It's a new year and the opportunity for a fresh start as we turn the calendar to 2016. Perhaps you have a few home improvements in mind and one space that can always benefit from a refresh is a bathroom.
There are several ways to upgrade your existing space without completely gutting it and starting from scratch with a floor to ceiling remodel.
To save time and money, consider these ways to bring your dated bathroom into the modern age and give it a fresh new look.
Paint the Existing Vanity
The most budget friendly way to update your basic builder grade vanity is to paint it. There are plenty of tutorials online on painting bathroom cabinets, that include the step by step process. In one weekend you can refresh your existing vanity with primer, paint, and new hardware too.
Add Wallpaper
Patterned wallpaper has made a big comeback and a bathroom space is a perfect place to express your style with a bold print.
Many contemporary versions don't require that the wallpaper is applied the old fashioned way with adhesive. Now you can purchase prepasted or peel and stick options (look for that specific description) which makes wallpaper not only something you can install yourself but also easily removable without any headache if and when you ever tire of the pattern.
Add a Feature Wall of Tile
Modern mesh mosaics make it easy to install tile not just behind the sink where water splashes but all the way up the wall. While an added expense, the drama it creates is amazing!
Swap out the Vanity
If you're tired of the builder basic vanity installed by a contractor or previous owner, perhaps it's time to upgrade to a modern footed version. While this may require patching the floor beneath or installing new flooring, it's well worth the investment because elegant bathroom vanities are a selling point and add value to your home. If you're not selling, you'll enjoy the new look for years to come.
Lamps Plus has dozens of stylish bathroom vanities to choose from if you're on the hunt for a freestanding version.
Mimic the look of the white vanity above with the Windsor 60" wide white double vanity with marble countertop, or bring a masculine touch to your bathroom space with the Brentwood vanity with Granite top. The espresso finish on the upscale Ricca vanity will add a sophisticated touch.
For smaller bathrooms or powder rooms consider the Kelly vanity with blue gray finish and Carrera white marble counter top or the Windsor vanity with espresso stained poplar and white marble top or the 31" Brentwood whitewashed vanity topped with a black granite counter top for contrast.
Don't forget the importance of lighting! Bring in more updated mirrors and sconces to modernize your bathroom!
Image sources: better homes and gardens; amie corely interiors; better homes and gardens; shop house design