Small Bathroom Space Solutions

Small bathrooms are great for efficiency, but perhaps not for space. Here are some decorating tricks you can use to create the illusion of spaciousness in the tiniest of bathrooms:

• Play up vertical space with wallpaper, paint, and other decorative elements
• Well-selected accessories add style and unity to small spaces
• Use transparent/translucent materials such as glass to create visual space
• Explore angled surfaces and corner units to decrease visual clutter.
• Stick to a single color scheme.
• Place mirrors in spots that will reflect light.
• Add interesting elements like a single painted wall or chandelier.

For more photos and ideas for small bathroom space solutions, see this article on houzz.com.

Budget Bathroom Makeover

Small spaces shouldn’t limit your style, and it’s easier than ever to redesign a bathroom on a budget. This HGTV article boasts bathroom makeovers for under $2,000. If you pick and choose ideas from these projects, you could come in at even less!

Here are a couple budget bathroom improvements you might try:

• Install a curved shower curtain rod.
• Use baskets for storing towels and toiletries.
• Display personal collections on shelves.
• Decorate stock items with patterned paper or fabric details.
• Use wall stickers to create art on tile, and paint stencils for drywall.

Kitchen Trend: Contrasting Countertops and Islands

All around town we’re seeing lots of homeowners update kitchen islands and countertops in contrasting colors and textures. This is a look that will last if done right. Check out this photo slideshow of contrasting countertops and islands from Better Homes & Gardens for some inspiration, and call Sophisticated Stone when you’re ready to take the plunge!

Kitchen Contrasts That Work:

• wood island, white countertops, and painted cabinetry

• matching island color with cabinet trim

• same color surfaces and contrasting cabinetry