In my previous blog: “Remodeling On A Budget—The Kitchen” I admitted that I often complain about not having the luxurious updates my friend’s enjoy in their homes. Home improvements take money and not everyone’s household budgets can accommodate remodeling efforts. Or can they? Last month one of the dad’s in my daughter’s playgroup (an architect) gave me some tips on how to make remodeling more affordable.
The following are ways you can update your bathroom and basement without breaking the bank:
BATHROOM
Whirlpool Tub. Our toddler daughter has been begging for one of these “pools” for months. I don’t blame her—-there’s no better way to relax than to soak away your stress in a jetted tub (though, she’s more interested in the bubbles.”) Bottom line: jetted tubs are expensive. To make them a more affordable option, consider installing a one-person whirlpool tub. Not only does this cost less than the traditional two-person, but in most cases it can also fit in the footprint of your standard bathtub so you won’t need to pay for construction on your bathroom to create space.
Fancy Fixtures. I love the look of brass and nickel fixtures, but fancy fixtures come with a top-of-the-line price tag. You can save money by combining brass or nickel with chrome to achieve a two-tone look.
Heated Floors. This is an update I thought was reserved for the “Richie Rich’s” of the world. (You have to admit walking across a warm bathroom floor on a chilly morning is certainly a luxury.) So what is a far less expensive option to radiant floor heating? Recessed infrared heat lamps.
BASEMENT
Fireplace. I’ve always wanted a basement with a traditional brick fireplace, but installing one after a home is built can be very costly, not to mention a logistical nightmare. A cheaper alternative is to install a simulated fireplace that is electric and requires no ventilation. Granted, it’s not the real deal, but it does provide the illusion of flames as well as offer some heat.
Wall Treatments. Adding texture to walls can be an expensive proposition, especially if you want to finish them in wood or expensive fabric. The cost of the materials, not to mention the labor, can add up. If you can’t afford the real thing—faux it. Faux painting incorporates decorative finishes, including glazing, sponging, ragging, and wood graining—all which help to mimic a more expensive finish. With the right product and a bit of know how you can get your walls to look like real stone or crumbling masonry (for a European country look). If you want your walls to resemble suede look for textured paints, which contain solid materials like silica.
Related Articles:
Remodeling On A Budget—The Kitchen
Decorating Your Child’s Bathroom