Some people prefer to implement home upgrades a little bit at a time, either because of their budget or because they only have a few things they wish to change. When it comes to a bathroom remodel, however, renovation work tends to be far more intensive.
Whether you want to improve the style of your bathroom, implement new tech-friendly features, or simply make better use of the area’s floor plans, there are countless reasons why upgrading your bathroom can be a great idea for your home.
Because a bathroom remodel tends to be so involved, however, many homeowners prefer to complete all the work at once rather than drag out the process. As a result, it is essential that you carefully consider each aspect of the bathroom to ensure that you get the desired outcome.
Here is a closer look at some of the key areas that should receive your attention during planning and remodeling so you can achieve a cohesive look for your bathroom.
1. Bathroom Vanities
As one of the most visible elements of any bathroom, the vanity is often a good starting point when trying to coordinate the overall design of your bathroom remodel. Do you prefer the furniture style of a free-standing vanity? Or the open look of a wall-mounted vanity? Would you rather have a traditional style, or something more contemporary? Such decisions can greatly influence the rest of your bathroom design, so carefully consider the style that will best fit your tastes.
Of course, style and color are far from the only attributes you should consider when selecting your bathroom vanity. The size of the vanity is a crucial factor. For example, many master bathrooms benefit from a vanity with two sinks. However, if you are replacing a vanity that only had one sink, you will likely need to invest in some additional plumbing installations.
The number of drawers and doors will directly influence how much storage space is available in your bathroom. Whenever possible, it’s a good idea to choose a slightly larger model so that you don’t have to worry about running out of space. However, you should make sure that a larger vanity will not disrupt walkways or encroach upon other bathroom fixtures.
Materials matter when purchasing a new bathroom vanity. High humidity levels and frequent exposure to moisture can warp and damage wood that isn’t properly treated. Higher-end countertop materials will also offer better water resistance and overall durability.
Finally, don’t forget the sink measurements for your new vanity. Most bathroom vanities do not come with a faucet, giving you the opportunity to select a look that best matches your personal tastes. However, you must double check that your faucet’s measurements are compatible with the vanity itself.
2. Medicine Cabinets & Mirrors
No bathroom remodel is complete without a mirror where you can check your reflection and make sure that you’re ready to start your day. While many bathrooms work great with a standard mirror mounted above the vanity, those looking for a little more storage space are best served by installing a medicine cabinet.
With today’s medicine cabinets, you can get much more than a mirrored surface and some extra storage shelves. For example, in the Robern Uplift Tech line, you can find vanities with features such as perimeter lighting, dimmable LED task lighting, a glass defogger, a programmable night light, and even USB and 120VAC outlets.
Most medicine cabinets can be installed recessed or as a surface mount, giving you greater flexibility as far as where they will be placed. Make sure your walls have enough space to fit the medicine cabinet, and that your selected size is a good match for your vanity. With such a wide range of features to choose from, getting ready in the morning has never been easier!
3. Shower Enclosures
Many homes utilize a bathtub/shower combination with a shower curtain. While this is certainly a workable solution, it is often far from elegant or efficient. Shower curtains don’t always do the best job of keeping water inside the shower, which can result in leaks that increase your risk of mildew growth or other problems.
As with vanities, a shower enclosure can provide a visual focal point for the room. Consider the layout of the bathroom when determining the type of enclosure you prefer. While a bypass/sliding door may be the perfect fit for replacing your old shower/tub unit, smaller bathrooms may benefit from a corner shower installation.
A glass shower enclosure is more than just a great style upgrade. Glass shower doors use sliding panels and water repellent coatings to help create a watertight seal that prevents leaks. Many modern options can also be adjusted to work with out of plumb walls, eliminating the need for more costly remodeling work.
Glass shower doors allow more light in the bathroom, helping the space feel larger (especially if you install a frameless shower door). For best results, the walls of the shower enclosure should be covered in tile. A textured non-slip shower base will prevent accidents while using the shower.
Don’t forget about the shower head! Modern shower heads offer several adjustable sprays, helping you get the exact coverage you want for a truly luxurious experience. Better still, many modern products are designed to be more eco-friendly thanks to “low flow” settings, helping you reduce your household water consumption. Shower panels give you even more control over the water flow.
4.Lighting
Your lighting may not seem as noteworthy as other design elements, but it can still play a crucial role in the final look of your bathroom remodel. Providing plenty of overhead and task lighting will make it easier to get ready in the morning and help the space feel more open and inviting.
For best results, position overhead lighting above the bathroom’s walkways so that the vanity area is lit from behind. When installing new light fixtures around the bathroom mirror, be sure that they are symmetrically placed so you can have even lighting. It is also a good idea to place lighting over the shower area to reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents.
If you want to help the environment and give your bathroom a modern touch, get LED lightbulbs instead of incandescent bulbs. Most modern light fixtures are compatible with LED bulbs, which consume less electricity and have a much longer lifespan than other options. Many LED lights are dimmable so you can have even greater control over your bathroom lighting.
5. Bathtubs
As elegant as a standalone shower enclosure may be, there is no denying that many people love to lay back and relax in a bathtub. If you have enough space in your master suite, you could easily install a bathtub next to your shower enclosure. For smaller bathrooms, however, you may need to stick with a tub/shower combo (though options with sliding glass doors are available).
You can get bathtubs in a wide variety of styles to better suit the overall aesthetic you want from your bathroom renovation. Whether you like the classic style of a clawfoot tub or a more streamlined modern freestanding tub, there is something for you.
For households with elderly individuals, it may be a good idea to get a drop in or walk in tub. These options are easier to get in and out of, reducing the risk of accidents while in the bathroom. If you plan to age in place in your current home, investing in one of these safer options is well worth considering.
6. Toilets
The toilet may not be the most glamorous part of the bathroom, but there is no denying just how essential it is! Believe it or not, there are plenty of ways you can improve upon your current toilet during a bathroom remodel.
If you’re interested in creating a more contemporary look for your bathroom, you could install a wall mounted toilet. These toilets use an in-wall tank to give your bathroom a more streamlined look. You could also invest in an ADA compliant toilet, ensuring that you will have no trouble using your bathroom as you age.
WaterSense Certified toilets offer another great way to reduce your impact on the environment. These toilets use as little as 0.8 gallons of water per flush, helping to minimize your daily water consumption. Despite their low water use, powerful nozzles and centrifugal action ensure efficient flushing.
You can also upgrade your toilet by purchasing models such as the TOTO Aquia IV Washlet+ Kit, which comes with a bidet seat. These toilets offer all the functionality of a bidet integrated into the toilet seat. Multiple spray settings, self-cleaning water wands, a heated seat, and a built-in deodorizing system and eWater+ auto cleansing make this installation extremely easy to care for.
Reducing how much water you use each time you flush may not seem like it makes a big impact, but over time, it can really add up. You will be doing your part to help save the planet while also reducing your monthly utility bills.
7. Flooring
Frequent exposure to moisture can be especially problematic for your floors — making your choice of flooring materials an essential consideration during the bathroom remodel process. Fortunately, there is no shortage of materials that can work well in the bathroom, providing both water resistance and great style.
For more budget-minded renovations, you can’t go wrong with vinyl flooring. Though one of the least expensive flooring materials, it is available in a wide range of styles and colors while also being extremely water resistant. Vinyl can imitate natural stone or hardwood, while providing a softer surface that is more comfortable for your feet. Vinyl tiles and planks also tend to be much easier to install than other materials. Many varieties use a click lock installation that can be done without the help of a contractor.
If you prefer something more luxurious, stone tile is a great choice. Available in materials such as marble, slate, and limestone, these floors can last a lifetime with proper care. Because these tiles are made from natural materials, they are available in a wide range of textures and come with one of a kind vein and color patterns. Materials like slate are naturally slip resistant. To maintain their great style, most stone tiles should be sealed every few years.
Finally, there is porcelain tile. Made from clay, porcelain is extremely resistant to staining, water penetration, and other common bathroom hazards. Porcelain tiles are available in a wide variety of custom shapes and styles. Whether you want to imitate the look of hardwood, install large square tiles, or shake things up with hexagonal tiles, there is an option available for you. Just make sure the color and style match the rest of the bathroom!
8. Extra Features
Depending on your needs, there may be other features you wish to add to your bathroom to improve functionality or style. Additional storage cabinets and shelves can offer a great solution for storing extra towels and toiletries, especially if you do not have a linen closet conveniently located near the bathroom. Linen side cabinets work perfectly as a standalone unit, or can be installed alongside a vanity.
Towel warmers allow you to go well beyond the typical towel rack by heating your folded towels. This helps dry the towels quickly after you use them to dry off, preventing mildew growth and ensuring that they will be warm and toasty for the next time you need them! Though they require installation by a professional electrician, they are a great way to make your bathroom feel even more luxurious.
Are You Ready For Your Bathroom Remodel?
Completely renovating your bathroom is a big project, but few home improvement efforts deliver a more satisfying long-term impact. Whether you want to give your existing space a facelift or plan to knock down walls to expand the bathroom, focusing on the design elements featured in this list will ensure that you love the final result.
Of course, a bathroom remodel isn’t cheap — but this is where Kitchen & Bath Authority is ready to help. In addition to offering free shipping on all orders, we also offer significant discounts on a wide range of bathroom products!
If you sign up for our exclusive lifetime membership, you’ll gain access to even more great savings, with additional member discounts on all products in our store as well as free shipping and expedited order processing.
Remodeling your bathroom doesn’t have to break the bank — and it doesn’t have to be stressful trying to find the products that will turn your dreams into a reality. With Kitchen & Bath Authority, you will have no trouble transforming your bathroom into the luxurious spa of your dreams.
