bathroom design ideas Archives

BATHROOMS

How to Install a Bathroom Vanity in 8 Steps

December 16, 2021

There are plenty of reasons to install a new bathroom vanity. A new vanity can provide more storage or counter space, change the look of the bathroom, and make it easier for residents to get ready for their days. Plus, for handy homeowners with all the right tools and experience, installing a bathroom vanity is a relatively simple one-day project that can be completed in just eight steps.

1. Measure Twice

Whether homeowners are remodeling existing bathrooms or adding new ones, the best place to start is obtaining accurate measurements. As with all home improvement projects, accurate measurements are absolutely essential.

2. Choose a New Vanity

There are numerous vanity types to choose from, so it’s easy for homeowners to find themselves feeling overwhelmed. When shopping for a new vanity, it’s best to focus on the counter and storage space. Hardware such as faucets and door handles can always be replaced.

3. Remove the Old Vanity

This third step is where things start to get a little tricky. Homeowners who aren’t very strong or don’t have the right tools can visit Express-Handyman.com to get help with the rest of the process. Otherwise, follow these steps in removing the vanity to avoid plumbing disasters:

Shut off the water supply

Loosen the slip nut

Disconnect the supply lines

Cut the sealant

Remove the counter

Remove the sink top

Disconnect the vanity from the wall

Dispose of everything properly

4. Place the New Vanity

Some vanities are easier to install than others, but all require leveling and careful placement. Place the vanity in its future position and trace the outline on the wall before using a stud finder and marking the studs. Once the vanity is level, mark the holes for screws and water pipes.

5. Complete the Vanity Installation

Use three-inch drywall screws to attach the vanity to the wall through the pre-drilled holes. Some homeowners also like to use wall anchors for a more secure installation. Once the vanity is attached to the wall, install shims and, if necessary, quarter-round molding to cover large gaps.

6. Install the Plumbing

Place the gasket on the faucet and screw on fastening nuts, then insert it into the designated hole in the vanity top. Next, attach the water supply lines and the drain pipe using an adjustable wrench. Keep in mind that this step is easiest if homeowners assemble the faucets and drains before attaching the sink.

7. Attach the Vanity Top

Start by making sure there are no gaps between the vanity and the wall. Next, apply caulk to the top of the vanity base, then set the top into position and press down. Check again to make sure the top is level and flush with the wall, then add a backsplash, if necessary, once everything is in its final place.

8. Reconnect the Plumbing

Finally, connect the faucet water supply lines and reconnect the P-trap to the drain. Test the sink and plumbing for leaks before installing the pop-up drain, then sit back and relax. As long as there are no leaks, the project is done.

An Easier Alternative

If it sounds like installing a new vanity is a lot of work, that’s because it is. Homeowners who don’t have the time to tackle bathroom renovations can always hire a handyman. Handyman services offer an affordable and far more convenient solution than undertaking DIY projects alone.

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BATHROOMS, home renovation

What To Consider When Adding A Guest Bathroom

November 2, 2021

If you’ve ever been to visit friends or family and you have to use their private or family bathroom after a few glasses of wine, you’ll know why adding a guest bathroom is vitally important. A guest bathroom is particularly handy to have if your guests are staying over and you have children. Making anyone share a bathroom with kids is just asking for their guests to have an unenjoyable time.

Kids are notoriously bad at keeping their spaces clean, especially when it comes to the bathroom. To save your guests from that unpleasant experience, you may be considering adding on a guest bathroom to your home. Here are eight things you should consider when doing just that:

Make The Space Bright

The last thing anyone wants to find when they walk into a guest bathroom is a dark and dingy space. Dark bathrooms aren’t inspiring; all they are is depressing. Ensure that your guest bathroom design has big windows and ample natural lighting that can flow freely throughout the space.

If the room is small, then you should consider adding mirrors to make the space appear bigger and, in turn, more welcoming. Choose a paint color that brings your new space to life – remember to choose a lighter/neutral color to keep the room feeling airy and bright.

Be selective with the décor elements that you add to your guest bathroom; less is almost always more in the world of interior design. A minimalist-inspired bathroom can be a clean, neat space that doesn’t have to feel clinical – just be careful with your choice of paint color.

Provide The Basics

Your main priority when having guests over is to make sure that they are comfortable and happy. You can make this happen by providing the basics and making sure they are readily available. Make sure that you always have hand soap, hand lotion, and ample toilet paper available.

As a nice added touch, you can provide them with bath soap, toothpaste, and a disposable toothbrush too. It is these added extras that will make your guests feel at home.

Don’t go overboard though – remember, they are guests and not captives. You want to make them feel welcome and not obsessed over.

Add A Burst Of Greenery

Nothing completes the look of a brand-new bathroom quite like a burst of fresh color does. There are so many varieties of plants that would thrive in the moist environment of a bathroom, all you need to do is to pick your favourite. If you decide to go with fresh flowers, keep in mind that these will need to be changed out every week or so.

If you don’t feel brave enough to invest in real plants, the faux kind can be placed on your new sink and will add just as much greenery and will only require a light dusting from time to time.

Opt For A Shower, Not A Tub

Guest bathrooms need showers, not bathtubs. Your guests are not likely to take long, relaxing baths in your home. Add a tasteful, roomy shower to your guest bathroom by calling a reputable plumbing company in your area.

A half-sized shower will suffice if a full-sized unit is not quite in your budget, but it is highly recommended that you spring for the biggest version that you can afford.

Adding the plumbing for your guest bathroom can be a complicated process, so it is not advised that you take on this task by yourself.

Size

When it comes to adding rooms to your home, space is a major factor. There is no way for you to gain space in one area without losing it in another. Be prepared to lose a bit of space so that you can get the guest bathroom of your dreams.

If you’re clever about your use of space, then you can lose a little but gain a lot.

Make Sure It Always Smells Fresh

Dank, moldy bathrooms are the things nightmares are made of. Have your guest bathroom installed by a professional plumbing company – that way you can be sure that you won’t end up with surprise leaking faucets and pipes that will make your bathroom smell like a dingy hole.

There are some of the most wonderful smelling diffusers on the market today, they may seem a bit pricey for what they are, but they are a worthy investment for a space that needs to smell fresh all the time.

Buy The Best Paint

The main thing to know about bathrooms, guest or otherwise, is that they are moist environments. That may seem like a no-brainer, but many people choose the cheaper paint option and regret it later. The cheap paint is not as resistant to mold and mildew as the more expensive, quality options.

If you decide to use the cheap paint, bear in mind that you will need to strip down and repaint it every few years. That will be necessary to keep your guest bathroom looking presentable.

Add Storage

Your guest bathroom will need to hold several different items from towels to toilet paper, soap, and toothpaste, to items like robes and slippers – you need to make sure that you have adequate space in which to do this.

The best thing about storage space in guest bathrooms is that you can use it for your overflow of items when your guests are not there. Choose a storage cabinet that suits the overall look of your bathroom and is also welcoming for your guests.

Last Words…

If you are an entertainer by nature, a guest bathroom is an absolute must-have for you. It will also add value to your home and serve as another place where someone can get ready. If your household is one of the many with children who share a bathroom, adding a guest bathroom would be the perfect way to solve two problems simultaneously.

Good luck with your addition and have faith in your instinctual design choices.

SHOP BATHROOM…

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BATHROOMS, home renovation

Upgrading Your Bathroom? Why You Need A Bidet

August 31, 2020

It was just a few short months ago when it was nearly impossible to find toilet paper. Between supply chains being disrupted and people hoarding supplies, it was a real challenge to keep your posterior hygiene on point.

Now, Europeans didn’t have that problem because they have something that many Americans are confused by. The bidet!

To the mind of many Americans, it just seems gross to use one. Whereas, Europeans think it’s gross to not. The reality is that a bidet is very useful to have especially if there are issues again with getting toilet paper.

If you’re already planning a bathroom remodel and have your sink picked out, then you can take advantage and also pick a bidet.

In this article, I will go over the ins and outs of what bidets are all about.

Photo credit: HGTV.com

Installation is easy

If you are already thinking of remodeling the bathroom, then you can take advantage of the water connection being exposed and add a bidet while you’re at it. Browsing a site like Elite Renovations & Design can give you some great ideas for the remodel, but contact a plumber to ask about putting in a bidet that matches your bathroom style. There are a lot of different models so you can find the style you like without a problem.

Some are like sinks that you fill up with soapy water and then do your business, but that is more hands on than a lot of Americans are used to. There are some that shoot jets up as you sit on it that make it more of a hands-off process.The best types of bidets as far as using and ease of installation are the toilet bidet combos however. These are luxurious with heated seats, adjustable jets that set to your preferred temperature and even self cleaning. The best part is it looks like a normal toilet but has the bidet as part of the seat.

They are sanitary

A lot of people have problems with toilet paper and don’t even realize it. They can cause urinary tract infections or develop sensitivity when wiping. Bidets have a reputation as being unsanitary, but the opposite is actually true.

Wiping is more unsanitary and bidets are far more hygienic. The kinds that use jets of water allow you to get very clean without ever using your hands in the process. Something that can’t happen when you use toilet paper.

A bidet is eco friendly

Toilet paper is very unfriendly to the environment. From the trees used to make it to the manufacturing process, to shipping it, it is not at all environmentally friendly. Even if you use recycled toilet paper, you aren’t doing the environment any favors.And since many people are now turning to using “flushable wipes” that are not actually flushable or biodegradable, you can get a squeaky-clean bottom that wipes offer without any of the damage to your plumbing or to the environment.

SHOP BATHROOM…

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BATHROOMS, home renovation

7 Reasons to Renovate your Bathroom

June 11, 2020

People spend a lot of time in the bathroom – bathing, getting ready for the day or for bedtime, and meeting personal needs. So, this room should be a pleasant place to spend time in, it should be convenient, and it should offer privacy. If a person likes to soak in a tub, the bathroom should have a soaking tub. If a family member likes to take showers, there should be a nice shower. Homeowners are no longer settling for a small crowded bathroom that is inconvenient to use. They want more.

Is It Time to Renovate The Bathroom?

Because a bathroom renovation requires planning, effort, time, and financial outlay, it is a project that homeowners are reluctant to take on. But, home bathroom renovations are a good investment if they are done correctly. Homeowners may renovate their bathrooms for seven or more reasons. The bathroom that the buyer walked through when purchasing a home might have seemed OK, but after living in the home for some time, that same bathroom might not be adequately meeting the family’s needs.

Bathroom Renovations Can be Costly

The family may be interested in adding Cast Iron Bathtubs and other popular features. But, is it time to renovate? A serious bathroom renovation can cost from $12,000 to as much as $90,000. Some families do a lot of the work themselves to save money and some bathrooms get low-cost renovations such as a new bathtub or a simple paint job. This renovation project requires some licensed, professional help including electricians, plumbers, building contractors, and ceramic tile or natural stone installers.

Seven Common Reasons to Renovate Bathrooms

In addition to just hating everything about the family bathroom, there are practical reasons for taking on this renovation project. The reasons families renovate bathrooms include:

1. Make the bathroom function better with a better layout and more storage. Get rid of leaking toilets and faucets. Install a water-saving showerhead that functions better and makes showering more enjoyable. Add lighting above the vanities and other dark corners of the bathroom. Add a double vanity where there was only one sink. Add towel bars so everyone has adequate space for their towels.

2. Solve ongoing plumbing issues in an outdated bathroom by renovating the bathroom. Plumbing and electrical issues can be addressed during a renovation when licensed professionals are employed. Problems with drainage and water pressure are often caused by plumbing mistakes or old plumbing that needs modernizing.

3. Add value to the home with a bathroom renovation that meets modern bathroom standards for home buyers. The homeowner will spend anywhere from a few thousand to as much as $90,000 on a bathroom renovation so it should increase the value of the home and make it easier to sell the house when the time comes. A good bathroom renovation can have as much as a 50% return on investment for the homeowner.

The most important improvements to add value include updating worn-out items, getting new modern bathroom fixtures, and making the bathroom more functional. Take the time to visit home improvement centers with model bathrooms to learn what colors and finishes are popular now.

4. Improve the energy efficiency of the bathroom with new low flush toilets and water-saving shower units. Every aspect of an old, outdated bathroom can be wasting either water or electricity. New heating and lighting fixtures can save energy and improve bathroom comfort. Water is costing more and more, so using water-saving toilets and faucets is important.

5. Add a whole new bathroom where one is most needed. If the family home has only one bathroom to serve both parents and children, a new bathroom might be considered a necessity. Finding the budget and space to add a new bathroom could be a challenge. A master bathroom added adjoining the master bedroom would be a good investment. If the bedroom is large or has a guest bedroom next-door, space could be taken from both areas to add a master bathroom. Adding a whole new bathroom will require the services of a building contractor specializing in bathroom renovations.

This is because the new bathroom must be hooked up to the home’s existing electrical and plumbing systems. This requirement will limit where the bathroom can be located and may affect the size of the finished bathroom.

6. A renovated bathroom can better meet the family member’s needs including more storage. Even with a small renovation budget, homeowners can get the best return for their investment by concentrating on projects such as replacing the bathroom vanity, sinks, faucets, and countertop. Natural stone countertops are a good investment and are durable and easy to clean.

The bathroom flooring can be replaced with ceramic tile, good-quality vinyl, or natural stone tiles to be waterproof and durable while looking stylish. The new floor can also have radiant heating under it for added comfort in cold climates.

The tub and shower features can be combined or separate depending on the size of the bathroom and the budget. Especially in master bathrooms, a walk-in shower is a good investment. The tub should be a nice deep soaker tub if there is space for one.

7. Add beauty and style to the bathroom with a facelift that meets modern design and decor standards. Don’t use colors and decor items that will soon go out of style. Instead, go for a more timeless style and color scheme that will be enjoyable to live with for years to come. Add spots of bright color with towels and shower curtains that can be changed at will.

Keeping Costs Down

A homeowner can keep costs down by shopping for materials carefully and taking advantage of sales and closeout pricing. If the budget is limited, go for standard shower features and skip the heated floor feature. Go for quality, energy-efficient products with a timeless look. Don’t buy cheap products, take the time to find good-quality products at sale or clearance prices.

The effort and money invested in a renovated or new bathroom will pay for itself every day the family uses the room in its new, improved form.

SHOP BATHROOM ACCESSORIES….

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BATHROOMS

How to Choose a Sink That Makes Your Bathroom Complete

January 21, 2020

A bathroom renovation is a fun and exciting time for a homeowner because they get a chance to update a room in their home that is used often by everyone in the family. There are many options when it comes to a bathroom remodel, and a homeowner must be aware of their budget and goals when taking on such a project. Below is a closer look at vanities and sinks and what to think about when replacing them.

Your Style

The bathroom is typically the smallest room in the home, but that does not mean it should be overlooked. When it comes to bathroom vanities with tops and sinks, property owners have many options to choose from. For example, will you choose a traditional bowl, pedestal, warm wood, or a sleek glass bowl for the sink? A budget will help in narrowing the choices, but having an idea of a particular style you like will help.

Consider The Mount

If you are looking for a sleek and fresh look to your sink, then you should choose a solid-surface, integrated sink. This is called an under-mount sink, and it is installed under the countertop, which will result in an easy-to-clean counter surface. In contrast, a top-mount sink sits over the top of the counter and is the easiest style for the homeowner to install on their own. The third option for the amount includes the bowl set on a pedestal or a stand and is known as the traditional style.

Choose Material For The Sink

The most common bathroom sink consumers prefer is made of white porcelain (other colors are available for a greater price tag). Another option is an enameled cast iron sink that can be colored to fit any bathroom décor, as they are very durable and do not chip. Other materials include stone, glass, and metals, as they can all be shaped and molded to fit any size and shape for the sink. The newest and most expensive trend in bathroom sinks is wood.

Storage Options

Many vanities with sinks offer storage options to hold towels, shampoo, toilet paper, and other bathroom essentials the home’s occupants use daily. Replacing the sink is a great time to consider whether more storage space is needed in the bathroom. If storage space is an issue, a cabinet with a sink mounted on top is both functional and decorative.

Measure The Space

Putting in the correct size vanity or sink is important because you do not want to take up too much floor space. Likewise, putting a large vanity in a smaller bathroom is not ideal because it will result in a cluttered look for the newly renovated bathroom. For example, if the bathroom is on the smaller side, you may want to consider incorporating a pedestal-style sink. Pedestal sinks come in a variety of styles, colors, and open up valuable floor space.

It is always a good idea to consult a professional when starting any home renovation project. They have years of experience and can give you insight regarding different styles to consider. A bathroom remodels, when done well, can increase the home’s value when it is placed on the market for sale. In the meantime, the family has the chance to enjoy a newly renovated bathroom that is stylish, comfortable, and calming.

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BATHROOMS

A Buyer’s guide for Bathtubs

December 20, 2019

A bathtub can offer relaxation and spa-like feeling in a home. Determining the best type of bathtub to choose will depend on the owner’s needs and desires. Space is another consideration a homeowner must consider. Nothing is more relaxing than soaking in a tub with a good book or listening to relaxing music on a hot winter night or after a stressful day. There are so many bathtubs to choose from, it can be a hard decision.

Tubs come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Colored bathtubs were popular 50 years ago because of the tile that surrounded them. Over the years, manufacturers make white tubs and homeowners surround it with their choice of tile or wall panels. If a homeowner has the room, they should consider the installation of a Painted Clawfoot Bathtubs. This bathtub is freestanding. They are constructed with a deep basin and provide a distinct look a homeowner will like.

Clawfoot Bathtubs

Clawfoot bathtubs are in the freestanding category of bathtubs. They need more space than a traditional bathtub. For a unique look, a homeowner should consider a painted clawfoot bathtub. A painted bathtub can offer the look of copper, scorched platinum, and other variations of these colors. These various colors can add a focal point to the bathroom instead of the typical white fixture in the middle of the room or under the window. A tub can be customized to meet the owner’s needs. An owner can feel confident that no one else will have a tub that looks exactly like theirs. Clawfoot tubs are ideal for a cottage-like home or feel. Slipper tubs also fit into the free-standing category.

Alcove Tubs

For homeowners who have a limited budget, an alcove tub might be their answer. Most alcoves are only 60 inches long and will fit into a three-wall enclosure. This is the type of tub most individuals grew up with. The alcove helps to maximize the space in a bathroom. They can range from 53 to 72 inches with the standard length being 60 inches. The walls around this type of tub can be tiled or fitted with an appropriate surround. This type of tub is used as a combination bathtub and shower in many bathrooms.

Drop-In Bathtubs

Drop-in bathtubs require a contractor to build a deck or peninsula for the tub. The tub is then installed in the structure or alcove. Usually, these types of tubs are used in a more open area. The price for this tub is usually higher than the standard alcove tub.

Corner Bathtubs

Corner bathtubs are a great way to have a bathtub in a larger space or near a corner window. This type of bathtub is not put in a child’s bathroom but is usually installed in a master suite’s bathroom. A corner bathtub is five-sided, and couples can bathe in pairs or trios. It provides more capacity and more water volume in the tub.Choosing a tub is a large investment for a homeowner. A bathtub offers other options than just water. There are jet tubs that provide the feeling of a hot tub without having a separate unit. Investment in a bathroom provides a great return in the event the house is sold in the future.

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Uncategorized

What Are the Best 4 Floor Tile Options for Your Bathroom?

November 22, 2019

When it comes to a humid space like a bathroom, tile is always going to be the best option for a floor. Tile is water resistant, which makes it practical for spaces where the floor is likely to get regularly wet. However, there are so many options currently available on the market that you won’t feel hemmed in by choosing tile. From cork, to marble, to vinyl and laminate, the options for your tile floor are endless.

So what are some of the best options out there for your bathroom floor? We have seven of our favorite tile options for you to consider when you start shopping for your bathroom reno.

Vinyl Tiles

Vinyl tiles have come a long way from the gregarious patterned plastic sheets that used to be in your grandmother’s kitchen. Vinyl tiles now come in an almost endless variety of colors and options–some which look surprisingly realistic. Vinyl tiles are not only practical and attractive, they are also very affordable. Vinyl tiles are also softer on the feet and more durable than many other options on the market. If you’re a bit handy and are looking to install your bathroom floor yourself, vinyl tiles are self-adhering and easy to handle. You simply cut them to size with a utility knife and lay them down.

Ceramic tiles

Ceramic tiles let you get creative, and we mean really creative. There are ceramic tiles that mimic the look of wood, colorful penny tiles, terracotta tiles, hexagons, or almost anything in between. They come in every shape, size, and pattern imaginable, which you can see samples of at Simple Bath’s Bathroom Showroom, and they add quite a bit of aesthetic appeal to a bathroom. Ceramic tiles are also easy to maintain, however they are not nearly as comfortable on bare feet as vinyl tiles. This is why many people opt to install radiant in-floor heating when they’re doing their bathroom floor in ceramic tile.

Stone tiles

The natural beauty of stone can look really stunning in a bathroom. Marble, limestone, granite, or slate come in a variety of natural colors that range from muted greens, golds, reds, and blues or in more sated hues like black, white, or cream. Stone flooring also comes in many different textures, which can add a nice feeling to a room. Stone tile, however, requires more maintenance than ceramic tile. Regular cleaning and sealing is recommended to keep your stone floors looking new and stone is typically more expensive.

Plastic Laminate

Plastic laminate tiles can be printed to look like wood, slate, or almost anything you want. They are similar to laminate in that they don’t significantly raise the height of a floor, helping for room-to-room transitions, and they are also equally affordable. They are durable and easy to clean, however, they are not as moisture resistant. Standing water can infiltrate the coreboard, which can cause it to expand and buckle, so it’s best to wipe dry any plastic laminate floors that get wet.

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BATHROOMS, DIY, HOME DECOR

Room Reveal : Farmhouse Powder Room

September 28, 2017

Well, my 4 weeks are up and it’s time to reveal my new farmhouse powder room!

It has been a busy 4 weeks – I have pushed myself out of my comfort zone and made a major transformation in my powder room. I love my farmhouse powder room and so have my friends and family. The new look is truly incredible and I did not go over budget BONUS! Let me show what I did to create my farmhouse powder room….

A look back at my powder room…..

This powder room was dark and dull – the cabinets are right of out of 1981 and the whole room just looked blah…I really wanted to add a brighter colour, make the room fresh and have a farmhouse powder room.

My farmhouse powder room – what I did…

I knew I wanted a brighter and fresher feel in the room. The big element here was paint. I’m fortunate because I had almost a full can of a warm beige-y colour (it’s actually the same colour I have in my other 2 bathrooms) HUSH by Benjamin Moore This new colour on my walls has made a huge difference! The powder room looks so much bigger and brighter (honestly I still cannot get over how fresh it looks). The next paint project was painting that vanity! I love the look of chalk paint and I thought to get the farmhouse look a chalk painted vanity would be perfect! I chose a great chalk paint colour from Rustoleum ‘Country Gray’ and I love it!!

I was going to paint my existing hardware but after doing some looking around – I found these bar pulls in an oil rubbed bronze – they have a more modern look than my old ones, they are a great price and I had room in my budget so it was perfect! I did have the brushed nickle in my cart but I then realized with my existing hinges (and limited budget) I should stick with the oil rubbed bronze – I love how this vanity looks like a piece of furniture with the new paint and hardware. These bar pulls make a big difference in updating my farmhouse powder room.

I have always wanted to do something with my window but I never really figured out what – I found an awesome tutorial for a new-sew window valance and that was the plan but then I found this valance at Target – it fit in my budget and the colour is perfect! The rod was a great deal, too!

What I didn’t get done…

I purchased some spray paint that was supposed to be used for my counter tops – it has not yet arrived so this did not get done during the challenge. I’m a bit disappointed as I was really looking forward to changing it but now that everything else has been painted – I’m not sure that I need to paint it! I’ve asked friends and family what they think and it’s a 50/50 split of whether to paint or not – let me know what you think I should do, I’d love to hear your thoughts…..

Styling my farmhouse powder room….

I lucked out with some art from my sister that she was no longer using. I also have this old wood ‘mailbox’ piece that I purchased years ago and I have always loved it but never found a home for it – it has been sitting in my office collecting dust for about 6 years – it is a great piece that works with the farmhouse look I am after so I was super happy to give it a ‘home’. I used this amazing product called ‘Gorilla Hooks’ to hang it – so easy!

I also had some decor items here that were just sort of extras like the wicker basket with my ‘guest towels’, the large mason jar with some faux greenery that I took from an arrangement in my dining room (just two branches), I had the ‘iron’ owls from my family room.

I used some white bar towels for my guest towels and rolled them up and put them in the basket -so simple – but that’s what farmhouse is all about, right?

My towel bar, lighting and mirror were there before – but with the new paint they kind of look new, too!

Get a farmhouse powder room with only $100

So here’s my budget breakdown …

Chalk Paint $24.64

New cabinet pulls $4.79 (x4)

Paint starter kit $8.00

Curtain rod $3.99

Curtain Valance $10.99

Spray paint $30.05

Mirror already had

Wall paint used left over from my other 2 bathrooms

Art already had

Decor accessories and towels already had

Gorilla hooks already had

Total spent $96.83

Even though I have not yet used or received my counter top spray paint I still included it in my budget – without it I would have only spent $66.78 !

Farmhouse powder room photos

I still cannot believe that this is the same room – the transformation is just incredible! I feel great about the end results and I feel great about all of the painting that I took on – there’s a first time for everything! When you ‘shop your home’ it is really amazing what you can find and what you can give new life…

Be sure to check out the other participants in this round of the $100 Room challenge – it is reveal week and there are so many amazing projects in this challenge –

An InLinkz Link-up

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BATHROOMS, DIY

$100 Room challenge: Week 3 – powder room

September 20, 2017

3 weeks into this round of the $100 room challenge and I’m happy with the progress in my powder room….I am still amazed by the power of paint and how it can completely transform any room….take a look at how my powder room looked 3 weeks ago…

This is my second round of this challenge and it is so much fun! I love how it keeps me on track with my budget and focused on getting the project finished. It is also really inspiring to see what other bloggers and IGers are doing. Did you catch Erin on the Rachael Ray Show? So many great ideas from Erin and all the other bloggers in this challenge – it is really fun to see how others stretch their budget and creativity! I have to say that this round I have ‘stepped it up’ from my first challenge.

Powder Room progress ….

Last week, I tackled painting the walls of the powder room and I’m loving the difference this ‘new’ colour has made so far. I used paint from another project in my home and the colour is making such a difference already! I had to paint a second coat of paint on the powder room walls and if I am being honest – I wasn’t overly motivated to stay inside and paint. Not because I’m not happy with how it is looking (quite the opposite) but….it seems like summer has finally arrived here and the weather outside is hot and sunny, so I really want to enjoy that while I can!

I did find that painting the second coat seemed to go much faster than the first coat – now maybe that is just me being motivated to get out and soak up some great weather!

I have also painted the vanity in this amazing shade of ‘country grey’ in a chalk paint! So exciting!! Originally, I planned on using a deeper charcoal tone for the vanity but my husband talked me into this mid-tone grey….I admit – this colour is a good choice – there is still contrast in the room and with this tone my new hardware pulls will stand out more!

I was going to recycle my handles (see below) but it was almost the same cost as buying new handles, so I purchased 4 new pulls instead. The new ones are cleaner looking and still in the oil rubbed bronze finish (to match the existing hinges). The new handles (although there are only 4) will give the vanity a fresh new look – I’m dying to install them!

‘Powder Room project’ confession time….

There have been a number of firsts for me on this project and I’m almost embarrassed to tell you but here goes….this my first time painting a room. ( Erin was completely honest about her DIY experience so I feel I should be, too.) Yep! I have painted my fireplace and a front door but never an entire room! I’m happy with how it turned out!

Something else I learned…how to patch the holes in my cabinets – this tutorial from Rainonatinroof.com is amazing and so simple….

Another first….I have never used chalk paint! I have to say I love chalk paint and I’m already trying to figure out what I can paint in chalk paint next! I was a bit nervous about it but it goes on so smoothly, the coverage is great and I love the super matte finish. This has given my vanity new life! The image below shows off the new wall colour and 2 coats of chalk paint on the vanity – what do you think?

Yes, my doors are still attached to the ‘box’ of the vanity and I know the doors should be removed, painted and once complete, re-attached. I didn’t realize the condition of my vanity until I started painting it this weekend – it is about 35 years old and it’s showing it’s age….I was worried that I may not be able to re-attach them. So I kept them on and painting them that way – not ideal but I’m making it work.

Counter tops…

Many of you have asked and comments about painting my counter tops. I am really excited (and a bit nervous) about painting my counter tops. The paint has been ordered – I had to order online since all of the local stores were SOLD OUT! The paint has not arrived yet and it is cutting it close! I checked my order and it is supposed to arrive between Sept 20 (that’s today) and Oct 2…..so I may not get these counter tops painted before the 1 month timeline of this challenge is up….Well if I don’t get it on time – I will be sure to have a new post dedicated to painting my counter tops!

And I have to admit with all the fresh paint in this space – my counter tops that were already looking dated and dull look even more so….

Powder room to-do list:

~~prep and paint the walls of the powder room~~
~~paint or purchase 4 new cabinet hardware pulls~~
~~start (and finish) painting the vanity in chalk paint~~
install new cabinet hardware
hang up window treatment
touch up paint
paint counter top (waiting patiently for paint to arrive….)
hang up mirror and art
style the space with towels and greenery

The remaining items on my to-do list seem lengthy but it’s a lot of small jobs and I’m so excited to finish up this powder room, motivation will be driving me to get this done!

Budget so far….

4 new bar pulls for vanity ($4.79 each)

Chalk paint for vanity ($24.64 on sale!)

paint brush, roller and tray starter kit ($8.00)

counter top spray paint ($30.05)

curtain rod ($3.99)

I found a pre-made curtain valance for $10.99 at target so I purchased that instead of making my own but I want to try this DIY valance by 12 devonshire in my family room!

95.84 is the total spent!! Maybe I can find a cheap greenery piece at the dollar store!

Be sure to check out the other bloggers participating in the $100 room challenge…

An InLinkz Link-up

Every time I pop into my powder room I just can’t get over the difference already – so I cannot wait to get this makeover done !

Next week is the room reveal….so exciting!

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BATHROOMS, DIY

$100 room challenge: week 2 – powder room

September 13, 2017

It is week 2 of this $100 room design challenge and let me tell you about the progress so far….

But first, let me bring you up to speed on the challenge –

I decided that my room that needed an update (that was over looked when we did some renos 6 years ago) is our powder room. Our powder room like most other homes is a high traffic room with lots of visitors ranging from family to friends. The room was dark brown with cabinets right out of the 1980’s (when our home was built) and some laminate counters. With this challenge I decided to really focus on giving this powder room a fresh look with a bit of a farmhouse look.

Take a look at week 1 , HERE

Design challenge decisions…

I knew that this room needed paint – and pretty much everywhere. With a budget of only $100 I didn’t want to just spend that money on paint – this room needs so new decor accessories, maybe some towels too. Sticking to the budget and making a big change is really the premise of this design challenge. So for my wall colour – I knew I had some paint from other painting projects in my house. I had 2 cans of paint that were almost full – so I had to decide which of those two colours I liked best for the space.

Paint option #1 – Benjamin Moore ‘HUSH’ AF-95 This is a great warm neutral (my other 2 bathrooms are this colour, too) I’m not why I have almost a full can left but I did!

Paint option #2 – Benjamin Moore ‘JUTE’ AF-80 This is the colour seen in the main part of my home. It’s a soft neutral a bit on the cooler side compared to HUSH.

I compared both colours in the powder room and decided on HUSH. I like the warmth and the JUTE hue was looking a bit green and I’m really trying to downplay the green tones in my floor tile.

Now that my colour was selected, I was ready to start painting except I could not find my paint brushes ANYWHERE….I looked all over my house – the basement, the garage etc…no luck. So I had to buy some new brushes, I really did not want to spend any money from my budget on brushes but I really had no choice. I lucked out and found this great little ‘starter’ kit at Wal-Mart. maybe not the best quality of brushes but this handy little kit had 2 rollers (one large, one small), a brush, drop cloth and the tray for $8.00

Time to get started on the challenge….

Paint colour is picked and now it’s time to start. I wanted to get the paint colour on the walls first for a few reasons….1 – I wanted to see the colour on the walls since I was undecided on what colour I want to paint my vanity. 2 – The walls are the biggest painting job, so I wanted to get it out of the way. 3 – With the walls being so dark, I knew I needed to tackle those first as they would probably need the most paint and …4. I had the supplies on hand.

And so far, so good….

Already the difference is incredible…..

The first coat is done and I need another coat for sure but the difference is amazing. The bathroom is SO much brighter and clean looking, too! My husband is loving it, too (usually he doesn’t say much when it comes to home decor)

Check out the other room makeovers in this challenge….

An InLinkz Link-up

Next up…..

2nd coat of paint (possibly a third but only if necessary).

Painting of the vanity is next – I’m thinking a charcoal chalk paint….

Painting the counter tops (so excited to see how that turns out!!)

I like my vanity light and mirror – so those will stay …

I have some ‘new’ art from my sister (she always has decor stuff lying around…)

If my budget allows, I’m hoping to find some greenery (faux) to add some freshness to the bathroom

The budget so far is not blown so hopefully I can stay on track with the workload and budget…fingers crossed!

Let me know what you think of the change in my powder room so far….

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