5 Things I’d Never Do When Trying to Elevate a Builder-Grade Bathroom
And What to Do Instead—Without Blowing Your Budget
You can spot a builder-grade bathroom from a mile away: flat-pack vanities, those stubby 4-inch backsplashes, and a frameless mirror glued to the wall like it’s 2004. If you’re renovating for resale or trying to attract premium renters, these design decisions will kill the vibe—and your ROI.
Here are five common choices I never make when trying to create a high-end look on a real-estate-investor budget, and exactly what to do instead.
1. Frameless Vanity Mirrors
Why I avoid them:
A frameless mirror stuck to the wall feels lazy and dated. It’s one of the fastest ways to cheapen a space.
What to do instead:
Use a framed mirror to add texture and intention. If you’re tight on space, go oversized with a thin black or brass frame. For a higher-end feel, consider twin mirrors over a double vanity or a vintage mirror with character.
2. The 4-Inch Backsplash
Why I avoid it:
It disrupts the wall height and looks like a compromise. It’s a default move—not a design decision.
What to do instead:
Skip the backsplash altogether and go for a full-height tile wall, even if it’s just behind the vanity. Not in the budget? Then, opt for a single row of vertical tile can elevate the space and create a more tailored, intentional look.
3. Stock Vanities with Toe Kicks
Why I avoid them:
These look like leftover kitchen cabinets and lack the visual presence or airiness of a more considered piece.
What to do instead:
Choose a floating vanity or a furniture-style vanity with legs. If the budget only allows a standard box vanity, install really pretty hardware in place of the standard knobs to give it more of a custom feel.
4. Builder-Grade Light Fixtures
Why I avoid them:
Overhead vanity bars in chrome or frosted glass instantly date a bathroom—and not in a cool retro way.
What to do instead:
Install sconces at eye level for better lighting and a boutique-hotel feel. If you’re using a single fixture, go with something sculptural or architectural that draws the eye up.
5. Shiny Chrome Everything
Why I avoid it:
Chrome can work in modern spaces, but in most flips or rentals, it looks like you chose the cheapest option on the shelf.
What to do instead:
Mix metals or commit to a matte black or unlacquered brass finish throughout the space. If you’re mixing, keep it intentional—limit to two finishes max, and repeat each one at least twice.
Final Takeaway:
If you’re trying to upgrade a basic bathroom, focus on materials and layout that convey intention—not price. You don’t need custom cabinetry or marble tile to get an elevated look. What you do need is a sharp eye for details that shift the perception of quality. The return comes not from how much you spend, but from how well you curate.