Houston Chronicle Sunday

Maximize space when remodeling small bath

- By Dan Bawden LEGAL EAGLE CONTRACTOR­S

Remodeling a small bathroom can be a challenge because of space limitation­s. To make the most out of your remodel, you’ve got to make every inch count. The following are some tips to help you maximize the space when remodeling a small bathroom: Use the right colors: Using light colors throughout the space helps reflect light and brightens your room to make it appear larger. Lighter and softer neutrals do the job well to make a small bathroom look larger. Install a pocket door: Pocket doors slide along their own length and disappear into an adjacent wall or compartmen­t when opened (unlike traditiona­l hinged door). You will be surprised at the amount of floor space that becomes available.

Hang a large mirror: Mirrors are great way to make a space look bigger. However, hanging too many mirrors will create chopped-up space. It’s best to hang one large mirror in the bathroom to extend the eye, and reflect natural light. Install a clear glass shower enclosure: It may not be obvious, but many people don’t

realize how glass shower doors will stretch visual space. Think about it: your eye can travel through clear glass, but other surfaces will obstruct your line of vision, making the bathroom feel even smaller. Select a vanity with open

shelving: Cabinets with drawers can make a room feel cramped. To keep items organized, consider baskets or bins placed on shelves. The use of glass shelving is great for small display items. Consider furniture style vanities with small drawers or floating vanities which create an illusion of more space. Consider a wall-mounted or pedestal sink: Wall-mounted sinks are a great way to expand your floor space, and create unique aesthetic. Pedestal sinks are another way to free up space in a small bathroom.

Stowaway storage: If you need more space, consider carving out more storage space between studs in a wall. This will create recessed storage.

Even a small bathroom renovation can be a big job. Be sure to plan ahead and speak with a profession­al remodeler, who will assist you with good design choices and supply quality products. This article was provided by a member of the Remodelers Council of the GHBA. The Council is dedicated to promoting profession­alism and public awareness of the remodeling profession through education, certificat­ion and service to the Houston community. To contact the author, email dbawden@legaleagle­contractor­s. 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.

 ?? Photo courtesy of Legal Eagle Contractor­s ?? A clear glass shower panel makes this room seem brighter and larger.
Photo courtesy of Legal Eagle Contractor­s A clear glass shower panel makes this room seem brighter and larger.

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