When staging a home for the real estate market, it is a good idea to update and modernize the bathrooms to create an inviting spa feel which will appeal to many of today's buyers. But whether you are selling your home or you are simply looking to freshen up your bath, here are some great tips to keep in mind...First, you will want to be sure to thoroughly clean the entire bathroom til it shines and looks as new as possible. All toiletrie items, cleaning products, and knick knacks should be removed from the countertops and shower surround and stored out of sight, as well as any shelving on the walls. A new coat of fresh paint on the walls is a must. Use a trendy color in a warm or cool tone that complements the rest of the home's color palette and paint the trim in bright white. To also help make the space feel newer, replace the shower curtain with a new one that is on trend and hang new fluffy white towels or use trendy colors that coordinate with the wall color you've chosen. Replace the toilet seat as well as the caps covering the base of the toilet (no toilet seat covers). Remove or replace any bath mats, remembering to keep mats to a minimum. Floors should be clean and in good condition, if not you will need to replace them. Paint any tired or dated cabinetry white and add new hardware to give a fresh look and brighten up the room. Keep all of the metal finishes in the room consistent (faucet, cabinet hardware, towel bar, etc.) for a cohesive feel and polish the metals til they shine. Re-caulk around the sink and tub. Replace all of the light bulbs in your fixtures with the highest wattage allowed.  If your light fixture is dated, consider replacing it.

As for decorating your new fresh, light n bright bath, look to professional photos of designer baths in magazines and home improvement stores for ideas.  Think "minimal" and "relaxing", a soothing spa-like feel is the look you want to achieve. If space allows, place a couple of new rolled bath towels on the counter with a container of new soaps, loofahs, or bath salts and a candle, or a simply-stated floral arrangement.

Contemporary Farmhouse Model Home 2011

Looking for decorating ideas, tips on arranging furniture in an open concept floorplan, using and carrying colors from one room to the next?  Visiting model home showrooms is a great way to collect lots of inspiration and ideas for decorating your own spaces.  Contact Mandi to request a link to see detailed photos of this professionally decorated model home, room by room.  Feel free to contact Mandi for specifics on furniture, accessories or paint colors used in this design, as well as model location if you'd like to take a personal tour.