Everyone dreams of a luxurious bathroom, but many believe that achieving this requires a significant financial investment. The truth is, with smart choices and strategic upgrades, you can create a stylish and high-end bathroom without breaking the bank. From tile choices to lighting, here’s how you can transform your space while staying on budget.


1. Partially Tiled Walls for a Balanced Look

Tiles can be one of the more expensive aspects of a bathroom renovation, especially since they are priced per square metre. However, you don’t need to tile every inch of your bathroom to achieve a chic design. Consider partially tiling key areas like the shower or around the basin, while painting the remaining walls with a vibrant or neutral colour. This combination of tile and paint not only saves on cost but also creates a balanced, modern aesthetic.

Opting for subway-style tiles is a smart choice for those on a budget. These tiles offer a clean, timeless look and pair beautifully with a variety of paint colours. To make sure no area feels too sparse, you can fill any “white space” on your painted walls with tasteful wall art or framed prints, adding an extra layer of personality

2. Mirror/Mirrored Cabinet Lighting

Incorporating clever lighting can instantly improve your bathroom's ambiance, giving it a touch of luxury without a hefty price tag. One of the easiest upgrades to consider is an illuminated mirror or mirrored cabinet. They are a focal point to the bathroom and also offer  smart storage to keep your space tidy. The LED lighting in Faeber's mirrored cabinets can be adjusted from warm to cool tones, allowing you to create the perfect mood lighting to suit any moment.

3. Low-Profile Shower Trays

If you’re dreaming of a wet room but are concerned about the price, there’s a clever alternative. A low-profile shower tray paired with a sleek glass screen can mimic the aesthetic of a wet room at a fraction of the cost. This option is easier to install and still delivers a luxurious feel, perfect for creating a spa-like experience without the expense of redoing the entire bathroom floor.



4. Affordable Yet High-Quality Taps & Fixtures

Taps and other matching bathroom fixtures such as shower heads, shower controls and heated towel rails can vary dramatically in price depending on the finish. Polished chrome or stainless steel are typically more affordable options compared to brass or matte black finishes. These choices still look sophisticated and modern, and they provide great durability.

It’s important to invest in quality tapware, as cheaper alternatives found online can quickly deteriorate and cheapen the overall look of your bathroom. Our recommendation is to prioritise quality over colour—ensuring that your fixtures last longer and maintain their luxury feel over time.

5. Keep Layout Changes Minimal

While changing the layout of your bathroom may sound appealing, it can significantly increase the cost. Moving showers, sinks, and toilets means re-routing both water feeds and waste outlets, which can be complex and expensive. If your current layout works well, it’s best to keep it as is. However, if you’re keen on a change, speak with a designer who can offer guidance on what’s feasible within your budget.

Conclusion

Luxury doesn’t have to mean expensive, and with a little creativity, you can design a bathroom that feels high-end without the high price tag. By focusing on key areas like tiles, lighting, and tapware, and being mindful of layout changes, you can upgrade your space in a way that’s both cost-effective and stylish. 

Are you planning a family bathroom and not sure where to start?

Book our 3D design service and get one of our dedicated designers to help you with every step of the way - from choosing the right layout and making the most of your available space to putting together your perfect design scheme with products that suit your needs and budget. What’s more? You will be able to walk around in a virtual reality version of your new bathroom before purchasing.

Click here to book your design consultation today.