Homes & Gardens: How can I update my bathroom without replacing it? Expert designers offer budget-bucking tips

Written by: Karen Darlow | Original Article

If you're thinking about updating your bathroom but aren't ready for the inconvenience or cost involved in a full refit, you are in the right place. 

There are plenty of creative ways to give this very important room a revamp without resorting to replacing all the fixtures and fittings. Indeed, when you're looking for bathroom ideas it's often easier to perfect or update an existing look with some minor adjustments rather than starting from scratch and trying to envisage a coherent scheme. 

So if you're wondering how to update my bathroom without replacing it, we've got it covered with some great advice from interior designers who share their tips for bathroom updates, from simply adding in new accessories to changing the walls, floors or basin backsplash. Just the inspiration you need to refresh the look of your bathroom.   

HOW TO UPDATE A BATHROOM WITHOUT REPLACING IT

So how can you update a bathroom without replacing it? Start by thinking what you actually want to achieve, and why you're thinking of an update rather than replacing the whole room. Small changes can make a big difference to the look of a bathroom and really bring the scheme together. So it's worth considering the positive impact a few minor updates will have, particularly if you're happy with the existing fittings.

Choosing to update a bathroom rather than refitting it is also a good way to keep costs down. Keeping the existing bathroom furniture – the bath, basin, WC and shower – not only saves money, but also saves a lot of inconvenience and means the room can still be largely in use as you update it. 

Changing the flooring can make a dramatic difference to the look of your bathroom, even if everything else stays the same. Whether you choose a smart geometric marble tiled look, wood-look tiles, or tiles in a more traditional design, you won't regret making new bathroom flooring ideas one of your key updates. 

And don't underestimate the impact of adding a bathroom rug or bath mat. 

'This is an opportunity to bring in color, texture and pattern depending on the existing colors and patterns in the space. But choose wisely, boho chic is only for dorm rooms,' says interior designer Sashya Thind.