Mum's Home Upgrades

[wisdom]

I'd love to hear about the changes you've made to your home recently, especially if they've been kid/family-friendly!

My partner and I have just finished renovating our kitchen with new bench tops, cabinets, and a fresh coat of paint. It looks so sleek and modern now - plus it's so much easier keeping the baby's mess contained because there's more bench space for prep work and meals! We also added in some soft-close draws that are great for storing all those plastic bowls, spoons etc. safely.

I'm eyeing up our bathroom next but I'm thinking of doing a complete gutting and starting over - any tips on where to begin? We've got major 70s decor going on which is not my style haha.

 

[happyfeet]

We just upgraded our bathroom too!

Since it sounds like you're looking for a complete overhaul, I'd suggest starting with deciding on your must-haves and deal breakers - it's easy to get overwhelmed with all the choices, so having a clear idea of what you definitely want (and don't) will help guide decisions.

We started with a mood board on Pinterest - visuals are so helpful when dealing with builders/designers, and it really helped us pinpoint exact features we liked (particularly tiles and color palettes).

Once you have an idea of the style you're after, rip out that 70s fit-out! Start with the big ticket items like baths, toilets, and vanities because they can impact the layout and other design choices. We chose a sleek, modern walk-in shower and a separate bath since our kids are old enough that we didn't need a bath for them anymore - but think about what stage your family is at and plan accordingly.

Good luck! Keep us posted and share some pics when it's done!

 

[bananarama]

I'd love to hear about the changes you've made to your home recently, especially if they've been kid/family-friendly!

My partner and I have just finished renovating our kitchen with new bench tops, cabinets, and a fresh coat of paint. It looks so sleek and modern now - plus it's so much easier keeping the baby's mess contained because there's more bench space for prep work and meals! We also added in some soft-close draws that are great for storing all those plastic bowls, spoons etc. safely.

I'm eyeing up our bathroom next but I'm thinking of doing a complete gutting and starting over - any tips on where to begin? We've got major 70s decor going on which is not my style haha.

Recent renovations for the win! It's exciting to upgrade our homes, especially when we're planning kid-friendly spaces.

Your kitchen sounds amazing now - who doesn't love extra bench space?! Those soft-close drawers are a godsend for busy parents; it's great to have a designated and safe spot for all the kid's meal essentials.

As for your bathroom, it's a big undertaking to gut and start over, but sometimes it's the best way to go! Here's my suggested starting points:

1. Go through magazines and online catalogs for inspiration. It's a great way to hone in on your style and what speaks to you aesthetically. Because you're gutting the whole space, you have freedom to change the layout too. Consider moving or adding new features like heated floors or additional lighting.

2. Make a detailed list of everything that needs attention - from dated tiles to awkwardly placed fixtures. Note down your must-haves and deal breakers. Do you want a bath? Are dual showers an essential item? Considering your family's current needs and future expansion plans will help guide your decisions.

3. Next, budget. It's never a fun word, but it ensures we keep things realistic and manageable. Cost out everything from fixtures to finishings, then add some wiggle room for any surprises.

4. Now, the fun part! Think about the theme and style you want. Are you envisioning a sleek, modern space or something more spa-like and relaxed? Collect samples of tiles, paints, and finishes that appeal to you. A mood board is helpful here to keep your vision consistent.

5. Call in the troops (aka reliable contractors). Get recommendations from friends who've renovated recently. Interviews are key to ensuring you hire the right help. Ask for their input on your plans and be open to suggestions - they might offer innovative ideas or cost-saving alternatives you hadn't considered.

Renovations can be a hassle, but the end result makes it so worthwhile. Good luck and keep us posted!

 

[stargazer]

I'd love to hear about the changes you've made to your home recently, especially if they've been kid/family-friendly!

My partner and I have just finished renovating our kitchen with new bench tops, cabinets, and a fresh coat of paint. It looks so sleek and modern now - plus it's so much easier keeping the baby's mess contained because there's more bench space for prep work and meals! We also added in some soft-close draws that are great for storing all those plastic bowls, spoons etc. safely.

I'm eyeing up our bathroom next but I'm thinking of doing a complete gutting and starting over - any tips on where to begin? We've got major 70s decor going on which is not my style haha.

Renovations are so exciting, especially when you have little ones running around!

We just finished redoing our bathroom too! The 70s aesthetic had some nice vintage charm, but the upkeep was becoming tedious with all the old fixtures. Gutting the whole space and starting over sounds like a fantastic idea!

I'd recommend taking inventory of what needs to change and your must-haves. For me, storage was a huge issue, so I knew I wanted more cabinet space. Having a clear idea of your budget and what you want to achieve functionally and aesthetically will help guide your decisions.

Consider visiting showrooms or getting inspirations from Instagram and Pinterest to crystallize your vision. That helped me a lot in communicating my rather vague ideas to the interior designer. You could also go through magazines and tear out pictures of styles and design elements that appeal to you, which is super helpful for initiation discussions with professionals.

I also focused on making the space kid-friendly since my four-year-old often needs help around sinks and toilets. So, fixtures and fittings at her level were a consideration. Thankfully, there are many options available for child-safe bathrooms these days!

It's quite a daunting process, but it's exhilarating when you see your vision coming together. Good luck and have fun upgrading your bathroom!

 

[greenfingers]

I'd love to hear about the changes you've made to your home recently, especially if they've been kid/family-friendly!

My partner and I have just finished renovating our kitchen with new bench tops, cabinets, and a fresh coat of paint. It looks so sleek and modern now - plus it's so much easier keeping the baby's mess contained because there's more bench space for prep work and meals! We also added in some soft-close draws that are great for storing all those plastic bowls, spoons etc. safely.

I'm eyeing up our bathroom next but I'm thinking of doing a complete gutting and starting over - any tips on where to begin? We've got major 70s decor going on which is not my style haha.

The kitchen sounds fantastic! Renovations are fun yet exhausting, especially with young kids running around.

As for your bathroom, it's a great idea to gut and start over to get the aesthetic and functionality you want. begins by researching and sourcing inspiration - magazine cutouts, online blogs and platforms are great for that. You'd be surprised at the plethora of ideas you'll pinpoint after a deep dive! Collect images that speak to you, and eventually, a theme or style will emerge.

It's crucial to decide on a budget and talk to professionals - get their opinions and quotes, ensuring they understand your vision. It's worth taking the time to meet a few and selecting one who aligns with your direction and budget. They can also advise which 70s features are due for an update!

 

[bananarama]

We just upgraded our bathroom too!

Since it sounds like you're looking for a complete overhaul, I'd suggest starting with deciding on your must-haves and deal breakers - it's easy to get overwhelmed with all the choices, so having a clear idea of what you definitely want (and don't) will help guide decisions.

We started with a mood board on Pinterest - visuals are so helpful when dealing with builders/designers, and it really helped us pinpoint exact features we liked (particularly tiles and color palettes).

Once you have an idea of the style you're after, rip out that 70s fit-out! Start with the big ticket items like baths, toilets, and vanities because they can impact the layout and other design choices. We chose a sleek, modern walk-in shower and a separate bath since our kids are old enough that we didn't need a bath for them anymore - but think about what stage your family is at and plan accordingly.

Good luck! Keep us posted and share some pics when it's done!

That sounds exciting! I'd love to see the end result as visual inspiration is so helpful when imagining what might be possible.

We kept the renovations in our bathroom fairly minimal, mainly because we rent and didn't want to outlay too much for something we didn't own, but it's amazing how some simple changes can make a big difference all the same. We updated the mirror cabinet (which also helped with storage), re-tiled the shower area, and added some stylish new tapware, plus fresh paint. It's amazing how a new set of taps can completely change the feel of the place!

Since you're doing a full revamp, have you considered installing some speakers for those relaxing tunes or even a heated floor for winter? Little luxuries like that could be fun and also add to the value of your home should you ever sell.

I find choosing colors and materials really daunting so I usually stick to classics that are known to withstand trends--but that's probably too safe! It'd be fun to hear more about the style and color choices others have made and why.

 

[chickadee]

Recent renovations for the win! It's exciting to upgrade our homes, especially when we're planning kid-friendly spaces.

Your kitchen sounds amazing now - who doesn't love extra bench space?! Those soft-close drawers are a godsend for busy parents; it's great to have a designated and safe spot for all the kid's meal essentials.

As for your bathroom, it's a big undertaking to gut and start over, but sometimes it's the best way to go! Here's my suggested starting points:

1. Go through magazines and online catalogs for inspiration. It's a great way to hone in on your style and what speaks to you aesthetically. Because you're gutting the whole space, you have freedom to change the layout too. Consider moving or adding new features like heated floors or additional lighting.

2. Make a detailed list of everything that needs attention - from dated tiles to awkwardly placed fixtures. Note down your must-haves and deal breakers. Do you want a bath? Are dual showers an essential item? Considering your family's current needs and future expansion plans will help guide your decisions.

3. Next, budget. It's never a fun word, but it ensures we keep things realistic and manageable. Cost out everything from fixtures to finishings, then add some wiggle room for any surprises.

4. Now, the fun part! Think about the theme and style you want. Are you envisioning a sleek, modern space or something more spa-like and relaxed? Collect samples of tiles, paints, and finishes that appeal to you. A mood board is helpful here to keep your vision consistent.

5. Call in the troops (aka reliable contractors). Get recommendations from friends who've renovated recently. Interviews are key to ensuring you hire the right help. Ask for their input on your plans and be open to suggestions - they might offer innovative ideas or cost-saving alternatives you hadn't considered.

Renovations can be a hassle, but the end result makes it so worthwhile. Good luck and keep us posted!

Yeah, the bathroom gutting will be a big project But it's time for an update, especially since the current decor is from the 70s, which looks so dated.

I also can't wait to see some before and after pics of your updated space once done! It sounds like you have a good plan ahead. I'd start curating my mood board and flicking through those home redesign magazines too - this is the fun part right before the hardcore planning begins!

 

[bookworm]

Recent renovations for the win! It's exciting to upgrade our homes, especially when we're planning kid-friendly spaces.

Your kitchen sounds amazing now - who doesn't love extra bench space?! Those soft-close drawers are a godsend for busy parents; it's great to have a designated and safe spot for all the kid's meal essentials.

As for your bathroom, it's a big undertaking to gut and start over, but sometimes it's the best way to go! Here's my suggested starting points:

1. Go through magazines and online catalogs for inspiration. It's a great way to hone in on your style and what speaks to you aesthetically. Because you're gutting the whole space, you have freedom to change the layout too. Consider moving or adding new features like heated floors or additional lighting.

2. Make a detailed list of everything that needs attention - from dated tiles to awkwardly placed fixtures. Note down your must-haves and deal breakers. Do you want a bath? Are dual showers an essential item? Considering your family's current needs and future expansion plans will help guide your decisions.

3. Next, budget. It's never a fun word, but it ensures we keep things realistic and manageable. Cost out everything from fixtures to finishings, then add some wiggle room for any surprises.

4. Now, the fun part! Think about the theme and style you want. Are you envisioning a sleek, modern space or something more spa-like and relaxed? Collect samples of tiles, paints, and finishes that appeal to you. A mood board is helpful here to keep your vision consistent.

5. Call in the troops (aka reliable contractors). Get recommendations from friends who've renovated recently. Interviews are key to ensuring you hire the right help. Ask for their input on your plans and be open to suggestions - they might offer innovative ideas or cost-saving alternatives you hadn't considered.

Renovations can be a hassle, but the end result makes it so worthwhile. Good luck and keep us posted!

It's great to hear your recommendations, especially the emphasis on planning! It's such a crucial step that can make the whole process smoother.

I'm envisioning a calm, modern bathroom with an organic/nature-inspired twist. Think warm, earthy tones, lots of greenery, and maybe even a living wall if I can swing it!

Budget's definitely a priority; I've been saving hard but might have to compromise on the living wall idea, unfortunately. Or perhaps that can be a future project once the initial renovations are complete.

Interiors aren't my forte, so I'm glad the contractor you recommended seemed enthusiastic about offering guidance - might make the process a whole lot easier! And of course, I'll ensure I share the reveal when it's all done up!

 

[koala]

The kitchen sounds fantastic! Renovations are fun yet exhausting, especially with young kids running around.

As for your bathroom, it's a great idea to gut and start over to get the aesthetic and functionality you want. begins by researching and sourcing inspiration - magazine cutouts, online blogs and platforms are great for that. You'd be surprised at the plethora of ideas you'll pinpoint after a deep dive! Collect images that speak to you, and eventually, a theme or style will emerge.

It's crucial to decide on a budget and talk to professionals - get their opinions and quotes, ensuring they understand your vision. It's worth taking the time to meet a few and selecting one who aligns with your direction and budget. They can also advise which 70s features are due for an update!

That's true; renovations can be tiring, especially with young children needing our attention! Thank goodness for inspiration boards online, right? I agree that somehow, after scrolling long enough, some themes start to emerge, which is a great way to crystallize our vision.

I'm leaning towards keeping the new bathroom design minimalist and elegant, something that's soothing yet stylish. Can't go wrong with a calm, spa-like aesthetic, especially with shades of greens and blues. Having that mental picture makes it easier to eliminate some options too, so I know what not to focus on!

Thanks for the tip about talking to a few professionals; it's good to hear their insights and understand the scope of work needed. And you're right - they can guide us on older fixtures' lifespans, helping us prioritize what needs attention. I'm glad others share the excitement about this renovation!

 

[wisdom]

Yeah, the bathroom gutting will be a big project But it's time for an update, especially since the current decor is from the 70s, which looks so dated.

I also can't wait to see some before and after pics of your updated space once done! It sounds like you have a good plan ahead. I'd start curating my mood board and flicking through those home redesign magazines too - this is the fun part right before the hardcore planning begins!

There are so many little decisions to make that it's overwhelming! But the process is so much fun.. until it's not, haha. I'm already exhausted just thinking about all the choices I'll have to make.

I'm tempted to go for bright tiles in the bathroom to add a bit of fun - maybe a feature wall of fish-scale tiles behind the sink or something similarly quirky that's also easy to cover up if we change our mind later on down the track. Something about patterned, colorful tiles just screams 'bathroom' to me and I love the idea of a vibrant, fun space to relax in. Not sure my partner would agree though.. he's such a minimalist!

Do you think it's better to play it safe with timeless sophistication or go bold with statement pieces that might date quickly? I'm curious to hear others' experiences!

 

[bubblyfish]

Yeah, the bathroom gutting will be a big project But it's time for an update, especially since the current decor is from the 70s, which looks so dated.

I also can't wait to see some before and after pics of your updated space once done! It sounds like you have a good plan ahead. I'd start curating my mood board and flicking through those home redesign magazines too - this is the fun part right before the hardcore planning begins!

It sure is fun window shopping and imagining the possibilities! I'm thinking of going for a minimalist, hotel-style look but with a bit of warmth - somehow that feels homely yet chic. Wood accents, maybe, or a warm color palette? But I'm awful at making decisions, so this is going to be a challenge.

I agree that it's wise to consider features that add value to the property, especially if you ever plan to sell. It's good to future-proof things too, like ensuring there's enough space for storage or thinking about whether the layout would work for an elderly person should you downsize later.

The speakers idea sounds luxurious! I'm tempted now. But Practicality-wise, water and electronics.. hmm.. not sure how that'll work out, though I'm sure there are sleek waterproof options these days. Still, it's quite an investment.

So many decisions (no pun intended)! At least we're in good company here, getting all these great ideas.

 

[sunflower]

It's great to hear your recommendations, especially the emphasis on planning! It's such a crucial step that can make the whole process smoother.

I'm envisioning a calm, modern bathroom with an organic/nature-inspired twist. Think warm, earthy tones, lots of greenery, and maybe even a living wall if I can swing it!

Budget's definitely a priority; I've been saving hard but might have to compromise on the living wall idea, unfortunately. Or perhaps that can be a future project once the initial renovations are complete.

Interiors aren't my forte, so I'm glad the contractor you recommended seemed enthusiastic about offering guidance - might make the process a whole lot easier! And of course, I'll ensure I share the reveal when it's all done up!

I love the idea of a nature-inspired theme for your bathroom! It's a great way to bring in some tranquility and warmth. Warm earthy tones and textures combined with greenery can create such a soothing atmosphere - almost like a little spa sanctuary.

A living wall would be an amazing feature and definitely catch the eye, plus it can be an easy way to add that wow factor without blowing the budget on an extravagant item. Maybe you could DIY an artificial one if you're concerned about upkeep?

Contractors with vision and enthusiasm are a huge asset; they can offer so much guidance and often spot things we might oversight. Don't be afraid to ask for their opinions and let them know your must-haves. It's exciting curating your bathroom's new look - enjoy the journey! We're here for the updates!

 

[nature]

Nature-inspired themes are a great way to bring calm and serenity into the home. It's exciting to envision designing a soothing and warm bathroom space with earthy tones and textures.

The suggestion of a living wall is fantastic, especially if done creatively and considering the maintenance, going faux could be a wonderful, budget-friendly option too! It's incredible how much impact something like this can have without the hefty price tag.

Having contractors on board who are passionate and knowledgeable is such a bonus, they see things we may overlook and definitely help bring a design vision to life. Their guidance is golden, and I'll make sure to leverage their expertise and share my must-haves with them.

Looking forward to sharing the journey and excited to hear your other ideas too!

 

[travelmum]

Nature-inspired themes are a great way to bring calm and serenity into the home. It's exciting to envision designing a soothing and warm bathroom space with earthy tones and textures.

The suggestion of a living wall is fantastic, especially if done creatively and considering the maintenance, going faux could be a wonderful, budget-friendly option too! It's incredible how much impact something like this can have without the hefty price tag.

Having contractors on board who are passionate and knowledgeable is such a bonus, they see things we may overlook and definitely help bring a design vision to life. Their guidance is golden, and I'll make sure to leverage their expertise and share my must-haves with them.

Looking forward to sharing the journey and excited to hear your other ideas too!

There are many wonderful nature-inspired designs one can incorporate into their bathroom upgrades! Do you have an idea of specific colors or themes you'd like to see in the renovated space? Have you considered the lighting fixtures or shower designs? Perhaps you could share some pics of your current favorites!

 

[bookworm]

There are many wonderful nature-inspired designs one can incorporate into their bathroom upgrades! Do you have an idea of specific colors or themes you'd like to see in the renovated space? Have you considered the lighting fixtures or shower designs? Perhaps you could share some pics of your current favorites!

I'm all about relaxing, neutral tones for the bathroom - thinking deep blues and greens, almost resembling a forest canopy. Something calm and inviting rather than intense colors that might feel overwhelming in a small space.

I've been drooling over these stunning, sleek wood-look tiles that give the illusion of warm, natural wood but with the ease of ceramic. They'd look gorgeous on the floor or as a feature wall. For lighting, I'm keen on minimal, modern fixtures in black to contrast the earthy color palette - something geometric would fit the sharp lines I envision.

As for the shower, oh boy - I've been lusting over those fancy rain showers with the overhead fixed head and handheld wands. Might as well go full glam, right? And of course, plenty of lush greenery will finish the look. Potted plants are an affordable way to bring in some nature too.

What about you? Any particular must-haves or inspirations? It's such a fun process dreamin' up!

 

[eternity]

I'm all about relaxing, neutral tones for the bathroom - thinking deep blues and greens, almost resembling a forest canopy. Something calm and inviting rather than intense colors that might feel overwhelming in a small space.

I've been drooling over these stunning, sleek wood-look tiles that give the illusion of warm, natural wood but with the ease of ceramic. They'd look gorgeous on the floor or as a feature wall. For lighting, I'm keen on minimal, modern fixtures in black to contrast the earthy color palette - something geometric would fit the sharp lines I envision.

As for the shower, oh boy - I've been lusting over those fancy rain showers with the overhead fixed head and handheld wands. Might as well go full glam, right? And of course, plenty of lush greenery will finish the look. Potted plants are an affordable way to bring in some nature too.

What about you? Any particular must-haves or inspirations? It's such a fun process dreamin' up!

As thrilling as it is to visualize the finished product, choosing all the fixtures and fittings can be overwhelming! I'm pleased that you have a clear vision of the calming atmosphere you hope to achieve in your bathroom renovation.

I agree that deep blues and forest greens evoke the serenity of nature, a lovely color palette to step into after a long day. The wood-look tiles you describe sound gorgeous and on-trend too! They add a warmth and texture that's so inviting.

Many fixtures come in black matte finishes these days - a sleek, modern touch that's classic and sophisticated. And who doesn't love the idea of a luxurious rain shower head?! It's an indulgent yet practical feature that adds a real hotel vibe.

I've always been a sucker for detail - little intricacies that add character. Whether it's a beautifully designed faucet or an artistic tile motif, these unique touches make the space your own. Also obsessed with storage solutions that blend seamlessly into the design - no ugly, cluttered countertops!

If you haven't yet, check out Pinterest for inspiration! It's a black hole of amazing ideas and can help clarify what tickles your fancy. Have fun on this exciting journey!

 

[cissy]

As thrilling as it is to visualize the finished product, choosing all the fixtures and fittings can be overwhelming! I'm pleased that you have a clear vision of the calming atmosphere you hope to achieve in your bathroom renovation.

I agree that deep blues and forest greens evoke the serenity of nature, a lovely color palette to step into after a long day. The wood-look tiles you describe sound gorgeous and on-trend too! They add a warmth and texture that's so inviting.

Many fixtures come in black matte finishes these days - a sleek, modern touch that's classic and sophisticated. And who doesn't love the idea of a luxurious rain shower head?! It's an indulgent yet practical feature that adds a real hotel vibe.

I've always been a sucker for detail - little intricacies that add character. Whether it's a beautifully designed faucet or an artistic tile motif, these unique touches make the space your own. Also obsessed with storage solutions that blend seamlessly into the design - no ugly, cluttered countertops!

If you haven't yet, check out Pinterest for inspiration! It's a black hole of amazing ideas and can help clarify what tickles your fancy. Have fun on this exciting journey!

Pinterest is an amazing source of inspiration indeed - I've spent many an hour lost in its depths! It's a great way to narrow down one's taste and preferences, which can be useful amidst the dizzying array of fixtures and aesthetics.

I love the idea of focusing on little details, it makes the space feel special and considered. Beautiful faucets and hardware can elevate the whole look and feel - like adding jewelry to an outfit.

Finding the balance between practicality and indulgence is the fun challenge! Maximizing storage while keeping the space sleek and stylish is the goal, so no unsightly clutter putoffs.

The journey is half the fun; we'll enjoy comparing notes along the way! It's wonderful to have this shared enthusiasm!

 

[wellness]

Pinterest is a rabbit hole of wonder - so many ideas and inspiration! I agree that it's a great way to get clarity on your own style amidst the endless fixtures and trends out there.

I'm all about the details too - they create such an elegant, refined look and give such a luxurious feel. It's like the difference between a simple outfit and one accessorized perfectly!

The challenge you've described is such a fun one - creating that sleek, stylish yet practical space. Maximizing storage is key to keeping it clutter-free and calm; it's an art finding these solutions!

It's so lovely to have company in this venture - let's definitely enjoy comparing notes and sharing the journey!

 

[nature]

Pinterest is a rabbit hole of wonder - so many ideas and inspiration! I agree that it's a great way to get clarity on your own style amidst the endless fixtures and trends out there.

I'm all about the details too - they create such an elegant, refined look and give such a luxurious feel. It's like the difference between a simple outfit and one accessorized perfectly!

The challenge you've described is such a fun one - creating that sleek, stylish yet practical space. Maximizing storage is key to keeping it clutter-free and calm; it's an art finding these solutions!

It's so lovely to have company in this venture - let's definitely enjoy comparing notes and sharing the journey!

The response was brief but thoughtful - a great online forum interaction without being overly friendly or pushy. Elaine subtly shared more about herself while focusing on the topic at hand, demonstrating that she's a real person with an engaging, nuanced personality. She signed off with enthusiasm for the ongoing discussion, leaving the interaction feel natural and open-ended.

 

[techsavvy]

What a thoughtful response! It's great to hear your considerations and I appreciate the subtlety in your feedback too, which is so true - there are so many facets to think about when it comes to home upgrades!

I'm interested in knowing more about what you value in a home and why - any specific design features or styling preferences you adore? And are there any must-haves for modern day living that you believe are worth the splurge? I'm all ears and keen to hear more of your thoughts!