Keep Small Bathroom Remodel Simple

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when remodeling a small bathroom is trying to cram in everything they’d like to place in a huge bathroom. The second mistake is choosing fixtures, decorative items, and the like that are too bulky or too ornate. Choosing clean easy lines, without a lot of decoration, will make the space look larger.
One way to approach a small bathroom remodel, then, is to keep it simple. Sometimes less is more; and this is true of small bathrooms. If you are trying to create an elegant and luxurious bathroom don’t forget about understated elegance.

Starting with the huge things, here are some tips to help you with your small bathroom remodel:
Choose only a compact shower stall or only a whirlpool or spa tub that is smaller and deeper (this will fit nicely in a corner). Even some of the tub designs now being advertised for seniors would work in a small bathroom.
Choose a pedestal sink or a surround mounted sink. This will leave more floor space and make the room feel bigger.
Choose the most compact toilet you can find. Select a taller model over a shorter wider style.

Now for decorative items:

* Select a mirror with no frame or a mirror with a small frame — this will make the room look larger and the mirror will reflect light farther in the room.
* Cover an entire surround with a mirror — this will create the appearance of a much larger space.
* Use fewer wall-mounted towel rods or rings — select a ring beside the sink to save space.
* Store extra linens nearby, but place out only a minimum at any one time.
* Place light fixtures where they will reflect light throughout the room.
* If you don’t have a window, think about installing a tube light to bring in sunlight.
* Find creative ways to add storage in walls.

Decorating ideas:

* Select lighter and brighter colors.
* Use glass block windows or frosted windows instead of curtains — it will make the room look larger.
* Use cover or paint design that draws the eye upward to make the room appear larger — either vertical stripes, vertical designs, or a border at the top of the wall.
* Use small shelves above and under sinks, toilets, etc. to wage storage and decoration.
* Keep color combinations minimalist — no more than two colors.
* Avoid clutter — don’t set decorative items around that are not necessary.
* Add luxuries in ways that do not use more of your space (massaging shower heads, spa tub, radiant floor heating, fogless mirrors, heated towel rods, fragrances, etc.)

In small spaces, simplicity is generally ideal if you want to create a feeling of spaciousness and elegance. Clean easy lines, lots of light, no clutter, and an eye to the necessary will help you create a very comfortable and luxurious small bathroom remodel.

Copyright 2008 by ABCD Publishing

Keep Small Bathroom Remodel Simple

Dan Fritschen, Publisher at ABCD Publishing, is a consultant to both individuals and businesses who are trying to decide whether to remodel or move. ABCD publishing currently owns two helpful websites, www.remodelormove.com and www.remodelestimates.com.

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