by Bath Towel on November 29, 2009
There comes a time when you realize that your bathroom is just way too small. Perhaps it is the moment when you’re sitting on the toilet and your knees hit the shower door, or maybe it is when you are trying to apply some deodorant and a small child runs in and accidentally hits you in the back with the door handle. There are a lot of similar scenarios which would define the moment you began to think about a ‘project’.
In New York City we have a lot of apartments that are on the small side and inside those apartments there are usually only a few rooms, one being the bathroom. That room down the hall, off to the side, sometimes attached to the laundry – that multi-functional room that always seems so insignificant until someone comes to stay, or moves in.
I embarked on a small bathroom remodeling project 2 years ago. It was a space of no more than 5 x 5 square meters- some would even suggest less. I thought initially that I could keep the 70s tiling on the walls – it wasn’t that bad, maybe I could paint over them, cover them up with plasterboard, anything but try to get them off the wall! And maybe I could keep the floor tiles too and I was definitely determined to keep the toilet. The final result was a complete overhaul. I jack hammered tiles off the walls and the floor and ended up with a concrete box – the feeling was fantastic, a blank canvas!
It is easy to get side tracked with small projects by turning them in to really big projects accidentally. One of the best tips of small bathroom remodeling is to maximize the amount of light entering the room, this will always create a sense of having more space. So, do you start knocking walls out or do you just creatively rearrange your space?
The first most dramatic and probably the most inexpensive change will be your choice of color you apply to the walls, floors and ceiling. The general consensus is to go for light and bright colors; this will create a feeling of brightness and airiness to a sometimes damp and dark space.
Lighting is the obvious next contributor to the image of your space. The most energy efficient way of creating a bright and lighter space is to install a sky light; of course if you live on the 2nd floor of a 56 story building this will not be an option for you. Installation of bright energy efficient lighting will, in some cases, be paramount to optimizing functionality of the room.
If your budget is as tiny as your bathroom then small and inexpensive changes can sometimes be the best option. Usually just one or two towel racks will be sufficient; use hooks on the back of your door or, place a bathroom cabinet or open shelving above the toilet. Small spaces also sometimes need a tone of organization, ensure that there are not too many hair care or dental hygiene products on your cabinet, or towels lying on the floor and maybe re think that big fluffy night gown hanging on the back of the door.
Some of the more expensive alternatives you will encounter when undergoing a small bathroom remodeling project will be also the most noticeable. Small spaces suddenly become large spaces when you consider removing a bath tub, hanging a large mirror or installing sinks and toilets on to the walls.
Bathroom projects are so much fun, but can be financially very dangerous! It is really important to set your budget first then determine what you can do within that budget which will satisfy your tastes while maximizing the functionality of the space.
by Bath Towel on November 5, 2009
So You Want to Remodel Your Bathroom? An increasing number of people find that they can remodel their bathrooms to create the perfect place in which they can relax, refresh, rejuvenate and/or have a romantic time. A bathroom redo can be an inexpensive and fun way to spruce up your entire house. So, what you need are some tips for remodeling your bathroom.
When you decide to begin a bathroom remodeling project, it is quickest to organize your goals before shopping for materials. Choose what items you want to replace, add, or take away from the bath area. Consider refinishing existing items such as bathtub, shower, sinks and toilet, or renewing the tiles or tub and shower enclosure to give a new look to your bathroom even with just a little investment. The bathroom is one of the most used areas of the house, so you want to be sure that you have it remodeled in such a way that it will last for a long time. Remodeling is extremely exciting because it means you are getting to create the ambiance you have always wanted in one of your favorite places: the bathroom.
Why Remodel If You Can Decorate?
Perhaps you would like to redo the bathroom, but at the same time you would like to keep things uncomplicated. If it is time for a bathroom makeover, count yourself lucky when you see the number of wonderful current decorating ideas for the bathroom today. There is a huge amount you can do with simple decorative treatments that avoid a full remodel.
If you have a small bathroom, remodeling ideas should mostly revolve around freeing the space of clutter and making better use of the available space. Using shelves, taller cabinets, and other organizational items will help the room seem larger because everything has a place and there is nothing left to crowd the space. There are any number of cabinets available to fit over the toilet or along empty walls to maximize the available area, or cabinets can be hung on the wall to free up floor space.
Regardless of the size of your bathroom, it is important that you sort out the existing items in the bathroom and choose which items you want to keep and which items can now retire. Clearing out unimportant clutter from the bathroom can help you decorate the room easily and match items for your fresh theme. Don’t be afraid to be bold and exciting – make your bathroom a fun place to visit!
Another decorating idea for a bathroom is to redo the porcelain sink and the tub. These tend to take a lot of abuse through the years, and with a fresh treatment, they will look brand-new. It’s a lot cheaper than putting in all new fixtures, and it really does make your bathroom look good.
A common bathroom decorating idea for people on a budget is adding or replacing light fixtures. While choosing a light may seem like a daunting task, be aware that once you have chosen the perfect lighting to enhance your bathroom’s theme, it can make a dramatic change to the overall feel of the room. Of course, also consider new paint, tile or wall paper to freshen up the space.
Following the new bathroom decorating trends while maintaining individual taste and style can be achieved with a little research and great imagination. Building on these ideas is sure to help anyone create the bathroom of their dreams. Home decorating magazines can be quite helpful, because if you see decorating materials that you like, there is often a section that shows how you can get them. They are also good at allowing you to see how the materials you’re interested in fit with other colors in the room.
But I Need to Remodel
If you find that redecorating just won’t do, and you really need to remodel, as part of your planning process create a bathroom remodeling check list to help you determine how much of an upgrade you can afford. Make sure you know exactly where your fixtures will go when designing your remodeling project, since you need the plumbing there to accommodate them. Unless you can somehow move the location of your fixtures, your sink, tub, and toilet are going to be exactly where you have them right now. In most cases, the location of your fixtures is going to be a hard limit, so plan accordingly.
Depending on the size of your bathroom and your budget, there are a few bathroom remodeling tips that can the project go smoother, as well as make life after the project easier. For large-budgeted bathroom remodeling projects, you can go beyond your dream bathroom by expanding the area and separating the toilet from the bath area. You can even add spa treatments, bathtubs, water jets and other more expensive bathroom add-ons.
If you have a more modest budget, one of the most important things is to make sure that the shower area is easily accessible. For example, some showers require a person to step up in order to enter the shower, while others are just walk-in showers. Whichever kind of shower you choose, it is important to note that it will have to be well installed in order to prevent leaks. Another method of controlling bathroom remodeling costs could be instead of replacing your tub and all the wall tiles, you could look into a tub and wall unit that fits right over an existing tub and wall. By usinf this technique and for a few hundred dollars the area can look as if it is brand-new. The alternative is replacing everything, which could run into the thousands.
When you choose where smaller fixtures go in the bathroom remodeling design, think function over form. For items such as the towel rack or even the toilet paper roll, keep in mind that they should go in places that are sensible, The towel rack might look nice by the door, but if it’s out of arm’s reach of the bathtub, then you won’t be happy whenever you get out of the shower, for example. With all things in bathroom remodeling design, if you design with an eye for common sense and space, you will be successful in your attempt to create a room that’s both stylish and functional.
There is no greater joy to a homeowner then to remodel a favorite room such as the bathroom. So, enjoy every minute of it, and, more importantly, enjoy the outcome of your work and labor. Once you are satisfied with the project, you can take your first relaxing shower and enjoy the long-term benefit from the investment you made.
by Bath Towel on November 4, 2009
Bathroom remodeling not only adds beauty and enjoyment to any kind of home, it also increases the value of your home when you wish to sell your house in the future. Bathroom remodeling is perhaps the most popular project for home improvement because it yields the highest return on your investment. Moreover, homeowners can enjoy their relaxing bathroom from the time they remodel until they decide on selling the house.
Tips for Bathroom Remodeling Design
The task of remodeling your bathroom is difficult andcan be costly There are several key fixtures to consider when you work on your bathroom. And yes, most of them are expensive. There is flooring to consider, as well as the paint, and the result of anything going wrong is you will end up with place that you spend a lot of time in while not enjoying the room. So good planning is essential.
Of course, to be successful, you need to design your remodeling project well before you swing a single hammer. If you take the time to work out a well-planned bathroom remodeling design, a wonderful bathroom is sure to follow.
Map it Out
When you are working on the design for your bathroom remodeling project, make sure to take accurate measurements of your bathroom and create a map to work with. Mark where the plumbing is, mark where your fixtures are, and you’ll be able to better plan what you need to do. The key to a great bathroom remodeling design is good planning, and a map is a great way to keep you focused on exactly where everything needs to be. Draw it out and plan it on paper. It can be a good idea to cut out your main pieces and try them on your map to see how they fit and what they are likely to look like.
There is also software available that can help you plan a bathroom remodel. The simple packages allow you to do the same mapping exercise as above, and the more complex and expensive can even build a ‘virtual bathroom’ so that you can see the results of your planning.
Function Before Form
The secret of a comfortable bathroom is to put the function of your bathroom above what it will look like. No matter how gorgeous your bathroom looks, if you have a poor design, one that makes your bathroom uncomfortable to use, you won’t enjoy it. Throughout your bathroom remodeling design process, consider what you want your bathroom to do and work towards that goal.
Consider Your Fixtures
Make sure to learn exactly where your fixtures will go when designing your remodeling project; you will need the plumbing there to accommodate them. Your sink, tub, and toilet are going to be exactly where you have them right now, unless you can somehow move the the plumbing. In most cases, the location of your fixtures is going to be a hard limit, so plan accordingly.
Locate Things Sensibly
When you decide where smaller fixtures, such as the towel rack or even the toilet paper roll, go in the bathroom remodeling design, keep in mind that they should go in places that are sensible, once again going back to function over form. The towel rack might look nice by the door, but if it’s out of arm’s reach of the bathtub, then you won’t be happy whenever you get out of the shower, for example. With all things in bathroom remodeling design, if you design with an eye for common sense and space, you will be successful in your attempt to create a room that’s both stylish and functional.
Focus on your walls, ceiling and tiles because these three items can greatly influence the outcome of your project. Mix and match the colors by using pastel, earthy, contemporary or traditional colors that fit your taste. Be aware that whatever items, equipment and furniture you wish to add to your bathroom should add warmth and relaxation to the room.
You can create your dream bathroom by expanding the area and separating the toilet from the bath area. You can even add spa treatments, bathtubs, water jets and other more expensive bathroom add-ons. If you have no idea where to start and what items to add, you can always look at a home-improvement magazine and check out the latest bathroom trends.
Know Your Budget
The extent of your bathroom remodeling project will all depend on your budget. If you have a large amount of money for your remodel project, you can start designing your bathroom from scratch. However, you can still remodel your bathroom even with a small budget. Just change the light fixtures, accessories and bathroom furniture.
Designs, Accessories and Furniture
When you decide to start a bathroom remodeling project, it is quickest to organize your goals before shopping for materials. determine on what items you want to replace, add or take away from the bath area. Think about refinishing existing items such as bathtub, shower, sinks and toilet or renewing the tiles, tub and shower enclosure to give a current look to your bathroom even with little investment.
Bathroom Remodeling Check List Helps Keep Project On Track
Renovations in any part of your home can easily get out of hand, both in the terms of time and in costs, but using a bathroom remodeling check list, you can maintain control of your budget as well as keep the job on track. As part of your planning process, a bathroom remodeling check list can also help you determine how much of an upgrade you can afford.
Some of the major items on your list may include any electrical work you may need, plumbing changes or additions, heating and cooling as well as any walls that will need to be moved or repaired. As some of the first things listed on your bathroom remodeling check list, you can also determine the timing of contractors. For example, if you are going to replace an existing tub and wall tile, plumbing work will need done, but having a carpenter handy for installing modern drywall will need to be done first.
In addition to the major work, also listed on your bathroom remodeling check list would be any components, such as cabinets, fixtures and countertops. You should also list the type of countertops you plan to install as well as the floor, the sink, storage cabinets and any free-standing furniture.
Having a column on your bathroom remodeling check list that shows the amount budgeted for each item will help you stay in control of the costs of the project. When buying the items on the list and you decide to go over the cost for one item, you can always pick a cheaper model on another component to stay on budget. By looking at the costs before you go to the store, you can have a good idea of what you are likely to spend.
Once you have determined the exact cost of your project using the bathroom remodeling check list, you should budget another 10 percent of the total cost for contingencies. For instance, when you are cutting out the wall for a fresh fixture you accidentally cut through a water pipe and your current drywall is ruined. The contingency budget can pay to replace the cut pipe as well as the ruined drywall.
You may also plan on the time each item on your bathroom remodeling check list should take to complete as a way of keeping the project on track. You will know during the planning stage how much each item should cost, how long it should take as well as what part of your bathroom is not going to be touched during the project.
If you don’t have the money to hire an architect or contractor for your bathroom remodeling, you can do the work yourself by focusing on simple things that can give a dramatic change to the bathroom. For instance, add a vanity mirror or a shelf and display small items such as perfume bottles, soaps, bath salts, spa accessories and other items you wish to display.
by Bath Towel on November 4, 2009
Remodeling a bathroom is one of the most common home improvement projects because homeowners prefer a toilet and bath area where they can relax from a difficult day’s work. Be aware that whatever fixtures, accessories and furniture you wish to add to your bathroom should add warmth and relaxation to the room. Many of us have increased the amount of time we spend in the bathroom and because of this require extra space; here are some points to consider before you start remodeling and enlarging a bathroom.
Tips and Tricks in Bathroom Remodeling
Focus on your walls, ceiling and tiles because these three items can greatly influence the outcome of your project. The materials you will buy largely depend on your budget. For people who have a budget of $200 or less, you can easily give a new life to your bathroom by doing the work by yourself and focusing on the walls, ceiling and accessories.
Since you only have a few dollars to spare, you need to choose on the color or theme you want to implement for the ceiling or walls. People who can not do the work themselves should consult a contractor. Make sure you get quotes for the work from several contractors.
A Remodeling Plan Is the Most Important Item
Of course, to be successful, you need to design your remodeling project just right before you swing a single hammer. With all things in bathroom remodeling design, if you design with an eye for common sense and space, you will be successful in your attempt to create a room that’s both stylish and functional. When you decide where smaller fixtures, such as the towel rack or even the toilet paper roll, go in the bathroom remodeling design, keep in mind that they should go in places that are sensible.
Once again going back to function over form. The towel rack might look nice by the door, but if it’s out of arm’s reach of the bathtub, then you won’t be happy whenever you get out of the shower, for example.
The first entry that should go into your bathroom remodeling planner is a floor plan of your new bathroom with all of the correct dimensions included. You can complete this on paper, or by buying software that is specifically for this purpose. In addition to the major work, also listed on your bathroom remodeling check list would be any components, such as cabinets, fixtures and countertops.
Once you have determined the exact cost of your project using the bathroom remodeling check list, you should budget another 10 percent of the total cost for contingencies. For instance, when you are cutting out the wall for a latest fixture you accidentally cut through a water pipe and your new drywall is ruined. The contingency budget can pay to replace the cut pipe as perfectly as the ruined drywall.
Finally, even the budget in a room as small as the bath can get out of control if a plan is not set and adhered to. Your bathroom remodeling planner should include a budget of the necessary materials and the labor that will be required. With a comprehensive bathroom remodeling planner, you will be on your way to purchasing the job done right.
Getting the Most Out of Working with a Contractor
You should not really attempt to do a job that is more technical than your abilities. In the long run, the contractor will have to come in and fix it which will cost more money. If your remodeling project is more complicated than painting and replacing the light fixtures, it is probably in your best interest to hire a contractor.
The problem, of course, is where to find a good contractor. The best place to look for a bathroom remodeling contractor is to ask friends, coworkers, and neighbors who have had remodeling work done recently. Next, call all of the contractors on the list and show them what needs to be done. It is appropriate and important to ask for references. Check with some of the references and find out what they liked and didn’t like. Bathroom remodeling contractors get work by their previous work. If they aren’t good, they won’t have very much work to do.
Once you have decided on the right contractor and the right price, the topic of payment will soon come up. Ask the contractor how long the project will take and how much is the labor. In most cases, people don’t want to pay the contractor before the work is started. If payment is made before any work has started, the incentive to finish the project will have been lost. Some contractors may want to buy the materials themselves so there is much to talk about with the contractor.
While your contractor is responsible for remodeling a bathroom, it is your responsibility to ensure all materials have been delivered. Before starting the project, inspect all items and accessories. To prevent delays, ensure that all deliveries are complete. Once the job is finished to your satisfaction, make the remainder of the payment in a timely fashion.
You can now take your first relaxing shower and enjoy the long-term benefits of the investment you made. There is no greater joy to a homeowner then to remodel and enlarge a special room such as the bathroom. So, enjoy every minute of it by following a plan and finding a good contractor.
by Bath Towel on October 22, 2009
If you feel like countless other folks who consider their bathroom to be nothing more than a shiny glare of fixtures and tile, try re-thinking how your bathroom can be. It is not that difficult to do, since all you need is your imagination to figure how you want it to look and feel. Here are a few design tips on bathroom theme accessories that will warm up the bathroom in no time.
Bathrooms, like every other room in a house, should be themed because it gives the space a mood and adds your personality to your little corner of the world. It is where you can say, by design, what is most important to you. There are hundreds of design themes to pick from, including country, dolls, sea life or even villas on the Mediterranean. The choice is yours, so choose the theme that you want. It is a good idea to pick a theme that matches, or at least correlates with other design styles in your home. That way, it will not be too busy, or out of tune with other areas of the house.
If you have a bathroom that small, you are not out of sync with others since bathrooms in older homes were literally carved out of small closets. Even if you are one of the unfortunate ones that do have a tiny bathroom, you can still decorate for color. Remember though, that with small bathrooms, less is often better. Your color scheme can be paint or wallpaper, but if the space is small, a neutral paint or paper color can be used on either one wall, or as an accent on a chair rail. You can choose to paint a traditional white, and accent with color using various decorating accessories such as framed prints, shells, baskets, rug throws, and window treatments to name but a few..
Warm rust tone of paint or paper work very well with plants in the bathroom, but choose plants that like steamy warm conditions, and that can tolerate the different chemicals. Some plants just cannot take the mousse, hairspray, and perfumes that are regularly used in a bathroom. It will gum up the plants on the leaves and they will end up in your trashcan. If your bathroom is large enough, you can hang plants from the ceiling, or put them on the back of the toilet. Large garden style tubs have ample space on the rim of the tub to place tiny planets, and with bath soaps and baskets, they look lovely.
Towels and rugs are important when decorating your bathroom. Deep plush or hand woven rugs add a touch of elegance. However, be careful when placing rugs on slippery linoleum or tile because a nasty fall can be the result. Look for rugs that have a lined backing of rubber to prevent falls. You can coordinate the rugs with the bathroom mat in alternating or matching colors as well. Using different textures that match your theme will give the bathroom a little extra touch of warmth. Do not think you are limited on textures because when they are combined with a neutral backdrop, they make a bathroom homey and inviting to be in.
Lighting is important in a bathroom as well. The first consideration is for safety of course, but when the room is not being used, nightlights can be left on and your cabinet tops could be used for a small lamp. Lamps can match your theme and so can your nightlights. You can decorate them, or buy them already fixed up with your theme. Of course, this all depends on if you have enough counter space, but it is a great decorating idea for a theme.
Towel racks are another way to pizzazz up your bathroom. Decorative racks with colorful towels make a bathroom stand out. You can find towel racks in different shades of wood, bronze, silver or gold. Many folks paint their own wooden racks, and match their baskets and picture frames with them.
Finally, take time and read a few decorating books on bathrooms. Look at their designs and see the many different ways to theme your bathroom. Use their designs for inspiration so your own creative juices will get flowing. It is okay to be uniquely you when decorating your bathroom, so go for it! You will never know what other themes take your fancy until you check them out when trying to decorate your bathroom at home.
by Bath Towel on September 1, 2009
Bathroom Remodeling is never as easy as many people might think. Although it is something you can often do on your own, you will need to plan things out and make sure that you take the time to plan everything just the way you want it. This will not be a project that you should do half way. Don’t get over whelmed with your bath job, just pay attention to the details and don’t make these mistakes.
Bathroom Remodeling Help
Mistake #1 – Deciding to Just “Do It”
One mistake that many people make when it comes to bathroom remodeling is deciding to just “wing it.”. Many people have the idea that renovation is very easy and all they really have to do is just change out a few things and they will have new bathroom. You can’t afford to “wing it” when you are trying to remodel your bathroom. Having a sold plan is a must for any renovation job. Or you will just waste your time and money.
Mistake #2 – Purchasing the First Items You Come Across
Don’t make the mistake many people make by buying the very first items that you see. Many people just buy something they see the fist time and thing they like without shopping for more options. You should never just purchase the very first thing that you come across. It might be a good idea to check out those items online so can find different options and maybe find a better item. Not only is shopping around a good idea so you find the best items for your bathroom remodeling project, but it can save you a lot of money as well.
Bathroom Remodeling Tips
Mistake #3 Installing the item if you do not know how to
This is a costly mistake. If you have no idea how to install something, you should not try to and make the mistake of trying. Remember that when installing toilets and sinks that you will have to deal with plumbing and plumbing is not always easy to do. That can cost you and make a big mistake, not only frustrating, but expensive too. You will be better off to pay someone to install something for you than to try to do it on your own, mess it up, and then have to pay someone to do it anyway.
If you avoid these mistakes, your bathroom remodeling project will go much smoother for you. Just make sure you plan things out as best you can and look for as many ideas for bathroom fixes as you can find. This way your remodeling project in the bathroom will end up being a success.
For more information check out Bathroom Home Remodeling
