What if you could walk into your bathroom and instantly feel relaxed and calm, in a cosy and private space? Not everyone can afford the deluxe bathroom we dream of, but you’d be surprised by what fabulous renovations you could bring to your bathroom on a budget.
If you’re planning on selling your home, if you’re thinking of buying a house but the bathroom isn’t up to snuff, or you simply feel sad when you walk into your bathroom, you should know that it’s fairly good value to renovate a bathroom – especially if you can do it on a shoestring. (Reports suggest a bathroom remodel can yield a 60% return, if it’s done well). When you’re ready to remodel your bathroom, put your trust in the expert abilities of Keith Green’s construction services.
In the meantime, a DIY renovation and a little elbow grease could actually go a long way.
Here are some ideas to get your started. Before you get started, clear out the bathroom so you’re starting with a new canvas – and a new pair of eyes.
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Replace the cabinet and sink
One of the prime focal points of a bathroom is the sink. If it’s outdated, with an old cabinet that’s seen better days, it’s a good place to invest some of your budget. Look for deals on sink bowls or simple pedestal sinks that are graceful and elegant. Replace the cabinet with a clean wooden dresser. If you’re creative and handy with a paintbrush, why not stain the wood of the dresser and varnish it? Simple bowls and lines are best.
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Shiny new fixtures
Fixtures are generally inexpensive and can add an instant touch of glamour. Look for shiny new tapware with a chrome finish throughout for hand rails, mirrors, and cabinet and door handles. Alternatively, find antique or vintage-style fixtures online or at flea markets to add a bit of boho-chic quirkiness to your space. Replace the lighting for something bright and clean. These easy fixes will refresh the entire look of the bathroom.
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Replace the toilet seat
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Update your shower curtain
Shower curtains can really date a bathroom. An elegant, good quality shower curtain and curtain rod doesn’t cost that much more than the cheap kind, but it will add a touch of luxury. Take a step back and reevaluate your curtain rings as well – try to find a curtain rod that matches your fixtures, or that suits your new shower curtain. If you have a slightly bigger budget, price installing glass doors instead of curtains, to up the glam factor even more.
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Fix the caulking and grout
We’ll talk about updating your tiling further down, but if you’re not willing to re-tile the entire bathroom, make it a point to fix the grout and caulking. If you see black or pink discoloration in between the tiles, this needs to be removed pronto. It’s icky and you’re better off not knowing – just trust us and remove it. To clean the tiles, spray with a vinegar-and-water solution, scrub hard with a stiff-bristle brush (wear gloves!) and rinse. If this doesn’t work the first time, repeat with bleach. Once the caulking is white, you’ll see what a difference it makes to your shower and bathtub.
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Re-tile your bathroom
If you have a bit more of a budget and patience, think of tiling your bathroom over again. Many people learn to do it themselves, with the right instructions and tools. Changing the color of the tiles on the walls or floors (choose one if you don’t want to spend too much) can give the bathroom an entire new look & feel. White often is thought to add sophistication to a small room, and a dash of color (like an unusual or more artistic tile) every few tiles will give it personality. Make sure to buy a few extra tiles in case you need to make repairs later on. If you have linoleum on your floor, scrub it clean with bleach to give it a lift.
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Replace the showerhead and faucets
Back to the chrome! Find a glitzy, shiny faucet and tap to spritz up your bathroom. Make sure it matches your other fixtures for ultimate elegance. These individual items are generally inexpensive, but if you are willing to spend a little more, you can also replace the showerhead. This will not only look good, but if you find a good massage showerhead, your body will thank you too!
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Repaint the walls
There’s no easier way to freshen a room than to give it a new coat of paint. Remove wallpaper, fill any existing holes in the wall, give the wall a quick clean, and place masking tape over edges before applying primer. Find non-toxic paint specifically made for bathrooms (to withstand the dampness). Light colors are best for small spaces and tend to last through various design fads, so choose neutral paint colors like beige, cream, white and very light grey.
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Accessorize
Now you’re ready for the finishing touches that really transform a room. Add a splash of color to your bathroom with new, fresh towels. Refresh the walls with simple photo frames. Replace the window blinds and treatments. Replace the bin and hamper. Buy matching sets that will brighten the room. Keep it simple and elegant, without too much clutter. You’ll be amazed at what a few simple touches can do to rejuvenate your bathroom.
Does your bathroom need more than a little update? Contact Keith Green Construction to find out about our bathroom remodeling and other construction services.