A rising trend in recent years has seen a surge in DIY home projects. This shift has been fuelled by various factors, including the pandemic, the cost of living crisis, and the popularity of TikTok tutorials. Homeowners are increasingly taking matters into their own hands when it comes to home improvements. As we spend more time at home, the desire to create a personal sanctuary has grown stronger. Although renovating key areas like the kitchen and bathroom can quickly become expensive, it’s important to maintain quality in these frequently used spaces. Even small issues, such as a dripping tap or a drawer that won’t close properly, can disrupt the comfort of your daily routine.
The question is: how can we tackle DIY projects in the bathroom without sacrificing quality, especially when it comes to taps and brassware? There are some simple ways to enhance your bathroom’s design while maintaining a high-quality finish. Forget quick-fix, rustic looks; it’s time for DIY renovations that match professional standards.
An easy way to begin your DIY bathroom project is by giving the walls a fresh coat of paint. This entry-level task can have a significant impact on the overall look of the room. You could even personalise your space by incorporating hand-painted designs or using stencils and stamps to create whimsical, organic patterns, which are expected to be a key interior design trend in 2024. Neutral tones remain popular, with muted colours bringing a sense of calm and serenity to a space.
For those who feel more adventurous, paint can be used to mimic luxurious finishes like marble, stone, or limewash plaster. With the right tools and techniques, you can achieve a high-end look at a fraction of the cost. This approach has been used in several bathroom designs, where hand-painted walls have been created to resemble premium materials.
Don’t stop at the walls—painted woodwork and ceilings are another way to transform your bathroom. Try painting skirting boards, windowsills, doors, or even the ceiling. Choosing unexpected yet complementary colours can create a striking visual effect, while a painted ceiling can make a room feel taller. To ensure lasting results, always use moisture-resistant paint, such as Valspar, which is both affordable and customisable.
For those renting their home or not wanting to commit to permanent changes, temporary materials like removable wallpaper and sticker tiles offer a solution. These renter-friendly options have gained popularity due to their affordability and the wide range of high-quality designs now available. You can easily transform your bathroom surfaces without the hefty price tag.
Removable vinyl can also be used to enhance different areas of the bathroom. For example, in one bathroom design featuring premium brassware, a fluted vinyl was used to give the shower screen a luxurious look while adding privacy. This is an easy, affordable way to upgrade your bathroom without making permanent changes.
Updating your bathroom hardware is another practical way to enhance your space. Hardware items like curtain ties, towel rails, robe hooks, and bathroom shelves not only add style but also serve a functional purpose. For small bathrooms, multifunctional pieces like the modular Muse shelf are ideal. This item combines a towel rail with extra storage space and is available in finishes that perfectly match taps and brassware for a cohesive look.
Adding greenery and florals is a simple yet effective way to refresh your bathroom. Plants like spider plants and peace lilies thrive in moisture-rich environments, acting as natural air purifiers while enhancing the room’s aesthetic. Repurposing old containers as plant pots is an easy and affordable DIY project that can bring life and colour to your bathroom.
If you’re a fan of upcycling, bathroom furniture doesn’t have to be expensive. Repurposing second-hand pieces can add character and personality to your space. You might find unique items at charity shops or online marketplaces, sometimes for free. With a little creativity, old furniture can be transformed into a vanity unit or basin stand, giving a new lease of life to items that might otherwise be discarded.
Panelling has also become a popular DIY option for bathrooms, particularly with the resurgence of traditional décor. Homeowners are increasingly opting for panelling to add texture and visual interest to empty walls. Many brands now offer pre-made wall panelling kits, making this once professional-only job more accessible to DIY enthusiasts. Panelling can also provide additional functionality, such as a small ledge for storing bathroom essentials or displaying decorative items.
Finally, consider upgrading your bathroom textiles. New towels, bath mats, or a stylish shower curtain can instantly elevate the look of the space. Textiles add warmth and depth to a room that might otherwise feel cold and sterile. Incorporating curtains or fabric blinds for your windows can create a cosy atmosphere, giving your bathroom a more inviting feel.
There are countless DIY projects you can undertake to transform your bathroom. From handmade decorative items to upcycled furniture, the possibilities are endless. Not only do these projects allow you to get creative, but they also offer a more sustainable approach to home improvement, saving money while creating a personalised space.
A little effort can go a long way when it comes to DIY bathroom renovations. Whether you’re painting walls, adding hardware, or introducing greenery, these small changes can make a big impact without compromising on quality.
Norcros plc (LON:NXR) is a leading B2B producer of branded bathroom and kitchen products for its UK, South African and selected export markets. The portfolio of eleven operating companies (7 UK, 3 South Africa) is characterised by strong individual brands, together providing product breadth and channel diversity from a strong supply chain base.
