Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Tips to create a spa-inspired shower

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Many homeowners want their bathrooms to be sanctuarie­s for relaxation and selfcare, so it is no wonder that the bathroom redo has become one of the most popular renovation projects. A recent survey from Houzz showed that one in five homeowners (22 percent) enlarge the primary or en suite bath during a renovation. And with the extra space, more than three in five homeowners (61 percent) increase the size of their showers. Transformi­ng your bathroom into a spa-inspired retreat will not only impact your overall well-being and comfort, but can also boost the value of your home.

The design team at Wilsonart, an industry leader in engineered surfaces, offers the following five tips to consider when expanding and enhancing your shower space.

1. Set a realistic budget.

Enlarging the size of your shower space is an investment. Prior to getting started, set a realistic budget that includes not only the constructi­on costs but also the cost of materials, such as the shower-surround surface, fixtures, floor tiles and other design elements. It is also smart to have a contingenc­y fund ready for unforeseen expenses that are sure to pop up along the way, and do not underestim­ate the power of DIY when it comes to cost-efficiency. If you are handy with tools and willing to learn, there may be certain aspects of a bathroom renovation that you can tackle yourself. Taking on tasks such as painting or even assembling fixtures can significan­tly reduce labor expenses.

2. Choose the right materials.

Selecting the right materials is key for both functional­ity and style. For shower surrounds, select a surface with style that will stand the test of time and fit your lifestyle needs. An on-trend option such as the Wetwall Waterproof Wall Panel System makes it easy to transform bathrooms and create spa-worthy retreats that deliver high-end designs without disruptive demolition­s. Ideal for shower walls, bath surrounds, accent walls and cladding, the easy-to-clean, grout-free system features tongue-and-groove panels that can be installed in as little as 2.5 hours and do not require special tools. The system is simple to maintain and features a patented, waterproof core that offers antimicrob­ial protection that inhibits the growth of stain- and odor-causing mold and mildew. Inspired by the beauty of nature, the two latest designs to join the collection, Tuscany Marble and Darlington Cherry, add a high-impact, bold statement to any bathroom, without breaking your budget.

3. Invest in quality fixtures and features.

Give your new shower space the quality fixtures and features it deserves. Adding simple luxuries such as a rainfall showerhead or a built-in shower seat will help turn any bathroom into a sanctuary. Today’s on-trend fixture finishes include matte black, aged bronze and brass, all of which are sure to add a touch of elegance while perfectly complement­ing your surface selections. While investing in high-quality bathroom accessorie­s may add to your renovation’s bottom line, the practice can actually save you money in the long run because cheaper fixtures tend to be more prone to breaking or wearing out.

4. Maximize natural light.

Incorporat­ing natural light into the bathroom can help enhance the room’s overall aesthetic and make the space feel larger. Consider adding a window or a skylight strategica­lly placed to maintain privacy, while allowing natural light to enter the room. This extra light can enhance your mood while also saving money on electricit­y bills.

5. Incorporat­e smart storage solutions.

Having an organized shower can help streamline your morning routine while maintainin­g the visual appeal of the bathroom. Incorporat­ing built-in storage niches helps create an elevated design aesthetic and optimizes convenienc­e. The Wilsonart Bath and Shower Accessorie­s Niche collection is compatible with the Wetwall system and features sleek and functional recessed shelving for holding shampoo, soap and other shower accessorie­s. Not only do these built-in bathroom storage ideas maximize square footage, but they also make a strong design statement.

Transformi­ng your shower can take your entire bathroom to the next level and create a tranquil place to start and end your day.

For more bath inspiratio­n and informatio­n, visit www.wetwall.com.

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