A shower of luxury in your budget

Sharmila Chand

Is the monotony of your bathroom irking you? If you just nodded your head in affirmation, then get down to planning right away, while putting your mind to the limitations of your space and the kind of change you are looking at. Keeping style and functionality in mind, here are some pocket-friendly ideas for you.

Save the vintage look

If your bathroom is very old, it is possible that the wall tiles bear several coats of concrete and wire lath. It will be difficult and costly to remove these. So, retain the vintage tiles and add other elements to complement the look.

Light it up

Changing the lighting is the easiest thing you could do to lend a fresh feel to your bathroom. It is important to incorporate layers of accent, ambient and decorative lighting. A layered look with smart light fixtures lends a mysterious sparkle to the given space. While hanging pendants and light bars in the bathroom are trending, a pretty li'l chandelier could add that touch of glamour if you have a slightly bigger bathroom. Whichever lighting you choose, be sure to add dimmers onto the light switches so that you can create the right mood and ambience as and when required. Also, try going in for LED lighting fixtures as they're the most energy efficient and don't heat up your bathroom.

The right sink

It is very important that your sink is at the right height. Typical countertops are 32 to 34 inches above the floor. However, you need to consider how your sink will add to or take away from the countertop's height. For an above-counter vessel sink, you need to keep your counter height low so that you can use the sink comfortably. If the space is less, a corner sink is the best option. Before deciding upon the positioning of the sink, you also need to check how the entry or shower door opens.

Room for a tub

This is one luxury which can be avoided to free up space for better movement. However, you now have the option to go for a tiny tub as companies have started reducing their size to suit chic little spaces.

Vanity isn’t vain

We often indulge in vanities that are too big for the bathroom. So, the best would be to not go by look alone. Choose the right size and a good quality product. Experts say that high-end vanity materials enhance the look immensely in average-looking bathrooms. So, go for vanities in the higher end of the spectrum to make it look luxurious.

Shine and shimmer

Perk up your loo with elements like a mirror, glass or metal finish shelves, accent tiles, pretty hooks, textured walls and patterned curtains.

A simple thing like changing the toilet seat and adding a few matching accessories such as towel stands and toilet paper holder also lend colour to the bath. It is time you got rid of the old soap dish and invested in a new one along with matching hand towels and accessories.

It is a good idea to pair fabric panels with a clear plastic shower liner to block splatters. Pick a matching floor mat/rug with rubber backing for comfort.

Create your own spa

Jazz up your boring bath by converting it into a heavenly retreat. All you need to do is add some elements like a large rain style showerhead. Look for affordable models that are readily available these days. Complete the look and feel by adding elements like scented soaps, a reed diffuser and a glass bowl to be filled with flowers on those especially tiring days.

Make room for art

Who said you cannot adorn your bath walls with art work? Select your favourite prints or photographs, have them treated for water resistance and hang them there!