Small Bathroom Remodel: Navy & Neutral Reveal + Cost

A small bathroom remodel can completely change the way your home feels. This navy and neutral hallway bathroom renovation began as a practical decision and ended up being one of my favorite transformations. If you are planning a small guest bathroom remodel, I hope walking through this process from start to finish helps you feel more prepared and confident.

Author’s Note: This bathroom remodel took place at our former home on Sutton Place in 2020. This post has been fully updated and reorganized to combine all planning, progress, and reveal details into one complete guide.

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Why We Renovated This Bathroom

This hallway bathroom was original to our 1960s home. The tile, vanity, tub, and fixtures had all seen better days. While the kitchen renovation I had dreamed about was still waiting, it became clear that these bathrooms needed attention first. The space was small, outdated, and not very functional. Since everything was staying in its original location, we were able to focus on finishes and layout improvements instead of moving plumbing, which helped keep the project manageable. The only thing staying was the newer toilet. Everything else was removed down to the studs.

Small Bathroom Before

• Original 1960s tile
• Original vanity and sinks
• Cast iron tub
• Laminate flooring installed over tile
• Outdated shower fixture
• Original mirror
• An awkward linen closet with bi-fold doors

The Design Plan

The Navy Vanity

After searching for a ready-made option, I chose a custom navy KraftMaid vanity with Shaker doors. The color is Midnight, and it brought instant character to the space. Originally, I hoped for undermount sinks, but the depth of the room didn’t allow it. Even so, the final layout provides much more usable counter space than before. The cultured granite countertop in Sandstar has been incredibly easy to maintain. That low maintenance factor mattered to me.

Tile Selections

Tub Surround & Waterproofing

One thing I learned during this remodel is how important proper waterproofing is. We used a Schluter waterproofing system behind the tile. It creates a fully sealed base for the shower and niche. This was not an area where I wanted to cut corners. We also had matching cultured granite slabs poured for the shower niche surround and the niche shelf. That detail gives the shower a finished look and ties everything back to the countertop.

The Linen Closet Transformation

The original linen closet had bi-fold doors and was nearly impossible to access. We removed the doors and installed open shelving instead. The shelves are generous in size and much easier to use. Sometimes functionality is the biggest upgrade of all.

Lighting & Finishing Details

Lighting makes a dramatic difference in a small bathroom. The double light fixtures above the mirrors draw the eye upward and help the room feel taller. Oil rubbed bronze fixtures keep the look grounded, while champagne bronze cabinet hardware adds warmth and contrast. One design decision I wish I had made differently was adding wall treatment behind the vanity. Shiplap or board and batten would have added subtle texture. Even so, the room feels calm and cohesive.

What Colors Make a Small Bathroom Look Bigger?

Light colors reflect more light and make a room feel larger. In this bathroom, I used neutral ivory tones on the walls and tile to keep the space open. Darker colors work best as accents in small spaces. The navy vanity provides contrast without shrinking the room because it’s balanced by light surfaces.

What Is the Average Cost of a Small Bathroom Remodel?

Lessons Learned From This Remodel

1. Plan your budget carefully and add at least 20 percent for overages.
2. Keep bold elements limited in small spaces.
3. Waterproofing is not optional.
4. Storage solutions should be part of the design, not an afterthought.
5. If you love a design element, do it. I should have added a wall treatment.

Final Thoughts

We waited many years before renovating this bathroom. We raised our children, paid for college, and made sure our retirement was secure before taking on projects like this. When we were finally ready, I didn’t want to cut corners.

Would I do it again? Absolutely. The process was a learning experience, and the finished result made daily life better in ways I didn’t expect. If you’re planning a renovation, you may also want to see our coordinating small primary bathroom remodel, where we installed a pony wall shower and used many of the same finishes for continuity.