When building or remodeling a bathroom, one of the most important design decisions is what type of shower design you will incorporate. The shower is often the focal point of a bathroom design, making its importance pronounced and vital to the overall aesthetic of the space. However, deciding on a shower design can be a difficult and arduous process. There are a myriad of possibilities for the configuration, functionality, and finishes of the space, all of which will combine to give you the shower of your dreams. We spend many hours throughout our lifetime in the shower and choosing the right design can make that time more relaxing and rejuvenating. Here’s our guide of important factors to keep in mind when designing a shower, as well as ten beautiful shower design ideas to inspire you.

The Basics of Shower Design

Choosing the right shower design ultimately involves much more consideration than just picking a style that works for you. Is the design functional? Does it meet your needs? Will it meet your needs in 5 years? Will it meet your needs in 10 years? Does it fall within your budget? Is it easy to maintain? Is it easy to clean? These are just a few of the questions you should ask when choosing the right shower design for your space. In order to help you best prepare yourself to make an educated decision about shower design, we have put together some handy tips and tricks to integrate into your design process and help ensure you are happy with the final product.

Get Inspired
Before you can do anything else, you need to find shower designs that you are inspired by and that appeal to you. Make sure to look at different shower designs to help you discern which accents you like, what color scheme you are drawn to, and which configuration you think looks best. As you find designs that appeal to you, this will enable you to hone your search further down. From there, you will begin to establish which exact design elements are right for you. Keep in mind that it is unlikely you will find the perfect design for you right down to the hardware in one image or display. Many designs draw their inspiration from multiple varied sources. You may love the tile in one shower, and prefer the hardware in another. Be picky about what you want, because the clearer the idea when you enter the bathroom design process with, the more likely you will be thrilled with your shower design at the conclusion of the remodel. This is your chance to create the shower of your dreams, so make sure it counts. In addition, knowing your design preferences down to the details helps keep any budget surprises at a minimum during your bathroom remodel. For more tips on budget and designing your bathroom space check out our bathroom remodel checklist.

Consider Your Space
One of the biggest mistakes newcomers to shower design make is not using their space effectively. Each space demands a unique design tailored specifically to its distinguishing factors. Keep this in mind as you find inspiration. You’ll want to make sure that the design you choose will work well in the space and maximize every square inch you have. If the design is forced upon the space without being thought through, it may not look quite right when completed and will always feel slightly off. Use your space and make sure it is working towards accomplishing the aims you set out for it.

Be Functional
One of the worst things you can do when selecting a shower design is pick something that is visually appealing, but presents problems when used. It is not uncommon for details to be forgotten and for functionality to be sacrificed at the altar of attractiveness. However, you do not need to choose between having a beautiful shower and one that is functional.  When determining the functionality elements required in your space, take the time to think through your shower habits and make sure the design will meet any needs you may have. For example, if you love relaxing in the bathtub, choosing a shower/tub combo may be the right choice. Or, do you shave your legs in the shower? You may need a ledge or a bathtub to make it easy to complete your shower routine. Make sure you choose a design that will accommodate your lifestyle.

• Pro-tip: Don’t forget about the opening/closing of bathroom and shower doors. Some basic measurements to always keep in mind are shower doors must be able to open outward and have a clearance of at least 30 inches. In addition, you typically want to ensure there is at least 36×36 inches of space per person in the shower.

Always Consider Entry and Accessibility
Entry and accessibility into the shower may seem trivial, but in practice, they can be the difference between loving and hating a shower. High threshold showers, such as a bathtub, can be more difficult to enter and may inadvertently lead to bruising from running into the top edge as you step in. What kind of door do you want into the shower? Do you want to have a shower curtain or a glass door? Do you want the door to be hinged or track-style? Do you want an open concept shower without a door? Each of these entries requires different infrastructure and variables to be considered, so make sure you invest the time initially so that your shower is easily accessible.

Plan for the Long-Term
When investing time, energy, and resources into designing your shower, it is important to make sure it will meet your needs not only in the immediate future but for years to come. Whether you’re a new, young homeowner or aging-in-place, long-term planning will help alleviate any major remodel changes down the line.

Aging-in-place shower design
Keep in mind that your shower space will need to adapt with you, so that may mean adding a low entry threshold, a bench, grab bars, or  a handheld shower spray. Aging in place doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice design – we love this beautiful walk-in shower design.

Long-term design
It is important to choose a design that will stand the test of time. When choosing a shower design, make sure it is a design that you will like for many years to come. This may mean avoiding fads or overly trendy accents, because in the long-term you may want a design that can adapt as you change without going out of style.

Finishes Can Transform Your Design
Picking finishes is one of the most important steps in any design process, as this is what truly brings the design together and makes it work as a cohesive unit. Finishes have the ability to make a space look unique and high-end, without always having the high price tag associated. With that being said, there are some finishes you may want to invest in. And don’t forget those extra luxuries like adding LED colored lights for a tranquil experience or water-resistant speakers for a fun shower environment. Shower technology has advanced tremendously in recent years, and incorporating a few key high-end finishes will elevate your space.

TEN SHOWER DESIGN FEATURES

• Rain Shower Head: A popular trend in showers is the rain shower head. This extra design element not only makes an excellent style statement in your bathroom, but also gives you more water coverage than a regular shower head. Enhancing your shower experience, the rain shower will provide a soothing and spa-like component to your new bathroom. 
• Skylight: Opting to include a skylight in your shower will flood your space with the bright light of the outdoors. Skylights offer a beautiful, functional opening into the outside world to give your bathroom the perfect natural light it needs. And as a bonus, at night you can gaze upon the stars!
• Dual Shower Heads: Dual shower heads are an increasingly popular design in modern showers. Dual heads allow two people to comfortably shower without impeding one another, making it possible for you and your loved one to both enjoy your shower space together. In additional to being inherently practical, dual shower heads are luxurious looking and will immediately elevate your bathroom space.
• Body Jets: Body jets are a quick way to make your shower feel like something truly special. Body jets are not a standard shower feature, which will make it a unique design element to integrate into your space and set your design apart. You will be able to have the benefits typically associated with a jacuzzi right within your shower. Body jets are known for reducing muscular tension, thereby reducing the risk of injury to the muscle. Body jets will bring the relaxation to your shower and can bring your shower design to an entirely new level.
• Shower Steam Room: Who needs to go to the spa or a gym, when your shower can double as your private steam room? While it may be an investment up front, a shower steam room allows you to have the luxury of a spa in your home.
• Teak Floor: If you want to immediately upgrade your space and make it unique, teak flooring may be the right choice for you. Not only is it extremely visually appealing, it is also functional. Teak floors offer the elegance of a spa and will make your space look high-end and inviting.
• Sunken Bathtub Shower Combo: Having trouble deciding between a walk-in shower and a shower/tub combo? Look no further. The perfect solution for you may be a shower room with a sunken tub. By integrating a sunken tub into your shower design, you get the ease and appeal of a walk-in shower, while also having the functionality and benefits that a tub offers.
• Unique Tiling: A simple way to personalize your shower design is to incorporate a unique tile pattern, shape, or texture within your space. Tile is beautiful and comes in an endless amount of colors, shapes, sizes, and textures. From pebble floors to mosaic shower walls you can create a shower design specific to your unique style. When selecting the right tile style and pattern for your space, make sure that it fits with the overall aesthetic of your bathroom and that it will be a design you will be happy with for years to come.
• Open Shower Design: When many people consider a shower design, they automatically assume that there must be some kind of door or shower curtain. However, this is not the case. In recent years, as open concept spaces have become steadily more popular, it has become more common to see open shower designs that feature no door or a curtain enclosing the space. This can make your bathroom feel larger and more inviting as a result of its open concept style.

• Built-In Shelving:Functionality will govern how much you truly enjoy your space on a day-to-day basis. One way you can improve the functionality of your space is by incorporating built-in shelving. You do not want to design a high-end, luxury shower only to offset its beauty with shampoo, conditioner, and body wash bottles strewn about. Built-in shelving is a great way to keep bottles off of bathtub edges and floors and hidden away in a place that is less obvious. The last thing you want to do is detract from the design you invested time and money into, so think through your shelving and make sure it will be both practical and beautiful for you on a day-to-day basis.
• Outdoor Shower: Just because your shower is enclosed, doesn’t mean it needs to be cut off from the outside. If you love feeling close to nature and observing the natural beauty of the world around you, an outdoor shower may be the right choice for you. This design allows you to integrate natural elements into your space in an intrinsic, unique manner. An outdoor shower is especially suited for beach environments as it helps keep your house and indoor shower drain clean.

From beach house to rustic farm house, regardless of which shower design you choose, Remodel Works is here to help turn your dreams into a reality. As San Diego’s premiere design build firm, Remodel Works is with you at every step of the way and makes sure you are included in the entire process. Give us a call today and receive a free quote from us to start designing your new bathroom!

One of the most common home renovations is to update your bathroom. Many homeowners may seek updated features, such as a more efficient toilet, heated flooring, and a new shower, among other odds and ends.

When it comes to bathroom renovations, one particular style is becoming more popular — the zen bathroom.

A Zen-inspired bathroom can make you feel like you are getting that spa treatment each and every time you use the bathroom in your own home. While that is certainly a feeling any homeowner will likely aspire to have, many don’t know what exactly it means to have a “zen” bathroom in the first place. Luckily, that’s where this blog post comes in handy!

In this post, we’re going to give you a quick guide on how to create a more zen bathroom and different Zen bathroom ideas to get you started. This design style will give you chill vibes as you soak in the tub, or help you be in a more mindful space when you get ready for your day. Let’s take a look at some of the ways you can make your bathroom more zen-like.

What Does it Mean to Have a Zen Bathroom?

Zen can mean many things, but all forms circle back to the practice of Buddhism in Japan. Zen principles involve minimalism, embracing nature, and simplicity. Zen spaces aim to create a feeling of tranquility. They are peaceful spaces in which you can become more mindful while you relax.

Think of a high-end spa. There is modern, simple yet elegant design, natural tones and materials, and an overall peaceful environment. This makes sense as you go to the spa to relax, but why not incorporate those elements into your home bathroom as well? Once you undergo a bathroom remodel to fit this design, you’ll want to incorporate this style throughout your entire home. Ever thought of creating a Zen inspired kitchen? It’s possible!

You can easily make updates to your home bathroom to achieve the calming vibes you find at the spa. Create an environment devoid of clutter and stress where you can calmly get ready for your day or find some relief. But how can one achieve a zen bathroom? Here are a few zen bathroom ideas to help you achieve a bathroom with modern luxury, comfort, and tranquility.

Embrace the Japanese Theme

Zen is entirely tied to Japanese culture, so one way to achieve a Zen bathroom is to embrace Japanese design and incorporate cultural elements into the space. You can install a traditional Japanese bathtub instead of a full-length one. Japanese tubs are square and deep, allowing the bather to completely immerse themselves, while also offering a sleek, modern, minimalist design.

You can also install a shoji screen as either a closet or entry door. Consider other elements of Japanese design in the smaller details in the room to fully commit to the aesthetic. It may seem a bit kitschy, but since they are the masters of the style, imitation truly is the sincerest form of flattery.

Get Creative

Unlike a kitchen where less is most certainly more, the bathroom offers the opportunity for a bit more creative flair to set off the room and create the perfect aura. You can have fun with your tile choices and create a unique floor or wall. You should still stick to muted tones for the walls, likely pure white, but can texture them with some accents that aren’t too bold, but enhance the environment.

Create an original bathroom that isn’t too flashy, but is memorable at the same time.

Embrace Minimalism

We know, we know, it seems like a silly follow-up to getting creative, but you can truly have your cake and eat it too here. Less is still more in the zen bathroom, and despite our urges to show a little creative flair, you still want to embrace the minimalist lifestyle in your bathroom.

Why? Because minimalism encourages a sense of calm and tranquility. This style is a common bathroom remodel trend that is timeless and functional. We can all agree that a meditative state is optimal in the bathroom, regardless of our activity. So whatever creativity you decide to use in your design, be careful not to overdo it. Moderation is key, especially when it comes to a minimalist design.

How can you show minimalism in your zen bathroom? Not only by keeping things simple as far as design, but also by decluttering. Install a large vanity that can store all of your bathroom products, leaving nothing but the necessaries on the counters.

Open Up the Space

Zen encourages minimalism and detachment from objects. To embrace this aspect of zen, you should create space in your bathroom by keeping accents to a minimum and doing without items that you don’t need.

Try using in-wall storage cabinets to keep your towels and accessories out of view. If you don’t have this already, in-wall storage cabinets can be one of the best home addition ideas for this space. You can use lighting to make the room seem bigger, as well as incorporating windows and mirrors.

And since we’re following minimalism here, make sure that creating more space doesn’t lead to adding more things. Embrace the openness of the room and let the space breathe. This will create a more open, calming, decluttered bathroom.

Incorporate Elements of Nature

A big part of zen is getting in touch with nature, and you can bring that into your bathroom as well. To help quiet your mind and get in touch with the nature around you, consider adding a window that looks out into a garden or natural feature in your yard. Perhaps you are lucky enough to have a home with a view that you can incorporate into your bathroom design Zen style as well.

If you don’t have any such view, bring elements of nature into the room via bamboo or bonsai trees. You can even put a little zen garden in your bathroom if you have space, perhaps with a calming water element. This all helps to reinforce your Japanese theme and create an overall sense of calm while being in-tune with nature.

Just keep in mind how elements of nature flow together in harmony. If something feels out of place, it disrupts the natural flow of your bathroom. When you identify an item or feature that is creating this disharmony, consider replacing it with an element that would fit the room.

This is how you achieve a true, zen bathroom.

Involve Organic Elements

Just like with your zen kitchen, you should incorporate a lot of wood into your zen bathroom. This can be via a bamboo bathroom mat, a bench, cabinets, or other wood accent pieces to bring nature into the room. You can also use rocks and pebbles as decorations, and maximize the natural light that pours into the room.

Natural light is likely your greatest asset here. Consider the times the light will have its greatest impact on your bathroom and use cleverly directed windows and elements to make the best use of the sun. Use electric lighting too to maximize the features of the room and complement the design, but make sure natural light is the focal point.

Focus on Natural Tones

Keep the color palette in your bathroom simple as well. Colors that are nature-inspired are the most zen in spirit, so consider using earth tones like beige, brown, sand, white, green, and even muted blues. These work together in harmony to create a very calming effect on anyone who enters and spends time in the room.

You can also incorporate your accent colors through items like towels or smaller details. Things don’t have to be boring to be calming, just keeping your colors simple and make sure everything flows together well without becoming distracting and you’re still in the zen spirit.

Aim for Luxury

Tranquility and peace are the ultimate goals of any zen space, and you can achieve these feelings through little bits of luxury. That large, freestanding Japanese bath we mentioned earlier is a great way to give its user the feeling that they are receiving a true spa treatment.

You can harness the luxury appeal without breaking the bank. Just embrace the spirit and feeling of the spa and incorporate these elements into your home bathroom in your own way, giving you a little touch of sophistication.

Add Some Unique Features

There are some easy ways you can incorporate modern style into your bathroom without losing your zen or minimalist goals. If you have a large bathroom floor plan, you’ll have lots of freedom when it comes time for designing. An update to your sink is a simple touch that can give a feeling of zen or luxury if the sink has a unique look. Use a modern basin rather than the typical, bland square and circle to give your bathroom a more stylish look.

You can even float the vanity to remove clutter or go with some contrasting tile to give your space that extra one-of-a-kind feel.

Update the Shower

There are few things in nature that are more calming than a soothing rainfall. You can incorporate this into your bathroom by adding a rainfall showerhead. These are quite popular at the moment and will give your shower that extra bit of relaxation.  

Take things a step further with custom rain glass shower doors and you are really stepping up your bathroom’s zen and luxury appeal.

Modernize the Bathroom

You can up your zen, minimalist, and luxury game all at once by embracing modernism and installing some truly unique features that will take your bathroom to the next level. Beyond rainfall showers and modern sinks, you can try a sunken tub and floor-to-ceiling windows.

Creatively incorporate natural elements like small trees and bushes into your bathroom and use out-of-the-ordinary stone and tile choices to give your bathroom a more modern appeal. You can keep it simple while getting creative at the same time.

Summary

The bathroom is one room in your house where you can really create a zen space you can be proud of. Since bathrooms are one of the most common rooms to renovate, you should decide what features are important to you and how you can incorporate them in a zen-like fashion. It makes sense for your bathroom to be a place of calm, soothing energy, and your design should reflect that air of peace.

If a zen bathroom is important to you in your home remodel project, talk with the San Diego home renovation experts at Remodel Works to see what creative solutions you can come up with together.

Sources:

https://www.marrokal.com/zen-inspired-bathroom-5-tips-to-create-peace-using-elements-from-nature/

https://www.sahomeowner.co.za/how-to-create-a-zen-inspired-bathroom/

https://www.legacyremodeling.com/blog/p.151014000/10-zen-bathroom-remodeling-ideas

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/create-zen-bathroom-97402.html

The tile is the most prominent and most common element in a bathroom design, which is why you have to weigh all your options when choosing the pattern you are going to use when you start planning your bathroom remodeling project. Ceramic tiles have been replaced with unique materials allowing today’s homeowners to infuse more creativity, design and personality into their bathrooms. Our bathroom designers are sharing some of their favorite and latest shower tile designs and trends.

Unique Tiles – Reclaimed Wood Tiles
The tile world has seen some crazy new additions to shower tile patterns in the past couple of years, including tiles made of leather, metal, and other unusual sources. The latest addition is a wood tile shower which uses tiles made from reclaimed wood. They come in all color variations and sizes, and will give your shower or shower floor an organic, rustic look. The wood tiles are ideal for your entire home and not just the bathroom wall or floor tile. You can even mix them with other tile types for a unique, inspired look.

Fake Marble Tiles
While marble looks great in a bathroom, some of its properties make it highly unpopular in the bathroom remodeling world. It is frail, easy to stain and extremely hard on your budget. However, the fake marble tiles are a great replacement, with delicate marble veins and depth making it almost indistinguishable from the original. If you are on a smaller budget, but still want a luxurious look for your walk-in shower, faux marble tiles should be your first choice.

3D Tiles
Truly unique on the tile market, 3D tiles will give your shower area an extra dimension. They come in all shapes, like round and angular, and you can arrange them as you see fit, giving your tiled shower wall a dash of individuality. Go for a futuristic look with angular 3D tiles, or use round stone tiles and give your shower a cobbled, natural feel.

Glass Tiles
Glass tile has become more popular because of the number of customization options that are available. The radiant, translucent and iridescent design of this tile perfectly reflects light in an assortment of hues and patterns, making the bathroom master shower or kitchen interior design feel more extensive and all the more inviting. Glass wall tile comes in many vibrant and bold colors, combined with a reflective quality making it the ideal choice for bathroom tile design or kitchen backsplash upgrades.

Mosaic Tiles
Fragmented mosaic tile patterns on rectangular or square tiles are a great way to express your creativity. You can play around with the various shapes to achieve a psychedelic effect of a kaleidoscope or create a tile mural. The shapes can range from simple lines and shapes, to stained glass type look, to completely abstract, unique patterns.

Aquatic tiles
From squares to octagons to little shell-shaped patterns on traditional tiles, aquatic tiles are the next big trend in bathroom tile ideas for remodeling. Mixing several shades of blue and white will give your bathroom a colorful look and a seaside feel.

Bathroom Remodeling San Diego
With over 30 years of experience, Remodel Works is the premier bathroom and home remodeling company in San Diego. Give us at call at 1-858-413-2305 to learn more about your shower tile options for your bathroom remodel project.

Remodeling any part of your home can be a scary, overwhelming, and frustrating experience. If you’ve remodeled before and had a poor experience, you might be afraid of starting another (what seems to be) never-ending remodeling project (or “nightmare”). You may be saying, “Never again!” Or, you are at the point where you walk into your bathroom and see the outdated fixtures and cracked tile in the shower, and think to yourself, “I want to re-do this entire bathroom, but I have no idea where to start!” and then continue on your way with your old-fashioned style. There’s also those of us that look to hiring an interior designer and remodel crew to come into our home, give us an idea of what it could look like, and sign away, allowing them to freshen up our place. This could be the best decision you make during your entire remodel process. At Remodel Works, we offer free quotes for your San Diego County remodel. Let us help you every step of the way during your remodel. Request a quote today.

Getting started is sometimes the hardest step, but with the right information, it can be the easiest part (and the most fun)! This is the time that you get to be creative and let your imagination flow! Your possibilities are endless. Lucky for you, we’ve compiled information on the most popular trends and styles. All you need to do is pick which trends call out to you and match your personal style. After you’ve planned, everything is a breeze. If problems arise or you want to change something that you initially planned for, head back to the drawing board and re-evaluate your options. All of these practices together will give you the easy, stress-free, and fun bathroom remodel you deserve.

Although a bathroom size can range from big (luxury, master bathroom) to small (pocket-size bathroom), the list of things to consider for remodeling one is the same. Some important factors will be the must-haves (toilet, sink), and some will be add-ons to your bathroom area. All of these things are up to you (the creator and designer or your new space). With Remodel Works, we work with you so you can get the best return on investment for your bathroom remodel. 

Here is a quick list of things to consider for a bathroom remodel to get your wheels turning (or read here for a more extensive bathroom remodel checklist):

• Toilet (style, color, type of toilet handle/flush)
• Shower (material for the walls, material for the floor, style of fixtures/faucets/shower head, walk-in or with a tub, shower door or none, material for shower curtain)
• Tub (material of tub, connected to shower or stand-alone, jacuzzi tub or basic)
• Sink (material of sink, color, style of faucet/fixtures)
• Flooring (material for the floor, dark or light color, pattern, temperature of the floor)
• Shelving (material of cabinet doors if any, color, open shelving or closed off, how much storage needed)
• Counter (material, how much area for countertop)
• Walls (paint color, or add a material to walls)
• Accessories (bath mat, rug)
• Color Scheme (which colors do you like together, what colors match your style, what colors make you think of a fresh and inviting space)
• Functioning vs. for Show (will the space be used as a functional and practical space, or is it just for show)
• Floor Plan (how could you move things around, toilet, shower, etc.)
• Bathroom size (be realistic about the size of space you have to work with)
• Patterns (which patterns do you like on the floor, walls, shower, etc.)

The list provided may seem like a lot to think about right now, but it is helpful when figuring out your own personal style. If you aren’t really sure what you like (or you like a lot of different styles), then you’re at the right place. By matching different personalities with different styles, textures, and materials, you may just find the perfect remodel ideas to implement in your own home.

Keep in mind, nothing is set in stone. Feel free to mix styles around and create a space that is 100% you. That is of course what this all about…answering your questions about what is trendy this year, and “What’s your ideal bathroom style?” The message I’d like to start you off with is that 2018  is the year for functionality, minimalism, and conservation! You’ll soon come to see what exactly that means in terms of a bathroom remodel.

The Out of Date Duo: Tub and Shower

There’s nothing that saves more room than the combination of a tub and shower. Although it may be convenient and functional, the bathroom remodel trends 2018 are saying otherwise in terms of style. This year, designers have said goodbye to the old-fashioned bulky tubs and showers. If you have little ones at home and/or if you sometimes just want to soak in the tub, go for it! With limited space, it’s hard to separate the tub and shower. By creating a clean and sleek shower and tub combo, your bathroom will stay up-to-date and trendy. Nothing is better than functionality, simplicity, and comfort.

Consider the Floorplan

With so many options of where to lay things out in your bathroom, it is essential that you consider your floor plan during the planning stage of your bathroom remodel. If you are planning to change plumbing, wall placements/support, and other major moves, make sure that the space is thoroughly thought-out and that it works exactly for what you need.

When choosing the best bathroom floorplan (or creating the floor plan, if you’re building the house from the ground up) be sure to create a realistic space. This is where that word “functionality” I’ve been mentioning really comes into play. If you do not have a functional space to move around in and use, you will regret the money spent on the remodel. Do not make the mistake of prioritizing style and looks over the practicality and functionality of the space.

Draw it out! I cannot emphasize this enough. The more you draw out the floorplan you envision for your bathroom space, the better thought-out your ideas will become. I’m a firm believer in seeing it to believe it. If you start moving things around without fully thinking things out (or measuring), you may find yourself in a lot more trouble than when you started the project. Things will not fit, or they will stick out, interfering with your use of the space.

Side note: plumbing is an expensive thing to move around. Once a toilet, shower, sink, or tub are in place, it will be costly to freely move them around. Plan out the space before making any permanent decisions.

Color Trends

If 2018 bathroom remodel trends have taught us anything, it’s that colors are a key factor in making a clean bathroom space. Designers are ditching colors that appear dated (mustard and salmon to name a few) and traditional neutral colors. Beige used to be the go-to color for any home/bath remodel. It needs updating, and too much of it can become boring and tired for a home. Colors that are too extreme can also make it hard to sell your home, as interested buyers see the color and are immediately unattracted. These types of colors also make it hard to easily upgrade the style of a bathroom without painting the walls.

All-Dark

When looking for a color that matches the feeling of a fresh, new, clean space, go for something rich and bold. That being said, do not (and I emphasize do not) paint every wall a deep red, or make the entire bathroom navy blue. This will make the bathroom feel like a dark hole.

To create a space that feels open and inviting, paint all of the walls white except for one — make this wall the rich and bold colored one. This creates an accent wall and compliments the other touches of color in the bathroom (possibly a vintage rug). You’d be surprised with how far a single colored wall can go in terms of making your bathroom welcoming and complete. By keeping most of the room white, the bathroom will feel lighter and more spacious.

All-White

Similar to my advice about not overdoing it with the “all red” or “all navy blue” walls, don’t get carried away with white paint and fixtures either. Although all-white makes the room look very open and clean, it can experience more noticeable wear-and-tear over time. With all-white, it is easy to see stains and dirty much better too.

Simple Shades

For a simple and clean looking bathroom, olive green and a soft-blue green are great colors to put off a happy and revitalizing feelings. These colors aren’t extreme (not a bold and rich colored accent wall), but aren’t a boring and dull neutral either. They are colors that go well with clean surfaces and different accessories, so you won’t get tired of it and have to paint in the next year or so. This color scheme is normal for a traditional bathroom. It provides simple color shades and clean lines for the whole bathroom. There’s no crazy fixtures or accents here; simply simplicity, functionality, and freshness.

Shower Design

In terms of your shower design, you can go any way you want. Read more here for Shower Design 101.

For maximum functionality, a shower and bathtub combo would be your go-to choice; however, if you don’t need a bathtub, go for a trendy shower! Walk-in shower benefits are amazing and definitely worth noting for making your final decision on the shower type you choose.

Showers with metal frames are a new hit in 2018. The frames make the shower look window-like and create a bathroom that looks and feels much bigger than it really is. The metal on the frames also adds a touch of the rustic and industrial style.

A simple glass wall is another trendy idea for separating a shower from the rest of the bathroom. This design can be taken in various directions such as a modern approach, European style, or simply a clean and sleek layout. Whatever you decide to do with the glass, it is guaranteed to make things feel more open and functional.

Although people steer away from hanging shower curtains, they are not out of style. They are functional, practical, and can sometimes even brighten up your bathroom. Get a color that compliments the colors in your bathroom. If your bathroom is mostly white and you want to add a dash of brightness, get a shower curtain with a fun design or pattern. If you want a clean and simple look, go for white. Shower curtains are made in all sorts of textures (plastic, cotton, cloth, etc.), so your options are endless. If you’re unsure about a few different colors and/or designs when looking at them in the store, bring them home and hang each of them up! Compare, see which one you like best, and return those you don’t! It’s as simple as that.

Tile Patterns

Popularity for the chevron tile pattern peaked in 2016 and carried over to 2017, but it started to drop in 2017 and continues its downfall as I write. Although it was the hottest new trend not too long ago, it is now seen as old school—especially when the chevron pattern is on the wall. As you will read more in the flooring section, patterns are transitioning from walls to floors, as floors are becoming the main accent piece of a room.

Different patterns of the same color used together can create a fun and inviting space as well. Although for some people it may be too busy to have four or five different patterns going on next to each other, it’s a trend growing in popularity and it works for those with a minimalist style.

Ceramic tiles and textures are the new big hit for remodeling! With the capability of looking like almost anything (literally everything including granite, marble, slate, and wood), ceramic stands as an affordable option that people need to take advantage of now! Ceramic textures are also much easier to maintain than other textures such as marble and wood. They allow you to enjoy high-quality results without the high cost.

Honeycomb tile has been around for a few years, but is still trendy, as it gives the impression of a much larger area (making small spaces look bigger). If you have a narrow bathroom, this is a great tile to use for the ground, as it makes the space look a little wider. By adding brass fixtures/faucets and some yellow honey accents, your small space is cute and complete!

Fish-scale pattern is another fun and popular bathroom tile this year. The tile has a scalloped shape, making it look like goldfish scales. This pattern could be a fun one to use as an accent shower wall.

Countertops

Granite was the rave a few years ago and stood its ground as a superior quality material for quite a few years before that. However, granite is losing its popularity as a focal point and for many designers, seems old and dated. The new rave is marble and quartz countertops.

Flooring

The latest trends for flooring are a little all over the place. Almost anything you choose to put on your floor will be in-style (as long as it goes with the rest of the style you have going on).

Wood Flooring

The popularity of wood floors has increased tremendously in the past few years. The trends of 2018 aren’t shying away from the either. Light colored wood, dark colored wood, or somewhere in between seems to be a hit in almost any home.

Although tile is generally the go-to for bathroom floors, wood works just as well for the material of your floors. It also creates a fluid style if the area outside the bathroom has wood floors as well.  

Wood floors can achieve a variety of different styles within a bathroom. The following are some trends you can shoot for with wood flooring:

• Natural Materials: By using blonde natural colored wood, you can create a warm, relaxing, and peaceful space that is enjoyable.
• Minimal Rustic: By using a dark wood floor, the space will feel simple, cozy, and homely.
• Industrial: Any type of hardwood flooring can go in an industrial styled bathroom. However, this doesn’t mean that the wood needs to be rough and splintery. Exposed elements (including the wood) in the bathroom can make it industrial, but still functional and comfortable.
• Renewable Materials: For the person who is all about the environment and going green,  choose to use bamboo floors! They provide amazing durability and are an excellent renewable resource.

Tile Flooring

For many years, tile has been the go-to choice for the cleanest and most durable bathroom floor. There isn’t much to argue about when the tile is easily kept clean and looks sleek. Certain styles of tile are no longer trendy, while some are taking off with their popularity. Here’s the scoop on the newest tile trends to hold on to, and those to leave behind.

A popular trend has been a matte finish over the once popular glossy tile bathroom floors. The dull-look from the matte finish brings warmth to the bathroom with its soft textures, giving it a smooth and comfortable look. This style of tile ties into a minimalistic bathroom design with a natural feel—a trend that is also heavily influencing interior design.

Terra-cotta styled tiling is also a favored tile choice. Similar to the matte finish, terra-cotta tile isn’t glossy either. Whether laid out on the floor as square tiles or arranged in various shapes to create a pattern, terracotta tiles brownish-red-orange color gives it an earthy look that expresses a more organic and natural feel as well.

More recently, tile patterns have become the main accent for an entire room/space. It’s a popular trend that continues to take off and gain more approval. With a pattern on just the floor, and light colored walls (i.e. white) or an accent wall to create a two-toned effect, a minimalist approach can be achieved. (more about patterns in pattern section)

Accent Rugs

Accessories to decorate bathrooms have taken a complete 180-degree turn from what they used to be. Instead of the basic bath mat that matches under the sink and around the toilet, designers are going for authentic and vintage rugs. The goal here is to promote elegance but keep the bathroom simple as well. Vintage rugs provide a dash of color and pattern, which helps dress up a simplistic and clean approach to a bathroom.

When planning out your floor plan and choosing the shower bathtub, consider the size and style of your accent rug if you want it to fit into the layout. However, don’t plan your entire bathroom around a rug. Although it does sound silly, it happens. Keep an open mind to it all. There is a huge variety of vintage rugs and they each offer their own unique style. Choose a few different styles and sizes and see which works best for your space.

Storage

Functionality and practicality call for storage! A common misconception about storage is that it’s ugly…big bulky cabinets that take up bathroom space; however, storage doesn’t have to be ugly. The key here is to find the best spot for storage. Utilize corners that are left empty, tall ceilings that go wasted, and spaces that are below eye-level. This goes for big and small bathrooms. Storage is your best friend…it knows everything about you, but hides it and keeps it safe when visitors come over. So, let’s be honest, we all need our best friend to keep our things hidden.

Accessories

High-tech accessories are always a trendy option, especially in 2018. This includes accessories such as digital temperature settings for your water, which enables you to set your shower at a preferred temperature. This results in a steady flow of water that doesn’t change temperatures during your shower, ultimately saving you money and time spent adjusting and waiting for your desired temperature.

Another high-tech bathroom installation is heated floors. Although they aren’t a necessity for living in San Diego, they sure are nice to walk on in the early mornings of the winter. They automatically heat to a certain temperature, so your tile floors won’t feel so cold, especially during the winter months.

For a consistent refreshing look for your bathroom, add accessories that are mostly white, but don’t be afraid to add a hint of some bold colors, such as green. You can add wooden accessories too, such as bamboo accessories.

For a simple and clean looking bathroom, olive green and a soft-blue green are great colors to put off a happy and revitalizing feelings. These colors aren’t extreme (not a bold and rich colored accent wall), but aren’t a boring and dull neutral either. They are colors that go well with clean surfaces and different accessories, so you won’t get tired of it and have to paint in the next year or so. This color scheme is normal for a traditional bathroom. It provides simple color shades and clean lines for the whole bathroom. There’s no crazy fixtures or accents here; simply simplicity, functionality, and freshness.

Accents for a certain feel

Brass and metal finishes are becoming more popular accents. Providing an industrial look, but also a look that could tie in with rustic, traditional, or modern style bathroom, these finishes aren’t likely to go out of style anytime soon.

Mirrors (and glass) are the best accents to make a room feel and look bigger. The reflection has that impact on every room, but for small pocket bathrooms, you can truly feel a difference.

For a bathroom that feels like a spa, aim for lots of open space. Put the tub out in the open, have a marble countertop, and even add a chandelier to create elegance and style.

Modern is a style that varies from person to person, depending on what their definition and linking of modern is. If you want extreme modern, possibly you go for clean lines on all fixtures and faucets, simple and geometrical shapes, a simple color scheme, very few earthy touches, and that’s it. For a mix of modern and vintage, simply add a rustic rug to warm up the room and bring it color.

For all things industrial, have exposed textures and fixtures stand as the accents of the room. Exposed light bulbs and piping are the two most popular things to give an industrial feel. If you want to add a vintage touch to the industrial style, install dark tile or a vintage looking wallpaper to stand as the vintage accent.

Bathroom remodeling trends to avoid include rose and copper finishes. Use of these finishes is declining, as gold, bronze, and silver increase. Although they may only small touches, they can heavily impact the overall look of your bathroom.

Small Pocket Bathroom

You may have what feels like the smallest bathroom on planet earth, and think that there’s no way you can remodel or redesign it to make it more functional and YOU!

Having a window is key in tiny bathrooms. It brings in natural light and makes the space feel breathable and more spacious. To add character and personality, find a tile that has a small pattern on it, and use it as your accent of the space. Keep the space as light and bright as possible. Any rich or dark colors will make the space feel smaller than it is. For a finishing touch, bring in a small plant—it will give life (literally) to the bathroom.

Large Master Bathroom

You may have what feels like the biggest bathroom on planet earth, and that you could fit a king sized bed inside of it. Because you have so much space to work with, the planning for your bathroom remodel may be a bit easier. However, too much space may be dangerous as it’s easy to get carried away and go overboard with decorations and fixtures that are unnecessary. Like mentioned before, a minimalistic style and practicality are the important trends of 2018. Stick to this trend, and your master bath will look functional, clean, spacious, and welcoming.

Read more here for 8 Master Bathroom Remodel Ideas For Your Dream Remodel.

Conclusion

As I’m sure you can see, a remodeling project in a bathroom has a ton of nuts and bolts. However, the challenging part isn’t knowing the design trends or styles (if you think this is the challenging part, reread all of the above info), it’s narrowing down your options of what you’ll love most!

Your decisions that need to be made have tons of options, so no need to panic. Knowing all-things needed for a trendy bathroom remodel and having the experts at Remodel Works to help you along the way, we believe you are ready to create a space that is truly functional, practical, clean, and you. Contact us today and get started on your new bathroom remodel.

In your home, your bathroom gets a lot of use. Specifically, the floor. So you need to make sure that your bathroom floor is durable, resilient, and waterproof. But that doesn’t mean that the aesthetic of your bathroom floor has to suffer.

In fact, there are numerous types of bathroom floor varieties, each one boasting unique benefits, drawbacks, and visual representations. Which one should you choose for you bathroom remodel? Use this complete guide to bathroom floor types to help you decide.

Vinyl Flooring

One of the original floor types for bathrooms is vinyl, which has been used in bathrooms for decades. Vinyl flooring is incredibly resilient, which is why it’s often used in heavy-traffic buildings like hospitals, grocery stores, and, of course, bathrooms. According to industry reports in Floor Covering Weekly, it has long been the most popular hard surface flooring in the United States.

Benefits of Vinyl

With several benefits, it’s easy to see why vinyl is so popular as a flooring option. First of all, vinyl is highly affordable: the average cost of linoleum and vinyl flooring is $2-$2.50 per square foot, but vinyl flooring can be found for as low as $0.50 per square foot. This makes vinyl a popular option with house-flippers, as well as homeowners on a budget.

In addition, vinyl flooring is highly customizable. There are actually three different kinds of vinyl flooring: sheet, plank or tile. Sheet vinyl offers the benefit of being cut in very large sizes. Small bathrooms may be able to be covered in just one large piece, with zero seams. And this can help save on material costs as well.

Vinyl plank flooring, specifically luxury vinyl plank flooring, has become increasingly popular choice in recent years. People are latching onto this trend because luxury vinyl plank flooring looks expensive and high-end without the scary price tag. In addition, even though many luxury vinyl plank flooring options look like wood or wood substitutes, they offer the benefit of being waterproof and scratch-resistant, which makes them a great choice for bathroom floors. LVP also offer the benefit of possible installation over existing flooring, which means less demo and shorter installation time.

If you want vinyl flooring in your bathroom, you will have no shortage of style, color and size to choose from, all at a reasonable price.

Drawbacks of Vinyl

Like any material, vinyl flooring in bathrooms has a few downsides as well. For example, it is affordable, but if you’re not careful with your selection, that cheap quality could come across in person. In addition, for homeowners, installing a flooring option like vinyl is probably not going to improve your property value (unless you go with luxury vinyl, which is increasingly attractive to homeowners today). And speaking of installation, vinyl can be difficult to install on your own – you will have to enlist the help of a professional.

Tile Flooring

Another historically popular choice for bathroom flooring is tile. There are two primary types of tile to choose from: ceramic and porcelain. These tiles can be used throughout the home, but the most popular rooms for tile installation are kitchens, entryways, and, of course, bathrooms. Ceramic and porcelain tile make a great option for bathroom flooring, but can also be used on countertops, as kitchen wall backsplashes, and with the shower/bath as well.

Benefits of Tile

Tile is perhaps one of the best possible materials to use when choosing a bathroom flooring since it’s waterproof, stylish, and highly versatile. This versatility is arguably the biggest advantage of tile flooring (over any other floor type). Tile offers a wide range of prices, styles, colors and patterns. You can create a classic look with white marble tile, bring the outside beauty of nature indoors with oceanic blue tile, or create something completely unique and original. Even after you choose your tile, there are more customization options based on how you choose to lay the pattern.

Tile is also very cost-effective bathroom flooring option: the average cost of ceramic or porcelain tile is $0.49 – $15 per square foot, depending on what quality you go for.

In general, tile looks great in any bathroom and is highly durable for years and years. With the right installation and consistent maintenance, a tile floor can last 20 years or more.

The difference between porcelain and ceramic tile comes down to water absorption rate, with porcelain boasting a lower water absorption rate (and usually a higher cost). Porcelain is also slightly harder than ceramic tile.

Drawbacks of Tile

Tile always looks great when installed as a bathroom flooring option, but part of this is because you pretty much have to hire a specialist to help with installation, which is an addition $4-$5 per square foot, on average. You can save money on your tile flooring installation by choosing a lower quality tile, but at that point, you are also risking durability.

Homeowners can save costs on installation by completing their own prep work (like removing the existing flooring), but if this isn’t in your wheelhouse, you’re definitely better off leaving it to the professionals.

In addition, depending on the tile you choose, it can become quite slippery when wet. Be sure to counteract this by choosing a tile with texture, especially on any walking surfaces.

Lastly, tile can be cold to walk on, even more so on cold mornings in winter! You can splurge for an under-floor heater, or a simpler solution is to integrate some rugs on your bathroom floor layout.

Stone Flooring

Stone flooring is a beautiful choice for bathrooms, especially for naturalists who want a Zen-inspired bathroom.

Advantages of Stone

Overall, stone flooring is highly durable, scratch-resistant, and is a home improvement that will help to increase the resale value of your home. It’s aesthetically pleasing and offers a rich, unique look in any home where it’s installed.

Functionally, the most popular stone flooring types, marble, granite, and limestone, are naturally resistant to water, and easily waterproof, so they make a great choice for bathroom flooring. You won’t have to worry about water damage or warping with a stone floor.

Drawbacks of Stone

Probably the biggest drawback of stone flooring, in general, is its price. Since stone is a natural material, it has to be harvested from nature, which isn’t a cheap process. Generally, stone flooring is the most expensive flooring option out there.

In addition, stone is, by nature, hard and cold, which can be uncomfortable underfoot. Despite being waterproof, stone can also be very slippery, so you must be very careful how and where you install it in your home.

Cork Flooring

In recent years, cork flooring has gained a lot of buzz among homeowners as a new, sustainable option for flooring in homes. Cork flooring is made from the bark of the cork oak tree: natural material is harvested from the tree, ground up, processed into sheets and baked in a kiln to create tiles.

Cork flooring has become very popular as a natural alternative to expensive flooring options like hardwood and can be frequently found in both homes and commercial locations alike.

Advantages of Cork

The most unique benefit of cork flooring is its sustainability. The cork oak tree is found in abundance in nature, and it’s easy to produce cork flooring efficiently and without any waste. Furthermore, there are highly regulated processes for harvesting the cork oak tree: harvesting is limited to nine-year cycles, and individual trees must be at least 25 years old before they are harvested. And, the bark of the cork oak grows back, so trees do not have to be destroyed to harvest the cork. In addition, the tiles are largely recyclable after use if the homeowner decides to take them out.

As far as installation and maintenance go, cork flooring is easy to install and easy to maintain. Cork is naturally moisture resistant, due to a natural component of the cellular makeup: a waxy material called suberin. Suberin also helps to make cork mold and mildew resistant, though it’s important to sweep and dust cork flooring regularly.

Cork flooring is soft underfoot and also has a natural warmth to it (unlike tile), which makes it a great choice for frequently occupied rooms.

Drawbacks of Cork

As mentioned above, cork flooring is naturally moisture-resistant. So it’s highly resistant to water, but not waterproof, which can be a tough battle for the bathroom area. Cork is another flooring option that may work well in powder rooms, but it probably not your best choice for highly-used bathrooms and bathing areas.

In addition, since cork flooring is natural wood, it’s not entirely scratch-resistant and is more susceptible to damage (especially from pet claws).

While no natural wood floor is entirely scratch-resistant, cork flooring is more adaptable to claws caused by dogs and cats than many other natural wood flooring options

Laminate Flooring

If you have your heart set on wood flooring (or the look of wood flooring) in your bathroom, your best bet is to go with laminate flooring. Laminate allows you to get the classic look of hardwood, without having to worry about water damage, malleability, or any of the other concerns commonly associated with hardwood.

Advantages of Laminate

The biggest advantage of laminate flooring is that it looks like the real deal: there are so many styles of laminate available today, that you can mimic the look and feel of almost any type of wood. Most laminates include the visual wood details and texture, color and graining, making it hard to tell the difference from the real thing!

Laminate is made from the layering of a number of different synthetic fabrics, usually resin and fiberboard materials, underneath a wood photographic applique, and a clear protective layer to top it all off and allow the wood visual to show through. According to HGTV, laminate is typically made from four layers of material that then gets fused together: “a melamine wear layer; a high-resolution photo of the surface it is emulating; a dense core board; and a melamine backing layer.”

Due to this structure, laminate helps you achieve the beauty of true hardwood at a fraction of the cost. Hardwood is known for being the most expensive flooring choice out there.

In general, laminate is affordable, durable, and resistant to stains and moisture, which makes it a great option for any home. It’s easy to clean, and highly customizable. It’s also hypoallergenic, and won’t harbor mold or mildew.

Drawbacks of Laminate

Because of the unique way that it’s constructed, laminate is a highly debated material for use in bathrooms, and as bathroom flooring.

The common agreement about laminate is that it can withstand water (it’s water-resistant), but don’t rely on it to be 100% waterproof. And definitely don’t leave puddles or other water residue sitting on laminate for long periods of time.

For these reasons, laminate is a great option for powder rooms, but for your primary bathroom where you (or your kids and family) use the shower, bath and more, you will probably want to go with a more solidly waterproof flooring choice.

Worst Floor Types for the Bathroom

Now that we’ve shared some viable bathroom flooring options, it’s also worthwhile to share a few flooring options that are not ideal for the bathroom.

Real Wood/Hardwood

Hardwood is a beautiful flooring option, but it has no place in the bathroom or any other room where water is frequently used. Hardwood is not waterproof and is highly susceptible to water damage. If even a small amount of water makes its way into the core of hardwood planks, it can rot the wood from the inside-out. Do yourself a favor and stay away from hardwood in the bathroom.

Carpet

We all know the feeling of tiptoeing your feet across a cold bathroom floor, but the solution to getting around this discomfort is not installing carpet in your bathroom. Carpet soaks up moisture, so if you place it in a room where there is constant wetness, you are setting yourself up for disaster.

Concrete

Concrete is a trendy floor option, but it’s not a great choice for bathroom flooring because it’s incredibly slippery, and by default can be very dangerous. If you want to see concrete in your bathrooms, consider a concrete countertop instead.

Wrapping Up

As you can see, there are a wide variety of flooring options for your bathroom. No matter your budget or the layout of your space, there is a type of floor that will fit your needs. For more information on bathroom remodels or kitchen remodels, please contact our San Diego home renovation company today.

Whether you’re already thinking about putting your house on the market our you’re just considering how you can add value to your home, an up-to-date and thrifty bathroom renovation may be a perfect improvement. Earning some return on your investment is a somewhat difficult prospect when it comes to home renovations, but with careful consideration and planning, updating the design of your bathroom might be the perfect selling point when the time comes to sell.

That’s why we’ve laid out some of the options and key benefits of an effective bathroom remodel, as well as some things to watch out for to help your renovation run smoothly.

Getting Started

So, if you’ve decided that if you remodel a bathroom you will be brought closer to your goals, then the next thing to do is to decide on the theme and design of your bathroom. If you’re not sure about the direction that you want to take in the early stages of the renovation, then keeping it simple and investing in designs that have been proven to produce a solid return on investment is the way to go.

When housing markets are thriving, there is much more opportunity to get some of the funds you dedicate toward a renovation back. The bathroom might be the space that adds the most value to your home if your money is spent wisely. Bathrooms can be the most expensive spaces in a home and often become powerful selling points for a homeowner.

What Can Be Renovated?

Many homeowners are choosing to replace their tubs with walk-in showers in a bath remodel which seem to be the more efficient choice when it comes to time management and water control. A beautiful walk-in shower can replace an under-utilized tub as the most attractive part of a new bathroom. Many couples and prospective buyers still look for double sinks in the master bathroom, so thinking about adding another sink might help add some value to your house. Also, check out 8 other master bathroom remodel ideas for your dream remodel!

If you’re living in a home that only has one bathroom, rather than thinking about how you can renovate your only bathroom, it might be a better idea to invest in a new bathroom. If you end up putting your house on the market, you’re likely to have more interest in multiple bathrooms instead of only one.

If you are thinking about selling your home sometime soon, keep in mind that the look and design of your bathroom might be what makes the sale or what turns potential buyers away. Here are some tips to keep your bathroom remodel on track, as well as some trends that should be avoided. Many buyers today are seeking a renovated bathrooms and kitchens so making smart choices in how you invest in your bathroom might be what gets you into escrow.

What Materials Produce More ROI?

Another vital consideration during a bathroom remodel involves the types of materials that you have at your disposal. Some of these materials will produce a better return on your investment which is why knowing what design features are trendy and which are outdated will help you determine the best material choices for your remodel. If you don’t plan to move anytime soon, then you have the luxury of concentrating on what you will enjoy and what will work best for your lifestyle.

When choosing a theme for your bathroom and the look of your fixtures, choosing copper, gold, nickel, and gold can be safe bets when it comes to maintaining resale value. There are plenty of ways to materials into your bathroom design, and replacing fixtures can be a simple and quick way to spice up the look of your room. One material that might not produce the return on your investment that your expecting is a brass color-theme. This once very popular look is not as hip as it once was while prospective buyers are seeking a more modern look. Going with a brushed nickel or brushed copper look is another cost-effective way to start updating your bathroom. Get more information on color schemes in the article, “Master Bathroom Ideas to Enhance Your Space.”

Other fixtures you can think about matching can include a new towel rack or mirrors. These simple cosmetic changes might be all you need when it comes to stylizing your bathroom and maintaining a relevant look. New fixtures can also give the appearance of a more extensive remodel during open houses.

Saving Space During Renovations

One of the most important elements of an effective bathroom renovation involves the appropriate and efficient use of space in the room. You’ll want to plan wisely and leave plenty of space in your bathroom during your remodel. If you’re trying to decide whether you want to begin work on your one-and-a-half bathroom, it might be smarter to think about if you can dedicate those funds toward completing another full bathroom.

Most buyers will prefer multiple bathrooms over the newly-renovated one. If this is the only bathroom in the house then maximizing your space is that much more important. Replacing your vanity cabinet with a wall-mounted sink will save you a good amount of space in your bathroom. Other areas of your bathroom that you can think about improving include storage space, flooring and even shower seating.

Cost-Effective Renovations

Few homeowners are spending money remodeling their bathrooms if they don’t believe that they will see some sort of return on investment. And most prospective buyers will make a point of checking out the bathroom before deciding to buy. Although remodeling your bathroom can become pricey, it doesn’t have to be. There are some easy and cost-effective ways to update the design of your bathroom, so you can still keep up with the times without breaking the bank.

Earning a return on your investment can be tricky no matter how the housing market is doing, but in healthier markets, a new-looking bathroom might raise the value of your home to your target price range.

Implementing Natural Light

Opting to add some natural light to your bathroom is one way to achieve the appearance of space in your room. If you aren’t getting the natural light you’d like in your bathroom, then adding some recessed lighting can be an appropriate substitute– this type of lighting helps preserve the appearance of space in the room instead of the immediate and abrupt feeling that bright bathroom lights can give.

Other Lighting Options

If you’re feeling fancy and your ceilings are just high enough, you might even consider implementing a hanging light fixture in your bathroom. There are plenty of choices when it comes to hanging lights and chandeliers so be sure to stick with something that matches the other fixtures in your bathroom.

Pick and choose the elements you replace in your bathroom wisely– you may only end up changing your lighting and your toilet but still add a significant amount of value through the renovations. This is also a convenient way to save on time and other resources as well as avoid worrying about some of the more complicated parts of a full bathroom remodel.

Adding Glass Features

Frosted doors aren’t as sought-after as they’ve been in the past, which works out because plain glass doors are another way to give the feeling of more space in your bathroom. If you can afford to take on the project, changing out your tub for a glass, walk-in shower can be another way to save space and add the appearance of extra room in your bathroom all at the same time. Glass also maintains a modern look so you don’t have to worry about updating again in a few years,

Fresh Paint Job

Re-painting your bathroom is another example of a relatively simple project that can really update the feel of your bathroom at a reasonable price. Most buyers today are seeking clean looks and colors that bring in extra light. Adding some fresh color to your bathroom is one of the most efficient ways to update your room.

If you have trouble deciding on a new color, consider going with a neutral color paint that is more likely to stand the test of time than the color that is trending at the moment. This will help make sure that your bathroom doesn’t become dated-looking a few years down the line.

What Affects Return On Investments for Remodels?

Not every bathroom renovation will produce the same return on investment. It may be wise to speak with a broker while you do your research to find out more about what sells in your area and what buyers look for in a bathroom. Neighborhood and timing make a huge difference as far as the return on investment you should expect. Doing your homework based on your area will save you from spending more money than you need to on your renovations.

Location

The part of the country that you live in is another aspect that will impact the ROI that you see from any type of remodel. Changing tastes and varying markets can make it difficult to predict exactly what type of money you’ll get back from your renovation. If done right, a bathroom remodel can produce more than half of its value and depending on current trends it may yield more. That’s why it’s important you are aware of the latest bathroom remodel trends before getting started. 

Timing

Timing is key when it comes to assessing the value of your bathroom renovations and the money you’ll get out of them. Most brokers explain that the longer you remain in your home, the greater your chances become of earning a better ROI– unfortunately, there are no guarantees when it comes to earning some of your investment back. Bathrooms styles can go in and out of fashion quickly, so if you’re not planning on selling soon, stick with some you’ll appreciate years from now and hopefully, that timeless look will still be appreciated when the time comes to put your house on the market.

When you’re deciding how you’re going to update your bathroom, make sure the finished product is still consistent with the look of the rest of your home. If your bathroom doesn’t mesh with the theme throughout the house, it might be a little jarring and deter a potential sale. Most buyers aren’t looking for uniquely eccentric design in their bathrooms, so choosing traditional materials and styles for your bathroom will help protect your investment.

Wrapping Up

There are many avenues to explore when it comes to how you can renovate your bathroom. Simple and cost-effective renovations might include simple fixture replacements or a fresh coat of paint on the walls. Other, more extensive renovations, such as a new toilet, tub, or cool shower design, might be necessary additions to a newly-remodeled bathroom, but these projects should be handled with caution if you want to keep your average cost down and give yourself the best chance of earning some sort of ROI. A renovated bathroom can add a real sense of comfort and elegance to your home if it matches the theme throughout. If you’re still lost on ideas, take the quiz, “What’s Your Ideal Bathroom Style?”