Build in a medicine cabinet or shelving for extra space
A bathroom is an ultra-functional space that is often neglected when it comes to decorating. In one weekend, a bathroom can be updated in a jiffy and on a shoestring budget, bringing new life to an otherwise cluttered and unimpressive area.
Paint
One of the most dramatic changes to the bathroom---or any room---is a new wall color. Before beginning on a bathroom, decide how you want to feel when you're in the room. Are you going for a spa look and feel? Consider going all white or pick soothing colors, such as pale green or gray. Do you want the bathroom to be a continuation of the bedroom or living room? Continue the colors from the surrounding room(s) onto the bathroom walls. If the main room has an accent wall, choose an accent wall for the bathroom, as well. Do you want a dramatic experience for a small powder room? Choose a theme, such as tropical, theater/film, retro or bohemian, keeping in mind while choosing the wall color(s) that although the bathroom does not have to match the exterior walls, it should still coordinate well with those walls.
If money is a factor that limits new cabinetry, consider painting existing cabinetry. A spa-like bathroom with fresh white paint on the cabinets and trim will look pristine. Paint a traditional or Victorian bathroom's vanity a rich espresso color to give a freestanding furniture feel to a built-in cabinet.
Add or Change Hardware
Many houses come standard with bathroom cabinetry that has no hardware. Installing new hardware is simple and inexpensive while giving an entirely new look to cabinets. Brushed chrome or bronze drawer pulls and knobs also provide added functionality and an updated look.
Don't forget about the towel bar(s) and toilet paper holder. Coordinate the finish with the knobs and drawer pulls for a cohesive look. If wall space is a premium, purchase an over-the-door towel hanger.
Hang a Medicine Cabinet
If the bathroom has a mirror glued to the wall, replace it with a medicine cabinet. The extra storage is a huge benefit for a small bathroom and a medicine cabinet typically gives more character to the room than a flat mirror. If you're handy, you can install a built-in cabinet; if not, hang one directly onto the wall.
Don't Slip
The bathroom floor is typically covered in tile, stone or linoleum. If the bathroom is currently carpeted, replace the carpet with a hard flooring. Linoleum squares come with adhesive backs and are easy to install. Tile and stone take two days to install but typically provide more return on your investment.
Choose a bath mat that finishes the look you are going for with your new bathroom. A fluffy bath mat looks great in a spa-inspired bathroom. A Persian rug finishes a Victorian or Mediterranean bathroom. An animal-shaped rug is a fun choice for a kid's bathroom. An abstract rug or one with circles or squares fits a modern bathroom.
Finish With Finishing Touches
Once the basics of the new bathroom are done, it's time to add some character. Hang a piece of art: Choose one photo or a combination of three or five pictures, or hang a shadow box for rotating images and keepsakes. Keep in mind that the humidity from the shower may eventually cause paper to curl, so don't place valuable photos or art in the bathroom. Since the counter top is now clear of clutter, one or two interesting containers can house cotton balls or cotton swabs.
Tags: medicine cabinet, accent wall, built-in cabinet, drawer pulls, wall color