget makeovers).
Crystal Knobs for the Cabinets (Hobby Lobby): $10 (These small details made a huge impact, instantly upgrading the basic cabinet into something more elegant).
Aqua, Mint & White Floral Shower Curtain (Target): Gifted, estimated $19.99 (A pop of color and pattern for a fresh feel).
Flower Picture behind toilet: (Already owned) (Utilizing existing decor helps keep costs down and ensures pieces you love are reused).
Crystal Shower Rod (TJMAXX): $19.99 (Another touch of sparkle that complements the chandelier and cabinet knobs).
Chandelier (ReStore): $10 (ReStore is a fantastic resource for affordable light fixtures and building materials that can be easily updated).
Crystals for Chandelier (Marshalls): $4.99 (Adding these crystals transformed a basic fixture into a glamorous statement piece).
Spray Paint for Chandelier: $5 (A little paint goes a long way in refreshing dated items).
Frame for DIY chicken wire photo holder (thrift store): $3 (Thrift stores are goldmines for unique frames and decorative items that can be repurposed).
I already had all the paint and other general accessories on hand from previous projects, which kept these costs at zero for this makeover. This highlights the benefit of building a well-stocked DIY toolkit over time.
GRAND TOTAL: A staggering $93!
This entire transformation was completed in approximately one week. While it might sound quick, it was carefully spread out, working around the demanding schedules of having young children. It proves that even with limited time, dedication and smart planning can lead to remarkable results.

If you’re interested in recreating some of the specific DIY elements from this project, you can find detailed instructions for my No-Staple Chicken Wire Photo Frame.
You can also learn how I achieved the beautiful finish on my Aqua Shabby Frame.
Additionally, for more lighting inspiration, check out another chandelier re-do where I added even more sparkling crystals.

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Teryn, we are absolutely smitten with your bathroom makeover! The transformation is truly incredible, especially considering the minuscule budget you worked with. Your ability to infuse such chic style and personality into a small space, all for under $100, is nothing short of inspiring. That gold mirror is a showstopper, and the board and batten adds such elegant character. Thank you for sharing your fantastic vision and practical steps with our Remodelaholic readers!

We encourage everyone to hop over to Teryn’s wonderful blog, Vintage Romance, to see more of her beautiful jewelry designs and her other amazing DIY projects. Her talent for crafting and decorating on a budget is truly remarkable and will provide endless inspiration for your own home transformations.

Still yearning for more bathroom inspiration? Dive deeper into our extensive collection of amazing bathroom makeovers and renovations, showcasing a wide array of styles and budgets. Or, if you’re specifically eyeing a master suite refresh, get inspired by a dozen brilliant DIY master bathrooms from fellow bloggers. Your dream bathroom is just a click away!