Tip: Refresh your bathroom without major renovation. Kitchen and bathroom renovations add the most value to your house but typically are also quite costly. Some times the basics are still in a good condition so that some smaller cosmetic changes can make a big difference. This master bath had dated flower wallpaper that was already removed in the “before” picture. The oak cabinetry showed wear and tear and the vanity has some florescent lights overhead that created a harsh lighting over the counters. The Orlando interior designer Helene Bonello-Strauss opted for a cosmetic overhaul that cost little money but gave the room a big impact. The walls were painted in a warm terra cotta color. The tiles, tub and shower were in good shape and did not need changing. Only the vanity received some new faucets to replace the corroded old ones. The vanity cabinets were refinished in a black brown satin finish. The paint color name “Starry Night” which gave us a very rich dark brown. Perfect to hide imperfections. The commode was in the back right corner without real privacy. Helene used a carved screen to give that area some additional separation and visual interest. Since curtains in bathrooms are impractical this is a good way to add texture without adding opportunity for mold. The fluorescent lights were closed up and replaced with some 4 ” halogen pot lights over the sinks. They provide a nice warm glow. Alternatively one can use LED fixtures that come in various sizes and wattage without the added heat output of halogen. This bathroom now presents itself in a total different way. From outdated to fabulous in a little more than a weekend on a tight budget. What more can the homeowner ask for. Would this had been a gut renovation this bathroom remodel would have cost $ 5000 at a minimum and could go into the tens of thousands if the fixtures were real exclusive and elaborate. Good design does not have to cost a fortune to look great. Sometimes all it takes are some good ideas and elbow grease.

Faucets, paint and some better lighting make a world of difference

This bathroom had dated flower wallpaper. Here it shows the bare walls but still is in need of some design