ByChristina Dennis

Project: A Budget-Friendly Bathroom Remodel with Charming Details

This tiny, outdated bathroom got a fresh new look with timeless finishes, smart upgrades, and budget-friendly materials, proof that beautiful design doesn’t have to break the bank.

At Hearthwood Design + Build, we specialize in transforming even the most compact spaces into hardworking rooms with character. This small main floor bathroom had great bones, but it felt dark, dated, and disconnected from the rest of the home’s evolving style. The challenge? Create a brighter, more welcoming space without a full gut renovation.

The Vision: Clean, Cozy, and Collected

The Stony Plain homeowner wanted a refresh that felt charming, clean, and slightly vintage with warm blue tones, classic white trim work, and a little personality. Since this bathroom is on the main floor and frequently used by guests, the goal was to create a space that felt both functional and thoughtfully styled.

“I didn’t want to demo the whole room, I just wanted to work with what we had and elevate it through color, texture, and a few custom touches.”

The Hearthwood Approach: Refresh, Don’t Replace

Rather than starting from scratch, we kept the footprint and some original elements (like the original wood window trim & door) but layered in new finishes and upgrades to bring the space to life. This is a great example of what we call a cosmetic renovation: less invasive than a full remodel, but still delivering a dramatic transformation.

Here’s what we did:

  • Added a budget-friendly vanity in a warm blue for an instant upgrade
  • Re-used the vintage hardware for a bit of personality on the vanity
  • Installed a new countertop and faucet with a classic profile
  • Added beadboard paneling to the lower walls for charm and texture
  • Installed vintage-inspired floral wallpaper for a burst of character
  • Hung a gold-framed mirror to add glamour to the space
  • Replaced the light fixture with a brushed gold vanity light with glass accents
  • Styled with neutral linens, natural textures, and vintage-inspired details

Sean customized the paneling to fit the tight quarters and helped with the electrical and fixture swaps, keeping the project moving efficiently and on budget.

The Result: A Bright, Stylish Powder Room with Heart

Now, this once-dated bathroom feels intentional and warm. The combination of warm blue, crisp white, and the statement wallpaper makes the space feel fresh but timeless. It flows beautifully with the rest of the home, and serves as a perfect example of how a few thoughtful changes can go a long way.

“Every guest who uses it compliments the transformation, and it feels like a whole new room even though we kept the layout.”

Want to Refresh Your Bathroom Without a Full Demo?

At Hearthwood Design + Build, we believe that beautiful design is always within reach. Whether you’re looking for a simple refresh or a full bathroom rebuild, we’ll help you create a space that works for your lifestyle, your budget, and your taste.

Let’s talk about your bathroom goals. Book your free Starter Consultation here.