Bright ideas 2012 for Weekend Bathroom Refreshes

The smallest room in the house shouldn't fall short on style. Take your bathroom from outdated to up-to-date in just two days with these makeover ideas.

Pink and Green Style 

The pedestal sink, floor and wall tile, and bathtub were all keepers in this 1929 bathroom. The homeowners incorporated modern function with a wall-mount shower and a new faucet reminiscent of the original with cross-handle fixtures. New tile installed behind the faucet nearly matches the old pieces, and pink-and-white wallpaper complements the tones of the existing mosaic floor. Changing the window blinds to shutters and replacing an old light fixture and wall mirror with a new pair in satin nickel add impact with minimal effort. A petite green Windsor chair and a colorful bath mat and towels complete the look.

 Charming Country Bathroom 

This bathroom gets a fresh farmhouse look from, a new pedestal sink, open storage shelves, sunny yellow accents, and solid-surfacing panels that resemble beaded-board wainscoting. The new pedestal sink with a wide rim opens up floor space, while a vintage-style recessed medicine cabinet provides storage.

Clever Fabric Uses

Multiple shower curtains hung on a curved rod protect the wall and window behind the bathtub and shower area. White subway tile picks up in the shower stall where the beaded board look-alike ends. Repurposed fabric softens the space. The shower curtains are actually window panels outfitted with grommets. The cafe curtains were fashioned using tea towels, a curtain rod, and clip rings. With no room for a traditional towel bar, a double hook with glass finials stands in next to the shower.

Savvy Storage

Metal pots and bowls hold toiletries. These clever storage solutions add country charm to the bathroom.

Bright White Vanity

Updated to coordinate with the tub and toilet, the old oak vanity now looks more like a sophisticated dresser thanks to a few coats of white paint. A new countertop, sink, faucet, and hardware add to the makeover. Above the vanity are a pair of brushed nickel sconces and a medicine cabinet. On the wall, beach scenes bring together all the colors in the bathroom.

Versatile Accents

A wooden stool with a woven top serves many functions in this bathroom. It adds texture and plays off the room's beach-theme. It also offers a spot to place towels for easy access from the bathtub and a place to sit. In a small space, it's important to choose versatile pieces.

Beachy Bathroom Oasis

The first step in the bathroom's transformation was painting the walls a watery blue. Next, serene fabric choices, such as the cream-color cotton window shade and striped shower curtains, tie together the colors of the tiles and walls. A wooden coatrack adds storage by providing a handy spot to hang towels and robes. These elements work together to highlight the original claw-foot bathtub.