our end! You are planning your dream bathroom renovation. How can you make sure you get all the amenities you want? At Columbus Bath Design, we recommend following these nine easy tips to create a plan that works for you, the contractor, and the space. The result will be a spa worthy of long soaks and morning family rituals.
Dream big before you start
Before you start grappling with the reality of square footage and affordability, let your imagination run wild. Imagine the perfect bathroom oasis and write it all down. Dreaming of a jetted bathtub, lush hanging plants, soothing candles, and acres of marble tiles? Perhaps you simply need an outlet from your vanity to plug your shaver into. Record small details and big ticket items.
While the final product may not be exactly a luxury retreat, you and your designer will have the opportunity to include elements on a smaller scale. The result is a bathroom that reflects your personal tastes and needs.
Determine the size of the bathroom and your budget
Next, select the shape and dimensions intended for the bathroom. The size will determine whether you end up with a cozy three-piece bath or a spacious four-piece bath. Don’t buy any fixtures before you know they will fit in the space.
Now you need to look at your finances. Determine your maximum total budget available for the job and then deduct 10%. This gives you the highest number you should consider for any estimates. That extra 10% is for the surprises that come with many home improvements such as the need to replace wiring, structure, or even heating ducts.
Providing your designer with a quality budget number means they can source materials that fit your budget and will minimize disappointments when you drool over an item that isn’t very affordable.
Choose the layout that suits you best
Sit down with your stylist and some papers or even with a tape measure and masking. Locate everything in the new bathroom. Consider getting out of the bathtub, turning in front of the toilet, and closing the door. This process not only determines where everything goes but also the size of each fixture. Now you won’t be shopping for a two-person shower when you only have room for a smaller container.
Shower, tub, or both?
While nearly every home of the last century featured a bathtub and shower combination, times are changing. Have you ever soaked in the bathtub? So why would you install one in your bathroom? If you always come home to take a shower, you probably don’t need a large walk-in shower, but just a smaller one will do. The traditional bathtub and shower combination still works, but is that really what you want?
A bigger ego will serve you well in the future
Anyone who has lived with a bathroom built in the first half of the last century knows the problems that come with a stylish pedestal sink. Sounds great, but where do you put your toothpaste tube or hairbrush? Even in a smaller bathroom, choose a large dressing table as possible. If you’re limited to a plinth design, figure out where to add shelves, so you have a post that supports the décor.
Where will the towels go? How about extra spins of TP? Drawers and cabinets are essential, even if you dream of an open plan wet room.
Natural materials and colors blend with trends
Why do the bathrooms of the 60s and 70s linger in our minds as outrageous and glamorous? Because the fixtures and tiles are done in vintage colors of deep rose, avocado green, and navy blue. The homeowners were so stuck with these color schemes that they took a jackhammer to the bathroom.
You can avoid this problem by choosing fixtures, tile and wall colors in neutral colors and materials. Even if the world suddenly fell in love with dark purple, it can be added to your new room with rugs, art, and curtains. Banish the dying color fad, and you’ll instantly return to sanity decor.
Lighting fixtures where you need them most
Take a moment to think about your current shower experience. Is there a missing light above the sink? Do you have shadows in front of the mirror? Today’s LED bulb technology means you can add great lighting to every corner of your design without breaking the bank. However, adding them to the renovation budget ensures a smooth installation.
Future technology in your toilet
Your thermostat and doorbell connected to your smartphone. Don’t want to tell your toilet to clean itself? Today’s toilets offer more premium features than ever before. Incorporate a bidet, heated seat, air fresheners, and night lights. Everyone spends a great deal of their lives on the throne. Make it as comfortable as possible.
Bring in the sun!
Finally, if the bathroom is located on an exterior wall, be sure to include a window in your new design. Sunlight provides a natural defense against mold and unpleasant odors, so even high windows help protect your family’s health. If you’re lucky enough to overlook a private yard, there’s nothing quite as relaxing as soaking in scented bubbles while watching birds at play.
Are you ready to go to work? We are too. Give us a ring at Columbus Bath Design Center in Lewis, Ohio, and begin your bathroom renovation project today.