Remodeling your home can be exciting. Watching the place you know transform into something different may at first be a bittersweet process, but in the end, the right remodel can not only bring the aesthetics to the table but also make your space more functional and relevant for you and your family.
Statistically speaking, bathrooms are the most common home remodel project next to kitchens, according to the National Association of Home Builders. However, even though many end up revamping their bathroom at some point, deciding whether or not a bathroom remodel is what your home needs isn’t always obvious
Here are the signs that your bathroom needs a little freshening up soon:
1.Your bathroom’s decor isn’t exciting anymore.
There comes a point where the old decor is no longer enticing – and that’s okay. Part of the reason your decor may not be exciting for you anymore may simply be because you’ve had it for a long time. After all, interests change as time goes on. Another reason your decor may no longer be intriguing might have to do with the fact that your decor items are not relevant to the current era.
Regardless of the reason, updating your decor doesn’t have to be a bad thing, and it doesn’t have to be expensive. Even just swapping out some of your current decors for something new can provide a completely revamped space. Donating, selling, or giving away the decor you no longer want but are still in good condition can ensure your items are properly repurposed.
2.Things are worn down or damaged.
One of the most important reasons to remodel your bathroom is to replace any items that are worn down or damaged. Part of replacing such items has little to do with aesthetics but most importantly has to do with safety. Tending to the damage of your bathroom is crucial especially if you have children, pets, elderly folks, or disabled individuals in your home.
First focus on fixing or replacing the things in your bathroom that are the most hazardous. For instance, mold or mildew build-up, faulty fixtures, a broken toilet, and the like are things that should be tended to first before, say, a squeaky door, cracked tiles, or a chipped mirror.
3.There’s too much or not enough space.
While it’s not always a deal-breaker for everyone, a bathroom that has too much or too little space can be a bad thing. Not only might your bathroom appear visually off, but the improper amount of space available can alter the overall function and convenience of your bathroom.
The solution for eliminating excess space in your washroom would be to add filler items in the form of plants and general decor. Adding dark colors can help give the impression that your space is smaller. As for creating more space, first eliminate stocky decor items before deciding to move or reduce countertop space and other larger, more permanent elements in your design.
4.Your bathroom isn’t as functional as it should be.
Function is key for any interior design. The bathroom is no different. As everyone knows, bathrooms are designed to be a place where one uses the toilet, takes a bath or shower, brushes their teeth, and even gets ready in the morning. However, a faulty interior design layout can negatively impact how these functions are carried out.
For example, if an adult member in your household is of short stature, it would make sense to have lower countertops or provide a sturdy stool in your bathroom to ensure this individual can access the sink and other countertop features. Providing the proper accessibility and convenience for everyone in your home is one of the most important things with a remodel.
5.You never felt relaxed in your bathroom.
While not everyone will think they should feel relaxed in their bathroom, it makes sense in this day and age. Many of us live in what we call the “rat race.” Something as simple as having a peaceful place to shower or bathe can make a difference in our lives, as silly as it may sound. In a sense, the washroom is essentially an escape for many of us.
Making your bathroom more relaxing can be as simple as adding soothing colors (e.g., blue, green), decluttering your space, adding more natural light, installing dimmable lighting, or incorporating elements from nature. Relaxation can also come in the form of lit candles, artwork or framed photographs, or scented potpourri.
Tackling the Remodeling Process
Before even considering remodeling your bathroom, it’s important that you are strategic about how you carry out the plan. Because remodeling takes time, money, and effort, this shouldn’t be something you jump into without the proper groundwork.
Taking note of what your space needs from most to least can help you decide what needs to be tackled first in your bathroom. If your budget runs flat as you’re revamping your space, remember that remodeling doesn’t have to be instantaneous. Take your time, save cash specifically for your remodel, and seek out more affordable alternatives (e.g., flea market decor).
If you ever get lost while remodeling, know that there are many great resources for you to turn to both online and in person. If you believe your bathroom is in need of remodeling, you can get ideas from Unique Vanities to help you brainstorm.
Conclusion
Your washroom should be a place of function, relevancy, peace, and great aesthetics. But before giving a bathroom remodel a go in your own home, first knowing if it needs to be remodeled is the primary step. Boring decor, damaged items, not enough or too much space, improper function, and lack of relaxation are all signs it’s time to amp up your bathroom.
Fortunately, engaging in the actual remodeling process doesn’t have to take a lot of time, money, or work if you properly plan ahead and remodel at your own pace. Being mindful of your budget through the process and creating wiggle room as necessary can ensure you don’t go bankrupt through your remodel.