How to Get a Designer Bathroom on a Home Depot Budget

Published on March 26, 2017 at 6:05 AM

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When Caitlin Kruse of The Mama Notes and her husband purchased their first home, their dark, windowless bathroom in the hallway was at the top of their renovation list. With some savvy shopping and design tricks, Caitlin was able to recreate the light and airy, Pinterest-perfect bathroom she envisioned in just two weeks!

The Before Photos

The dated bathtub, flimsy curtain rod, and wall-mounted toilet didn't do any favors for this small, dark bathroom.

Huge, frame-less mirrors are a builder-grade bathroom staple. This one robbed the space of personality and somehow made the bathroom feel smaller. If you have a similarly drab bathroom that could use a facelift, try these tips from Cailtin's renovation for a fresh look!

Replace Frameless Mirrors

Swapping in a round, brass mirror gave the space instant style cred at minimal cost and freed up tons of wall space. If you love the minimalist vibe of a simple round mirror, this version from Target can be snagged for less than $50!

Install a Space-Saving Sconce

Ditch dated overhead lights for a more flattering option that can be easily accommodated in a small space, like this unbelievably chic (and affordable!) sconce from Home Depot.

Use a Small Rug Instead of a Bath Mat

A stylish bath mat can be hard to find, so steal Caitlin's idea and use a small rug instead! This faded, antique-style rug is from Home Depot's Decorators Collection. We love the Carrera hexagon tiled floor Caitlin chose for a polished and classic look.

Festival Area Rug

From

$39

Get Loads of Natural Light — No Window Needed!

Caitlin's dad had the ingenious idea of adding a tube skylight to flood the window-less bathroom with natural light. It was so effective that Caitlin is even considering one for her hallway.

Display Accessories With a Picture Frame Shelf

To take advantage of the space formerly occupied by that huge, frameless mirror, Caitlin installed a picture frame shelf to display pretty accessories. It's a great way to introduce some style without spending a lot of money.

Splurge on Matte Gold Hardware

Caitlin's matte gold hardware didn't come cheap, but it definitely pops in the room. It also makes more simple features like classic subway tile feel luxe.

Go For Gray Grout

Caitlin decided to ditch white grout for something more low maintenance, like this Delorean Gray grout.

Hang Hand Towels on Hooks

No room for towel bars on your vanity? Follow Caitlin's lead and use hooks to hang hand towels instead.

Summon Your Inner Stylist

Reality might not allow for a perfectly-styled cabinet, but a little effort goes a long way. Use a pretty cup to hold toothbrushes and stock up on stylish organizing vessels like lidded baskets for holding toiletries.