Create And Make It Your Own By Susan Sotkovsky, Co-Founder of Tole Tray®
With today's economy, everyone is mindful of how they're spending and what they're spending on. But don't let that hinder you if you want to re-do and update your bathroom or any room for that matter in your home. This is a time to think out of the box and embrace your creativity when it comes to decorating your bathroom. How do you accomplish this? By visiting your local antique shops, auction houses, flea markets, and yard sales. Antique shops are great to visit, (they're not just full of old, dark, and dusty stuff), because surprisingly, people in the past were just as crazy about color and style as they are today. Auction houses are a lot of fun too, once you get the hang of it, and there are always flea markets and yard sales around to roam. Just keep in mind that like everything else, there will be low, mid, and high end locations, all the advantages of having flexibility and options when looking for something special to have in your bathroom. You will be amazed of the many deals you can find out there, especially when the creative juices kick in.
Victorian Style Cabinet
One of the most versatile accessories you can have in your bathroom is a cabinet or a bookcase. Not only will it store towels and toiletries, but it's a wonderful decorative element that helps create your intimate space. Here are some other advantages:
1. There are many styles to choose from including Victorian, Mission, Art Deco, Retro, Modern or Country.
2. Older cabinets and bookcases are usually made of solid wood, therefore they arebuilt stronger and made to last. Vintage metal ones work just as well.
3. Whether it's wood or metal, if the "as is" appearance is not to your liking, remember that you can paint them in a color that would compliment your bath decor.
4. Lastly, the price is right. I found this beauty at an auction for only $80.00.
Innovated Bathroom Accessory
Now here's an example of thinking out of the box. This white wrought iron towel rack was originally a black wrought iron shelf unit with glass shelves. The glass shelves were missing because they had broken at some point and there was rust and dirt all over it. However, I loved the scrolled design and thought it could be useful for something, so I purchased it at an auction for $1.00. With a little cleaning and white paint, I made it into a great, yet unique towel rack.
Think of the possibilities with your own bathroom. You may already have that special accessory hidden in your basement, garage or attic so be sure to check there first. Colorful plates make a great wall arrangement and consider old paintings or prints to bring a little sophistication to your bath. It's wise to place them in frames with a glass enclosure to prevent moisture from getting in. Elegant lighting can be achieved by hanging a small vintage chandelier or choose another unusual light fixture for the unexpected. Have lots of fun creating and make it your own.
Beautiful Bathroom
Ever hear the old saying, "if there's a will, there's a way"? I truly believe in that. Facing a challenge of finding something that will accommodate enough storage space, but can only fit in a certain area and above all else, will look good, can be daunting. Being in that position can also make you settle for something that's just adequate. But why settle?
Take a look at this beautiful vanity. It makes a statement in the bathroom with it's good looks, compliments the area with it's large size and has ample storage space for bath necessities. How was this accomplished? This vanity was originally a 1920's chest of drawers made of solid oak. When it was purchased at an auction for $10.00, it had a burned area on the top of the dresser. Rather than my husband refinish the top, my neighbors, who were adding a bathroom to their home, asked if they could use the chest of drawers for a Victorian style vanity. They purchased a sink and faucet, had a carpenter make the necessary holes to accommodate the new fixtures. Voila!!!! Who knew recycling old furniture could look so beautiful?
So the next time you decide to decorate your bathroom, choose your paint colors and get inspired. Just remember to be creative, think out of the box and have fun doing it. You will feel great satisfaction decorating your special bathroom that is truly your own.
