10 DIY Bathroom Remodel Ideas: Creative, Budget-Friendly Ways to Refresh Your Bathroom SpaceLena M. BrooksSep 24, 2025Table of Contents1. Paint Everything But the Tiles2. Upgrade Fixtures for Instant Luxury3. Floating Shelves for Storage and Style4. Statement Mirror as a Centerpiece5. Change the Lighting Game6. Peel-and-Stick Tiles for a Splash of Color7. Add Built-in Niches for Minimal Clutter8. Stylish Shower Curtains or Glass Panels9. Maximize Corners with Custom Storage10. Plants for a Breath of FreshnessFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEA few years ago, I had a client who asked me if we could make her bathroom look like “a Paris café, but also a tropical spa” — in 3 square meters. I laughed, then realized small spaces are actually the best playground for creativity. Over the years, I’ve seen how a few clever tweaks (and a willingness to get your hands dirty) can completely transform a bathroom without gutting your savings. Today, I’m sharing 10 DIY bathroom remodel ideas that I’ve used successfully — and you can too.1. Paint Everything But the TilesSometimes the fastest transformation is with a paintbrush. Walls, trims, even the vanity — all can get a fresh coat. Use moisture-resistant paints, and if your tiles are in good condition, leave them be to save both money and mess. When I did this in my first apartment, it looked like a whole new space overnight.save pin2. Upgrade Fixtures for Instant LuxurySwapping out taps, showerheads, or cabinet pulls can be a weekend job with a huge visual payoff. Gold, matte black, or brushed nickel add a touch of personality. I once convinced a friend to upgrade her tap, and now she swears her morning routine feels like a hotel stay.save pin3. Floating Shelves for Storage and StyleBathrooms rarely have enough storage. Floating shelves over the toilet or above the bath make use of vertical space and keep essentials within reach. I plan these layouts in detail using a room planning tool so I can be sure nothing feels cramped.save pin4. Statement Mirror as a CenterpieceA large or unusually shaped mirror brings depth and drama. Round mirrors soften a rigid layout, while vintage frames add character. Plus, a bigger mirror means more light bouncing around in the mornings when you’re still half asleep.save pin5. Change the Lighting GameSwapping out ceiling fixtures or adding a wall sconce completely shifts the mood. Warm, diffused light is kinder to sleepy eyes than harsh overheads. Task lighting by the mirror makes grooming so much easier, and it’s one of the most underestimated remodel tricks.save pin6. Peel-and-Stick Tiles for a Splash of ColorIf your floor or backsplash feels dated, removable peel-and-stick tiles are budget-friendly and landlord-approved. I used them once for a rental client — three years later, she still hasn’t taken them off because they look that good.save pin7. Add Built-in Niches for Minimal ClutterInstead of cramming bottles on the tub edge, recess a shelf into the wall. It's a clean look that also makes cleaning easier. This is something I often map out with a free floor plan creator before committing to cuts.save pin8. Stylish Shower Curtains or Glass PanelsA patterned curtain can be a statement piece, or a glass panel can make the room feel bigger. Both are quick swaps that change the bathroom's whole vibe. Choose mildew-resistant fabrics or treated glass to keep maintenance low.save pin9. Maximize Corners with Custom StorageCorner shelves, triangular cabinets, or even a tiny vertical towel rack can make awkward spaces work harder. Space efficiency is key in small bathrooms — a lesson I learned the hard way after losing count of stubbed toes during one renovation. I now draft every corner idea with a layout planning tool to ensure flow and safety.save pin10. Plants for a Breath of FreshnessEven in a bathroom, greenery thrives if you pick the right types. Ferns and pothos love humidity and need little attention. Beyond aesthetics, they improve air quality and make the morning rush feel calmer.save pinFAQQ: Can I remodel a bathroom myself without prior experience?A: Absolutely. Start small — painting, hardware swaps, and decor changes are beginner-friendly. Just know your limits for plumbing or electrical work.Q: How much should I budget for a DIY bathroom remodel?A: It really depends, but many of these ideas can be done for under $500 if you repurpose materials and shop smart.Q: How can I make a small bathroom look bigger?A: Use large mirrors, light colors, and vertical storage. Keep the floor as open as possible to create an airy feel.Start for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE