Simple Tune-up Creates Warm Simplicity in Bathroom

Warm and Cozy - a more inviting space for guests (after)

My recent clients were looking to bring their existing bathroom out of the 80’s. They had originally thought about removing everything and starting from scratch. But as our conversations evolved, I discovered that the only thing they were unhappy about was the dated vanity. The tub was in good condition; the tile on the walls was neutral; and the floor had only been down a short time. All this room really needed was a little warmth without much fuss.

Since we had completed their kitchen remodeling project just a year or two ago, I already had an idea of their tastes. Since this guest bath was just off of the family room (and in view of the kitchen), it made sense to continue the warm and simple feel of the kitchen into this space.

As you can see, honey colored maple cabinetry coupled with the brown and gold tones of the granite countertop play into the inviting cheerfulness of the existing shower tile. The fact that the perfect granite ended up being an inexpensive remnant was just a bonus!

Since it is a guest bath, a little visual interest was in order. Frosted glass softens the additional storage area and allows the upper cabinet to double as a medicine cabinet without displaying all of the homeowner’s personal details. Removing a door in the base and adding a couple of wicker baskets make towel storage both convenient and eye-catching.

Changing the faucets and light fixtures to an oil-rubbed bronze brings a feeling of completeness to the room that other metallic finishes might lack. And in a practical step, we decided it was a shame to dispose of a perfectly good mirror - so it was chopped in two, polished up, and reinstalled above each sink.

The cold, austere look of the 80's (before)

The big, cold emptiness of the original bathroom is now gone. By varying the heights of the vanity and bringing in warmer tones, we have been able to transform this space into a cozier, more inviting guest bath without breaking the bank. (If you’ll notice, we even kept the same paint on the walls). I think the only problem these homeowners will have now is convincing their guests to go home.

Mini Remodeling Trends

Received this from Kitchen & Bath Design News. Thought it was interesting: 

'Mini Remodel' Trend Highlights Decorative & Functional Hardware

As cautious consumers look to spruce up their homes without breaking the bank, mini remodels are becoming increasingly common. Decorative and functional hardware can play a key role in these jobs, as it can provide an updated look and better functionality while giving consumers plenty of "bang for the buck."

Decorative hardware allows for greater personalization, whether the preference is for coordinated hardware throughout the home or unique designs that speak to the homeowners' tastes, interests and passions. Bolder, larger pulls and knobs are hot, with clean lines and linear designs all the rage right now. In functional hardware, quiet-close features, door dampers, slides that accommodate large drawers and lifter mechanisms are in high demand.

Below are some of the hottest trends in decorative and functional hardware.

• In decorative hardware, transitional styling remains a strong trend, as it works in a broad array of environments and doesn't get dated easily, making it a "safe" choice.
• Dovetailing the trend toward greater simplicity in design, decorative hardware lines are cleaner and more linear, with less ornate detailing. But less ornate doesn't mean unobtrusive: Bold is in right now, with larger bar pulls, appliance pulls and oversized knobs being used to make a design statement.
• At the ultra high end, traditional still holds strong appeal, with some seeing a revival in French and early Italian period hardware, as well as requests for special finishes such as two tones and patinas.
• There is continued interest in formal finishes such as polished chrome and polished nickel, while stainless steel, satin nickel and satin chrome are popular for their ability to coordinate well with popular fixtures and appliances.
• Functional hardware is increasingly being seen as a design element, not just an afterthought, with growing demand for advanced closing technologies, such as self-closing drawer slides and door dampers that eliminate the noise associated with cabinet door slamming.
• With an aging population, hardware that enhances accessibility, such as lifter mechanisms, is becoming increasingly popular. 

 

You can always have free samples sent to you from Top Knobs USA. Or stop by our showroom to see a wide selection of hardware choices to start your mini-remodel!