Real Example: How to Budget-Friendly Transform an Old Bathroom in a Khrushchyovka

Renovation in a two-room Khrushchyovka, Tatiana and her husband did it gradually — adapting to the family's needs. Each time, our heroes successfully solved design challenges on their own without spending large sums of money. For example, for the bathroom they used budget-friendly solutions that everyone can replicate. We tell you more and share practical life hacks. Take notes!

Painted Tiles

The bathroom is combined. The homeowners did the renovation here about twenty years ago — a tongue-and-groove ceiling and regular tiles on the walls and floor. But a few years ago, they wanted quick changes without big expenses. As a result, they used an unusual solution that few would dare to try — simply painted the tiles. The end result left them very satisfied: it became a bright and visually light space.

By the way, painting the tiles solved another problem too — the mold on the bathtub edge disappeared completely. Although before that, the homeowners tried many times to get rid of it, but nothing helped.

Removed Unnecessary Items and Planned Storage

Even though the bathroom is small, storage here is well organized: there's a cabinet with two slide-out drawers, open shelves, a laundry basket, and space behind the bathroom screen.

The cabinet was chosen to be wall-mounted — it looks lighter in the interior and is much easier to clean. Above the sink, instead of a suspended mirror cabinet, they hung just a mirror with a small shelf — that’s enough to arrange the necessary items. Tatiana's family loves minimalism in everything, so they keep only what’s truly needed everywhere.

Space above the toilet is not empty: it’s used for open shelves where you can conveniently store cosmetics, organizers, and towels. Behind the bathroom screen, everything that’s needed in daily life but not wanted on display can be hidden.

Added Coziness and Eliminated Visual Clutter

The bathroom interior is done in a black-and-white palette. To make such a monochrome space more cozy, the homeowners added woven baskets, textiles, and decor. Towels are specially kept on open shelves, but to keep them from standing out in the overall look, they chose ones in calm, roughly matching tones.

Tatiana is attracted to Scandinavian spaces and trimmed interiors where neutral, restrained decor becomes the backdrop for everyday life. The bathroom was no exception. Light empty walls were complemented with framed posters.

Notice that there is no visual clutter in the bathroom. Homeowners got rid of items they don’t use and store shampoos and body washes in minimalist containers.

Checklist: How to Budget-Friendly Refresh the Bathroom Interior

If budget doesn't allow, repaint the tiles. Get rid of everything unnecessary and plan storage. Choose wall-mounted furniture — it doesn’t overload the interior, and it’s easier to clean. Make the interior cozier with woven baskets, textiles, and decor. Choose towels in one color palette without bright prints or patterns. Pour shampoo, body wash, soap into minimalist containers, and hide various bottles behind cabinet doors. Don’t be afraid of bathroom decor — it makes the space cozier.