Decorate a Bathroom on a Budget (and with style!)

Hello!

My Aunt Gini requested some tips for bathroom decorating... here's what I "know" (have stolen from Home Depot, HDTV and MTV Cribs)

Biggest No No... those towel things that lay around the foot of the toilet and the seat covers. You're just shouting out that you have no clue it is 2009... or that it isn't 1987 anymore.

Next biggest No No... any color that isn't neutral. Painting can be a hassle, especially in small and often oddly shaped spaces like bathrooms. If you can get a color that you like that is neutral, you'll only have to paint once and can change the accessories if you need an update.

Also, with paint colors, stick with "warm" tones of whatever neutral you choose. It honestly will make you look better as you put your make up on. And on that note... NO florescent lighting! It washes you out and you'll put on way too much make-up and look foolish.

Biggest trends - and things I really like
- Large floor and wall tiles, (12 in x 12 in) again in neutral colors
- Track lighting (depending on size of bathroom... and it can be done without a contractor!)
- Glass tile mosaics (1 in x 1 in)

As far as finding the colors you like... grab Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn and/or Restoration Hardware Catalogs and rip out the things you like. Even if they aren't for bathrooms. Then once you've compiled, sort through once or twice and eliminate things and rank the others. This will help you with your color scheme and will also help you discover your style if you don't know what it is yet!

Okay, now for the budget part. The most expensive things to replace are faucets and lighting so if you are on a budget or are happy with your current hardware just leave it! Measure the size of the bathroom so you do not waste paint. Also, the best type of paint to use is one that is "glossy" because it resists moisture (and bathrooms are moist places).

Then if you are handy, or crafty try a DIY project! I wouldn't recommend major renovations, or any tiling in the tub or shower, but around the mirror is a fun way to update. Visit Home Depot and have them help explain the details to you.

Another quick, and cheap, way to update or change your bathroom is to get a new shower curtain (if you don't have doors). Another is to have a couple sets of coordinating towels, then every couple of weeks switch one color scheme with the other so you get some variety (which is the spice of life, right)

I am a fan of putting little picture frames on the bathroom counter (instead of tooth brushes, which should be put in the medicine cabinet to keep them clean). These pictures shouldn't be of your pet, or favorite family member. They should be still life style, so flowers, fruits or objects. If you're able I LOVE cutting out make-up products from magazines and putting them in a frame. Another favorite of mine is buying mini calendars (and now is the best time... the 2009 ones are on clearance) and framing them. You can get a calendar of whatever you fancy, it is a great way to personalize.

Then get thrifty with your purchases... drive out to the rather ritzy areas around you and see if they're having Rummage Sales. They've probably got good stuff! Or check craigslist.com but always make sure to take a buddy if you pick something up... and request pictures! Safety First!

Alrighty it is time for me to make some dinner... tonight is grilled chicken with vegetables and a balsalmic reduction. Sounds so fancy right? I'll share the "recipe" tomorrow.

Loves - e*ricks