Give your bathroom a refresh without blowing your budget
You don’t need to do a full renovation to liven up this busy room — paint, lighting or fixtures will do
The thought of a full-blown bathroom reno leaves most people cringing. Yet statistics show, year after year, the return on investment is anywhere between 75 per cent and 100 per cent, so it’s well worth considering.
Maybe now isn’t the right time, or perhaps you are in a rental. You can still revive a tired bathroom without spending a lot of time or breaking the bank. On any given day, this busy room sees its share of visitors and deserves a little TLC. Here are a few things you can do to update. Walls A fresh coat of paint does wonders, or you can add a playful pop of colour with patterned wallpaper. Architectural elements such as crown moulding, higher baseboards and bead board can add a sense of style. We recommend using solid hardwood trim in moisture-prone areas in the same or similar profile as the rest of the home. Prime and paint to match existing trim throughout. It may require a little more work to get the smooth look of medium-density fibreboard, but it is well worth it. Lighting See the room in a new light by replacing a dated fixture. A single light source may not be sufficient. Overhead light offers general illumination. Vanity lighting above or on either side of the mirror provides great task lighting. Opt for pendants for instant glam — and don’t forget the tub/shower area. Replace switches with a dimmer to maximize control and create a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere. Storage A well-designed bathroom should include plenty of storage for extra towels, toiletries and other necessities. Investing in smart storage solutions is something you will not regret. By having a spot for everything, your bathroom it will feel less cluttered and more spacious. Pullout shelves help you take advantage of deep cabinets by being able to access items stored at the back.
Medicine cabinets are great to store away those smaller personal items. There are lots of stylish ones to choose from with many practical features. Built-in electrical outlets are perfect to charge your electric toothbrush or shaver. Mirrored interior, interior lighting and adjustable shelving make the most of the storage. They can be surface mounted or installed neatly between the studs. Vanity If your vanity is in decent shape but looks a bit dated, there are ways to give it new life.
Hardware is your cabinet’s bling and a quick way to modernize. Switching out the old for new pulls and knobs can be done in a matter of hours.
Revive tired doors by sprucing them up with a fresh coat of paint. Some on-trend colours are grey, navy and ever-classic white.
If the vanity is toast, you can find many economical options available at the big box stores. Some come with marble tops and undermount sink included. Fixtures Swapping out your old faucet for something shiny and new is another nearly instant update. A new shower head can do wonders for your morning routine. Relax with a spa-like rain head or opt for one with multiple invigorating settings.
Now may be the time to replace your towel bar and other accessories. Manufacturers have made it simple by creating collections to match faucets.
Replacing your toilet with an ecofriendly model will not only save on your water bill, but also on space. Comfortheight toilets sit 17 to 19 inches (43 to 48 centimetres) compared to standard height of 15 inches (38 centimetres).
The higher seat makes it easier for some with mobility issues. Replace the seat with a soft-closing lid. Mirror Mirrors are a given in the bathroom, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for the builder’s special when there are so many beautiful alternatives. We spend a lot of time checking the reflection in the mirror — switch it out for something with a bit of character, be it the shape, frame or finish. Flooring You don’t have to take up the old tiles on the floor to have something new underfoot. With the advent of digital printing, vinyl flooring has depth and texture like never before. Without touching it, you’d be hard-pressed to tell the difference. With proper preparation, you can install over your existing floor. While there are still adhesive options, they are also available in click and loose lay. Textiles Give your bathroom a whole new look by replacing your shower curtain. Spanning several feet and hanging almost floor to ceiling, they are more than mere accessories. Take this opportunity to make a statement with pattern or colour. Double up so they part to either side for an extra bit of lux.
Soften things underfoot with a small rug. Finish it off by replacing your towels. Who doesn’t love the feel of a thick, luxurious bath towel? Andrea Colman is a colour consultant and principal designer and owner of Fine Finishes Custom Design Solutions. Send her your interior design questions: info@finefinishes.ca.