Just how big an upgrade? That depends on you. Try on 3 personality profiles for inspiration
The shopper's personality: "I can hang a new shower curtain, but anything more hardcore...well, isn't that what landlords are for?"
Shower curtain
Bamboo flowers silhouetted on 100% cotton. $39;
Made with vetiver, it’s naturally aromatic—just walk on it. 36 x 24 in.; $42;
Wine bottles, bulletin boards—now there’s another use for the versatile cork tree. $12;
Made in Tunisia, imported via L.A. From $20 each;
This works equally well in the sauna or shower. 101/2 x 61/2 x 71/8 in.; $64; the Gardener, Berkeley; 510/548-4545.
For corraling stray tchotchkes; enameled iron. 133/4 x 61/4 in.; $17;
Toss it all into this 201/2-in.-high canvas bin. $149;
Made of warp-proofed bamboo. 13 in. high; $40;
The DIY-er's personality: “I’m not fazed by Allen wrenches or plumbing tape—just hand me that level and stand back.”
Pendant light
The Astron fixture adds a retro accent. 8-in. diameter; $130;
No more wrestling with a slippery “dial”—just flip the head over to change sprays. From $107;
Rustic, dark bronze finish can read modern or salvage. From $29;
For when you really need a spare hand, or two. $48; at Anthropologie stores.
Set this 65-in.-high space-saver over the toilet for almost-instant (assembly is required) storage. $160;
Hang your reading material on the wall (wood composite and acrylic; 193/4 x 113/4 x 21/2 in.; $50; ), which you’ve painted in Leisure Green (2035-60), using Benjamin Moore’s low-VOC Aura Bath & Spa formulation ($66/gallon; ).
The contractor wanna-be's personality: “I record every episode of Holmes on Homes—even the repeats. (I also have the number of a really good handyman.)”
Oak medicine cabinet
A vintage look, plus mirrors both inside and out. 171/2 x 271/2 x 61/4 in.; from $395;
Made from recycled glass, the 18-in.-diameter Shibui’s as close as you can get to sea glass. From $1,200; for retailers.
The hues of these Blazestone tiles come from the recycled glass they’re made of. Made to order (from $9/2-in. teardrop);
L.A.’s own Kreme brand is moisture-resistant. $195/16-ft. roll of Sundials in the Handcraft Collection;
Retrofit your toilet with Toto’s B100—the heated seat is only the beginning. From $649;
SModern lines disguise plenty of storage in Ikea’s Godmorgon/Bråviken combo. $379 for 311/2-in.-wide cabinet in oak veneer; at Ikea stores.