Budget-Friendly Bathroom, Laundry and Powder Room Makeover: A Stunning Transformation for $20K
A combined bathroom, laundry, and powder room makeover can completely transform a home, adding both style and functionality. When we took on this recent project, our goal was to create a high-end look while staying within a $20,000 budget. By carefully selecting materials and making smart design choices, we achieved a stunning, unique space without overspending.
The Vision
The dark, outdated 1970s lime-and-brown space had to go!
Check out the space BEFORE:
Our client, a father and his teenage son, wanted a fresh, modern bathroom with a masculine edge. Initially, they planned to stay in the home, which meant we could explore bolder design choices. However, when they decided to sell, we pivoted to ensure broad buyer appeal. This led us to swap our original bold jungle wallpaper for a softer, more subtle pattern that added character without overwhelming potential buyers.
The duo were clear about their preferred colour palette: black, grey, and silver. They were open to incorporating some timber and a touch of green to soften the overall look, creating a balanced and inviting space.
Here are the mood boards. We landed on the first one after the client decided to sell the property:
The Materials
To achieve a stylish transformation while staying budget-conscious, we focused on blending affordability with customization. Our key material choices included:
-
Kaboodle Base and Wall Cabinets: These provided a great foundation for the cabinetry—budget-friendly, durable, and easy to work with.
-
Custom Doors, Sides, Tops and Handles by Customea: We elevated the look with custom cabinetry fronts, benchtops, and stylish handles. We chose shaker-profile cabinet doors in black, autumn oak for the tops, side panels, and kickboards, and Claire handles in inox (medium) for a sleek finish.
-
Tiles, Basins & Mirror by Tile Cloud: We selected industrial-style Paddington Grey Terrazzo Look Tiles for the floors and walls, which paired beautifully with black tapware and accessories. For the feature wall, we used classic Newport white and bone subway tiles, and laid them in a trendy vertical stripe pattern, creating the illusion of higher ceilings and a more open space. While we would have loved to incorporate white and sage tiles, the homeowner felt sage was too feminine, so we adjusted accordingly.
-
Soft Patterned Wallpaper: To add character while keeping things neutral, we chose an understated botanical design that subtly enhances the space without overpowering it.
Here's the bathroom AFTER:
The Design Process
-
Planning and Budgeting: Careful planning ensured we maximized impact while keeping costs under control.
-
Cabinetry and Storage: The original bathroom lacked storage, so we incorporated additional cabinetry to improve functionality. Kaboodle cabinetry provided the foundation, while Customea’s custom touches elevated the design.
-
Tiling and Fixtures: Our tile selections set the tone for the entire space—neutral, timeless, and high-quality.
-
Wall Treatment Adjustments: The bold jungle wallpaper was swapped for a softer, more refined design to enhance resale appeal.
-
Finishing Touches: Thoughtful styling, lighting, and hardware brought everything together. To stay on budget, we sourced stylish yet affordable décor from Kmart.
What We Would Have Done Differently
If the client had planned to stay in the home and the budget extended, we would have:
-
Opted for a larger shower with a frameless screen.
-
Added more natural timber elements—perhaps a wooden stool or natural brushes—to enhance warmth.
-
Invested in higher-end faux plants to bring a touch of greenery without maintenance concerns.
The Final Result
One of our favourite features is the striped feature wall of tiles—it creates a striking visual impact while enhancing the modern, masculine aesthetic. The industrial vibe is further emphasized by sleek black tapware and fixtures, adding depth and contrast.
A fun, personal touch? The 'Be Rad' neon sign by L.A Neon! It reflects the homeowner’s playful personality and brings a lighthearted element to the otherwise structured space.
The completed bathroom, laundry, and powder room blend practicality with elegance. Custom cabinetry, high-quality fixtures, and thoughtful tiling choices come together to create a space that feels both stylish and functional. Best of all, we achieved a high-end look while staying within budget, proving that with smart choices, luxury is possible without overspending.
This makeover is a perfect example of how mixing ready-made solutions with bespoke details can result in a space that feels unique and personal. If you're planning a bathroom renovation, don’t be afraid to blend affordability with customization—your dream space might be more attainable than you think!
Shop the Look
https://kaboodle.com.au/products/cabinets
https://customea.com.au/pages/profiles-and-finishes
https://customea.com.au/collections/handles
https://tilecloud.com.au/products/arch-mirror-plain-white?variant=47226308788457
https://tilecloud.com.au/products/rectangle-matte-white-basin?variant=47195739226345
https://tilecloud.com.au/products/square-matte-white-basin?variant=47195739291881
https://laneon.com.au/collections/neon-wall-lights
