When recent bathroom trends are discussed, we have to confess we feel our wallets trembling in fear. Frightened by mention of maximalism, of 24 carat taps and mirrors that moonlight as TVs and high fidelity stereos, the latest ‘trends’ in this most private of spaces are often nothing more than what’s the most expensive.
The good news is this; transforming your bathroom into a stylish space doesn’t have to break mirrors, tubs or even, you know, the bank. In keeping with 2024’s spirit of thrift and frugality, there are plenty of budget-friendly trends out there that can give your bathroom a luxurious feel without being weighed down by a hefty price tag. Here are just a few of our favourites.
Plants & Greenery
Spa-inspired bathrooms are all the rage, sure, and incorporating plants is an affordable way to bring this trend into your home. Adding greenery not only enhances the aesthetic of the bathroom, but also creates a calming atmosphere. And when you’re taking a bath or suffering with a particularly bad bout of the runs, it’s essential that the atmosphere is indeed calm.
Many plants thrive in the humid environment of a bathroom, such as snake plants and ferns, but if you’re not confident in your plant-care skills, consider deploying a high-quality fake plant or two.
Whether placed on a windowsill or hung from the ceiling, plants are a simple, low-cost way to reinvigorate your bathroom and channel the whole biophilic trend that’s dominated interior design for a couple of years now. If you don’t have room in your bathroom for a plant, you could always consider a plant picture.
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PVC Wall Panels
Whilst the sophisticated majesty of tiles is undeniable, it’s also beyond doubt that genuine, intricately designed tiles can be expensive.
PVC wall panels are an excellent alternative to traditional ceramic tiles. They are durable, easy to install, and come in a wide range of designs, including options that mimic the look of expensive materials like marble.
PVC panels can be customised to cover large areas without any tricky, hard-to-fill gaps, making them a cost-effective choice for a bathroom makeover. For a bold and modern look, consider panels with on-trend colours (earthy greens and even black are particularly in vogue right now) or unique, geomteric patterns. PVC panels are easy to install because they can be designed to to fill a large area, are affordable, and they come in a huge range of options. What’s not to love?
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Statement Mirrors
Adding a statement bathroom mirror can instantly elevate the look of your bathroom. A distinctive mirror – whether that distinctive touch comes from the shape, the colour of the frame or even the hue of the mirror itself – can serve as a focal point and inspire other design elements in your bathroom. For instance, a mirror with a black frame might encourage you to incorporate other black accents throughout the room, creating a synergetic and cohesive look that needn’t cost much to pull together. And that’s why you’re here, right?
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Shiny Fixtures
Replacing old, worn-out fixtures with new, shiny ones can make a difference to your bathroom’s appearance. Of course, it’s imperative here that you choose fixtures that match the overall aesthetic of your bathroom. If you have matte black accessories or gold, for instance, select taps in the same finish to create a harmonious look. If you’re feeling creative, you might even consider spray painting existing fixtures to refresh their appearance. Just be sure to follow proper techniques to avoid damaging your bathroom or, you know, your pride…
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Smart Storage Solutions
Effective storage solutions can make your bathroom look tidier and more organised, which is just as integral to a modern feeling bathroom than any major investment is, we think.
Bathroom cabinets and shelves come in various designs, allowing you to choose options that fit your style and budget. Floating shelves are particularly popular for their modern and sleek appearance, but can sometimes look a little chaotic if you just chuck anything on them. Instead, be diligent about what you store on those shelves, and they can look smart and stylish.
Even simple additions like a decorative bowl on the windowsill can enhance the functionality and look of your bathroom. Embracing minimalist features and reducing clutter can help you achieve a clean and simple design. Think of all the money you’ll save on cleaning products! Hmmm, scrap that; you still need to clean your bathroom.
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The Bottom Line
Redesigning your bathroom doesn’t have to be expensive. By incorporating these budget-friendly trends, you can create a stylish and modern space without overspending. Whether you’re adding plants, installing PVC panels, or updating fixtures, there are plenty of ways to achieve a high-end look on a budget.