A few weeks ago our basement bathroom felt dull and uninspiring. I had planned to redo it since we moved in, but it kept falling down the priority list. When our daughter Courtney decided to move into the lower level this year, we finally had a reason to make it “better than it was.” That shift in perspective was liberating: instead of waiting for perfection, we allowed ourselves to make creative, impactful changes that didn’t have to be permanent.
Joining a challenge with blogger friends called Makeover in a Month gave us the push to actually do it. Although the project spanned a month, the work ended up being short bursts of effort squeezed into busy weeks.
We kept the vanity, countertops, sink and tile, and focused on a handful of simple updates. The mood board helped guide our choices, and the result feels much more in tune with the coastal cottage style we’re creating throughout our home. The changes are fun, slightly quirky, and give the space more personality.
A few key updates transformed the room: fresh paint, new faucets, updated mirrors and charming wall lights. Those simple swaps made a dramatic difference—now the bathroom feels inviting and purposeful.
Here’s what the bathroom looked like before:
Because we didn’t want to make permanent changes to the walls, paint and a stencil became the perfect solution to add pattern and interest without commitment. Our stencil choice was inspired by a Serena and Lily wallpaper I love, and it brought a subtle, sophisticated motif to the space. You can read more about the stencil technique and process in a separate post.
Because the vanity and counters stayed, selecting the right faucets was essential. The stone countertop has black and bluish-gray flecks, so matte black faucets paired with a bluish paint on the vanity tied everything together and made the marble floor read more cohesive. The new faucets are both attractive and a pleasure to use.
I had installed a Kingston Brass faucet in a past kitchen remodel and loved it, so choosing similar-feeling fixtures for this bathroom felt like a natural fit. The updated hardware gave the vanity a refreshed, intentional look without replacing the entire unit.
Rather than buying a new vanity, we envisioned the existing piece as if it were an old cabinet repurposed into a vanity. That mindset opened the door to creative finishes. We painted the vanity with a milk paint in the color Bergere, which adds depth and a slightly vintage feel while complementing the countertop tones.
My favorite addition is the pair of white wall lights installed above the vanity. We chose powder-coated white Austin Double Straight Arm Vanity Lights, which offer an elegant silhouette and a soft, flattering glow. They set the perfect mood and instantly elevate the space.
We also swapped a few smaller elements to complete the refreshed look: towel rods to match the faucets, a new toilet lever, a striped shower curtain and updated towels. A small white cabinet with a glass front—an older piece I’ve used in previous makeovers—adds storage and charm.
There are still improvements we could make, but we’re proud of what we accomplished in a month. Walking into this bathroom now brings a smile—it feels intentional and cozy. Next on the list is tackling another colorful bathroom, but for now we’re enjoying this little transformation.
Do you have any spaces in your home that could be better than they are now? Consider challenging yourself to a mini makeover. Small changes—paint, hardware, lighting—can have a big impact in a short time.
Check out the other Makeover in a Month Bloggers:
Miss Mustard Seed
My 100 Year Old Home
Thistlewood
Thank you to Kingston Brass and Barnlight for contributing products used in this makeover. If you have questions about the painted vanity or stencil technique, there is a follow-up post with full details available on the blog.
Related Posts:
My favorite bathroom vanities
My mint and pink bathroom
Create a Spa Bathroom Atmosphere and Detox Bath Recipe
How to Add Character with Light Fixtures
Small Kitchen Remodel Reveal
Kitchen Remodel: Four Key Design Tips
SOURCES:
- Comb art print
- Wall lights
- Paint stencil
- Round brass mirror
- Planter
- Milk paint for vanity
- Bath faucet
- Towel rod and hook set
- Black toilet lever
- Bath towel
- Similar laundry hamper
- Bathroom hardware
- Large bath mat
- Striped tassel shower curtain
- Black shower curtain rings
- Similar white bathroom storage cabinet
- Black vanity knobs
- Waffle weave towel
- Gray and white striped bath towel