A luxurious bathroom is one that calls to mind a spa-like environment from the comfort and privacy of home. Amenities include rich textures, soft lighting and technological advancements that move your bathroom beyond functional into the realm of luxury. The following are some of the most notable amenities that make your bathroom luxurious. Read on to determine what you could do to update your bathroom, making it more luxurious and increasing its value. 
While bathroom flooring of all varieties like marble is beautiful to look at, it can be quite chilly especially if you are stepping into the room in the cool of the morning. One way to combat this issue and add luxury to your bathroom is installing electric radiant heated floors underneath your flooring. This means you step onto your beautiful marble floors, and they are pleasantly warm.
If you have the room to include a sauna or steam shower, it is truly a luxurious addition. Here is a look at the difference between the two options:
Speaking of heat, another luxurious amenity that changes a bathroom’s characterization from functional to luxurious is a towel warmer. Along with purchasing rich, fluffy textured towels, adding a towel warmer is another way to add some class into the space. This will ensure your towel is warm and waiting for you when you get out of your tub or shower. There are also towel-warming drawers that serve the same purpose in drawer form.
Of course, the fixtures of your bathroom should be luxurious. However, another way to exude class is to incorporate lounge space and lounge furniture. Adding a couch or sitting area into your bathroom is one way to manufacture a spa-like atmosphere.
Sometimes it’s nice to be able to watch a favorite television show while soaking in the tub or enjoying a steam shower. While adding a TV is easy enough, it doesn’t look great to have a TV installed on the wall in the bathroom. One way to have a TV but still create a luxurious look is to hide the TV. You can do this by hiding it in a cabinet that allows you to open up and view a TV hidden inside. Of course, there are also mirrors that are specially made with a TV hidden behind that shine through the mirror when turned on.
While a dressing room doesn’t have to be part of the bathroom itself, having one adjacent to the bathroom is yet another way to make a bathroom luxurious. It doesn’t have to be a huge room, just an area to get dressed, which should include a bench or chair to sit on and some areas to hang up and/or store clothing.
It’s important to have the option of either bright or soft lighting in a luxurious bathroom. You can choose any style of lighting you want in a bathroom. The way to ensure that the bright light becomes softer is a light dimming switch. This means when you are taking a bath or enjoying your sauna, you can turn down the lights and enjoy the relaxing mood.
The shower tub combination is the practical way to get both features in a small space. However, if you are talking luxury, you want to have two separate features, not one combo unit. Aim for a claw foot, luxurious tub or one with lots of massage features and tech options. For the shower, opt for tile work and walk-in-variety and experiment with interesting shower fixtures, such as waterfall faucets.
Another feature of a bathroom that exudes luxury is hidden outlets. While outlets are practical and needed— we all need to plug in a hairdryer, razor or other electronics. However, you don’t want to see the outlets. Instead, you can hide them cleverly with inside cabinet outlets. They are there and can be used, but close the door, and they become invisible.
Sometimes it’s not adding different features to a bathroom to create a luxurious ambiance, it is using the right materials. Marble for example is one material that exudes luxury and class. You can also use a certain type of privacy glass that can be both transparent and opaque (more on this below). Consider each item you are adding into your bathroom and opt for higher-end materials for a luxurious feel.
We have already covered some technologically advanced items on this list, and there are many, many types of tech you can add to a bathroom that can create a luxurious and/or experience. Here are just a few examples:
If any of the features listed above sound like something you would like to incorporate into your bathroom—transforming it from functional to fabulously luxurious—contact us today to learn more!
Renovation means different things to different people. If you are preparing to sell your home, taking a close look at your bathroom and deciding the best approach to take might not mean tearing the whole thing out and starting from scratch. You have to take into consideration the overall value of your home and how making improvements to the bathrooms will add value to your property. Here are a few tips to consider when asking yourself, “should I renovate the bathroom before selling? 
If you are seriously ready to put your home on the market, you have probably already hired a realtor. Realtors are experienced and up to date on what the housing market trends are. Your realtor has close relationships with contractors and interior designers. With their help, the realtor will have the information to evaluate your neighborhood, what the values of the homes are and consult you on what the best way is to approach your bathroom update. A total expensive remodel is not necessary if it won’t increase the sale price of the home. They will be able to offer advice that makes financial sense for your upgrade. Maybe it will be as simple as a fresh coat of paint, new light fixtures, or other updates.
Regardless of whether you plan a total bathroom remodel or not, a fresh coat of paint will make your bathroom look clean and updated. Neutral, solid colors have the greatest appeal because as potential buyers tour your home, they will imagine how their furniture and home accents will fit into the picture. If the paint is neutral, it is easier for them.
Light fixtures are another quick, inexpensive update for your bathroom. Both overhead lighting and wall light fixtures provide ambiance and focal points for the bathroom. Evaluate the age of your light fixtures and their condition. Do they go with today’s trends? Are they scratched, broken and out of working order? Replacing a light fixture is another easy update to elevate the value of the bathroom and make it look fresh and clean.
Take a look at the functionality of your bathroom. If there are many things crammed into a small space, consider this. If there is a standing shower and a bathtub, remove the tub and add a sitting area. Most people prefer showers to baths, so the bathtub may not be necessary. This is true, especially if there are other bathrooms in the home that have bathtubs. This will make the overall look of the space bigger, more open, and aesthetically appealing.
Inspect your bathrooms for everything that is wrong or broken. Look around with new eyes and think like a buyer. This includes fixing leaky sinks, broken toilets, loud exhaust fans, and squeaky doors. If there is any sign of mold or mildew, correct it. Clean the shower doors from top to bottom so there is no soap residue, scum or moisture present. These little issues that you have overlooked could make the potential buyer think you didn’t care for the home. They may question if there could be other hidden issues they missed. Taking time to correct all the little home improvements you have put on the back burner, could result in a more positive outcome.
Is the flooring in your bathroom showing signs of wear and tear? Are a few of the tiles cracked or discolored? Is the grout in the tile cracked? If there is outdated carpeting, it is definitely time to replace the flooring. There are a variety of quality, inexpensive bathroom flooring options on the market like large tile and wood-looking flooring. New bathroom flooring will instantly update and refresh the space while adding value to your home.
Adding a few new accessories to your bathroom update will provide a touch of personality and interior design. You will only need a few things to accomplish this. Floor plants, fresh new towels, fresh window treatments, and a new mirror above the vanity/sink are ideas that are welcoming. It is very important to keep all of your personal bathroom necessities hidden from view. This includes toothbrushes, combs and brushes, shaving kits, and make-up bags that will clutter the area.
A total renovation of a bathroom might be necessary to increase the desirability and value of your home. If this is the case, research the latest trends in bathroom design. Extra features like heated flooring, extending the bathroom to make it larger, oversized wall tiles, and wood-look flooring could make a big difference to the buyer. Work with your realtor, interior designer, and contractor to design an updated bathroom that may be the catalyst to selling your home to the highest bidder.
The experts at Columbus Bath Design can help you decide what bathroom updates will help you get the most dollars and sense for your home. Contact us today and let’s get started.
If you are looking to sell your home, you may be looking to maximize the value of it before selling. There are many small and large changes you can make to your space to make it more appealing to buyers and to increase the value of your home. Remodeling a bathroom may be one of the areas that you can increase your home’s value, especially if your bathrooms are outdated. Here are a few of the renovations you may wish to consider. 
One of the top mistakes that people make when remodeling a bathroom to increase the value of their home is going overboard. You need to carefully consider the current value and what buyers in your area are looking for. For example, marble may look beautiful in a bathroom, but not every market supports the high price of marble. In many cases, making small, simple changes may help to freshen up a dated bathroom and increase the value of your home. These can range from painting your bathroom, installing new flooring, refurbishing the vanity, or replacing the faucets and hardware in your bathroom. Small changes are relatively affordable, yet can instantly and inexpensively give your bathroom a fresher and cleaner appearance.
Another way to increase the value of your home with a bathroom remodel is to increase the size of the bathroom. If you have a small and cramped bathroom, increasing the space will help it feel more luxurious. People who have older homes without a full ensuite bathroom are finding that if they renovate their tiny half bath and turn it into a full bath, they increase the value of their home and make their home more appealing to buyers. It is important to note that increasing the size of a bathroom can be a large renovation and can be pricey, so always weigh the pros and cons to ensure you are getting value out of increased bathroom size.
If you have a bathroom that is not very functional, it can negatively affect the value of your home. One of the common misconceptions about bathrooms is that they should include a toilet, sink, shower, and bathtub. However, if the space is small, fitting all of these items in the space may take away from the functionality of the bathroom. In some cases, removing a bathtub and only going with a shower can make a lot of sense, as can changing up the layout to make the space more functional. You should not have to feel cramped in a bathroom, and if you do, renovating the space to make it more functional may increase the value of the space.
In some cases, it makes sense to make minor changes to your bathroom. However, if your bathroom has structural issues, mold problems, or has not been renovated in over 25 years, gutting the bathroom and starting fresh makes a lot of sense. Gutting a bathroom is typically expensive, and as such, you may not want to do this unless you absolutely have to. However, if a bathroom has structural damage or mold problems, or is severely dated, it can deter potential buyers and lower the value of your home. Repairing these problems helps to show buyers you take care of your home and can help to make the space more modern.
One of the lesser-known ways to increase the value of your home through a bathroom remodel is to consider aging-in-place changes. More people than ever want to remain in their homes as long as they possibly can. Having a bathroom that someone can age-in-place in can help them remain in a home longer. Aging-in-place changes generally include things like walk-in tubs, seats in the showers, space for walkers or wheelchairs, and non-slip tile. If buyers in your area tend to be 50 years or older, or if you are remodeling a bathroom attached to a mother-in-law’s suite or casita, considering aging-in-place renovation changes can pay off.
The final way to increase a home value through a bathroom remodel is to add luxurious finishes. Potential buyers often pay attention to the finishes of the home, and those finishes may sway a buyer. Adding small touches, such as high-end stone countertops, rainfall showerheads, or heated tile may be exactly what you need to up the value of your home and potentially sway a buyer to select your home over a different home they are looking for. When selecting luxurious finishes, you should look at other homes in the area. Going overboard on finishes can wind up costing you, so you want to ensure your finishes stand out but are not overdone for the area.
Finding a contractor who has experience with bathroom remodeling is important. Here at Columbus Bath Design, we can help you put together a bathroom design that will help to maximize the value of your bathroom and help you fetch top dollar for your home, and then make that design become a reality. Reach out to us today to get started.
Homeowners can be somewhat torn on how important a bathroom remodel is to the market value of a property. Everybody will tell you that a kitchen is the most critical source for return on investment for your remodeling budget – which is true – but are many areas used more frequently than the bathroom?
What makes a bathroom remodel so valuable is that it pays back in a multitude of ways. There’s the obvious market value increase of a memorable commode, not to mention the increased quality of living that an open, relaxing space has to offer. Bathroom renovations will also help increase energy efficiency with the installation of low flow water fixtures and non invasive lighting.
Like any home improvement project, budget is always something to take into consideration. Homeowners need to weigh pros and cons of what are important features to include, and where to focus their finances. In order to do that, it’s important to understand where the biggest costs are going to be in a bathroom remodel:
Labor
It’s no surprise that 30 – 50% or more of your bathroom remodel budget will be spent on labor. The more rigorous the project, the higher that labor cost is going to be unfortunately.
Consider if you want to change the layout of the bathroom. That involves paying a plumber to move water lines, an electrician to run new wiring, a construction contractor for demo and the rebuild, as well as a tile specialist for new flooring / shower / backsplash. That doesn’t include a painter and/or a finish carpenter.
Some of that labor cost can be recouped with DIY work, most frequently the demo part of the project. Plumbing and electrical needs to be performed by a professional however.
Tile
Since bathrooms are generally smaller than other areas of the house, the good news is that labor costs for plumbers, electricians, etc. are generally lower because the job is done faster. It’s nothing for these trades to be done with their work in a single day or even an afternoon.
That’s not the case with tile installers though, whether it’s the floor, a shower, backsplash, etc. Tile installation is a very time consuming process – but in a way you want it to be so that the job looks nice.
Tile can only be laid in sections, and the mastic must be allowed to dry before the finishing grout can be applied. Before that the area needs to be measured and spaced out for aesthetics which is why many times a tile job can take 2-3 days or more.
It should also be noted that different tile materials will affect the budget. Natural stone tiles can cost 10X as much as basic ceramic products.
Fixtures
Low end bathtubs are going to start off with a price tag of around $400 even on sale at big box stores. High end, freestanding soaking bathtubs can be priced at $2,000 to $3,000 or more. All of these fixtures have great ROI when it comes time to sell the house (as well as an increased quality of living), but will put a significant dent in the budget at the time of remodel.
Low flow toilets don’t cost a considerable amount more than standard models, and they’re reported to save upwards of $150 per year in water bills. That may not seem like much, but compounded over 10 years it definitely adds up. Plus, sometimes there are tax incentives or rebates for having water saving fixtures installed.
Vanity
When you really think about it, there aren’t that many places to spend money in your bathroom. Lighting, painting, trim, and other miscellaneous items are going to pale in comparison to the big three of tiling, fixtures, and finally the vanity.
A vanity has become an increasingly important aspect of the bathroom for convenience as well as market value. His and her vanities are now the norm that buyers are looking for, but pedestal/wall mounted features also offer more room and make the bathroom look bigger. Vessel vanities provide a unique, modern look as well.
There are simply tons of options available in vanity choices, each with varying costs. Countertop material choices are included in that pricing as well, with marble/granite being more high end and laminate a more cost-efficient choice.
Bathroom Remodel Cost Summary
The ultimate thing to remember is that no matter how you want to lay out a bathroom or what features you want to include – it will all cost to have the work and installation done. Any time plumbing is added to the normal construction work, the labor prices will increase.
That doesn’t mean it’s not worth it though. There have been “Million Dollar Listing” type shows where a sale is lost simply because the master bathroom doesn’t have a tub to soak in. You’re in the bathroom multiple times a day for a number of different functions, you might as well enjoy the stay.
Giving construction estimates on a whim is a tough job. A contractor may run into a potential client on the street and they ask a very broad, “how much to to put up a garage” question even though there are dozens of variables that would affect that answer.
Bathroom contracting specialists deal with the same thing, specifically in questions about the timeline of a renovation. Homeowners have every right to know these details (along with cost, starting date, scope of work, etc.) but there are also a number of factors that go into this answer. Here are the steps of a bathroom renovation and how long you can expect each to take:
Permit Acquisition
Home renovations that require structural, electrical, or plumbing alterations will more often than not require a permit depending on your jurisdiction. If you just plan on changing the visual appearance of the bathroom (paint, new lighting or trim) then work can commence immediately. Also the good news about a bathroom renovation is that it is interior which means a permit can usually be granted within a week. Exterior remodeling in historical districts requires a board meeting and can take up to 6 weeks.
Demo
Once the scope of work is approved by the proper authorities, it’s time to start the ‘out with the old in with the new’ process. Many homeowners consider the demolition process a very doable DIY project, but just know that do-it-yourself jobs almost always stretch out the timeline.
Instead of a multi-person crew working 8 hour days, you’re likely having untrained friends and family volunteering their time on nights and weekends. Professional contractors can usually have bathroom demo done in a day, but DIY depends on how aggressive a person is with their time.
Framing and Rebuilding
You’re not dealing with the biggest square footage even in spacious, luxury, master bathrooms so the work involved with re-framing the room isn’t that time consuming. Replacing rotted subflooring is a one-day project, as is framing new walls for layout changes.
With interior work, the good news is that contractors can stick to deadlines regardless of weather. The only thing that would push the re-framing aspect into a second week would be a material shortage. It’s incredibly important that all of this work is done on time because services trades cannot start their work until the ‘bare bones’ are back in place.
Plumbing and Electrical
What many homeowners find is that the plumbing and electrical required for a bathroom renovation usually isn’t all that time consuming – but getting the tradespeople on site is. Construction contractors often get blamed for project delays when the truth is they are playing the waiting game on the often swamped service techs.
Don’t be surprised if your bathroom sits torn apart and idle for a week or two while waiting for a plumber and/or electrician to get to the job site. That’s why it’s important to have prompt demo done, and also have a general contractor with specific timelines and who stays on top of the service trades promises.
Tile Installation
Whether it’s flooring or a shower wall, it’s not a stretch to assume that tile installation will be the most time consuming aspect of your bathroom renovation. This is definitely a job that you don’t want rushed though, so give the installer plenty of time before scheduling the next service.
There’s just a lot that goes into the tile application process. For one, an installer can only work in sections since the adhesive mastic will dry up if they get too far ahead of themselves. Each individual tile needs to be placed meticulously so that it is straight and spaced out properly. Then, once the mastic and tiles are down, at least 24 hours should pass before applying grout.
The good news is that other types of flooring besides tile can be applied in a much quicker manner. Laying a laminate floor for example is usually a one-day job, but at the same time it doesn’t provide the same durability (or often the same aesthetics) as tile.
Fixtures, Paint, Trim
Installing new fixtures as well as painting and applying base, window, and door trim aren’t especially time consuming either. The thing is, you want to dedicate a day (two on the safe side) to each. Painters can do their job a lot faster before the vanity and trim is installed. The vanity should be installed before the base trim so it can be flush against the wall as well.
It’s not fair to ask multiple contractors to try and work at the same time in a space as small as a bathroom. Not to mention, each of them waiting to get in and out of a room is going to drive labor costs through the roof.
How Long Does a Bathroom Renovation Take Summary
There are little nuances during each step of a bathroom renovation that could really stretch out this project. You’ve got the design and permit phase before any work can even be done, then the demo, then giving plumbers and electricians enough time to install the ‘guts’ before the actual rebuild can begin.
Tile mastic and grout needs time to dry, as does paint. Fixtures, vanity, and trim all needs to be applied in a certain order as well. If you’ve got a contractor that is well-versed in all of these services, that’s going to significantly cut down on your timeline, but this is still a 2-week job at minimum.
One of the biggest aspects of home renovation is the ‘samples.’ This is most commonly used when painting rooms in your house as you take home the swatch to see how the colors will match your current décor.
“Samples” are also prevalent in bathroom renovations via the showroom. The showroom is the base example of what your current, perhaps bland, bathroom has the potential to be. That’s one of the reasons you want the showroom to be luxurious as well – to show you options. An underwhelming showroom is a telltale sign of how the contractor’s work will be. Here’s what you should look for in choosing the best bathroom showroom:
Bathroom Vanity
The feature may seem somewhat inconsequential, but the vanity is really what holds the bathroom together. You should be able to see all your vanity options available when you visit a showroom.
For starters, do you want one sink or two? Do you want the sink to be embedded in the countertop or the modern bowl types that have gained popularity lately? These bowls can be rustic, clear, or even different shapes like rectangles.
A great showroom will also give you an example of the types of materials that are available for your vanity. Marble seems like the go-to, but in some homes is almost too fancy. Granite is durable and peaceful.
Vanities don’t always have to be the traditional “drawers underneath” style either. No doubt this style offers great storage, but open bottom vanities are gaining in popularity because they make a small bathroom look more open. That’s what a great showroom will do – show you your options.
Functionality of Your Bathroom
Don’t always expect a bathroom showroom to have working plumbing, but top-notch bathroom showrooms will have some functionality though. How does this showerhead detach from its holster? What do these kinds of lights look like turned on? Even something as simple as opening and closing drawers lets you visualize them being installed in your home.
Customizable Options for Your Bathroom
One thing to remember is that the showroom is just an example of the features that are available. It can be renovated “as-is” or you can mix and match the different products and styles that fit your tastes.
Home renovations always come with options. It’s a good rule of thumb that to remodel to your tastes while also considering future buyer’s preferences – but that’s not a law. Free-standing bathtubs may look too modern for some buyers. Others will say “we’ll never use that bathroom fireplace or that heated towel rack.” You can’t please everyone, so you might as well please yourself.
Bathroom Renovation Pricing
Budget is always a concern when discussing home renovations. A showroom can ‘show’ you all the potential that your bathroom could see and note many of the luxury items available, but they should also be upfront about what those features would potentially cost.
The decision to invest in your bathroom is a wise one, and you’ll likely recoup your finances in market value at some point if you hold on to the home. The bathroom also has to be part of the whole house scheme though too. You want to ultimately create a space that home buyers remember, but not at the cost of other areas of your home.
What you’re ultimately looking for in a showroom is value. Don’t spend your entire budget on the shower, only to be left with a low-end vanity and flooring.
Integrate Your Bathroom With the Rest of Your Home
Showrooms give you an idea of options available when remodeling a bathroom, but you’ve also got to consider how these features and layout will integrate with your current square footage.
Will you need to do more extensive renovations to install the features you’ve found attractive in a showroom? We would all love a spa in the corner of our bathroom, but not if it means having to knock down walls in the master bedroom and downsizing from a king bed to a twin.
The bathroom only has value if the whole house has value. Showrooms give you an idea of the potential that can easily be reached. The ultimate bathroom comes from one part showroom, and one part creativity of the homeowner. A perfect recipe.
Best Bathroom Showroom Overview
Bathroom showroom browsing doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You’re not locked into any of the products on display, and these are just options available for remodeling.
You should make a list of your bathroom renovation priorities. Looks are huge, functionality is important, and energy efficiency should always be considered. Something else to note is that you shouldn’t have any regrets. If you’ve always wanted a walk-in shower, go for it. You can always make one feature your focal point, and design around that.
One of the first things people notice about their new home or if they are interested in purchasing a home is the bathrooms. Everyone pictures themselves basking in the glow of their oasis. But when you start taking a look at what it would cost to remodel, many people get scared away by the potential cost.
The good news is that there are some simple design choices and project expenses that can be made or cut that can help you create your new bathroom no matter what your budget. Some simple cost-saving measures, when implemented properly, go a very long way.
A consultation with a design expert at Columbus Bath Design could set you on the right path. We’ll work with you to come up when a plan, then give you a free estimate to get you on your way!
There are a wide variety of ways you can save money on your bathroom remodeling project. We’ll discuss of few of them below.
It can be tempting to expand your bathroom’s existing footprint to create a bigger space, but resist the urge! Rearranging or enlarging a bathroom will often involve moving plumbing pipes and electrical wiring. Such changes can increase a remodeling budget significantly.
The most expensive fixture to move is the toilet since it involves moving both the waste pipe as well as the water service line. To move these elements will require tearing out the floor and some of the walls. Likewise, performing new electrical work may be more hassle than it’s worth. If you live in an older home, making a change to electrical may require bringing the whole room up to code!
Only consider altering the bathroom’s footprint if it is necessary to accommodate its intended use. Moving fixtures such as sinks, tubs, and toilets to different parts of the bathroom are often the largest expense in a bathroom remodeling budget.
Along these same lines, make sure that you don’t move any load-bearing walls. Sometimes a non-load-bearing wall can be pushed out easily, but if it’s a wall that provides structural support, stay far away.
Designers will often recommend exploring the possibility of expanding through a wall that doesn’t bear any weight. This could be a good way to expand your space with the minimal extra expense.
If your plan does require moving a load-bearing wall, you’ll need to engage a general contractor to assess the structural needs of your home.
It’s important to remember that the more walls you open up, the more walls you’ll have to close up in the end! Always address problem areas like walls that have mold or mildew, but if you can get away with keeping the existing drywall in place, do so.
A good way to save money is to replace only the bad sections. You’ll likely want to replace the drywall near the tub or sink but stay away from gutting the whole room if possible.
At the beginning of your project ask yourself if you need to replace all of the fixtures, or if you can refinish them to start life anew. If you are looking to save money on your remodel a good place to start is by assessing if you want to replace elements because of their function or their aesthetic.
If something doesn’t need to be replaced, save money and get it refinished instead. For instance, you can refinish your bathtub with a protective, attractive coating instead of taking it out and putting in a new one. If your bathroom cabinet is still in good shape, consider painting it to match your new color scheme instead of replacing it entirely.
Plus, by reusing your existing features you not only save money but also save the environment by not sending your old stuff out to the landfill!
If you have an old, prefabricated bathtub or shower and want to replace it with custom tiled walls and base, you are looking at a pretty expensive remodeling job. Instead, consider replacing your current fixtures with a new prefabricated unit.
Significantly less expensive, prefabricated units have come a long way in recent years and are now available in a wide range of colors and styles. Plus, they are far easier to install, often taking as little as one day.
That’s the easy part, just give us a call! We’ll walk you through all of the choices and decisions you’ll need to make to ensure that your bathroom remodeling is done right and fits your budget.
We look forward to helping you create the perfect bathroom oasis!
Let’s face it, not everyone has the luxury of having a massive, spa-like bathroom in their home. While it may seem like a big challenge to create a bathroom design if you only have a small space, using the right design-savvy goes a long way in not only making your small space stylish and practical but even making it appear bigger than it is.
There are several things you can do to take your small bathroom space and make it look and feel more spacious. The design experts at Columbus Bath Design can guide you through the options available, from storage and décor to design choices that don’t break the bank but make a huge difference.
The first thing to do to make your bathroom look bigger is to take a step back and see if some easy projects could make a big difference. For instance, if each wall of your bathroom has a patterned wallpaper or paint job, it likely has the effect of making the space seem crowded and cluttered.
Consider ditching these wall coverings in favor of a simple, clean paint job. You’ll be surprised how that can instantly make your bathroom appear bigger. When making color choices for a new paint job, consider choosing something light, like a sky blue or a pastel yellow. Neutral shades like off-white and beige are also good choices.
A fresh paint job also gives you a blank canvas when you start considering the fixtures and accessories that will give you not only storage but pops of color and style.
You can look down to the floor to immediately make a small space look bigger. By installing the right floor tiling in the right way, you can create the illusion of larger floor space. While it’s commonly thought that small tiles installed in a small bathroom are the best way to make space seem larger, the truth is that the numerous grout lines have the opposite effect.
Busy, patterned tiles are likewise a poor choice for small spaces. Stay away from these, and instead use large, plain tiles with few grout lines. Like paint color, plain-colored tiles are more effective than patterned tiles, since check marks and other geometric designs lead to the impression of an even smaller space.
As with any room, lots of mirrors creates the effect of a bigger area, plus in a bathroom, they are useful and needed tools. When installed appropriately in conjunction with plain tiles, the effect can be multiplied, tricking the eye into a perception of even bigger space.
While tiling, paint, and mirrors are the low hanging fruit when it comes to making your bathroom look bigger, more extensive projects include choosing the right fixtures and making sure shower and tub enclosures are properly designed to increase space.
For instance, if you use the right toilets and sinks, you can immediately realize space gains. There are tons of new models out there that attach directly to the walls, reducing clutter and increasing floor space. Also, wall-hung units are specifically designed to be as compact as possible.
By taking them off the floor, they don’t “stick out” as much. Anything with a long profile not only encroaches on valuable floor space but also draws the eye, making the room appear cramped and small. By taking up a smaller space than regular features, wall-mounted fixtures are an excellent way to make your small bathroom look bigger.
Likewise, making good design choices when it comes to shower enclosures is critical. Consider quadrant shower enclosures, which are enclosures with doors that fold in or slide. These are the perfect choice to maximize space in a small bathroom.
In-folding doors fold neatly in on themselves instead of opening into the room, and streamlined sliding doors use rails in the enclosure to slide without encroaching on your valuable space.
Without question! Rails and hooks are a great way to free up space in a small bathroom and can be used for bath towels and clothing. Hooks only use a few inches on a wall or door without affecting the design flow of your bathroom.
Hanging storage in your shower is a fantastic way to save space. Using wire baskets for your shampoo, soap, and sponges gets them off the shelves or floor and creates an attractive look.
For shelving, consider open shelves as a smart way to visually open up space while at the same time providing a ton of storage. Plus that gives you the freedom to be creative with your towels and other beauty projects!
Another easy one – give us a call! The design experts at Columbus Bath Design know exactly how to make a small bathroom look bigger using the tricks described here, plus they are well-versed in all of the newest products and trends.
We look forward to helping you create the perfect bathroom oasis out of your small space!
There is no question that any home remodeling will take time and energy, even during normal times. Maybe you were thinking of undertaking a bathroom remodeling job before the onset of the pandemic and decided to hold off, maybe you were in the middle and things got postponed.
You may have many questions about whether or not it is wise to undertake or continue a remodeling project amid Covid-19. The decision on whether or not to move forward with a bathroom remodeling project depends in large part on your personal preferences as well as the stage of the remodeling project you find yourself in.
Starting a new project with the planning stage is far different than the considerations necessary for a project that has already started. The pros at Columbus Bath Design can help guide you through all the necessary decisions so that you can rest assured that your bathroom remodeling project is as safe as possible.
What are some of the pros and cons I should consider for a bathroom remodeling project during Covid-19?
As mentioned above, the pros and cons of undertaking a bathroom remodeling project during Covid-19 are dependent on the stage of your project. We’ll first consider projects that are in the planning phase.
You may also find it easier to locate and book a highly rated contractor. Many design and construction teams saw a rash of cancellations, which means that you could potentially find not only good deals but also highly experienced teams that have the time and availability to focus exclusively on your project.
Consider also that you likely have more time that can be spent at home, especially if you have transitioned to a home office. Working from home means you don’t have to take time off to supervise contractors. You could also benefit during the design stage from the new technologies companies like Columbus Bath Design have put in place to facilitate virtual consultations and online showrooms.
If your project was already underway or has started since the beginning of the pandemic, that means you likely already have all the necessary permits and have procured all of the materials needed for your bathroom remodeling project.
Hopefully, you’ve established a good relationship with your contractor and are on the same wavelength about expectations from the project. Since everything is in place, it makes sense for you to continue the project, provided you and your contractors observe the proper precautions.
However, because of delays in the supply chain, you may face problems with materials that take extra time to arrive, or may not be available at all. When it comes to a bathroom project, you may not want to have to make compromises with your choices.
What precautions should I take if I’m about to start construction or if my project is already underway?
As mentioned above, if you are about to start a new project or your project is already underway, you are almost guaranteed special attention due to other cancellations. You should check in with your contractor to see if there may be extra costs incurred due to special precautionary measures that may be necessary.
Many of the precautions you should take are similar to those you are likely already exercising in your daily life. The key to success is to make sure that everything is well arranged, providing you and your family protection from potential infection.
For instance, if you visit a showroom, make sure that the company has protocols in place that include regular handwashing by employees. You should watch to make sure they:
Companies that are doing the right thing should have hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes available for their customers. When it comes to the job site, expect the contractors to provide plastic barriers to separate the work site from the rest of the house.
Keep a close eye that workers are regularly disinfecting surfaces that they have come into contact with, and if a non-shared bathroom is not available for workers, strongly consider a port-a-john to ensure the worksite is kept completely separate from your living space.
Most contractors will have protocols in place for their crews to regularly sanitize their hands and tools, but it’s recommended that you set expectations with the crew leaders before construction commences.
I’m ready to start my project, what do I do next?
If you have the time and budget, there has never been a better time to start a bathroom remodeling project.
Give us a call today to start the process. We’ll not only guide you through the design decisions you’ll need to make, but we’ll walk you through the stringent protocols we’ve put in place to make sure your project is successful and your family is safe.
We look forward to helping you build a great new bathroom!
For many years, the most common, standard bathroom design was composed of a combination shower/tub. More recently, a new trend has emerged where the combo unit is replaced by modern, large showers that offer many benefits when compared to bathtubs.
Ranging from convenience to style to safety, showers not only add value to your home but can be better for you and your daily use. It’s a perfect combination – a more useful space that increases your home’s value, a win all around!
When considering a bathroom renovation, it’s important to consult with an expert designer, like those at the Columbus Bath Design. There are so many different styles and choices out there that expert guidance can mean the difference between a fantastic project and a ho-hum result.
What are the primary reasons to convert my bathtub into a shower?
Three of the most important reasons to convert your bathtub into a shower are safety and accessibility, style and design, and increased space and convenience.
Bathrooms are proven to be the place in your home where someone is likely to get hurt. Moisture on slick surfaces creates a hazard, and having a shower prevents the need for climbing in and out of your tub. While more likely to be a hazard to older people, even younger family members could be at risk.
Converting your bathtub into a shower is one way to significantly reduce this risk, particularly if you choose to go with a walk-in shower or curbless shower. Adding grab bars could also be a good idea if you anticipate older people using the shower.
It’s also important to keep in mind that home remodeling is not just about function, but should also include elements of style. The decision to convert your bathtub into a shower allows you to re-envision how you’d like your bathroom to look. You can choose from tile styles, colors, shapes, and patterns, and pick fixtures that change the design themes of your space. Adding shelves or shower niches can give you space to tuck your bath products away, getting them off counters and the floor.
Plus, converting your old bathtub into a shower has the added benefit of creating more space, giving you room to create a more comfortable shower. Having that extra space will help you relax more and enjoy your shower. And if you have a furry friend, washing your dog in a shower is far easier than picking them up to put in the tub.
What about health, cleanliness, and maintenance?
Three critical reasons to consider converting your bathtub into a shower are stress relief and health, increased cleanliness, and far less maintenance.
Converting to a larger shower will certainly increase your comfort level. But there’s no reason to rest on your laurels there! With a few design choices, you could reduce your stress level by turning your shower into your home spa.
Changes in technology have made this easier than you may think. Some easy choices are things like built-in Bluetooth speakers, multiple shower heads, or even a shower bench. More advanced design features include things like a steam shower – minor investments that can make a big difference.
When it comes to cleanliness, there is no way around the fact that bathtubs require a lot of cleaning. Grime and mineral deposits create an unhealthy appearance and need to be regularly scrubbed. Not only are showers easier to clean, but they are also easier to maintain. Tile surfaces are easy to regularly rinse, and when designed properly, you can reduce your regular maintenance needs to almost nothing at all. Imagine the savings in time and hassle!
While showers generally cause more humidity than a bathtub, they are less likely to cause mold or mildew growth because their vertical surfaces drain more quickly and dry faster than horizontal rims around a bathtub. Fewer nooks and crannies coupled with better drainage means that your shower has less of a chance at accumulating mold, soap scum, and hard water minerals, reducing the need for regular scrubbing.
Does a bathtub to shower conversion increase my home’s value?
Experts agree that a well-designed, modernized bathroom that offers a spa-like experience will significantly increase your home’s value. By making the right choices when you renovate your bathroom, you could see a big bump if you sell your home in the coming years.
It’s important to make sure that your design is in keeping with current trends. That’s where experts like the designers at Columbus Bath Design can help. They have their finger on the pulse of modern design and understand how to create a renovation plan that fits any budget. With all of the choices out there, it’s important to have a pro help guide you through the process.
Give us a call today to see how we can help you create your perfect bathroom oasis!
Contact Columbus Bath Design today to start designing your dream bathroom. We look forward to exceeding your expectations.
