Evolving from just a place of toiletry affairs, hygiene maintenance, and grooming space, bathrooms have transformed into the centerpiece of attraction in your home. Who knew, right? Well, these days, everyone desires their bathroom time to be a luxurious and relaxing experience. Unfortunately, in this era of evolving design, bathrooms can become outdated too quickly, and bathroom remodeling can be an overwhelming nightmare if you lack prior experience or the necessary knowledge.
Outdated bathrooms pose various risks, including the growth of mold and mildew due to high moisture levels, as well as balance and safety issues caused by wet or slippery floors. In fact, according to a report by CDC over 200,000 emergency room visits are attributed to bathroom injuries annually, which can be particularly dangerous, especially for senior citizens.
But lucky for you, this guide is here to take you on an all-around journey, addressing all significant aspects of bathroom remodeling to help you transform your bathroom to suit both your style and budget. So, let’s dive in!
Bathroom Remodel Planning Tips
Gone are the days when bathrooms were designed solely for functionality. With more homeowners spending increasing amounts of time at home, bathrooms are now viewed as significant living spaces for unwinding and enjoying some peaceful ‘me time.’
Although everyone desires a surreal bathroom experience, not everyone understands the nuances of creating an aesthetically pleasing and hyper-functional bathroom.
Here are some planning tips to keep in mind while designing your bathroom remodel.
1. Imagining the Dream Bathroom and Execution
Let your imagination run wild as you envision the perfect bathroom for yourself or your family. Whether it’s a luxurious master spa bathroom or a charming guest powder room, consider all the fixtures, designs, and styles you desire, without being limited by budget constraints. Once you’ve envisioned your dream project, you can collaborate with your design-build contractor to tailor the design according to your lifestyle, extend and type of usage, aesthetics, etc
2. Choosing Bathroom Fixtures and Design Elements
When we enter a finished bathroom, we often don’t realize how many fixtures and unique design elements constitute the whole of the space. Below are some important factors to consider while choosing fixtures and other elements.
Tiles
Material: Some of the most frequently used tile materials for bathrooms are ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone due to their durability and stain resistance.
Slip Resistance: Opt for tiles with a textured surface or a coefficient of friction (COF) rating to prevent slips, especially on the shower floor.
Grout: Go for stain-resistant grout that is properly sealed as it keeps moisture out and wards off mold. Added tip- using larger tiles means fewer grout lines to clean.
Size and Shape: Make your space appear larger by using 12×12 inch tiles for small floor areas and for larger areas, get a luxurious vibe with 24×24 inch tiles.
Vanities
Material: The materials that have gained popularity for their sturdiness, include hardwood, engineered wood, laminate, and melamine.
Storage: Settle the number of drawers or cabinets based on the type of bathroom and required storage space. However, a spacious countertop is always a good idea.
Countertop: You would want a durable and waterproof material for your countertops. Some options are quartz, granite, marble, laminate, etc.
Accessibility: Adjust the height of the vanity based on the primary user(s) of the bathroom. The vanity height for a kids’ bathroom should differ from that of an adult’s.
Sinks
Material: When it comes to bathroom sinks, the top choices include porcelain, ceramic, glass, or stainless steel with the former two requiring less maintenance.
Size and Shape: Pick a sink size and shape that matches your countertop and goes well with the overall setup. If space is tight, consider a corner sink—it’s a smart way to save room in smaller bathrooms.
Faucets: When you pick a sink, make sure they are compatible with the sink design and come with safety features such as temperature control to prevent accidental burns, along with easy-to-operate handles.
Toilets
Type: If you’re in a water-shortage area, water-saving toilets with double-flush designs are the way to go. However, to make your space appear expensive and polished, go for touchless toilets or push-button designs.
Height: Options like comfort height toilets are taller and more ergonomically designed for users of all ages and abilities.
Accessibility Features: Additional features such as grab bars, raised seats, or bidet options make your bathroom safer while making it appear luxurious and well-planned.
Bathtubs
Material: Some of the bathtub materials that will stand the test of time are acrylic, fiberglass, or enameled cast iron, where fiberglass and acrylic come under affordable options and cast iron or stone resin are on the expensive side.
Safety Features: Bathtubs now come with additional safety features for children and senior citizens. Think non-slip surfaces, grab bars, and even built-in seating for that extra peace of mind.
Size and Style: Visualize your space and aesthetic preferences. If you’re all about those deep soaks, go for a freestanding tub. Tight on space? Alcove or corner tubs are your friends. And for that spa vibe at home, a jetted bathtub is your pick.
Walls
Waterproofing: Whether you prefer striking elements on your walls or a more harmonious look, it’s crucial to pick moisture-resistant materials for wet areas like waterproof drywall or cement board in wet areas.
Paint or Wallpaper: Pick mold-resistant paint or wallpaper that can handle all that bathroom steam, especially if you live in a high-humidity environment.
Ventilation: Ensure proper bathroom ventilation via exhaust fan or window ventilation. It is the easiest way to dodge moisture buildup, and mold, and protect your walls from any damage.
3. Creating a Bathroom Layout
Getting the layout of the bathroom finalized is one of the initial big steps in the entire remodeling process. It is about striking a balance among functionality, priorities, and the specific needs of the users. A well-planned layout means making the most of your space, keeping things cozy, and making life easier all around. Find out below how a bathroom layout affects functionality and addresses priorities.
Space
Optimum space utilization is one of the most important benefits of creating a bathroom layout. It does the job through the strategic placement of fixtures, storage, and movement areas.
Needs
The intended user of the bathroom significantly impacts the layout. If it is a master bathroom, spacious and high-end elements are required to add a luxurious feel, while for a family bathroom accommodating multiple people at once might be a priority.
Storage
The choice of storage space and type can be easily determined based on the user’s preferences when finalizing the layout. Options such as built-in cabinets, shelves, or vanity units can be considered to meet specific storage requirements.
Accessibility
The layout is instrumental in integrating the accessibility requirements of all users, including the elderly and children. This involves incorporating features such as grab bars, wider doorways, and curbless showers to ensure ease of use and safety for everyone.
Privacy
A bathroom, no matter how modern, is essentially a private space. A bathroom layout helps add features to ensure privacy wherever necessary such as toilet, shower, etc.
Above are a few reasons why you must consider creating a bathroom layout before you dive into the remodeling work. Having a solid bathroom layout can save you tons of headaches. Check out these common ones to find your perfect match!
Single Vanity Layout
Perfect for smaller bathrooms or guest powder rooms, the single sink vanity layout consists of a single sink vanity unit featuring a sink, countertop, and storage cabinet underneath. The correct layout enables a fully functional bathroom without compromising on bathroom design or space.
Double Vanity Layout
The double vanity bathroom layout is tailored to accommodate multiple users simultaneously, making it ideal for shared, master, or couple bathrooms. It includes two sink units side by side, each with its own countertop and storage. With its array of versatile designs, this layout is a perfect match for a family bathroom, ensuring your daily routine flows seamlessly.
Wet Room Layout
If you are feeling something luxurious, a wet room-style bathroom is something that deserves a thought. With increased moving space within the limited area bathroom, concealed pipelines, and no enclosures, it can make any bathroom appear modern and minimalistic. All gorgeous wet room style bathrooms feature a seamless floor and drainage system
Functional Bathroom Design Trends
In modern bathroom designs, aesthetics and style have become almost as important as functionality. Settled on a bathroom layout? Great! You’ve completed the initial steps of designing your bathroom remodel. However, this is just the beginning. To truly customize your bathroom and align it with your needs, personal style, and aesthetics, it’s essential to explore design trends that not only match your taste but also serve functional purposes for at least the coming decade.
From clever storage options to chic fixtures, the choices for personalizing your space are endless. Below are some of the latest trends in bathroom design that seamlessly blend practicality with style.
Spa-like Features
Want to turn your regular bathroom into a personal oasis? Spa features such as a soaking tub are just the investment for a soothing unwinding experience. These deep, freestanding tubs transform a bathroom into a blissful spa sanctuary.
Heated Floors
Heated floors are a coveted bathroom feature found trending these days. Offering a luxurious touch, they keep the floor dry and provide gentle warmth underfoot, turning cold tile surfaces into warm floors during chilly mornings or evenings.
Furniture Style Cabinets and Vanities
Furniture-style cabinets and vanities are sure to add a touch of class and elegance to your space. Taking cues from traditional furniture, they offer all the fancy details—think intricate hardware, ornate designs, and lush finishes.
Decorative and Water-Efficient Hardware
By combining decorative flair with eco-friendly features, modern and water-efficient faucets and showerheads add a touch of elegance and personality to the bathroom while water-efficient technology ensures minimal water wastage.
Walk-in Showers
If you are one of those who have never appreciated the annoying partitions in your bathroom, you would love these spacious enclosures to do away with traditional barriers. The walk-in showers are a breeze to get into, making them perfect for people of any age or ability.
Shower Seats
Shower seats, like built-in benches, fold-down seats, and corner stools come super handy in any bathroom. Whether you’re going to shave, scrub your foot, or have a fake breakdown in the shower, this addition will amp up the functionality and comfort of the showering space.
Safety Accessories
Safety accessories like grab bars are a new-age solution to ensure the well-being and security of users, particularly the elderly or those with limited mobility or balance issues. These sturdy bars near toilets and showers lower the chances of slips and falls.
Solar Water Heating Systems
These systems typically consist of solar collectors that harness the power of the sun to provide an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution for heating water in homes. This results in lower energy bills, decreased reliance on fossil fuels, and lower carbon emissions.
Natural lighting from skylights
Skylights are overhead windows that channel sunlight directly into the space, offering privacy while allowing for expansive views of the sky. It adds a sense of warmth and openness and accentuates architectural features and design elements.
How to Create More Bathroom Storage Space
More storage space in the bathrooms means a decluttered space and a tidy and organized environment. Now, who doesn’t want that? Ample storage also makes it easier to find and access toiletries, towels, and other essentials, saving time and mental exhaustion. Needless to say, it enhances aesthetics, promoting relaxation and comfort. Below are a few techniques you can use while remodeling your bathroom to maximize storage space.
Consider Vanity Type
Double sink, floating, corner, tower, or single sink vanity with side cabinets are some of the best vanity designs to optimize space in a small bathroom or create extra space for toiletries, linens, cosmetics, medicines, and other bathroom essentials.
Built–in or Freestanding Linen Closets
Built-in linen closets can be customized according to the available space to fit specific dimensions and make the most of the walls, while free-standing closets offer flexibility in placement, making relocation easy if needed to accommodate linens, toiletries, and other essentials.
Shelves and Multi-use Bars
Wall-mounted shelves and bars provide additional storage space without taking up floor space, making them ideal for small bathrooms. They serve multiple purposes, such as providing storage for toiletries or acting as a drying rack for damp towels.
Storage on the Back of Doors
Wall-mounted hooks or racks offer a space-saving solution for keeping frequently used items within reach while also freeing up floor space in the bathroom. Towels, robes, or clothing items can be easily hung without cluttering the space.
Shower Storage Features
Built-in shower niches are among popular shower storage features, which are recessed shelves integrated directly into the shower wall during construction or renovation. Blending seamlessly with the surrounding wall material, they offer ample space for storing shampoo, conditioner, soap, and other shower essentials.
Baskets and Caddies
Baskets and caddies are versatile storage solutions that provide a rustic or bohemian touch to the bathroom decor while offering ample storage space for towels and toiletries during showers or while grooming near the countertop.
Product Resource Guide
The primary goal of a remodeling project is to enhance the appeal of the bathroom and address any misplacements or outdated architecture. Therefore, selecting the most suitable bathroom fixtures that speak with your personal style is a crucial aspect of the remodeling process.
Here are some online resources you may browse to explore different types of contemporary bathroom fixtures.
https://www.rakceramics.com/india/en-in/tiles/collection/florida/tiles/brown/
https://www.constructionresourcesusa.com/florida-bath-surfaces/
https://www.hollingsworthshowroom.com/showrooms/
https://lindahomecenter.com/Toilets-v3.htm
https://swiftbrothers.com/atlantic-coast-plumbing-tile/
https://skstonesusa.com/vanities/
Design Ideas Resource Guide
1. NKBA Bathroom Design Tips
The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) has released its much-awaited report on bathroom trends for 2024. It reveals that more than 70% of homeowners are fine with taking risks while constructing or remodeling this space to build a relaxing retreat to quiet the mind. Here are some major takeaways from the report-
- Vanities will be designed bearing practicality and convenience in mind with integrated power outlets and personalized storage units. Soaking and freestanding tubs in oval shape will be on trend in the coming year.
- Customization and app/keypad controls for water, high-tech vanities with integrated outlets, floor temperatures and smart mirrors, toilets and showers will take prominence.
- Organic and natural design themes including wood tones, earthy greens, and warmer whites will be the material and color palette for the coming season.
- Smart features with lighting will gain popularity along with the standard 100 percent LED lighting, such as lighting in medicine cabinets and mirrors, mobile device-connected lighting, locally placed dimmers and switches, and motion-sensor lighting.
2. Accessibility Information from AARP
The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) consistently underscores the importance of modifying and updating bathrooms to ensure safety and convenience for the elderly. According to a report by AARP, more than 10 percent of adults aged 65 and older have experienced falls resulting in injuries. Here are some safety measures suggested by AARP:
- Installing a handheld sprayer, shower seat, and curbless shower are some simple modifications for a safe and comfortable shower experience for people with compromised mobility issues.
- Bidet toilets or comfort heights are great for a convenient potty time and for adults to remain independent while maintaining hygiene.
- Slip-resistant floor tiles have become an essential feature in all bathroom remodelings, catering not only to the elderly but also to children and adults alike.
3. Galleries and Videos
One way to reach your ideal bathroom remodel that reflects your personal style and meets your needs and preferences quickly and effortlessly is to browse through various designs and layouts and shortlist the ones that resonate with your personal style. Here are some online galleries that you may explore to find different designs:
https://www.hgtv.com/design/rooms/bathrooms
https://www.ikea.com/in/en/rooms/bathroom/gallery/your-bathroom-your-way-pubce81e2d0
Questions to Answer Before Starting Your Project
A streamlined bathroom remodeling process requires clarity regarding your goals. Are you aiming for a new aesthetic, a modified layout, updated features, or an entirely new structure?
Here are several important questions that help determine the type of work needed for your project:
- What kind of bathroom are you thinking of remodeling? Powder room, kid’s bath, or maybe the master suite?
- Who’s gonna be using it the most? Yourself, your partner, the kiddos, or maybe guests or someone with special needs?
- How many people will need to use it at once?
- What are the primary activities that are going to happen there? Just bathing, or maybe some dressing or grooming too?
- Thinking about storage—linens, laundry, meds—anything specific you need space for?
- Got a design vibe in mind? Modern, traditional, minimalist?
- Considering any fancy extras like a steam shower or heated floors?
- Any chance you can reuse some of the stuff you already have in there?
- How long will you be living in the home?
- Is boosting the home’s resale value a big motive behind the remodeling?
Options for Who to Buy From
Every decision, including where to purchase fixtures for a bathroom remodel, can impact the end result. There are significant differences between buying from box stores, contractors, and specialists, each with its own pros and cons. Here are some important distinctions to consider when making this decision:
Big Box Stores
Big box stores enable us to browse through a large variety of bathroom fixtures pertaining to different styles, brands, and price points. They are also easily accessible and may offer competitive prices due to their large purchasing power.
However, big box stores may prioritize low prices over quality, which will prove disadvantageous for the user in the long run. The staff members there may lack the expertise needed to recommend the best product for your needs
Contractors
Contractors work with a wide array of bathroom projects on a regular basis and can recommend the right kind of fixtures and materials to meet specific needs and demands. Additionally, they assist with proper installation in accordance with building codes, helping to prevent future problems.
Also, their services may come at a higher cost than big box stores but lower than specialized retailers. For more specific information, visit our blog post on construction costs, specifically the bathroom remodeling costs section.
Specialized Retailers
Specialized retailers provide expert advice, which is especially beneficial for those lacking industry knowledge related to bathroom remodeling. They typically recommend and provide high-end, premium brands and products, and they may also offer customization options to suit your taste.
It should be noted, however, that specialized advice and personalized service come at a higher cost with specialists compared to big box stores and contractors. Additionally, they may be less accessible and offer a limited selection of products.