Bathrooms look so good in the pages of a magazine or scrolled out on those Pinterest boards don’t they? All those clean lines and sleek designs, the little pops of colour and the perfect styling. You wouldn't be alone if you dreamt that one day yours could look exactly the same but then again your budget doesn't look so extravagant. The truth is you can renovate your Bathroom to be both functional and beautiful without selling your left arm. If money is really, really tight we have some tips for you too so don’t despair, lets talk about how we can create a truly stunning and individual haven that will have you loving the space you are in.

Layout

If you have it in your budget to gut the whole bathroom and start again your first consideration should be the layout. Moving plumbing can be costly so if your bathroom absolutely needs rearranging then this comes on the top of your list of expenses. Compile your “must-have” list - do you want double vanities, a bath or a seperate toilet? Once you’re done with your list draw up some possibly layout options that you would consider, talk to a designer for their advice and then to get some quotes from some recommended plumbers.

Layout changes are not always financially viable but utilising and enhancing the space and design you have should still be at the fore front of your mind before you begin making changes.

(Image via Pinterest/Dezeen)

Tip: When considering a new layout try and picture yourself in that new space. Close your eyes and visualise yourself opening the drawers, brushing your teeth, reaching for the towel or toilet paper. Find what works for you and your households needs.

Tiling & Paint

This is a big decorative choice and can also be another big cost depending on your selections. Fallen in love with an expensive tile? Consider using it as a feature Wall in the shower, behind the vanity or on the floor and then use a more budget friendly tile elsewhere to balance out the cost. Don't forget to look in the sale section of your local tile shop but always ask how much they have left in stock so you don't get caught short!

A really tight budget? If your floor tiles are in good condition then you could consider re-grouting the floor (or having them professionally cleaned) and then re-tiling the walls only. Add a fresh lick of paint on the walls and some new tap and shower fixtures, towels and a bit of a buff and polish and you will will have a lovely bathroom.

(Image via Pinterest)

A really, really tight budget? A grout clean on floor and wall tiles and a repaint of the exposed wall sections can spruce up a bathroom too. You could also roll up your sleeves and use some tile paint to transform your outdated wall tiles! Add some new towels and decor pieces - like hanging plants or bamboo accessories - and voila - you’ve created a space that is freshly improved with just a bit of elbow grease and some spare change.

Fixtures & Fittings

You’ve now got your layout sorted and tiles selected it is time to choose your bath, vanity, shower screens, tapware and fittings. To keep a cohesive flow throughout your bathroom opt for the same metal on fittings and tapware. Also keep to a congruent shape and style. For example if you are going for a square shower head then choose a towel rail and tapware that have square base plates too. Oh and don’t walk past those bargain bins without have a look through! You may just find yourself a real steal!

Don’t discount the importance of shower screens and mirrors in your bathroom either. These can really pull the area and style together. Clear frameless shower screens will set you back a little more but they will open up the space if you are a little tight in there. Like wise a ceiling height and full vanity width mirror will make the room feel bigger.

(Image via Pinterest)

Cabinetry

When deciding on cabinetry think about whether you want it to stand out or blend in. If you have white wall tiles you could choose white cabinetry to keep a minimalistic look or if you want to warm the space you could add a touch of timber. Try and stick to a 3 colour palette and always put together the colours/textures/patterns of your selections to see how it all looks visually. Bear in mind the small samples you choose may be a lot busier on a bigger scale. Storage is also important so consider what you have in your existing space, what you need in day to day life and plan accordingly.

Lighting

Good lighting will make a bathroom functional and ambient. There are three types of lighting to consider: task, ambient and accent. Task lighting will help you put on your makeup and groom as needed - think lighting either side of you mirror. Ambient lighting is installed to create mood - think pendants or dimmable ceiling lights. Accent lighting, while not imperative to the function of a room, can add to the style by enhancing features - think under cabinet strip lighting or adjustable ceiling lights angled to highlight decorative features.

IMPORTANT: When water and electricity mix it can be deadly so always consult with a reputable electrician to help meet the requirements and standards to ensure your bathroom is safe.

(Image via Pinterest)

Thing to Remember

Plan ahead! Budget blowouts can occur when you fail to planUse qualified, professional and recommended tradespeopleBe thrifty but chose quality on long lasting items

And finally those gorgeous magazines images only show a snap shot of the actual space and they have been professionally styled to look a certain way. The image only shows you the best lighting, the best angle and just like a model there could be some elements of photoshopping to make it look bigger, brighter and more perfect. Take inspiration from the images but create a space that is true to you, your style and your way of living.

Cristy O'Brien

The Dream Stylist

Cristy from The Dream Stylist has a creative eye for colour and style. She loves nothing more than hearing her clients dreams, visualising them and then turning them into a reality. Cristy believes in the power that living and working in a beautiful space can have on people and specialises in residential projects as well as office spaces.

The Dream Stylist has seen many of her clients new build homes nominated for and winning MBA awards including Country Home of the Year 2017. Offering a range of services including in-home consultations and an e-decorating service option for those who don't live in Geraldton.

You can follow The Dream Stylist for daily inspiration on Instagramor Facebookor head to their websiteto learn more about the services they offer.