Help! How do I update my bathroom without gutting it?

Since talking about my own bathroom re-do, I've had several requests for help.

"My small bathroom need help. The fixtures are pink! What can I do with the room without ripping out the old?"

"My guest bath has gold ceramic tile! Everything else is white. I need some advice on how to update the room without a major overhaul."

It's always tough to work with a color you aren't particularly happy with. Not impossible, but I understand the dilemma. There are several ways to approach the problem. You can either embrace the color and highlight it or try to play it down.

Retro is becoming very popular. If your bathroom fixtures have that old 70's look, why not run with it? Pick a neutral color for the walls like a soft beige or pale gold. Never paint your bathroom stark white. It doesn't do anything for the skin tone. The whole point is to make yourself look good. Choose towels, shower curtain and rug in a complimentary color (opposite on the color wheel) or complementary (another color that just looks good with it). If the tiles or sink are gold, try adding avocado (complimentary) If they are pink go with grey or black (complementary). Look for a shag rug and frame some of your old record album covers for artwork. Browse the resale shops for old 70's style dishes for soap and toiletries.

If you decide you can't relive the old days, then you need a new focal point. You will need something to take the eye away from the porcelain fixtures or tile. This could be an unusual wall treatment: wallpaper or a dramatic faux finish. Choose drapery and shower curtain fabric or a rug with a fabulous pattern or texture. Purchase luxurious towels with beautiful trim or buy inexpensive towels and add your own. Find something unique to hang on the wall. By adding a few unexpected accessories, the eye will be drawn away for the outdated tub. Give your guests something new to marvel at.

Don't forget lighting when working on a bathroom project. You can easily change a light fixture without calling an electrician. Never, ever use florescent lighting in a bathroom. Remember the goal is to make your refection look great.

Just because bathrooms are small spaces doesn't mean they have to be boring. Doesn't matter if you go with dramatic or serene, your goal should be the same: a room you can be proud of!