Designing a new bathroom or updating an old one is a great investment in your home and will give you added functionality and beauty in a space that you use all the time. If you desire to do a full renovation but that isn’t possible due to budget or other considerations, there are many ways to update and improve the look and function of the bathroom on a smaller scale.
Small-scale update: Sometimes budget constraints don’t allow for a full bathroom renovation. In that case, a few changes can make a big impact without costing you a lot. One simple item to change is your mirror. If you are updating your powder room, take the opportunity to go a little out of your comfort zone and get a mirror that makes a statement. Beautiful frame shapes and finishes can make the powder room feel more like a decorated space and less like just a functional bathroom. Adding wallpaper to an accent wall such as the one behind the vanity and mirror is also a great way to add style and texture without spending a lot. Many old bathrooms have all of the walls tiled at least halfway up the wall. There is no need to spend a lot replacing all of that tile. If removing old tile, you will need to invest in repairing and cleaning up the walls, but then they will be an open canvas. Today’s modern bathrooms are opting for more open wall space that can be painted or papered to achieve your desired color or finish.
In full bathrooms, such as kids’ or family-shared bathrooms, these same ideas can also be applied. Additionally if you have a tub/shower combination, simply updating your shower curtain can change the tone and color palette of the room. Purchase two curtains and hang one on either side, with a clear liner that goes all the way across so you don’t have a seam in the middle when the curtains are closed. Hang them slightly higher if space allows, to give more opportunity to show off your new curtains. Add a new bath mat and accessories to coordinate.
Full remodel: When budget allows, either adding a new bathroom or completely gutting and renovating an existing one will give you the best results. Decide early on your budget and style and set about creating a list of what’s most important to you in the new bathroom. Was your old one lacking space? Is a new jetted jacuzzi your number one priority? Double vanities a necessity? Trying to create a spa-like oasis? If you are working with a designer they will talk through this with you and then prioritize, plan and shop according to your budget. When working on your own, a full bathroom renovation can be a bit overwhelming, so stay organized and stick to your plan. Look in magazines and online for inspiration and then bring those to tile and bathroom showrooms to give the salespeople an idea of what you are looking for. Be honest and firm when discussing your budget so they don’t show you, and have you fall in love with, items you can’t afford. When choosing your tile, decide not only on the tile itself but how you want to lay it out. This can affect your costs. If you are on a budget, consider using a statement tile on one wall instead of something you like less all over the bathroom. Choosing a less-expensive field tile with a special accent tile is also a great way to make an impact.
Vanities come in a wide range of style, quality and price, so do your homework and make sure you balance the two. Maybe you can save some money and use a pedestal sink in the powder room if you don’t need the storage, but when it comes to a kids’ or family bathroom remember that quality is of utmost importance. The drawers and cabinets will take a lot of beating from being used by multiple people.
Renovating a bathroom is a big undertaking but well worth the return. In addition to it being a good investment in your home, updating and beautifying this space that you use every day can have a big impact on your life. Redesigning it to work with the design of your home and your family’s needs can truly make it function better and feel like the spa you’ve been waiting for.
By Shoshana Halpert
