Is it time for the bathroom redecorating project? Simple 'facelift' or extreme makeover, we'll have the bathroom ideas and help for you to create your own unique beautiful bathroom!

Bathroom design ideas can range from the very simple and inexpensive to the highly elaborate and costly (not for the faint of budget!). However, you can create a beautiful bathroom decor without spending a lot of money. In this section we'll discuss numerous ways to accomplish that decorating goal.

There are some basic fundamentals of home decorating that apply to every project, including the bath.

Let's talk about two of the basics before going any further.

First, do you know what your decorating style is? While not a show-stopper, it sure helps to have a plan and be consistent from room to room in your home.

And, it will help you narrow down your bathroom ideas. Take this decorating style quiz now, and then come back when you're finished.

Second, how about Your color palette? Again, it makes your interior decorating decisions so much simpler when there is a consistent plan.

Here is some helpful information about decorating color schemes to read...then come back here to continue the discussion about bathroom decorating! (I know, it feels like homework, but that's okay because you're learning something new).

1. First, you need to decide what it is you are going to do with your bathroom. So, start by taking an inventory of what you are working with and make a list. For example, write down the type of flooring that is in the bathroom and indicate if it will remain as is or be changed.

Or, the item might be something you currently don't have, such as a towel bar, and needs to be purchased. Do the same for the walls, fixtures, etc., right down to the towels and toilet paper holder. This is your Master List, and yes, you need to write it down on paper, not just make a mental note. I'll explain why in a minute.

2. Now that your Master List is in your hand, before you do anything else or come up with any other great bathroom ideas, decide what your bottom line budget is going to be.

It's important to be realistic now rather than halfway through the bathroom redecorating project and suddenly find yourself with no more budget left!

This is true whether your budget is $5,000 or $500. If the amount spent is not a concern then this decision will not hold as much relevance. But it is always good to set a spending goal with a home decor project.

3. Okay, here comes the 'fun' part of the bathroom ideas... review your Master List and determine if the items marked 'to be changed/purchased' are realistically within your budget. If they are, that's great! Mark them as such so you will know that this is something you will shop for and spend money on. Go through each and every item on the list and make this decision.

If you're not sure about the cost of something, particularly if it is a remodel project, estimate on the high side to be safe.

For smaller purchases such as accessories and lighting, you can spend as much or as little as the budget will allow, so you can control those expenditures.

Give this your best effort and estimate a little high, then pare down if necessary. You might also note which expenditures are 'must do' and which are 'would like to do', so if you need to re-evaluate your budget you'll have a head start.

4. Have you gone through every item on your master list? Got all those bathroom ideas swirling around in your head and ready to dash out the door to create that beautiful bathroom?

Before you make any decisions, do any shopping, paint selections, etc., make sure you have the Master List in your hand.

Why? Well, unless you have a photographic memory, as you are looking at your options, going from store to store, or even shopping online, details have a tendency to blur.

It's much less stressful to have everything at your fingertips. You might think about taking some pictures and bring your digital camera (or use your phone) with you to refer to. That helps me tremendously when I am shopping for my clients.

So there you have the 'Fundamental Four' Guidelines for creating beautiful bathrooms, or any other room in your home when it comes to home decorating!

Now it's time to get to the details of selecting color palettes and turning those bathroom design ideas into reality!