13 affordable bathroom renovation ideas
Smart ways to lower the cost of a new scheme without sacrificing its style or performance
Renovating your bathroom will make a huge difference to your home. Not only is it a space we need to use everyday, but it’s also a room that can increase the value of your property when its been updated. However, that doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune to create a beautiful bathroom. Read on for Grand Designs’ affordable bathroom renovation ideas…
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For a bespoke finish
Upgrade a standard inset tub by creating a feature bath panel. Clad a made-to-measure sturdy plywood sheet with tiles to suit your scheme.

Indas Storm slate-effect matt porcelain tiles. Photo: Topps Tiles
Ask the experts
Take advantage of the free design service offered by many bathroom and DIY suppliers, such as Victoria Plum’s Design + Installation. Bear in mind that you will need to provide measurements. Otherwise, virtual tools such as Roca’s 3R Bathroom Planner can help you visualise its products in your space.

Mode Spencer bath, and double vanity unit and basins, Orchard Wye mixer taps. Photo: Victoria Plum
Consider the long-term benefits
It’s worth investing in quality taps and shower fittings to ensure that you get great performance over many years. Look out for water and energy-saving features to minimise your utility bills.

Axor One Basin Mixer Select with energy-efficient CoolStart technology. Photo: Axor
Ensure it’s well fitted
Professional installation is always worth the expense. Find a reputable firm via personal recommendation or through bodies such as TrustMark. The screens, walk-in tray, showerhead, handset, triple shower valve, and Athena vanity/basin are all from Nuie.

screens, walk-in tray, showerhead, handset, triple shower valve, and Athena vanity/basin are all Nuie
Bag a bargain
Make your budget go further by buying discounted ex-display and end-of-range items. Factory outlets are worth a visit, or wait for the seasonal sales.

Novara wall-mounted basin mixer, Aegina marble bowl and Forecast Lundy tiles Fired Earth
Follow the footprint
Work with your current layout to reduce installation costs. Save more money by retaining the existing wall covering and flooring while upgrading the fittings. The below example matched existing drill holes helped to cut down installation costs.

euphoria 260 wall-mounted shower with thermostat and Fast Fixation system Grohe
Luxury look for less
Acrylic freestanding baths are good value and low maintenance. Choose robust fibreglass-reinforced acrylic for durability like the example below.

Hyde fibreglass-reinforced lucite acrylic freestanding bath tub from Bathroom Mountain