How To Make Over a Bathroom Over the Weekend

10/13/2005

Who has time for extensive home remodeling projects these days? Many homeowners are looking for fast improvements that can be tackled over a weekend. Many rooms of the house -- including the bathroom -- can be made over in just a few short days.

If your bathroom could use a few cosmetic improvements, there are simple steps you can take for a big impact:

Throw away any accessories that you don't use regularly. Clutter can drag down the look of any room.

Freshen the color of the bathroom with a new coat of paint in a semi-gloss finish. This finish will help repel moisture and will be easier to clean. You may also want to choose a paint that offers mildew resistance.

Lay a new floor. New products can actually be installed over existing flooring. Interlocking tile products take the guesswork out of tiling and don't require mortar. Simply lock into place and use the mousse-like grout to finish.

Choose new accessories that coordinate with your style. Look for similar finishes on faucets, towel bars, wastebaskets and a tissue holder.

Clean, clean, clean. Scrub shower tiles and the bathtub. Dirt and soap scum will be more obvious against freshly painted walls.

Install shelving for storage or decorative accents. A glass shelf will look inconspicuous on a bathroom wall and complement the room.

Consider new lighting. Task lighting as well as overall lighting can transform the space.

Choose soft and luxurious bath mats and towels in coordinating colors. This can give an elegant aura to the room. Roll some decorative towels and display in a basket.

Replace draperies and shower curtains with new designs to update your look.

Indulge in fragrant bath salts and beads to give the bathroom a spa-like feel. Then add them to your bath to reward yourself for a job well done.