It’s fair to say that we’re privy to plenty of renovation projects here but there’s something about this one that really piqued our interest. Aside from its stunning good looks, this bathroom overhaul is proof that budget constraints are no obstacle for human ingenuity. The entire transformation was carried out for just $2,000!

The work of DIY decorator Kristine Franklin, of The Painted Hive, the original bathroom (her parent’s) was tired, dark and very, very beige. “Given my parents are now empty nesters, the room is rarely used so they wanted to update the 25-year-old decor and create a space they could proudly share with guests. Plus, they also wanted to walk past it daily without cringing!” says Kristine.

“The idea was to retain as much as possible to create a fresh look on a tiny budget but we didn’t have much of a plan – things just evolved,” says Kristine of the startling transformation that owes much of its success to paint. “The vinyl floor was stencilled. We sanded, cleaned and primed then painted it using chalk paint,” says Kristine who finished it off with several coats of floor-grade sealer.

“The wall tiles were sanded, cleaned and painted with tile paint. It’s not difficult, though you need to work somewhat quickly so it does take confidence. Of course, I can’t comment on the longevity as it’s only been in place for a few months however so far, so good,” says Kristine.

“The vanity base was sanded and cleaned then painted with three coats of white semi-gloss and the bath panelling was sanded and cleaned then painted with two coats of chalk paint (leftover from the floor) before being sealed,” says Kristine whose mother had the shower base and vanity top professionally refinished.

Perhaps the most amazing part of the renovation is the tiny budget. “All up it cost around $2,000. Excluding the styling items such as towels, stool, art and decorative accessories it was actually around $1,500,” says Kristine.

As for her favourite part, Kristine really loves the room’s new palette. “Obviously, the floor is a nice statement feature. Overall though, the colour scheme is something I really love. The blue and crisp white teamed with the brass and warm wood and the soft grey of the walls just works,” says Kristine.

I’m not sure about you but I found this project incredibly inspiring – particularly as Kristine is untrained. “I’m just a mum who loves decorating! Several years ago, I started a blog to share some of my DIY projects and budget-friendly home ideas, and am lucky to have seen it grow. Although I still consider it a hobby, I feel fortunate to be able to do something I love,” says Kristine.

The Painted Hive | For more renovation stories