Mini Bathroom Makeover on a Budget: Create a Moody Retreat

A bathroom makeover doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming, especially if you’re working with a small space. With a few strategic upgrades and budget-friendly choices, you can transform your bathroom into a moody, stylish retreat. Here’s how to achieve a mini bathroom makeover on a budget with a dark and cozy aesthetic.

1. Dark and Dramatic Walls

A fresh coat of deep, rich paint like charcoal, navy, or forest green can instantly set a moody tone. If you want added character, consider peel-and-stick wallpaper in dark florals, textured finishes, or geometric designs for an accent wall. I went with a forest green in our bathroom, and I couldn’t love it more!

2. Upgrade the Fixtures

Replacing outdated fixtures such as faucets, showerheads, and drawer pulls can make a big difference. Opt for matte black, antique brass, or oil-rubbed bronze finishes to complement the moody aesthetic. Check for sales at home improvement stores or consider secondhand options. Gold is my aesthetic. I just love the pop of color with the dark moody paint. All our fixtures were purchased through Amazon to save cost. By piecing out cabinet handles, faucets, towel hooks, etc., I was able to save quite a bit instead of buying the full “kit”. But be sure to read reviews and check out the return rates for products. Another tricky situation, I found, is matching the actual fixture tones and hues. If you’re very detail oriented like me, I recommend going to your local hardware or home store and sourcing these items first if you want a perfect match.

3. Maximize Storage with a Chic Touch

Small bathrooms often lack storage, leading to clutter. Utilize vertical space with dark wood floating shelves, wall-mounted baskets, or an over-the-toilet storage unit in black or deep wood tones. Thrift stores often carry budget-friendly baskets and organizers that can be spray-painted for a custom look. I didn’t spend any money on our storage, as I’ve collected bins and baskets over the years. The dark floating shelving was a simple DIY project for us over a weekend. I bought the wood, stained it, and mounted them with simple black brackets for the appearance of “floating shelves” without the cost and labor. Be sure to find the studs behind the drywall with a stud finder or use drywall anchors to ensure the shelves are sturdy and safe.

4. Swap Out Accessories