By Julie Bonnin

A monthly Shopperati feature on breathing new life into every room of your home.

It’s a given: As the housing market slows to a snail’s pace, remodeling is going to pick up speed. Instead of moving into a new house, we’re likely to take a critical look at where we are and consider how to expand or revive our rooms.

The bathroom, for those who long for a spa-like space, is a great place to start freshening up.

Not everyone uses a bath in the same way. For some it’s a place to recharge as quickly as possible. For others it’s a place to indulge and linger. But wouldn’t we all stay a bit longer if our bath resembled more of a pampering palace than perfunctory pitstop? Even a few significant changes can make a world of difference when it comes to revamping this space.

You probably already know your style: we’ll call them “romantic,” “contemporary” or “classic.” Now it’s time to soak up some of the ways your bathroom can be better.

In Love with the Romantic Style

I can’t think of any sorrow in the world that a hot bath wouldn’t help, just a little bit.
                      — Susan Glasee

A small, but elegant three-light chandelier in bronze can instantly transform your bathroom into a place where you long to linger, for example: this one from Lowe’s for $124. Want to elevate your lavatory into the realm of a floral fantasy? Kohler’s old world designs include a folk-art inspired basin with touches of real platinum and gold, for $1,331 (pictured).  

The right mirror on the wall can add a romantic touch to an otherwise alarming wakeup call. One from Home Décor World is flanked with champagne-colored frosted glass globes, $332.50. If your budget allows, why not invest in a cast-iron clawfoot tub, perfect for those oh-so-looong bubble baths, with prices from $1,285 from Classic Clawfoot Bathtubs, Accessories & More. Then towel off with sumptuous bath linens from Restoration Hardware, in soft blue, green, or taupe, $5 to $16.

Sensuously curved glass decanters store bath salts and other necessaries without skimping on style, from Accents of Salado, $95. A wrought iron towel bucket can help to define a more Mediterranean-style bath, $129.

Pages: 1 2 3