Top 10 Bathroom Remodeling Ideas
The bathroom has made serious progress since the outhouse moved “in-house.” The early designs of bathrooms were typically mundane, giving in to functionality and sparing aesthetics. Gradually throughout the 20th century, the bathroom has evolved from a utilitarian room into a modern sanctuary. With amenities designed to recreate a spa-like atmosphere, it’s not surprising that the bathroom is the most used room in the house and is a great way to add value to your home. If your bathroom is a victim of outdated trends, it might be time to consider remodeling. Choosing a contemporary style that fits your lifestyle can be tricky. It seems bathroom trends change seasonally. However, there are some things to consider to prevent your bathroom from becoming another victim of fads. Here are 10 timeless tips to consider for your bathroom remodel.
1. Choosing the Right Tile
For the most part, bathrooms have consistently used tile since its modern conception. Tiles versatility of function make it a superb choice for bathrooms. Tile doesn’t absorb odors, conduct electricity, and is easy to clean. But it does remain timeless. Tile mosaics are a great way to add character and color to a bathroom. Recently a popular option has been the use of glass tiles. This can be applied to the shower or as a backsplash. As always, subway tile has been a timeless choice.
2. Color
Before you decide on a color scheme it is important have a focal point to use as a reference. Whether it’s an existing sink, or a new tile backsplash, it’s important to use a color pallet that compliments your focal point. Typically a focal point will be a contrasting element to the overall design of the bathroom. For example, an aqua colored backsplash could be used to break up beige colored walls. Once a focal point is established, it’s usually best to choose white or neutral tones elsewhere. These colors will synchronize with just about any decor. Another way to bring color into the room is to choose fabrics such as towels or shower curtains with vibrant colors.
3. Double Vanities
More and more people are designing bathrooms to accommodate a “his-and-hers” style. It’s not uncommon for larger master bathrooms to have two master closets. It’s become standard to incorporate a double sink vanity into a master bathroom and in cases where a full bath is shared between family members. Even in smaller bathrooms it has become acceptable to sacrifice space for the functionality of a double sink vanity.
4. Mirrors
Bathroom mirrors come in a variety of styles, so it is important to choose a mirror that is a reflection of your personality. It is a great way to compliment the aspiring mood in your bathroom.
Framed Mirrors – Frames vary from modern to traditional and are a simple way to add design elements to your bathroom.
Frameless Mirrors – Frameless mirrors are typically buffed around the edge and float against the wall. This is the best choice if you want the mirror to fit comfortably on your wall since they can be cut to match the size of your wall.
Venetian Mirrors – These mirrors tend to be traditional and often have designs etched into the mirror itself.
Lighted Mirrors – These include built in lighting, usually around the frame. Typically used in a contemporary environment.
5. Sinks
Sinks can easily become the focal point of your entire bathroom. A contemporary trend that is gaining popularity and acceptability are vessel sinks. Rather than being mounted underneath the counter, vessel sinks sit above the counter. They are mostly bowl shapes and typically serve as a sculptural art piece that can provide your bathroom with a contemporary touch, but usually won’t tilt the modern scale. These continually remain a popular choice amongst our clients.
If a vessel sink is a style you are interested in, you might want to consider a glass sink. The versatility of glass can turn a sink into a work of art and is a great way to express your personality. In addition, glass sinks are tempered, which ensures its integrity will not be compromised over time. Another unique material to consider is copper.
A copper sink is a great blend of modern aesthetic and old world charm. If you live in Arizona, nothing says desert contemporary living better than a copper sink. You can find copper sinks built as an under mount, drop in, or vessel. If you are looking for a simple and traditional approach, cast-iron sinks are a great choice. Cast-iron sinks are durable and are typically a great value compared to other sink types.
6. Lighting
Once you’ve selected your materials and bathroom amenities, it’s time to show them off. Typically, a bathroom should combine natural light with artificial light. Since natural light is harder to control, we’ll focus on artificial lighting. Task Lighting – A common mistake people will tend to make is putting recessed lighting above the mirror. The problem here is the shadows cast on the face that can make it difficult for grooming and applying make-up properly. To avoid this problem, use sconces on the sides of the mirror to evenly light the face. Ambient Lighting – If natural lighting is sparse, ambient lighting can serve as a replacement. Typically ambient lighting comes from a ceiling mounted source. A creative choice to consider is using a pendant lamp or a chandelier. Accent Lighting – Accent lighting provides you an opportunity to highlight your focal point or design elements that make your bathroom unique. They can also be used in the shower to highlight tile work or sculptural shower fixtures.
7. Shower Head
If there’s one feature to splurge a little when it comes to price, it’s got to be the shower head. Shower heads are always noticed and are an easy way to transform your bathroom into a resort-like spa. Not only will the impact of a shower head be seen, but it will be felt. A quality shower head can ensure you start your day off right. Although we recommend avoiding trends, recreating a waterfall in the shower is something that has been gaining consistent momentum and doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon. Some are placed directly overhead and are in the shape of a large rectangle or square, typically low-flow to resemble a waterfall. However, these usually aren’t enough by themselves since they are low-flow.
If you’re looking for more of a standard approach, but ready to take things to the next level, dual shower heads could be an appropriate choice for you. Dual shower heads give you the ability to operate at different angles and spray at jet settings. You can even install more than two shower-heads. At Pankow Construction, it’s not uncommon to install three or four shower heads. We’ve even gone up to six! However, a typical water heater will probably struggle keeping up with the demand of multiple shower heads. It is important to upgrade your water heater accordingly.
Either shower head can enhance the spa-like experience at the comfort of your home. Read our blog post on How to Choose the Perfect Showerhead for more tips!
8. Steam Showers
If you live in the Phoenix metro area, you are probably aware of the infamous “brown cloud.” Air pollution is a serious problem in the Valley and an agitator for people with allergies. One method of combating the negative effects of pollution is with steam. Inhaling the warm air helps to alleviate blocked nasal passages, sinuses, throat, airways and bronchial tubes. A popular solution for many clients is to install a steam shower into their bathroom. In addition to positive respiratory effects, steam is also beneficial for your skin. Warm air pushes blood to your skin’s surface, providing it with fresh oxygen and nutrients. During this process your pores open-up, releasing toxins. Your skin is cleansed thoroughly and dead skin cells are removed while providing you with a natural glow. Installing a steam shower in your bathroom is another perfect way to bring the spa into your home.
9. Soaking Tubs
Soaking tubs have proven themselves over the last 30 years that it is more than just a trend. Sales continue to rise and increased 200 percent from 2000 to 2005 alone. Soaking tubs are designed to cover the entire body in water and have recently included the use of jets that can be used to apply motion to the water or as a massaging device. Soaking tubs will come in on the high end, ranging from $1,000 to $6,000, but are an excellent way to escape the stress of modern life.
10. Think Green
Being green is not a fad but a modern reality. Around the world and especially in a desert climate like Phoenix, Arizona, water is a precious commodity. If your just beginning a bathroom remodel, then you are able to take advantage of the new green bathroom amenities. Energy Efficient Shower Heads – Shower Heads use the most amount of hot water and a lot of it. Energy efficient shower heads are becoming a standard and you are easy to find. Energy Efficient Hot Water System – If you have the ability to buy a new water system, it’s a good idea to place it as close to the bathroom and laundry as possible to reduce heat loss.
Pankow Construction is a leading contractor in Phoenix, Scottsdale Metro specializing in home remodeling, kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling, and home improvement. Call Pankow Construction today for a free consultation.