In today’s room tour, we explore a fabulous, beachy bathroom by the talented Anna from Moore Creative. Because you all loved her deep blue coastal bathroom so much, when we saw she had completed another bathroom, we couldn’t wait to share it with you ASAP!
This time Anna has used a softer, more tranquil colour palette and cleverly thrifted and upcycled elements, to deliver a stylish bathroom on a budget. Get ready to explore her relaxed, beachy bathroom and get her savvy design tips!
Related article: Room tour: A stunning deep blue, coastal luxe bathroom
Related article: A colourful bathroom that’s full of fun, texture and terrazzo
Anna has no fear when it comes to adding a playful pop of colour to her rooms.
“We did a very budget renovation to this bathroom about 5 years ago. I kept it very simple knowing that one day I would add some more colour and style to this bathroom.
“Second time around, I really wanted some colour! My main bathroom has navy blue walls, so I decided another shade of blue was going to work best. I used Dulux Blue Balm paint for the walls, it’s the perfect shade of — for lack of a better word — muddy blue.
“I’m a big yay for colour! I can understand why people are nervous to add colour. It can be hard to imagine and can even be quite costly if you make a mistake. My tip would be to get three different sample pots in similar tones and paint a patch on the wall you want to use it on. Check it throughout the day, it will give you a clearer idea of what works best for that space.”
Beauty doesn’t always have to cost the world. Key elements of this beachy bathroom, like the shell lights, are second hand!
“I came up with the shell wall lights because my electrician husband refused to change the original ones. I bought the shells from an op shop for 50c each for another project. I’m so glad I used them! The shell lights are a real point of difference and are probably my favourite part of the bathroom,” says Anna.
“The vanity is also second hand. I picked it up for $100 from a house that was being demolished. It has since undergone some changes. I replaced the top with an oak timber top my husband made. I also replaced the doors with drawers and polytec valla door profile. The new doors and drawers add some texture without taking away from the wall colour.”
Even with all the elements on hand, picturing it all together may prove the final challenge that often leads to confusion. Luckily, Anna offers a solution.
“Once all my elements were decided, I created a 3D render of the space to double-check that I was on the right track with the design. It really helps me visualise a space.
“I now offer this 3D rendering service on my website for anyone who needs help visualising their space. It’s also a great way to show something to your trades for them to work towards.”
Anna shares some of her top tips for creating the perfect functional yet beautiful bathroom.
“Really think about the layout. This is the most important part of the whole process. Draw up a master plan to scale of the bathroom, noting any crucial aspects like plumbing, windows, doors etc. Make 10 copies of this and draw up lots of options until you feel you have the right layout.
“Splash out on the things that give the bathroom a ‘wow!’ factor. If you don’t have the budget for expensive tiles on all walls, consider a beautiful feature tile on one wall with a complementing standard tile on others.
“Take the time to communicate exactly what you want to your trades so there is no confusion. Trades aren’t mind readers and often take matters into their own hands if they haven’t been instructed. Sometimes this can be impossible to rectify,” she says wisely.
“Don’t get too caught up on trends. If you love something, just do it! Otherwise, you may regret it down the track.
“Think about lighting. Downlights are great for when you are putting on makeup, while wall lights provide mood lighting which is great when having a bath.
“Tapware is definitely somewhere you should splurge. Buy the best you can afford. Cheap tapware could end up more expensive in the long run if you constantly have to replace it.”
Lohals flatwoven rug — IKEA
Laminated Valla door profile — Polytec
Wall Hardie groove lining — James Hardie
Blue balm paint — Dulux
Photography, styling — Anna Moore
Thank you Anna for taking us on a tour of your beautiful beachy bathroom and sharing your reno tips. You can check out the rest of her home reno on Instagram and her 3D render service on her website. What’s your favourite feature of this bathroom? Has the wall colour inspired you to try colour in your next reno? Let us know in the comment section below!
Check out more bathroom inspo here
