The luxury of designing your own bathroom is that your opportunities are endless. Within reason, depending on budget and space. Most people don’t realize how nice and convenient a built-in shower seat is until they have one. And then they wonder how they’ve lived without it for so long. In this blog post we are talking about built-in shower seat options and what to consider when you are designing your bathroom. 

We’ve discussed in previous posts how glass shower doors help make spaces look larger. When you walk into a bathroom the shower is the main focal point, and the eye is drawn towards the design of the shower. The tile layout, fixtures and functionality of the shower presents that your bathroom design was well thought out. A shower seat serves several purposes like a spot for shaving legs, a seat to relax in, and a place for toiletries. The universal benefits are convenient yet simple. 

Benefits of a Shower Seat

Convenience – a shower seat allows you to easily prop your leg up for shaving, store toiletries or just sit and relax while the steam fills up the shower walls. 

Relaxation – release the stress of the day by relaxing in the shower. A lot of people don’t like soaking in bathtubs, so shower seats are a perfect way to relax while enjoying the cascading flow of the water. A perfect way to unwind from a busy day. 

Aging – as we age and become less flexible and mobility becomes challenging, a shower seat is very helpful. By adding a few additional features like handrails and anti-slip mats, the shower seat is a smart choice. Think long term when designing your shower and also think about aging parents and guests. 

Spa-like Feel – give yourself a real spa-like feel with aromatic scents in your bathroom like eucalyptus. A functional shower seat helps achieve that goal. Positioning your shower seat close to the faucet allows you to adjust the temperature conveniently so you can sit comfortably and relax.

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage development, ordering, and installation. Masters helps homeowners get more enjoyment from their homes with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We offer consultations where our seasoned project manager will inspect your job site and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful, and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Can I see examples of recent bathroom remodels completed by Masters Kitchen & Bath?

Certainly! Please CLICK HERE and browse through recent examples of bathroom remodels completed by Masters Kitchen & Bath.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights.

All aspects of the bathroom are important. Especially when reviewing all the elements for a bathroom remodel and figuring out where to spend more on features and when to spend less. You want the best flooring, good ventilation, best vanities, great lighting, functional showers, and when you think about toilets, they are just as important as the rest. We recently touched on this in our Smart Technology for Bathrooms blog.

We’ve briefly discussed toilets in the past, but in this week’s blog post, we are talking about bidets. You can purchase bidets with a seat only option, or you can purchase a super fancy toilet with all the bells and whistles. Let’s talk about the difference between the two.

 

Traditional Bidets

If you’ve traveled outside the United States, you have probably wondered why each bathroom has two commodes. One is in fact a toilet, and the other is a bidet. What exactly is a bidet? Webster’s dictionary defines a bidet: a bathroom fixture used especially for bathing the external or underside. In short, a bidet is a component equipped with a stream of water meant for post-toilet personal hygiene. Bidets are customary in homes throughout Europe and Asia. It’s shocking to some that the United States finds this hygiene habit so odd considering the fact that we are taught at such a young age to be germ free with hand-sanitizer, Lysol spray, and Clorox wipes. If a bidet is something you are considering for your bathroom remodel, you must keep in mind that an additional fixture will take up some space, so you will have to plan accordingly. Or you can choose a toilet that has a built-in bidet. Smart toilets that have a built-in bidet offer all the functions of a traditional bidet and so much more. Some top-of-line built-in options offer heated seats, dryers, deodorizers, sensors that open and close the lid and automatic flushers.

A standalone bidet can cost $300-$700. Smart toilets range from $500-$10k!

Bidet Seats

Regular toilet seats can be replaced with a bidet seat. The spray jets are inside, or under the seat which gets the job done the way a traditional bidet would. Bidet seats cost less than a bidet which make it well worth the small investment. There are two seat types: electric and non-electric. Electric bidets allow you to connect to an outlet to power a water heater or an air dryer. Bidet seats are easy to install and uses your home’s water supply. With most bidet seats, you can adjust the water pressure and temperature with a simple lever and control dial to tune the water that hits your underside. It’s important to make sure you have the correct dimensions down before making a purchase. You can purchase bidet seats on Amazon with prices ranging from $50 – $300.

 

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage development, ordering, and installation. Masters help homeowners get more enjoyment from their homes with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We offer consultations where our seasoned project manager will inspect your job site, and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful, and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights.

You likely have a smart T.V. so why not incorporate smart technology into your bathroom. Young homebuyers are looking for tech upgrades when purchasing a home, and studies show that they are more inclined to make an offer on a home that has automated tech upgrades vs. none at all. Tech upgrades can be found in lights, blinds or window shades, kitchen appliances, and security. So why not upgrade in one of the rooms that get the most use throughout the day? 

High Tech First-Class Toilets 

The Dual Flush – you can now save water and money with a dual flush toilet. The eco-friendly products allow you the option to flush with buttons or levers. One is designed for solid waste, and the other for liquid waste. Dual flush toilets can help to save up to a full gallon of water per flush. 

Motion Sensored Seats – a game changer for anyone in the house that is guilty for leaving the seat up. Infared sensors monitor movements so with a simple wave of the hand, the toilet seat lifts. When the sensors recognize that the toilet is unoccupied, it closes the lid after a period of time. 

Heated Seats – think about the freezing temperatures the northeastern part of the country faces each winter, and how nice it would be to have a heated toilet seat. This luxury is affordable without blowing the budget. Some home improvement stores sell heated seats for as little as $200. It may not have all the bells and whistles that Kohler’s toilet offers but at least your tush can be warm. 

The Self-Cleaner – a germaphobes dream! With household self-cleaning toilets you aren’t only getting a self cleaner but also some of the benefits listed above. Unlike the public self cleaning toilets you’ve seen in major cities, these toilets don’t focus on the outside. Household self-cleaning toilets focus on the inside of the bowl keeping it clean, and deodorized. 

Digital Faucets 

The touchless technology is super cool but let’s not forget about the money saving benefits. With digital faucets, you save money and water by using only what you need. Some of the latest technology allows you to program timed teeth brushing options. Temperature control is also a money saving option. 

Soaking Tubs  

When embarking on a master bathroom remodel, homeowners are seeking a spalike experience within their own homes. They want the full relaxing experience from stand alone tubs to hightech lighting. Japanese soaking tubs have gained popularity over the years with their sitting tubs. Some models help circulate the water so it stays warm for longer periods of time. Chromotherapy tubs are gaining interest as well. Kohler’s Chromotherapy technology is a lighting system that uses color to help set the mood. Warm colors offer stimulation while cooler colors are calming. 

Smart Showers 

Simply touching a screen, allows you to turn the water on, change the temperature, water pressure, listen to music and so much more. Some shower technology products can be activated through your smartphone. As mentioned above, the technology isn’t only convenient but helps saves money and water. 

Other digital bathroom experiences: 

  • Cooled cabinetry 
  • Warming drawers 
  • Heated floors 
  • Waterproof televisions 
  • Backlit sensored mirrors

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage development, ordering, and installation. We help homeowners get more enjoyment from their homes with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We offer consultations with a project manager that will inspect your job site, and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful, and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights.

Relaxation, space, and functionality are what most people look for in a bathtub. In some areas, the tub is the focal point of the entire space. When designing your new bathroom, choosing a bathtub is a decision that takes careful consideration as tubs are not easy to replace. Options range from freestanding tubs to whirlpools and soakers. Sitting tubs have become very popular over the years and take up less space. We’ll discuss the types of tub materials that are available along with price ranges, pros, and cons. 

All this variety comes at a price, so it’s important to remember that the total cost of a tub will reflect the amount of technology involved as well as the type of finish and material.

Fiberglass:  

Affordable and lightweight, a fiberglass tub is cost-effective; however, there are several things to consider before you go this route. Fiberglass tubs do not wear well as they are prone to scratches. Typically costs between $300 -$500. 

Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Easy installation 
  • Inexpensive
  • Maintenance and cleaning is easy 
Cons
  • Due to the layers, it takes to produce the tub, it’s not as durable as other materials
  • Easily scratches
  • Color options are limited

Porcelain-Enameled Steel: 

This tub option is a steel-based material covered in porcelain enamel. Porcelain-enameled steel is more durable than a fiberglass tub and remains a cost-effective option. Typically costs between $350- $2000. 

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Durable
  • Easy to clean 
Cons
  • Rusts quickly when chips are present
  • Color and shape options are limited
  • Does not withhold heat very well

Enamel-Coated Cast Iron: 

This classic material stands the test of time. The tub is made of iron and coated with porcelain. It’s extremely durable and cumbersome. Because of its weight, the placement of this tub is best on the ground level. Installation requires professionals that have experience with this high-end material. Typically costs between $500 and $2000. 

Pros
  • Durable
  • Timeless 
  • Retains heat well
Cons
  • Extremely heavy

Acrylic:

A common and popular option with most bathroom designs. Due to its low cost, durability, and options, Acrylic tubs are the clear winner when compared to the other options discussed. The material is easily molded for unique shapes. Lightweight and easy to install than most tubs. 

Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Affordable
  • Color, shape and size options available
  • Durable 
Cons
  • Acrylic is more expensive than fiberglass

Tub Types

Standard – common tub sizes are typically 60 inches by 30 inches wide. Not a lot of exciting features in standard tub options; however, you can choose between alcove, freestanding, or drop-in. Standard tubs are relatively basic and do the job you need a bathtub to do. 

Claw-Footed Tubs – a traditional option that makes quite a statement. Claw footed tubs date back to the 1800s and are made of cast iron, which makes this tub an expensive option. 

Freestanding Tubs – designed not to have any sides installed along a wall. They are either have a base or a clawfoot tub design. These tubs can take up more space as they don’t align with a wall or corner space.

Soaking Tubs – are meant for you to have a full soaking experience. They are deeper and broader than most tubs and require up to 80 gallons of water. Keeping water hot can be an issue due to its size and water requirements. 

Whirlpool Tubs – meant for a relaxing experience with jets for the ultimate spa-like feel. Shapes and size options available as well as single jets or multiple jets. 

Walk-in Tub – great for anyone that has difficulty with mobility. These tubs are more about practicality than indulgence. Walk-in tubs can be expensive but well worth the money when considering the needs of seniors or someone with a disability. 

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage development, ordering, and installation. Masters help homeowners get more enjoyment from their homes with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We offer consultations where our seasoned project manager will inspect your job site, and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful, and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights.

As your bathroom remodel is underway, you will have to decide on the type of countertop material you want. Work with your contractor on budget and goals. 

Style is a significant factor when considering the type of countertop you want. Are you going for an upscale and posh look? Or, are after visually appealing yet practical. Think about color and feel and practicality. If you live in a busy household with splashing children, and toothpaste spills, you’ll want to choose a durable countertop that can withstand daily use. 

Price is also a factor. Between stone, tile, and laminate, you’ll want to estimate your square footage requirements and compare costs and options. 

 

Material options:

Granite and marble – Granite is harder than marble and is more resistant to chips and scratches. Both granite and marble are heat resistant and great options for hot hair tools. 

From a resale standpoint, both attract buyers as they are high-end materials when it comes to bathrooms. Granite comes in a variety of affordable options. Whether hiring out the installation or doing it yourself, keep in mind that granite requires sealing to help repel grease. 

Quartzite is another option similar to granite and marble. The material is durable and can withstand high heat. The cost of quartzite is comparable to granite and marble.

Laminate – a price-conscious option with a variety of finishes that resemble granite. Laminate is versatile and virtually waterproof and stain-proof. It does not withstand heat well. 

Tile – an appealing option; however, grout can be a pain when it comes to cleaning. Tile countertops look nice with various color and pattern options. 

Wood- wood countertops require sealing since they are porous surfaces and are not waterproof. Ensure you take into consideration, sink and faucet sealing. This is not a job for a DIYer. We recommend asking a professional to do the installation. Wood has a very natural feel and look and can definitely be done with proper considerations.

Cost estimations per square foot: 

Granite – $40 – $60

Marble – $75 – $250

Quartz – $55 – $75

Laminate – $10- $40

Tile – $35 – $40

Wood – $40 – $60

You will really want to consider the overall cost of your remodel. Aside from the other big-ticket items like toilets, sinks, bathtubs, and flooring, countertops fall in with heftier price tags. It’s essential to explore all your options. 

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage development, ordering, and installation. Masters help homeowners get more enjoyment from their homes with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We offer consultations where our seasoned project manager will inspect your job site, and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful, and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights.

There are several factors to consider when choosing between ceramic tile and vinyl tile. We are going to walk through a few things to think about before making a decision on your new bathroom floor. 

Installation

Vinyl tile – overall easier to install and dries quickly. High-end vinyl may require longer drying time due to the realistic look of it. By using a utility knife, vinyl is easily cut by scoring and snapping it off. If you are looking for a quick and easy route, vinyl is the better option. However, there are still more factors to consider. 

Ceramic tile – requires mortar and grout, and drying time can take several days. Tile cutters are required, and if the installer is a DIYer, it could take longer than someone more seasoned. Steps to consider: 1. screw cement boards 2. lay down tile in the thinset 3. rest for a few days 4. grout. 

As far as installation goes, vinyl is the clear and clean winner. Fewer installation tools to use and little cleanup. 

Overall Look 

Vinyl tile – vinyl has come a long way over the years; however, it still ranks low on the list as far as variety. Vinyl tile options are limited. 

Ceramic tile – is a beautiful work of art dating back centuries. The options are endless when it comes to the overall look of ceramic tile. You may find the exact flooring you visualized in your home, but it’s going to go at cost. 

Ceramic tile is the winner between the two options. With the vast array of artistic colors and designs, ceramic is the better route. 

Cleaning and Care 

Vinyl tile – essentially, vinyl tile is waterproof, so it makes for easy cleaning and care. Ensuring that all plank gaps are filled correctly, and there is no space. 

Ceramic tile – not entirely waterproof as ceramic tile does absorb small traces of water. Over time with normal wear and tear, you may see cracks in the grout, but this can be easily fixed. 

All in all, between the two options, we would say this one is a tie. 

Cost

Vinyl tile – research shows that vinyl tile is more cost-effective than tile. Even when factoring time and installation. 

Ceramic tile – more expensive than vinyl per square foot and comparable to wood flooring. 

Research shows that tile costs between $4-$8 per square foot. Vinyl can cost $1-$2 per square foot depending on thickness. You get more bang for your buck with vinyl flooring. Visually, some say that ceramic looks better and could improve your home’s resale value over vinyl tile. 

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage development, ordering, and installation. Masters help homeowners get more enjoyment from their homes with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We offer consultations where our seasoned project manager will inspect your job site, and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful, and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights.

This week we are taking a look at some of our favorite bathroom, remodels. Here is a list of our top 5 before and after bathroom transformations. From vanities, custom showers to master bathrooms, you will be amazed at the results. 

Historic 1800’s home in Chicago, IL 

This 1800’s home underwent a complete remodel just six years prior; however, the contractor cut a few corners not utilizing all the space. With the toilet room removed, we created a spacious freestanding soaking tub with a luxurious glass steam shower. Floating vanities with vessel sinks and recessed mirrored medicine cabinets completed the transformation.

The dated master bathroom in Green Oaks 

A beautifully large upscale home with an outdated master bathroom needed an upgrade to help utilize all the space. By relocating the plumbing and electrical, we designed a plan that made sense for the large area. The custom “wet room” includes an oversized soaking tub plus a roomy shower. The previously separated double sinks now share a gracious vanity ending with a large linen cabinet that opens up the entrance. This is a renovation that will leave you, thinking that it can’t be the same space. 

Estate with Large Master in Riverwoods

Lacking space in the master bathroom, this sprawling estate-style ranch home had an oversized tub and a narrow vanity. With the removal of the enormous pink whirlpool tub, we installed a freestanding soaking tub, double vanity, gracious shower, and focal lighting. 

Odd shaped Master Bathroom in Park Ridge 

An elegant Park Ridge home, with a dated 1980’s tub that overtook a lot of space, was transformed with a contemporary look. With the removal of one of the vanities, it created space for a custom shower. The updated layout to this bathroom is befitting to the elegant home. 

 

Basement Bathroom Remodel in Long Grove

Unexpected broken pipes severely damaged the basement bathroom in this newer home. A complete remodel was done by expanding the vanity with custom shelves. This basement bathroom is worthy of an upper floor.

 

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage development, ordering, and installation. Masters help homeowners get more enjoyment from their homes with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We offer consultations where our seasoned project manager will inspect your job site, and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful, and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights.

Choosing a new shower sounds straight-forward. In most large bathrooms, the shower is typically one of the main focal points. If it’s a glass shower, it draws the eye to the shower walls and tile. If you are in the phases of a complete bathroom remodel, you’ve most likely have had to review several different shower options.

The type of enclosure, whether glass or frosted glass, should be considered. Have you ever heard that you should draw inspiration for your bathroom designs from your favorite hotel bathrooms? This is the time to get creative and while making your newly remodeled bathroom super functional, have fun with it and think outside the box!

Glass Enclosed Shower
Whether fully enclosed with glass or partially enclosed, the glass helps make space feel larger. Floor-to-ceiling glass panels create a seamless transition between the shower and the rest of the bathroom. Choosing a rainfall showerhead helps give the overall shower design a statement look.

Types of glass enclosures:
Sliding doors
Fixed glass
Frosted glass
Hinged glass door
Folding glass door
Alcove – glass door with surrounding walls
Framed
Semi-framed – metal around the structure of the shower but the door itself does not have a frame
Bathtub door – partial door
Industrial – dark metal and frameless

Light-filled shower

Some bathrooms don’t offer natural light at all, so a glass enclosure helps brighten the space. If you have a window in the bathroom, designing around the window is a great advantage to having the natural light shine through. Choosing the right lighting and tile design can help amplify the brightness of the room, as well.

Steam shower

Taking your shower space to the next level by incorporating a steam environment is entirely possible. You can create a steam environment with the type of enclosure within the shower door and walls. Small windows that open help allow the air to circulate, but overall, the shower can serve two purposes- a shower and a steam room. Relaxation, right there in your home.

Round shower

Maybe you have never considered a round shower or corner shower; however, if you are going for a statement design, round showers will do it! A corner shower may help save on space while still giving your overall bathroom a statement look.

Open Shower

Very popular in modern spaces, open showers may have a partial glass wall or no wall at all. Spacious showers that are seamless with the floor are easily accessible and safer for kids and the elderly. They are wheelchair-accessible, minimal, and simplistic in design. Open showers or walk-in showers are versatile and can be easily customized with various flooring options, configurations, and types of doors.

How can I transform my bathroom shower into a more relaxing space?

Transforming your bathroom shower into a more relaxing space is not only possible but also within your reach. Consider taking your shower experience to the next level by incorporating a steam environment. By installing a specific type of enclosure within the shower door and walls, you can create a steam room right in the comfort of your own home. To enhance the circulation of air, small windows that open can be added to the shower area. Imagine the luxury of having a shower that also functions as a soothing steam room, offering you the ultimate relaxation experience.

In addition to the steam feature, there are various other elements you can consider to elevate the tranquility of your shower space. The use of natural lighting can greatly contribute to creating a serene ambiance. Placing your freestanding or shower-combo tub strategically in front of windows or below a skylight allows for the enjoyment of gentle, natural light while you unwind. This connection to the outdoors can enhance the sense of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Lighting, whether natural or artificial, plays a vital role in setting the mood and enhancing the calming atmosphere of your shower. Consider incorporating additional gentle sources of light to create a more serene environment. Bright, white shower tiles mixed with clear glass walls or a shower curtain are common in many homes. However, to truly transform your shower into a personal oasis, contemplate tiling your shower with colors like tan, brushed gold, or deep blue. These soothing hues can evoke a sense of tranquility and promote a more calming experience.

One simple yet effective way to enhance your shower’s relaxation potential is by replacing your old showerhead. This straightforward plumbing change can have a significant impact on your shower experience. With various showerhead options available, you can select a model that provides a gentle rainfall effect, massaging jets, or even an adjustable steam feature. By making this small adjustment, you can immediately elevate the comfort and relaxation of your shower routine.

In conclusion, the possibilities for transforming your bathroom shower into a more relaxing space are endless. By incorporating a steam environment, embracing natural lighting, selecting soothing colors for your shower tiles, and upgrading your showerhead, you can create a haven of tranquility right in your own home. Enjoy the rejuvenating and calming effects of a shower that not only cleanses your body but also rejuvenates your mind and soul.

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage development, ordering, and installation. Masters help homeowners get more enjoyment from their homes with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We offer consultations where our seasoned project manager will inspect your job site, and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful, and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Can I read reviews from previous clients of Masters Kitchen & Bath?

Yes, please click HERE to read testimonials form our previous clients.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights.

We recently completed our second bathroom remodel for a Chicago area, Glenview home. Pleased with the master bathroom renovation, the Glenview family asked us to renovate the double vanity hall bathroom. We took the oak cabinets and pink tiled bathroom from 1990 to 2019.  

Remember the old style pull-on crystal looking faucet handles? Faucet designs have come a long way over the years, so we are going to walk you through fixture options and what to look for when designing on a budget. 

Consider the overall look and feel of your home. You may be inspired to do a modern and minimalistic look for your bathroom; however, if the rest of your home is traditional, that may not be the best route from a resale perspective. If you are a family with small children, consider more of a functional look and feel. Think about the tub and sink design as well and try and match the fixtures. 

Fixture Finish Options: 

Matte Black 

The Parkview family chose matte black fixtures, which are very popular with white walls. Overall the matte black look is trendy and can be found in sinks, walls, faucets, lighting, bathtubs, ceilings, and floors. Black matte is a bold look and a great option as it compliments modern and traditional designs alike.  

Copper

Copper Steampunk decor has become popular over the years. It is considered to have a masculine look but also is an excellent option in farmhouse decor. Dark walls tend to make copper stand out more. 

Chrome

A popular, traditional and standard look in a lot of kitchens and baths. Chrome is economical and comes in several styles. When designed with a fun color that pops, chrome stands out, giving your remodeled bathroom a clean and polished look.  

White

We recently wrote about porcelain tile but did not mention porcelain faucets. The combination of porcelain and nickel or chrome is a timeless option and is available in various styles. 

Brass

Brass faucets come in all shapes and sizes. Its striking finish, when complemented with a white sink, give it a unique and eye-catching look. Brass light fixtures pull the entire style together.  

Hands-free

Ever wonder why public restrooms have hands-free sink options? 1. It helps with water waste 2. It’s an excellent germ-free option, and 3. some are ADA compliant. Don’t rule the hands-free possibility out for your home. Touch-less faucets are perfect for smaller children and help eliminate unnecessary water waste. 

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage development, ordering, and installation. Masters help homeowners get more enjoyment from their homes with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We also offer consultations where our seasoned project manager will inspect your job site, listen to your specific needs and considerations, and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful, and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights.

We’ve got everything you need to know about bathroom renovations. In the five previous posts, we have discussed; proper ventilation, bathroom flooring, plumbing and lighting, and overall planning for your bathroom remodel. This week, we are talking about ways to maximize your space. 

If your bathroom is on the smaller side, you’ll need to get creative and strategic on how you can get as much out of your space as possible. We have some tips on how to make your area look spacious. 

  1. Paint – if you want your bathroom to appear spacious, choosing the correct paint is essential. Darker colors can make a room feel small and sometimes uninviting. Soften the walls with a light, airy, and color. 
  2. Glass Shower – closing in the shower with a curtain, can make your space look small. Half walls and glass doors give the area a clear line of vision, giving the appearance that the room is more significant.  
  3. Mirrors – give the illusion of endless space. The larger the mirror, the better! Extending the mirror above the vanity wall-to-wall and counter to ceiling, can make the bathroom appear larger. 
  4. Vanity – this one is a bit tricky. You may feel like you need the extra cabinet and drawer storage so a pedestal sink may be an option. However, freeing up floor space with a pedestal sink will again, give the illusion of a larger space. Consider using wall space for storage with shelving. 
  5. Organize – channel your inner Marie Kondo and get to organizing! We often keep more than we need. Minimize your stock and get rid of what you don’t need. Eliminate the clutter by investing in organizing containers and trays. 
  6. Shelving – utilize the free space for shelves. Perhaps above the toilet or tub, you can store towels or extra toilet paper. Make sure your shelves look neat and tidy. 

It all comes down to design and organization. Consult with a professional designer. They have design tools that can you visualize your space. 

Design With Resell in Mind

Thinking about selling your home in the future? Take into consideration the future owners. Sure paint is easy to change out; however fixtures, flooring, showers and hardware are not as easy. Think of resale value and getting the most out of your home when you are ready to sell.  

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage development, ordering, and installation. Masters help homeowners get more enjoyment from their homes with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We also offer consultations where our seasoned project manager will inspect your job site, listen to your specific needs and considerations, and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful, and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights.

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