Guide to Renovating Your Bathroom

If you have the space, a freestanding tub is a great option for increasing resale values in a child-friendly area. If your space doesn’t allow for a large walk-in bath and a tub (or you don’t have children to bathe), then a combo shower/tub is the best option. Jacuzzi-style bathtubs were popular in McMansion times, but showers are becoming more common in master bathrooms. While a soaking tub might be available at the higher end, the main priority is the walk-in bathtub.

Let’s now focus on the showers. Even though it may seem small, the right enclosure will make all the difference in your shower/tub combination. These are the key players.

 

Curtains: Curtains are better for combos of shower and tub. A soft, flexible curtain is easier than a glass door to allow children to bathe. You can easily swap it out if you change your style.
Glass doors: They can make a shower seem larger and add warmth to the shower with finishes such as metal grids, pretty hardware, or a framing detail at the entrance.
No Doors: A shower enclosure that does not have doors is the most liberating. You won’t need to worry about splashing if you choose waterproof surfaces and a central drain.

Last but not least, make sure that your shower is equipped with the correct fixtures. There are many gadgets you can add to your bathroom that will allow it to be upgraded without having to renovate. These two are our favorites.

• Thermostatic shower valve: Although it sounds complicated, this is what maintains the perfect bathwater temperature. Installing a thermostatic valve for your shower may increase the cost of your plumbing. It automatically adjusts the temperature of the hot and cold water to prevent scalding when pressure changes occur. We recommend it!

• Upgraded Showerhead: You don’t need to remodel? A handheld showerhead is still possible. This Grohe handheld showerhead is our choice for something high-end but still very hackable. It is easy to install (and remove, if necessary). It does not require any major plumbing modifications.

Know your Materials

• Natural stone: This is the most popular bathroom surface. Any natural stone can be used in a damp environment if it is sealed properly.

• Subway tiles: These are the classic choice, but you also have the option to go for something more unique and handmade like zellige. Don’t underestimate the tiny tiles such as penny and hex. These small round tiles are still very affordable, even though they were created over a century ago. You can get them for as low as $5 per square foot and you can use them everywhere. They are a great option for expensive bathroom materials such as natural stone due to their affordability and resistance in wet environments.

• Wallpaper: You can put wallpaper in your bathroom. It’s important to keep wallpaper out of the splashing zone and to install adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. This is a great way of getting a variety of looks without having to commit to a particular pattern.

Keep storage top of mind

• In the Shower: Bathrooms are limited on storage space so a shower niche with a built-in is a must. You can either slot one between the studs or purchase a precast niche that you can tile over. Make sure the niche is large enough to store your essential shower products.

• The Vanity: There are two choices for your next bathroom vanity. You can either go with one custom and select materials that will thrive in high-moisture environments. A designer-contractor team will execute the project, or you can buy it pre-made to save yourself the hassle. Don’t tear up your plumbing if it’s not necessary. You can conceal your mess with cabinet doors, or make a curtain and rod to give it a cottage-inspired look.

• Walls: You can use floating shelves, mirror cabinets, towel racks, and hooks as well as a built-in linen closet to decorate your walls. It all depends on what you like and how much space is available.