Before and After: Bathrooms

White tile, sink and tub function without giving offense-or pleasure. Click ahead to see how cosmetic changes add oomph.

Switching out dated wallpaper for a bold hue injects sunny personality that the stencils echo. The Roman shade adds another pop of color. Though neutral, the DIY skirt around the pedestal sink works hard by providing storage. A simple framed mirror matches the window trim. Note how the stripes on the hand towel hint at the stripe in the tile.

When the cabinetry is still in good condition, it is a waste to tear it out. See how these homeowners upcycled theirs in the next slide. 

A white lacquer finish updates the tired brown vanity. Two beveled mirrors accented by capiz shell tiles up the shine. Now, the existing sink, tile backsplash and counter look great in their new surroundings.

A 1920s condo small bath is plain Jane even with the shot of black in the sink and mirror.  In the next slide, see how a new look balances the home's roots with modern style.

Covering the radiator and adding a nickel washbasin hints at the 1920s. Lustrous floral wallpaper brings the room into the modern era.

A bulky vanity crowds this bathroom. The homeowners kept the same lines while lightening the look. 

The new, airier vanity follows the same footprint as the old one, but without the bulk. Shelves beneath still provide some storage. Grass-cloth wallpaper adds another light element. Calcutta gold marble on floor and wall behind the vanity injects elegance.

Double sinks in this 1950s ranch bathroom accommodated two without style. Click to the next slide to see a new personality.

A tall cabinet separates ready-to-assemble cabinets to maintain two prep areas but with expanded storage and style. (And what a perfect place for a collection of alarm clocks!) Flexible rubber floor tiles are easy to work with and low cost.