I Can’t Get This $15,000 Makeover Out of My Head — It’s My Dream Bathroom

Sarah EverettHome Projects Editor
Sarah EverettHome Projects Editor
I organize the Before & After series and cover DIY and design. I joined AT in October 2020 as a production assistant. I have an MA in Journalism from the University of Missouri and a BA in Journalism from Belmont University. Past editorial stops include HGTV Magazine, Nashville Arts Magazine, and local magazines in my hometown, Columbia, Missouri.
published Jun 6, 2025
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A bathroom with a white and wood countertop and large  mirrors.

When I think of my favorite bathrooms ever posted on Apartment Therapy, I think of this retro-inspired yellow stunner, this bathroom reno with the coolest tile, and, lastly, this “jewelry box” bathroom by DIYer Courtney Equall (@girlandgrey). 

I love everything about Courtney’s bathroom, from the wallpaper to the tile to the fact that it was quite a feat in a small space — and it maintains the same footprint as before. The bathroom makeover was a big undertaking because of a leak that ended up staining the shower and the flooring, so it cost $15,000, but my two favorite details from this bathroom cost under $100.

My Favorite Details from This Dreamy Bathroom Makeover

First up is the vanity mirror. It’s an IKEA LINDBYN, which looks expensive in this space but costs $99.99. I think this project is a good reminder that you don’t have to search for things specifically labeled as “vanity mirror” when you’re renovating a bathroom. A floor-length mirror flipped horizontally can do the job, too.

A smaller, slimmer mirror is an especially great option if you have a detail like wallpaper or fancy tile or a light fixture that you want to show off. Courtney’s cool new sconce is from Schoolhouse.

Second, I love the wavy lightswitch and socket plates. Sure, the builder-grade beige ones from before would have worked fine, but I love the attention to detail. These switch plates could be in your home, too — whether you’re renovating your bathroom or not — for $30 or less. 

The black of the switch plates pairs nicely with the black background of Courtney’s garden-print wallpaper, plus the black details like the switch plates and the Schoolhouse sconce prove that you can mix hardware in a bathroom. (Note that Courtney’s new faucets are gold, but the mirror, switch plates, and sconce are black!)

I’m not exaggerating when I say this is my dream bathroom — I love every little detail — so it was hard to pick a favorite, but I had to give some extra love to the hardware. For more fun hardware inspiration, check out these 10 designer-approved ideas.