13 affordable bathroom renovation ideas

Smart ways to lower the cost of a new scheme without sacrificing its style or performance

By Paula Woods | 18 October 2021

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.

Slate effect porcelain tiles in bathroom renovation with built in bath

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.

Freestanding bath and double basin with mirrors

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.

White basin with black taps in white tiled room

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.

Marble shower with gold showerhead and taps and large full length window

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.

Pink tiled background with bsin and built in taps

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.