Welcome to Part III of my DIY Ranch Design Series. As I’m sure you gathered from Part I & Part II, the entire renovation process is such a creative and therapeutic outlet for me, and has been since I was a little girl. My parents didn’t believe in paying for anything that we could make or build ourselves, encouraging us to put our imagination and ingenuity to good use.
And why not? If you take one large project and divide it into smaller sub-projects, anything is possible. If a sub-project goes wrong, it doesn’t have to affect the whole project. The Blue Bathroom is the perfect example of how to salvage the big picture—always!
Problem 1: My husband took one look at this blue beauty and almost decided to demo the entire house.
Solution: I presented him with the average cost to build as opposed to renovate.
Problem 2: Ever wonder where all of the 1970s blue tile and floral wallpaper went? Apparently, every last bit was used to finish out this bathroom.
Solution: To gut the entire bathroom and start all over—not just because of the tile and wallpaper. By getting rid of the unnecessary built-in cabinets and a privacy wall, the 8 ½ x 11-foot space felt bigger.
Problem 3: For a bathroom that serves two bedrooms, it only has one sink and a shower. As a tub-girl, a bathroom without a tub is simply a half bath.
Solution: Move the shower over to occupy the space where the built-in cabinets once were, tear down the privacy wall, and purchase a chic toilet and floating vanity with a double-sink.
Problem 4: I wanted to splurge on this Daltile tile without going over the budget. With my fashion background, I know that high-end accessories can make an entire outfit look expensive.
Solution: I purchased the tub, shower equipment, toilet, vanity light, and vanity on Build.Com. This website sells designer pieces on the cheap, and helped me readjust the budget to make room for purchasing the tile. Another great place to find deals are salvage yards. Though I didn’t purchase salvaged items for this bathroom, there are many salvaged pieces throughout the ranch house.
What do you guys think? Is this an improvement over the blue tile? Is anyone thinking about a bathroom renovation? If so, let me know what you’re planning! Then be sure to join me next month for Part IV of my DIY Ranch Design Series.
