Tips for improving bathroom design on a budget

Sick of that tatty looking bathroom, but don't have the budget to go all out on a renovation? There are ways of getting the comfortable, enticing looking bathroom you want without breaking the bank.

Bathroom renovation: Decide what needs replacing first

The best way to save money can simply be sitting down and deciding what really needs replacing, and what can be remodelled, tidied up or simply lived with - prioritise. Replacing one part, such as a new shower head and taps in an existing cubicle, can make a world of difference.

Decide on one or two key features, such as a beautiful new sink and taps, or a deep luxurious bath, that will act as a focus, and remodel or change features on the rest.

Using space to aid bathroom design

Creating a sense of space can be done with minimal expense and can change the entire feel of a bathroom. Fitting a different shaped bath (corner ones are effective), using tall cabinets (rather than deep ones), fitting glass doors on the shower cubicle (instead of the sticky old curtain), a different lighting scheme (try the warm approach, using softer, well-placed lights), and the removal or storage of clutter, can open up and refresh a tired cramped feeling bathroom.

In with the old: Second hand bathroom features

Second hand doesn't have to mean second rate. Purchasing some features second hand can be fun and create a unique look - a claw footed bath, a refurbished stripped wooden cabinet or a tall mirror are examples of treasures that can save you money, reflect your personality and create your own look.

Bathroom furniture: Refurbish what you have

Often a cabinet, shelving unit, or even bath or mirror can be refurbished to create a beautiful new look. If the structure of your bathroom furniture retains its integrity, often stripping back and sealing, repainting, lacquering or varnishing can regenerate a tired space for a very small input of time and cash (plus it can be a fun task).

Bathroom design budget: Plan to Succeed

Don't go charging ahead and buying anything until you're sure of what you need, first, and want, second. Set your budget from the start and fit the renovation into it, rather than the other way around.

Measure spaces and fittings accurately to ensure that you acquire the correct items for your bathroom; it's far easier to get exactly what you need the first time round, rather than being left needing to accommodate stuff that's not quite right. Take a photo of your bathroom with you, as well as any samples and swatches of paint, tiles, or other features that you are considering. Fixing mistakes can be costly.

Bottom line, remove all clutter and start from scratch with the little luxuries; you may not need a new bath at all once you deck it out with some classy towels and a new towel rack, some soft lighting, polished taps and fittings, and a few luxurious oils and bath products. When it comes to creative bathroom design on a budget, sometimes the makeover need only be skin deep.