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Accessorizing Your Bathroom
by Shannon McMahon Bruchal
Today's bathrooms are all about
retreat. Soothing, relaxing textures, materials and colors that combine to create
your own personal spa, right in your home. How do you take the bathroom you
have and turn it into something spectacular?
First, look at the color. How does
the color make you feel? Choose colors that make you feel rested and
relaxed. Blues, greens, pinks and neutrals all evoke a sense of calm in the
bathroom. Select the shades that best capture the feeling of peace or
tranquility for you. Once you have determined the color, you will want to
add other elements to enhance the theme or mood.
Sinks
Bathroom sinks today go far beyond white porcelain. Use your instincts
to guide you to materials that call to your senses. Sinks can be dropped
into an existing counter or vanity, or sit on the top. If bathroom storage
is not a necessity, consider a pedestal sink -- it takes up less
room and also adds an element of interest. Wall mount sinks
attach right to the
wall, making them great for bathrooms with limited space. Decorative basins
in textured glass add a touch of light-catching color. Shiny copper, brass
and stainless steel reflect the light and offer a polished look. A bronze
sink with a hand-applied patina gives your bathroom an earthy, old world
feel. For an exotic look, try a wood
basin.
Faucets
Whether your style is traditional or modern, new faucets for the sink
and tub can change the whole outlook of your bathroom. If you prefer an
antique look, opt for faucets with shapes and finishes that recall another
era. For contemporary style, a sleek
single-hole faucet takes up less space. You may also want to consider a wall
mount, especially if you have a sink that sits above the counter. Coordinate your sink and tub faucets
to create an ensemble.
Vanities
You can change the look and feel of your bathroom simply by replacing
your vanity. Trade in your standard sink and cabinet for something more
dramatic, like a glass countertop sink, or go for the country cottage look with
a wood vanity that has the beauty of antique furniture. Whatever the style
of vanity, make sure the mirror
or medicine cabinet you use is
proportionate.
Accessories
Accessories set the tone in the bathroom.
Choose classic bathroom
fixtures with antiqued finishes of pewter,
copper and brass to accentuate a traditional bathroom. To modernize your
bathroom, use bathroom accessories with smooth, clean lines and high-gloss
or brushed finishes of chrome, nickel and brass. A towel bar
crafted
with metal and semi-precious minerals provides a sophisticated and organic texture. Add a hint of
romantic drama to your space with a bathroom bench of wrought iron.
Bathroom
shelves hold soaps, lotions, shampoos and luxurious towels, adding to the
comfort and relaxed mood of the room. Robe and towel hooks
keep the family's
robes and towels organized and off the floor.
Imagine having a warm, dry towel waiting for you when you finish your
shower. A towel radiator will heat and dry your clothes and towels, as well
as your bathroom. You can even program the towel radiator to turn on when
you wish so that electricity is not wasted.
You can create a luxurious and
indulgent bathroom by changing or adding elements and accessories that fit
your style and budget. Don't be afraid to try new materials, colors or
textures -- just go with what soothes and relaxes you and you can't go
wrong.
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