Where do you start your master bath remodel?
When planning a master or guest bathroom remodel, the many choices and product selections can be overwhelming. Begin by talking to your remodeler or interior designer to understand the possibilities available in the space. Next, visit a showroom with a large, professional selection of materials. Seeing and touching the products will help the decisionmaking process.
Consider these questions:
What is your budget? Remember, once you have the crew in your home, getting the most “bang for your buck” is important. You may not do this again for many years.
What is the style of your home — traditional, contemporary or transitional?
Do you want to keep that style or make a change? Your product selections will follow the style you choose.
You should select your flooring, countertops and tile to get started. These will help you with the finish that you select for your plumbing and hardware.
Bathtubs, showers
Begin your bathroom remodel by selecting the master bathroom bathtub and shower styles. The “garden tubs” popular in the 1990s are being replaced by more efficient, practical, space-saving models. Current bathtub trends include freestanding tubs that require less floor space.
Most master bathrooms include a separate shower, which is often used more than the bathtub. Consider the functions you want in a shower:
Will you want a ceiling-mounted showerhead for a tall person?
Do you want wheelchair access? Consider pull bars, extra space and a threshold for wheelchair access — most Americans now want to age in their homes.
Sink is focal point
The vanity sink and faucet hardware are focal points of the bathroom. Options in bathroom sinks range from the traditional undermount to vessel sinks.
Current trends in faucet finishes include unlacquered brass, which ages with use to a golden patina; polished brass; satin brass; satin bronze; and polished nickel bronze is still popular for the right style of home. There are many beautiful finishes available.
Toilet technology
Along with everything else in modern lives, toilets have been vastly improved through technology. “Smart” toilets offer everything from self-cleaning by ultraviolet light, to automatic lids, seat warmers and a bidet function. There are several price ranges and options available, including a height to assist wheelchairs.
This article was provided by a member of the Remodelers Council of the Greater Houston Builders Association. The Remodelers Council is dedicated to promoting professionalism and public awareness of the remodeling profession through education, certification and service to the Houston community. To reach the author directly, contact pamnicar@ bathsofamerica.com. For information on this article, contact Lorraine Hart at lorraine@ idealconsulting.net. To join the council or to find a professional remodeler in your area, visit www.ghba.org.