How to Renovate a Downstairs Small Bathroom on a Budget

Renovating a downstairs bathroom, even a small one, can feel daunting if you’re trying to keep the costs affordable.

Between plumbing fixtures, flooring, and decor expenses, the costs can easily add up. However, I have great news for you!

Compact spaces are actually perfect candidates for budget-friendly makeovers.

Simply use this post as your guide to refresh your bathroom without breaking the bank.

Photo: Kin and Kasa

Start With a Clear Plan and Realistic Budget

To begin with, you need to plan out what you would like to accomplish.

Do you want to do a full remodel where you change the entire bathroom, including the fixtures, floors, and even possibly the layout? Or are you just going for a cosmetic refresh?

When making a plan, lay out your non-negotiables and your “nice to haves.”

Doing this will prevent impulse purchases and keep you focused on what you actually want to change.

It’s also a good idea to set a budget range, not a fixed number. For example, aim for between £400-£800 for a light refresh or £1000-£2500 for mid-range DIY renovation.

Additionally, it’s also a good idea to leave a bit of a buffer so that any unexpected costs do not surprise you.

Photo: The Castle Collection via Pinterest

Keep the Layout the Same

One of the best ways to save money when renovating a bathroom is to avoid any plumbing relocation.

Costs start to easily add up when you move toilets, sinks or showers, and this can blow your budget quickly.

The idea, when remaining on a budget, is to focus on improving the aesthetics rather than changing the entire room.

Photo: Beyti Studio

Refresh Walls With Paint or Paneling

One of the easiest and cheapest ways to transform your bathroom is with fresh paint.

Choose light colours such as soft grey, blush tones or light blues as these create the illusion of more space.

Ideally, you would also need to use mould-resistant bathroom paint, which is more expensive but prevents moisture issues later.

Photo: Kaitlin Madden

Upgrade Fixtures

Fixtures can make a bathroom look dated, but updating them doesn’t have to be costly.

Make sure to check out the rest of my website for the range of door knobs and door handles that can be easily used for doors and cabinets in your bathroom.

Other fixtures you can swap out can include your faucet, showerhead, toilet paper holder, and any light fixtures.

Photo: Aurea Caelum - The Boutique Handle Co

Update the Mirror

One of the best ways to make your bathroom look bigger than it is is to use a mirror. And bathroom mirrors are often overlooked, but play a huge role in the room's style.

You can find a range of great mirrors for just £40-£60 and are 100% worth the investment!

Photo: Pinterest

Improve the Lighting

Downstairs bathrooms are often dark as they lack large windows, so going all in on improving the lighting can make such a huge difference.

Some options to stay on budget include replacing the light fixtures with a modern one, using brighter energy-efficient bulbs or adding a stick-on LED vanity lights.

Photo: Pinterest

Add Personality To The Room

It’s no secret that small bathrooms can look cluttered fast, so you have to choose the decor carefully.

However, adding a little bit of your personality and making this room into a fun space can be a great use of the downstairs bathroom.

Things like personalised artwork, unique soap dispensers, and a minimal rug or bath mat go a long way.

Photo: Katie Hackworth via Pinterest

Use “Look for Less” Materials

Even if you love high-end expensive styles, there are always budget alternatives.

Things like peel and stick backsplash tiles, laminate sheets and removable wallpaper are all affordable ways to transform the room without the expensive price tag.

Finish With a Deep Clean and Simple Repairs

Sometimes the biggest transformation comes from the things that cost absolutely nothing.

Simply taking time to clean up the space by polishing hardware, fixing loose hinges and scrubbing the grout can make the room feel brand new.

Photo: Margaret Rajic on Instagram

Key Takeaways on How to Renovate a Downstairs Small Bathroom on a Budget

Those were all of my best hacks for renovating a small bathroom whilst remaining on a budget.

During this process, make sure to plan out the budget beforehand, upgrade the fixtures, and remember that there is always more affordable options for luxury additions.