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    Bath Beauty on a Budget

    Do what you can where you can. It's a sound strategy when it comes to living — and renovating — green. READ: 28 Ways to Refresh Your Bath on a Budget Mark and Linda Beckelman had already redone the only full bath in their Springfield, New Jersey, home soon after they moved in, more than 20 years ago. At that time, their bank account only allowed for off-the-shelf fixtures and finishes. So this time they wanted a vintage-style redo that would reflect their 1929 house. They also wanted to make environmentally friendly choices — and stick to a bottom line of $10,000 for the gut renovation.

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    This Old House
  • Wise Choices
    With the help of Patricia Gaylor, a local inte­rior designer who specializes in green projects, the Beckelmans sought out handsome, long-lasting materials, while avoiding the usual bigger-is-better approach to renovation. "By choo­sing wisely, and limiting the scope of the proj­­­­­­ect, they were able to get what they wanted," says Gaylor. Keeping the room's existing 6-by-10 footprint and the same fixture placement meant no plumbing lines would need to be moved. That allowed the couple to splurge on a stylish concrete-and-recycled-glass countertop and a custom vanity made from sustainably harvested cherry. Shown: The made-to-measure concrete countertop has flecks of pale green recycled glass. Faucet and towel ring by Newport Brass.  READ: Editors' Picks: Top 19 Budget Reader Remodels
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    This Old House
  • Good Results
    They did end up spending a bit more than planned—sound familiar?—but even at $14,500, plus the 20 percent design fee, they feel the end result is well worth the extra expense. "We love the way it turned out, and we're enjoying it," says Mark. "And saving some cash on our electric and water bills is a good thing too." Shown: A border of amber recycled-glass mosaics adds a special touch to white subway-tile shower walls. Oil-rubbed bronze fittings echo the home's classic style. Shower fittings and tub faucet from Newport Brass. RELATED: Enter the This Old House Giveaway for Your Chance to Win
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    This Old House
  • Efficient Toilet
    A dual-flush toilet conserves water.
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    This Old House
  • Published
    4 Images

    Bath Beauty on a Budget

    Do what you can where you can. It's a sound strategy when it comes to living — and renovating — green. READ: 28 Ways to Refresh Your Bath on a Budget Mark and Linda Beckelman had already redone the only full bath in their Springfield, New Jersey, home soon after they moved in, more than 20 years ago. At that time, their bank account only allowed for off-the-shelf fixtures and finishes. So this time they wanted a vintage-style redo that would reflect their 1929 house. They also wanted to make environmentally friendly choices — and stick to a bottom line of $10,000 for the gut renovation.

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  • Bath Beauty on a Budget
  • 1
  • Wise Choices
  • Good Results
  • Efficient Toilet