Bathroom Basics
When designing a bathroom, we have a few company standards that we follow 99% of the time. So if you’re about to remodel a bathroom, here’s a few pointers from the pros to think about!
Sconces at eye level
when the main light source is directly on your face, then you’ll have the most flatting appearance when looking in the mirror. Think of the old school marquee mirrors, no harsh shadows to be found, but make it cute with decorative lighting. I promise this isn’t in vain, when you have lighting coming from above its highlighting the bags under your eyes, making the dark circles look darker which just isn’t ideal. so do yourself a favor and give yourself the most flattering light for your own sanity.
CUSTOM NICHe
Don’t discount the niche! This will make or break the functionality of your shower design long term. When it comes to designing a niche it’s important to think about who is using the shower? how many products does each person or dog use? what size are the bottles, I am partial to the pump bottles, so a 1’ high niche is necessary. Now once you’ve determined how much space you need for all the bottles, bars of soap and razors, be sure to align that size with the tile dimensions to eliminate unnecessary tile cuts.
Custom vanity
If your budget allows for custom, do it. The details to consider when designing the custom vanity are endless. We’re talking outlets under the sink cabinet for electric toothbrush charging (if you don’t go with a medicine cabinet). We’re also talking furniture style legs instead of a standard toe kick. You get to select the drawer/door layout, style, size, color, finish, etc. The list goes on and the possibilities and benefits of going custom are endless.
Handheld
This is a must if you have kids, a dog, and/or like a squeeky clean shower. When it comes to a tub shower in a kids/family bath, I suggest a bar. This way, when the kids are little they can adjust the handheld to a more comfortable height, making it easier for the kids to wash up! If it’s a shower alone (no tub) and no little kids are using it, then I’d go with a hook for a more streamlined clean look. Handhelds are non-negotiable around here.
No Slip Flooring
Not all tile is created equal, and we aren’t just talking about the look. Not all tile is rated for flooring, and not all floor tile is rated for wet locations, making the floor super slippery when wet. Some tile is floor rated with a specific sealant, so be sure to do your research and make sure the installer is aware. I don’t have a preference between large, medium, small and mosaic for sizing so let your heart run wild. If you prefer an easier to clean flooring go with a large format, if you love the look of mosaics and don’t mind using a little extra elbow grease to clean the grout go for it, just be sure it is floor + wet rated for your safety!
Quality Plumbing Fixtures
This doesn’t mean fixtures have to be super luxe, but there is a fine line between quality product, and… well, crap. If you’re working with a tight budget, plumbing fixtures are not where you want to cut corners. period. Places like the designer bath showroom is a great resource, they are super knowledgeable and only carry the good stuff!
Color!
Enough with the all. white. bathrooms. white bathrooms can quickly go from a classic white bathroom to flat out uninteresting bathroom. The amount of times clients say this space is dark so I want it all white…ooh! All white bathrooms aren’t achieving a bright light space like you think, instead it’s giving sterile hospital vibes. If you don’t want to commit to a colored tile, opt for a colored vanity + muted monochromatic ceiling, or a colorful vanity and colorful patterned shower curtain, vanity + trim painted the same color, something! If those options are still a little bit too much, towels, bath mats, and roman shades are great ways to incorporate visual interest to a more neutral bathroom. And for the love of all things beautiful, if you do decide to go with an all white bathroom, please pick something other than a white subway. branch out a little!