Bath
Choose a theme
Centering your design around a specific time period or a country you have visited can increase the visual impact of the space. For example, perhaps you like the rich colors and textures seen in a typical spanish villa. Or maybe the flowing, curvilinear designs often incorporated in the floral motifs of the Art Nouveau movement. Considering a theme can keep your thoughts focused on a specific end result, as well as also can help you make decisions about which elements to include
Play up texture and paint
Wallcoverings, glazes and textures are back in style. Make a statement with new textural designs, whether it is thru out, or just in a small area to serve as a focal point. Don’t be afraid of color- paint can trick the eye and is not limited to the walls and trim. Light-color ceilings make powder rooms feel taller; deep tones create a feeling of coziness.
Be dramatic
For ½ baths, guest baths, or powder rooms, the sink is not subjected to the daily wear and tear of sinks in other bathrooms. Go ahead and choose a glass, stainless steel or copper vessel sink. Consider alternative tile work or materials that really make a statement. Glass wall tile mounted above the sink adds a layer of sparkling texture that shimmers in the light.
Consider scale
Consider the square footage of your bathroom when choosing a vanity, mirror, and other fixtures. When tight on space, consider every square inch- a niche for hand towels and soaps can be built into the empty space behind the door. A toilet with a lower tank and rounded can also make a small room feel larger. A large, decorative mirror and double bowl vanity would work well in a roomy bathroom.
Location, location, location.
If you are adding in a new bathroom to your home, try placing it above or below an existing bath. This will simplify plumbing hookups and cut down on cost of labor for adding in or moving pipes. With that said, always try and keep a powder room away from the home’s entry; you don’t want visitors greeted by the flush of a toilet.
Personalize it
Small details can really pull the room together. Decorative ledges are instant display shelves for shells, art, or treasured photos. Stenciling or hand painting a mural will add a personal touch. Choose decorative knobs for the vanity and cabinets to make your room stand out from the rest.
Light it up
Incorporate several different sources of light, including sconces that provide adequate illumination for applying makeup. Installing a dimmer switch will help your guests find their way in the dark when you entertain.
Think Green
Eco-friendly building materials are a popular alternative to the traditional building materials out there. Options are not limited as more and more manufactures offer new earth-friendly solutions to residential remodeling. Solar tubes brighten windowless spaces by importing natural light from other areas of the home. Flooring tiles from recycled cork, rubber tires, and glass provide a beautiful and environmentally friendly option that is great on the feet and good for the planet too.
Remember ventilation
Because many bathrooms often do not have a window, ventilation is very important. There are many decorative and cost-effective fan and light combination options on the market.
Budget
Set a budget before you start. See our tips on Budgeting