Elegance is certainly possible on a tight budget if you choose the right materials, colours and techniques. If you are struggling with ideas for a bathroom makeover that delivers high-end appeal at a low cost, here are some suggestions to consider…
Easy elegance is all about simplicity and clean lines. A bathroom with a straightforward layout and streamlined contours will have an innate sense of purity that suffuses the space. Keep colour schemes to just one or two shades, select classic white sanitary ware and aim for a serene and tranquil mood that favours interesting texture over bold pattern.
Light insight
Light in a bathroom is crucial, whether it’s for applying make-up or simply to create the right atmosphere, getting it right is key to a successful space. Maximise any natural light that is available by using window treatments that offer control, privacy and style. One of the most cost-effective solutions to bathroom windows are interior wooden shutters that you can install yourself. You can order shutters online where there are also guides on how to measure shutters for different shaped windows. Available in a range of designs and finishes, there’s a sleek shutter solution for every room.
For lighting that feels luxurious, try wall sconces that spill soft light over the room or a chandelier that twinkles in the moonlight.
Floor facts
Tile has long been the traditional go-to material for bathroom flooring, but there are new products now available that offer an alternative. Tile can feel cold underfoot and many are now choosing wooden floors. Specially treated wooden flooring that copes with steamy environments really opens up the choices – blonde wood, dark wood, even slate effect wooden flooring adds a shot of chic for a fraction of the cost of real stone.
Tap swap
Inject instant glamour into a tired bathroom by replacing the taps and showerhead. A rainfall shower head adds spa luxury to your pampering sessions and sparkly new sink taps bring matching allure. Instead of replacing an ageing tub, consider getting it re-enamelled. Alternatively, buy an economical model of bath and push it into the style-stratosphere with some high-end, chrome taps.
Clutter clues
An elegant bathroom does not have any clutter. For a budget storage idea, consider inserting the bathroom sink into a piece of old furniture as a vanity unit. Old TV cabinets, bedside tables or desks all work well to provide storage as well as shielding ugly pipework. Look out at auctions and second-hand stores for furniture that can be painted and re-purposed in this way.
Accent on accessories
Thick fluffy towels, bath mats, scented candles; co-ordinating accessories such as soap dishes and toothbrush holders should all be harmonious and complementary in a similar colour palette. Creams, greys and natural shades all push the elegant theme – if you can’t resist a little colour place a green fern or a bright laundry basket to add a pop of interest.
Spending time in the bathroom should always be a pleasure so putting effort into the design makes sense. Keep things simple and focus on the basics such as comfort, lighting and atmosphere and you too can afford the most elegant of bathrooms…