Kid-Friendly Bathroom

For this Roswell, Ga., project, designer Anisa Darnell updated a bathroom for kids for only $3,000 by painting the existing cabinets and using tile strategically to make the most impact.

Describe the homeowners' wish list.

Update the space and make it unique and kid-friendly.

What were the homeowner's design problems?

Remove the large mirror and ripping out the old bathtub tile.

What was your biggest obstacle in this space?

Probably, tearing out the floor and tub tile. We had to put down a new subfloor, which was unexpected.

How does the end result match up with your original vision?

It turned out great. We used inexpensive subway tile with dark grout to hide the dirt.

What lessons did you learn?

Patience. The new subfloor was a surprise, but you have to do things the right way and sometimes that takes longer.

What are the "hidden gems"?

We found some inexpensive mirrors from the Pottery Barn outlet. The hexagon tiles give it old charm, and we love how the tile goes all the way up to the ceiling, making the room look taller. The cabinets are painted Raccoon Hollow by Benjamin Moore.