So this last week has been messy, ugly and, at times, frustrating during our small bathroom update. I have been doing shopping and discovering the unexpected aspects of making a room better. It is amazing what we have dealt with up to this point.

My husband and I always get a sigh of relief when we finally go for the projects that we have had on our list for a really long time. Can you relate?

We are going to move forward without doing anything to our yellowish tub/shower for now. We have gone back and forth about what to do, but for now I am going to move forward without replacing or refinishing it.

The room is bare (no light fixtures, mirrors, vanity, toilet or hooks.)

Unexpected Expenses

We found that one of the valves for the cold water was broken and needed to be replaced when we moved the vanity. We also were reminded that we would need to replace one side of the vanity because it got wet from previous owners of the home, that our flusher handle is broken and we would need a new toilet ring. So part of our budget went to a new valve, some wood, a new flusher handle and toilet ring. These are not parts of the bathroom that are going to make a huge impact in aesthetic, but they are huge for function and quality. When you are doing projects, always plan to spend money on non-cosmetic things that are foundational to the room.

Flooring is Gone!

We also lifted up the previous flooring and found that it was the second layer so it was a very good thing we didn’t put our new flooring on top. The first layer was a terrible yellow floral from 1970 and the second was the once white, now yellowish brown flooring that we have been stomaching for the last few years.

It was easy to take up the flooring and Cody sanded the floor so it looks really good and ready for the new flooring. I was able to find black flooring that was in budget and will fit the design well at Home Depot.

Painting Underway

The next step was to prime the room so we could get new color on the wall. I was able to finish the priming, but I have not got to painting again yet.

Celebrating what is done

Now it is about being creative with what I have and helping Cody finish the other projects that will be the finishing touches, like the shelving and storage.

Getting the room down to the bones gets me excited about the changes that can happen in this space. I hope you will keep following along. Do you have any questions about removing the toilet or vanity?

Wall Inspiration

Here is another inspiration pic I found on Instagram. I have been looking for ways to make the walls more unique and I love this Sharpie tile wall. Check out my article about being inspired and influenced by social media for your home.

Best,

Lucy Bowman