A bathroom remodel will always add value to your home. Aside from its economic thrust, it brings a fresher look and ambiance to your sanctuary.
In addition, it can be a great way to pamper yourself as you start the day or after a long day’s work. We have created a list of seven ways to improve your bathroom’s functionality and make it more stylish.
Vanity
Today, almost every bathroom improvement includes a vanity. The vanity’s use is typically threefold: it holds your sink in place, hides the plumbing, and provides storage. It can be mounted or free-standing and is a must for its functionality and aesthetic value.
Free-standing vanities are suitable for small spaces and come in many styles. However, built-in vanities are better for larger bathrooms and typically offer more countertop space and storage.
Sink
Common sink choices include vessels, pedestals, floating, and under-mounted sinks. The most preferred sink today is the under-mount known for its sleek look and ease of cleaning. Other choices include top-mount (also called drop-in) or vessel sinks.
Storage
Storage is always at a premium in a bathroom. When designing, it is a good idea to list everything you want to store in the bathroom and design according to those needs. Most storage is provided by cabinetry, including vanities and linen cabinets.
As you create your inventory list, indicate where each item goes down to the drawer in the bathroom to ensure that you have enough storage space and a less cluttered countertop.
We gather an inventory list for all our client’s bathroom remodels so everything has proper storage. Using custom cabinet built-ins is super helpful with storage.
Decorative and Functional Windows
A major decision for your remodel is windows. They provide natural light, ventilation, visual appeal, and outdoor connection. Below is a custom stained glass window for a client’s shower.
Connection to the outdoors can be tricky, as the bathroom is typically considered the most private room in the home. Privacy strategies include shutters, obscure glass or glass blocks, and private gardens. But it is worth every effort because you can’t beat natural light.
One element that we discourage in our hot, humid climate is a skylight. Most people will not find that appeal worth the cost when monthly utility bills are increased. 80% of a home’s energy is lost, or in our climate gained, through the roof. Skylights provide a significant amount of heat gain in our environment.
Tile
Re-tiling your floor is another point of consideration when remodeling your bathrooms. But, again, there are infinite options when mixing and matching accents and trims.
Tile is a common choice for floors, tub surrounds, showers, and backsplashes. It allows for color, texture, and size considerations. For the floor, we recommend either small tiles, especially in the shower, or textured to provide a slip-resistant surface.
Please read our blog about our bathroom flooring choices here!
Schematic Colors
Contemporary trends use minimalist colors with the omnipresent white and complementary light, solid colors. Light colors work well for highly polished finishes and natural materials, providing a cleaner feel. On the other hand, neutral colors work well for small spaces and can easily be accented with accessories like towels.
Learn 5 Key Reasons Why You Need a Remodeling General Contractor!
The Shower
The most common request in bathroom remodels nowadays is to remove a tub and enlarge or add a shower. Gone are the days when the primary consideration was reselling value. After years of insisting that every bathroom had to have a bath and a shower, the real estate industry has realized that most people shower.
Some maintain at least one tub for bathing children. While few things are as relaxing as soaking in a warm tub, few have the time, and those who do often opt for an outdoor hot tub.
Toilets
Toilets have revolutionized in recent years. Primarily motivated by water conservation, we now have more styles and options than ever. In addition, bidets have been increasingly popular. Below is a contemporary bathroom remodel that included a Japanese-style toilet, with features such as a seat warmer and bidet.
Toilets have revolutionized in recent years. Primarily motivated by water conservation, we now have more styles and options than ever. In addition, bidets have been increasingly popular. Below is a contemporary bathroom remodel that included a Japanese-style toilet, with features such as a seat warmer and bidet.
