Bathrooms are small spaces that can have a great impact on the ambiance of your home and serve many different functions. They can be personal or public according to their function and location. The bathroom space can be a place of comfort and relaxation, bustling activity or solace. It can also be a retreat from the business of life or a place of preparation. Many aspects of life can happen in a bathroom. In the design profession, we pay special attention to these areas because of the multiple functions that take place in the space. We call these high traffic areas. Kitchens and bathroom are major selling points to most residential homes. So naturally we want them to be represented well.
In this article, I will be addressing ways to upgrade your bathroom spaces with creative and unconventional techniques to increase the look and value that people often overlook or just don't consider. Throughout this article I will be giving you these Creative Tips. Just think of me as your personal resource center of design.
Now that we have established the importance of bathrooms, lets discuss how to update this very popular space on a small budget. As a homeowner and designer, I like to change my environments often and over the years I have found a few techniques that can make a great impact on these sometimes small, awkward spaces. Being at home during the pandemic has only increased my need to change and recreate my spaces. I am much more aware of the creative options (considered outside the box) that are simple and inexpensive. When I see something I simply take a picture and try it or catalog it for later when I'm ready for a change.
TIPS AND TRICKS:
PAINT IT- you can add color or change it by simply painting it. The average cost for a gallon of paint ranges from $15-40 depending on the quality and bathrooms are not usually that large. Creating an accent wall or pattern throughout the space can make a great impact. Rust-Oleum is also a good product for covering floors and furniture with paint and can be found at your local hardware store. *Creative tip: Instead of changing your old ceramic floors, Paint the floor with a pattern or stencil* (Rust-Oleum paint and top coat used in image below)
USE DECALS- this is unconventional but I have seen some amazing changes occur without paint and just a wall decal. Most wall decals range from small to large and intricate. The cost can start from $1.50 and increase to $40 per package. Shower decals are also becoming more popular but require a bit more installation and the prices start around $50. Last but certainly not least, floor decals are quick and fairly uncomplicated way to change your floors. Decals can be attractive, easy to apply and inexpensive just check out the photos below. *Creative tip: use a shower or floor decal to easily change the mood of your bathroom.
Above: My cousin added a few decals to her guest bathroom but made a great impact.
ARTWORK- a unique way to add color and creativity to your bathroom. There are several items that can be considered artwork such as calendar pictures, cards, photos or even fabric in a frame. Artwork average cost can be free to $50 including the frame. *Creative tip: Don't be afraid to add large pieces of art to a small space.
ADD ACCESSORIES- I am in love with accessories in my home. They can define a space especially a bathroom. There is no limit to where you place accessories but the most popular options are adding shelving, dressing up the toilet area and the vanity. Accessories can cost any where from $6 to $30. Creative tip: Rotate out your accessories for winter and summer for a new look. Consignment stores are a good resource for change.
COLOR CHANGE-You can also change the colors of your hardware for a more dramatic look just by using spray paint and tape. Don't be afraid to change out the colors of your towels and rugs to coordinate. Lighting hardware changes make a great impact as well. Creative tip: Don't be afraid to paint your vanity with bold colors
Thanks for reading......until next time. This is your personal creative resource designer.
Ava Kirkland