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7.07.2014

Update a Basic, Beige, Builder's Bathroom with 5 Simple Steps (and less than $100!)

We all have seen / had / know someone who has a bathroom like the one in my rental. It's functional, spacious, there is nothing really wrong with it, but it is just a bit boring! There is nothing defining it.
The trouble with rentals, of course, is that you cannot do much about the major fixtures and finishes, but it's amazing what a little decor can do to give a space like this some glamour! I made 5 simple and affordable changes and really changed the look of my rental washroom! (See the 'before' here).






 1. Interesting Mirror: The tough thing about rentals is they often come with a basic sheet mirror. If you can take it down and replace it, that's a great option, but you can also mount mirror on mirror. I found this octagonal mirror at Good Will for $4 and simply hung it from a chain. 

2.  Art Work: I painted these black and white abstract pieces for the bathroom. They add an instant chicness and also some personality to the space. Each blank canvas cost me about $5 at Michael's.

3. Black and White: The thing about beige is that it doesn't always pair well with colours. Although technically a 'neutral', it does not go very well with brights. Black and white helps to add a freshness and glamour, without clashing or competing with the beige finishes.  Navy also looks great! Avoid colored towels as well. Nothing beats the clean, crisp look of hotel whites, and it's easy to tell when they need washing. 

4. Unique Accessories: Add a few accessories that tie into your neutral colour scheme, while providing a little bit of unexpected whimsy. Here, two foo dogs found at the flea market guard my sink. I also covered up my kleenex box with a vintage bamboo case which helps relate the tones in the oak cabinet (which I am not a huge fan of) to the rest of the space.

5. Declutter: Try to keep the facewash, toothpaste, body wash, etc. tucked neatly away within the cabinet, at least when guests come over. 

Bonus points for fresh flowers!

Here is a little look back at my original concept sketch, and the before and after!
 


I'm officially convinced that black and white can fix anything! Tiny changes with BIG impact, people.
Hope you all had a great weekend.
xox

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21 comments:

JOSÉ PEDRO RODRIGUES/ APARTMENT 312 said...[Reply]

I love your project awesome work! And that idea of putting the frame over the mirror awesome ;)
Oh and thanks for your comment;)

zepedrorodrigues.blogspot.pt

Unknown said...[Reply]

so much better! BLack and White works wonders practically anywhere! Love your drawing! xo Nancy

Anonymous said...[Reply]

This looks great, and for such a great price! I love your little place :)

xo,L
simplylowcountry.com

Bethany [at] Powell Brower Home said...[Reply]

i LOVE this fix! i really love about everything you did. and i think i love your rendering of it most of all. what talent!!!!

Keep it Beautiful said...[Reply]

Mirror on top of mirror...beauty! Great job and love a great space on a budget!

Anonymous said...[Reply]

I like your washroom, it is really nice. If you are looking for rug for your washroom, then i know a company named Peykar rugs. They have a such a nice quality rugs.

Patty Day @Pattys Epiphanies said...[Reply]

Great, great tips!
What a difference and as you said....under $100!

Anonymous said...[Reply]

Not too much you can do for $100 these days, but you made it stretch. Great job. Thanks for sharing.

Unknown said...[Reply]

Wow, a few little things really made a big impact!

Unknown said...[Reply]

I love the frame on the mirror idea!

Casey @Waffling said...[Reply]

The mirror on mirror is a neat concept! Love the art you picked too

Unknown said...[Reply]

Fabulous all of it! Love your original paintings too

Meredith Newberry said...[Reply]

You made such creative choices. Love that you painted the art yourself. Rorshach would be so proud ;-) Seriously loving the design you drew. No doubt you are in the right career Tiffany!

Julia@Cuckoo4Design said...[Reply]

Looks fantastic!

Sam Schriemer said...[Reply]

Looks amazing love! Your pictures also look wonderful :)

Barbara Matson said...[Reply]

I think it looks fabulous!

Unknown said...[Reply]

I love what you did with the mirror!! Such an ingenious idea and the thrift shop find works perfectly!

Unknown said...[Reply]

Ooooh - I love that you hung the mirror in front of the other one - what a neat idea!

Because I'm Obsessed said...[Reply]

Looks great --you did a wonderful job! I LOVE the canvases you painted!

xx
Because I'm Obsessed

Sarah @ Simply Sarah Style said...[Reply]

What a lovely makeover! The layered mirror tip was so clever. I'm now looking around my house for a spare mirror, so I can try it in one of my bathrooms. Well done!

Sarah @ Simply Sarah Style said...[Reply]

What a lovely makeover! The layered mirror tip was so clever. I'm now looking around my house for a spare mirror, so I can try it in one of my bathrooms. Well done!