Blogger and homeowner Joanna Anastasia gives her tops tips.
It’s difficult to believe this lively and vibrant kids’ bathroom was once an outdated, floor-to-ceiling-brown Colonial-style throwback. We asked blogger Joanna Anastasia for her tips on how to update a bathroom on a budget and then style it right.
“In September 2020, we moved from our small city cottage to this much larger suburban colonial that hasn’t been renovated since the early 1990s. With so many renovations on our bucket list, I knew I needed to be extra budget-conscious with the kids’ bathroom re-do,” she explains.
“First, I painted the walls with a leftover mix of two paints for a custom white. I then painted the vanity white. Finally, the vanity counter received a fresh coat of enamel paint. It’s utterly amazing what paint can do!
Also Read: 3 Essential Tips for Staying on Budget for your Renovation
“Peel-and-stick floor tiles were next, as well as leftover removable wallpaper—both from Wallpops. I bought an inexpensive faucet on Amazon and added a new sink (only because the old one was cracked) from my local hardware store. I changed the vanity pulls, upgraded to a new mirror and found a new light in a clearance sale on Wayfair.
“The entire project cost less than $500 and made such a difference! My children love it. Now, I’m on to the next project on our renovation to-do list!”
Joanna’s Dos and Don’ts for Upgrading a Bathroom
Do:
- Stick to a color palette. While adding color to any space is a fantastic way to add interest, adding too many mismatched colors can make the space feel chaotic and unrestful.
- Mix patterns like a pro. If you want an interesting bathroom experience, try mixing patterns. Joanna likes to mix small with large and geometrical with botanical for a well-balanced and interesting space.
- Store the bathroom essentials (toiletries, toilet paper, first aid kits, etc.) in vanity drawers and in the bathroom closet.
- Move your dirty laundry out of sight (a bedroom closet or laundry room are better options).
Don’t:
- Don’t be afraid of color. Color in the bathroom will help you wake up, boost your mood and make you smile.
- Don’t be afraid of mixing patterns. “My grandmother used to say that you should never mix patterns if you want an elegant space … but I say that if you want an interesting one, do it!”
- Don’t display your toilet paper or toiletries as if they were décor. Use pretty baskets, decorative boxes, pretty vessels, plants, fresh towels and art for décor instead.
- Don’t hang old or worn towels in prime view. Instead, place something attractive (such as plants) or add a fresh pair of towels.
Looking for more ideas and inspiration for upgrading a bathroom? Read on for 10 Ways to Refresh Your Bathroom. Of course, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest to get your daily dose of cottage inspiration!
