The perfect bathroom can be a wonderful retreat, but unfortunately remodeling a bathroom can be very expensive. A contractor can easily consume your budget because it takes a lot of time and work to remove tiles and fixtures, and install new ones. It can easily run tens of thousands of dollars. If you want to update your bathroom but cannot afford to spend that much try some of these tips.

Do Only What You Have to

Do not replace things that you do not have to. If your flooring, bathtub, and other fixtures are in good shape, then do not get rid of them. Instead update them by adding a fresh coat of paint to the walls and floor. Add a new shower curtain, towels, and accessories. These objects will make the room look like new again. Work with the room rather than against it. If your bathroom has vintage tile, for example, then bring in other pieces that look vintage. Change out the faucet with one an antique looking one. Bring in colors and accents from that time period, like lime with black and white for a 1950's style bathroom.

You may be surprised how much of a difference painting and adding new hardware will make to your cabinets. Showers can look dated, especially if they are not porcelain white, so disguise it with a classy shower curtain that will completely hide it.

Pick a Theme for Your Bathroom

Decorating you bathroom with a theme will make a strong statement, and with so many themed items available in stores, it is easy. You can find everything from undersea creatures to monkey shower curtains to more sophisticated floral designs. Most stores sell complete themes, so you can find everything from a shower curtain to towels to a toothbrush holder all in the same line.

Pick a theme that goes with what the tiles and fixtures that you already have. For example, pick colorful sea creatures or a nautical theme if you have blue or green tiles. Pink, blue, and purple go great with a garden theme. If you have a basic black and white background, then use graphic bright colors or stick with a white shower curtain and black and white accents. A few well-placed accents can transform your bathroom into a rainforest or an undersea haven.

Easy Remodeling

• Dark wood paneling dates a bathroom and makes it appear small and dark. It is relatively simple to sand the walls, prime them, and then apply a fresh coat of paint.
• Installing new lighting features is a relatively inexpensive way to modernize your bathroom. It also gives you the chance to get better lighting.
• Vinyl and ceramic tiles are easy to install and are a great choice if your floor is worn or outdated.