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5 ways to update your bathroom without changing a fixture

Writer: Raye BrookeRaye Brooke

Just because your bathroom predates 1950 doesn't mean it can't feel updated and cool, and it doesn't mean you have to throw out the bathtub with the bath water either. All it takes a little design finesse, fun and a sense of adventure to breathe new, artistic life into an old, boring bathroom.

Just because your bathroom predates 1950 doesn't mean it can't feel updated and cool, and it doesn't mean you have to throw out the bathtub with the bath water either. All it takes a little design finesse, fun and a sense of adventure to breathe new, artistic life into an old, boring bathroom. With a weekend and a few ideas, you'll be singing a whole new tune in the shower. Here are some easy design updates to bring charm and flair to an older bathroom without changing fixtures, sinks or toilets.

1. Go Eclectic - An eclectic design style is all about mixing and matching different elements to create a unique look. So don't be afraid to mix things up in your bathroom. Pair your vintage pedestal sink with an affordable sleek modern faucet or hang an rattan or natural wood mirror above a dated vanity. Add natural elements to soften. Play with textures and mix things up by using different textures throughout the bathroom. Add a fluffy rug, hang some textured towels, or use a basket weave or burlap shower curtain. Take a risk and you’ll instantly see the reward.

2. Bring in the Artwork - One of the easiest ways to add character to any room is with artwork. We’re not talking framed posters of your favorite film or some small itty-bitty images you swiped off the internet. We’re talking art. People rarely ever think of hanging a painting over the toilet or setting organic pieces of pottery on the vanity or a sculpture in the corner. By bringing in some artwork and making that be the centerpiece, most guests will overlook a dated room and focus on the artwork you’ve displayed.

3. Make Your Outdated Fixtures the Accessory. Sure, that old vanity can be embarrassing or that mauve tub or avocado sink, but with this approach, you make them be the accessories to your bathroom accessories. Use color that complements and enriches the space through towels, rugs, mirrors, shower curtains, artwork, bathroom sink sets that create a whole new vibe. Your eye will focus on the new, more interesting accessories that how become the statement for your bathroom. Pair black and gold with a pink fixture. Use shades of khaki, taupe, and charcoal gray with avocado fixtures. One piece of advice here. Avoid a gimmicky "theming" the bathroom with your accessories, for example a coastal theme with shells and starfish. This can actually make it feel more dated. Lean into color as a means to choose accessories. You'll thank me later.


4. What about Color - One of the best ways to liven up any space is with color. For renters, this can be problematic, but with so many removable wallpapers on the market, it’s easy to put up a print or color on a feature wall in the bathroom.


This can anchor the space, so your outdated sink or vanity is less of an eyesore. If you own your home but don’t have the skills or budget to change out fixtures, try a new paint called Beyond Paint. This paint is a primer, bonder and paint all in one and can be used for counter and vanity tops and cabinetry with amazing coverage and durability. And here's what’s glorious… there's no sanding, prepping or priming.

Just a really good pre-cleaning and you can paint immediately. We love their Licorice color. It hides a bevy of sins on old woodwork!





5. Elevate the Floor – So many times you try to disguise an outdated bathroom by rugs


covering a nasty floor with lots of fluffy rugs. But sometimes it actually draws attention to a bad floor. Today, with minimal budget and a decently sharp tile knife, you can install a peel-and-press floor in a matter of hours. Check out options at your local home store or online home décor retailers. You’ll many styles, some that look just like marble stone flooring. It's amazing how far along these tiles have come. Account for some scrap and mistakes when adding up your square footage. Then just sweep, vacuum and wash the floor, and you'll bepressing onto a fabulous stylish new floor.









With just a few simple design updates, you can easily turn your old bathroom into a charming oasis without changing the toilet, sink or tub. So don't be afraid to get creative and have some fun. Because, after that, every time you “go,” you’ll be glad you went with a change.

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