bathroom vanity and shower layout before remodeling
When people talk about bathroom remodeling, they often get right into the details, discussing tile options, fixture styles, and color palettes. However, the most successful remodeling projects actually begin with a simple practical inquiry: “How do I want this room to work on a daily basis?” A bathroom isn’t big, but it has a disproportionate effect on our comfort, storage, safety and busy daily schedules. And with a little bathroom remodeling, they can turn an ugly, claustrophobic, outdated bathroom into one that’s a more spacious, serene, and easy-to-use place.
Begin the Remodeling Process With Function
Before starting their bathroom remodeling work, consider what doesn’t work with your bathroom currently. Is your vanity too small, is your shower cramped, is the lighting inadequate, and is there space to store towels and bathroom items? Some bathrooms have non-skid flooring, poor air flow, and/or an unfunctional layout.
Bathroom remodeling works when it addresses those practical concerns first. A lovely bathroom with not enough storage or a bad layout will soon become unusable. A bathroom can be more simple but more functional and comfortable.
Some common remodeling projects include:
- Create more useable storage
- Improve the shower/tub experience
- Replace flooring that’s not holding up
- Create more vanity light options
- Address moisture problems
- Create a sense of more space
Design First, Select Material Later
The bathroom layout is the base of any bathroom remodeling project. Relocating plumbing fixtures is a costly and complicated task and needs to be done well before remodeling. However, just keeping the same toilet, sink, and shower can still make it better.
In other circumstances, the entire bathroom layout can change with remodeling. If the home does not use the tub, it can be replaced with a large walk-in shower. If the bathroom can accommodate one or two vanities, they should be changed into one or two vanities. A bathroom door can be changed to swing the other way, and it’s easy to widen the walk-in area to make the room more user-friendly.
“Many people start with finishes, but the layout of the space will ultimately determine how comfortable the bathroom is in daily life,” says Daniel Mercer, residential remodeling consultant. “A few more inches here or there can make all the difference.”
Material Selection and Moisture
Bathroom remodelings have to deal with water, humidity (as you can see at epa.gov), chemical cleansers, and other issues that can affect the space over time. This can make material selection a crucial factor. Flooring needs to stand up to moisture and be a safe walking surface. The shower tile should stand up to wear and be well installed so the bathroom does not leak down to the next floor or basement. The bathroom cabinets should be designed to withstand a damp and humid environment.
Ceramic tile is popular because it is so versatile and can look great when installed by a skilled tiling contractor. The use of large-size tiles creates fewer grout lines and makes a small bathroom feel more spacious. For countertop and shelving, a non-porous and easy-to-clean surface will make your daily cleaning less complicated.
ceramic tile shower and moisture resistant bathroom materials
And don’t forget storage. You may want to add built-in storage cabinets or shelves in your bathroom vanity, or you may want a vanity with drawers.
Don’t Ignore Lighting and Ventilation
Proper lighting and air flow can transform a bathroom’s overall experience. A dim bathroom can make the room unusable. Poor air circulation in a bathroom can lead to humidity build up, which means mold and mildew, plus the early degradation of cabinetry and paint.
The best lighting strategy for bathrooms uses multiple layers of light. Overhead lighting provides a bright and even base level of light throughout the bathroom, and task lighting at the vanity makes it easier to shave and apply makeup. Safe, appropriate lighting at the shower can make the space more secure and comfortable.
Likewise, an exhaust fan – you can read more here, is important. It is designed to keep the bathroom from being humid by pulling humid air outside, which will extend the life of all cabinetry and trim.
Style and Long-term Value
A bathroom remodel should be reflective of personal style, but long-term durability is key for big remodeling decisions. Neutral tile and paint colors and classic vanities can be adapted over time and won’t look dated in a few years. The details like accessories, mirror and towel racks, paint and towels can change to match a new style down the road.
However, just because you want a space that will last does not mean it has to be bland. Warm neutrals, soft greens and blues, matte finishes and natural wood finishes add a lot of visual appeal. But when deciding on the permanent components, keep in mind that it should continue to look good years from now.
Create a Functional and Beautiful Bathroom
A bathroom remodel isn’t just about the look; it should make the space feel safer and easier to maintain, organized, and comfortable. Focusing on layout, choosing moisture-resistant and easy-to-clean materials, ensuring proper ventilation and lighting, and creating practical storage options, will create a bathroom that looks beautiful and works better each day.
