Latest Trends for Remodeling Your Bathroom
Monday | December 20, 2010 Filed in: Bathroom Remodeling | General Remodeling
Often, when a house is remodeled, the bathroom is given little consideration. It is usually the smallest and most uncomfortable place in the house. Therefore, when remodeling your bathroom, let it be your aim to make it a lot more pleasant, comfortable and spacious. The following examples, which highlight the latest remodeling trends in bathrooms, will show you how to achieve this aim.
Bathtubs and Showers
The latest trend is to custom-make a bathtub so that you can enjoy a 'whirlpool' experience when you have a bath. This, however, will only work when your bathtub is, at least, 5 feet long, 32 inches wide and 30 inches high. If your bathroom is too small to accommodate a bathtub, you can custom-make a shower to suit your needs. For instance, there are now showers that include built-in soap dishes or shelves. You can even order a shower unit that has a fitted seat.
Sinks
There is no standard size or shape for a bathroom sink. However, the latest trend is to install wall-hung sinks, corner sinks or pedestal sinks as they help save space. Martha Kerr, a certified kitchen and bath designer, warns that, apart from the location of the sink and what faucets to use, you should keep in mind the height of the person using the sink. Also, make sure that the sink is big enough so that you can wash your hands with ease (thisoldhouse.com).
Toilets
Usually, you should place a toilet at least 15 inches from any side wall. Then, make sure there is at least 2 feet of clear space in front of your toilet. In addition, consider the following:
Mirrors, lights, heating fixtures and storage cupboards
Mount a mirror with a beautiful frame on the wall to give the impression of space and enhance the décor of your bathroom. In older or smaller bathrooms, move the radiator to a higher spot or replace it with wall-mounted electric radiant heating panels. Consider using light bulbs that emit heat as well. However, be careful when using infrared heat lamps – while they might provide more heat, the beam from these lamps can be too harsh. Lastly, install wall-mounted cupboards for storage so that your bathroom floor will be free of clutter.
As you can see, remodeling your bathroom need not be a major investment in your time and money – making even a small change can have a big impact. Ultimately, to make your bathroom trendy, you would be wise to remember Kerr's advice to pick fixtures and materials that fit the space and are visually appealing.
Bathtubs and Showers
The latest trend is to custom-make a bathtub so that you can enjoy a 'whirlpool' experience when you have a bath. This, however, will only work when your bathtub is, at least, 5 feet long, 32 inches wide and 30 inches high. If your bathroom is too small to accommodate a bathtub, you can custom-make a shower to suit your needs. For instance, there are now showers that include built-in soap dishes or shelves. You can even order a shower unit that has a fitted seat.
Sinks
There is no standard size or shape for a bathroom sink. However, the latest trend is to install wall-hung sinks, corner sinks or pedestal sinks as they help save space. Martha Kerr, a certified kitchen and bath designer, warns that, apart from the location of the sink and what faucets to use, you should keep in mind the height of the person using the sink. Also, make sure that the sink is big enough so that you can wash your hands with ease (thisoldhouse.com).
Toilets
Usually, you should place a toilet at least 15 inches from any side wall. Then, make sure there is at least 2 feet of clear space in front of your toilet. In addition, consider the following:
- 'Rough-in' dimension - this is the distance from the wall to the part of the toilet that drains away the waste. In smaller bathrooms, Kerr suggests using smaller toilet units where the rough-in dimension is 10 inches to maximize the space.
- The shape of the seat and bowl - these can be either rounded or elongated. Although the latest trend is to use elongated bowls, rounded bowls still take up less space.
Mirrors, lights, heating fixtures and storage cupboards
Mount a mirror with a beautiful frame on the wall to give the impression of space and enhance the décor of your bathroom. In older or smaller bathrooms, move the radiator to a higher spot or replace it with wall-mounted electric radiant heating panels. Consider using light bulbs that emit heat as well. However, be careful when using infrared heat lamps – while they might provide more heat, the beam from these lamps can be too harsh. Lastly, install wall-mounted cupboards for storage so that your bathroom floor will be free of clutter.
As you can see, remodeling your bathroom need not be a major investment in your time and money – making even a small change can have a big impact. Ultimately, to make your bathroom trendy, you would be wise to remember Kerr's advice to pick fixtures and materials that fit the space and are visually appealing.