The reno files: How to update your bathroom for under $500

Photo credit: Roberto Caruso

We had such a great response on the guest posting from SevernWoods! I'm so glad. Watch for another installment this Tuesday. This time it's all about planing, so don't miss it.

In the meantime, I have some interesting tips from Pfister faucets about how to remodel a bathroom on a dime. I think the advice is great – after all, not all renovations are complete overhauls. Sometimes you just need a little botox, not a total facelift!

$50- A fresh coat of paint

Consider a deep, bold colour for a high contrast look, or try something soothing and restful, like pale aqua tones. Stay away from greens that tend to make you look sickly in the mirror. And remember, most cabinets can be painted if you prime them.

$50- New accents

Matching accents are an inexpensive way to capture a new look in the small space of a bathroom. A modern, stylish towel bar, hand towel ring, toothbrush holder and even the toilet paper holder will draw the eye of anyone who enters. Think brushed metallics or glamourous lucite. And match your cabinet hardware to the new accents.

$100- Towels and a shower curtain

A new shower curtain and matching towels will give an eye-catching accent to your new paint and accessories, helping to bring the new décor in your bathroom together. If you're colour shy, fluffy white never goes out of style!

$75 - New light fixtures

Big box stores offer all sorts of light fixtures that are very affordable. Anything from a glamorous chandelier to modern sconces will really transform your space.

$150- A new faucet

It's amazing what a new faucet can do to a bathroom. A clean, simple design finished in rustic bronze or brushed nickel becomes a focal point in the space. People entering the bathroom will be drawn to it. Check out the selection at Pfister Faucets, available for under $150.

$75- A new mirror

Try stores like HomeSense to find something fun and decorative to replace outdated vanity mirrors.

Great advice from Pfister – Thanks!