Image Overhaul

Simpie changes take an outdated bath from overexposed to charming.

Only Narcissus, with his dazzling beauty, could find this mirror-covered bath inviting. So homeowners Scott and Laurey Glenn decided they'd rather risk seven years of bad luck than face their own images again and again.

The couple set about transforming the outdated room, with its mirrored walls and shower and unpainted beaded board, into a light and charming space. They began by removing both.

Once the mirrors were down, Scott and Laurey were faced with repairing the wall where the glue had damaged the gypsum dry wall. The extent of the damage made it necessary to install new drywall rather than simply patch the holes. Once it was taped into place, they applied gypsum drywall mud with a putty knife to cover the seams and corners. They let the mud dry, and then sanded the walls to prepare them for paint.

Next Scott put up a chair rail and new beaded board that was painted a crisp white. The walls above the wainscot are painted a soft blue. A white medicine cabinet replaced the wall of mirrors, and a small ledge above the water closet added display space. A professional installed a new tub, and tile was set on the diagonal to create a quilted effect on the shower walls.

The result is a cozy retreat, where blindfolds are no longer necessary.

AMY BICKERS MERCER

TILE STYLE

Ceramic tile comes in an endless variety of colors, sizes, shapes, and styles. Before you hit the home-improvement store, learn the basics.

* Sizes include 4 ¼ inches square, 8 x 8, 10 x 10, and 12 x 12. One-inch-wide tiles are often called mosaic tiles because they can be used to create a pattern or border.

* Types include glazed, mosaic, and quarry. Glazed tile, the most common, works best on walls where it won't get a lot of wear and tear. Mosaic tile, which works well on most surfaces, resists moisture, staining, and chipping. Quarry tile is typically deep red and unglazed. It is often used for floors and should be sealed to resist staining.

* Be sure to select a touch-surfaced tile for the floor to prevent slipping.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation May 2004
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