Our guest bathroom felt like a minor project I kept postponing because it isn’t used very often. Then I realized how small the space is — a quick refresh would be an easy win and one more room crossed off my list. We’ve already finished my office and the patio, but renting puts a clock on how much we can personalize before making bigger decisions about where we live.
Over the weekend I completed a compact makeover for the guest bathroom, working with method to celebrate their new foaming body washes. The refresh was intentionally tight in scope and budget: I set a $250 cap and went shopping for everything in one day. The goal was a realistic, rental-friendly update that still adds personality and color. Mission accomplished.
Here’s what the bathroom looked like before…
The space wasn’t a disaster—neutral tile and flooring were solid, and the sink and toilet were in good shape. My main gripe was the tan granite countertop, which didn’t feel fresh or on-trend. Because we’re renting, I avoided permanent changes and focused on colors and accessories that would help the countertop blend into the new palette.
I chose orangey-red towels stored under the sink and an inexpensive patterned rug in a matching tone. To balance the warm accents, I added blue elements: a striped blue towel for hanging, a blue inkblot print tucked on a shelf (it’s actually inexpensive wrapping paper), and a large blue vase repurposed from my prop closet. These small, inexpensive swaps introduced a cohesive color story without any construction.
The mirror situation needed attention. The original antique-style mirror didn’t match the room and had been perched on a top shelf, making it awkward to use. I rearranged the space and introduced two triangular mirrors, one larger and one smaller. The larger mirror sits on the top shelf while the smaller one hangs lower for makeup and quick checks. To create an intentional, slightly playful feel I hung the smaller mirror off-center. I’m still deciding if I’ll keep it there, but for now the arrangement adds visual interest.
To liven the larger mirror, I applied neon washi tape around the wood frame—an easy, removable way to add color that can be changed in minutes. I also used washi tape between the cabinet drawers to hide small areas of exposed stainless steel. It’s a subtle detail that helps the finishes read more cohesive without any damage to rental surfaces.
For one final pop of color, I included method foaming body wash in the shower. It brightens the otherwise sparse shower area and smells great—an easy, functional decorative touch. If you enjoy other method products, the foaming body wash fits smoothly into a curated bathroom aesthetic.
Below is the budget breakdown for this makeover, in case you want to attempt a similar refresh in your own rental bathroom.
Budget Breakdown
– Towels (striped blue and solid orange towels): $100
– Orange triangle bathmat: $20
– Domed triangle candle (on sale): $15
– Blue, white, and lilac vases: $0 (repurposed)
– Blue inkblot paper used as artwork: $3
– Other artwork: $0 (already owned)
– Triangle mirrors (two total): $45
– Washi tape (three colors): $6
– Flowers: $9
– Soap dish: $0 (already owned)
– Plants and planters: $50
Total Cost: $248
After photos by Kimberly Murray
Styling and before photos by Brittni Mehlhoff
Could you tackle a bathroom refresh on a similar budget? Which room in your home is most in need of a small makeover?
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This post was created in partnership with method, a brand I’ve used for years. Thank you for supporting the brands that help keep Paper & Stitch running.