Ideas for Distinctive Bathrooms Keep Flowing

Q: How can I add more style and sophistication to my just-functional bathroom?

A: Traditionally, bathrooms have been designed to be functional, but have often lacked the style and sophistication that is characteristic of those you see today. Today’s homeowners are investing more money remodeling their bathrooms and turning them into a place for retreat and relaxation.

Trends are Moving to Bathrooms with a Separate Shower and Bath

According to a recent survey, 30 percent of homeowners are spending more than $10,000 on updating and expanding their bathrooms. The results also indicate that the shower/bath is actually what makes a bathroom most distinctive. Gone are the days of installing an all-in-one shower and bath. Instead, in today’s modern bathrooms, separate showers and tubs are making a huge splash.

Tub and Shower Options

Whether a jetted whirlpool, custom antique claw-foot tub or infinity bath-the choices are limitless. You can take it one step further by adding a steam room. The options for showers have increased as well. One simple touch of luxury is as easy as replacing your showerhead. These days, showerheads have increased in size and function. For example, Kohler now offers an array of unique showerheads that provide an increase in water range and massaging functions, including a fixture with two extension arms and showerheads and its wagon wheel showerhead with 10 pillar sprays.

Bathroom Fixtures and Amenities—It’s about an Experience

As homeowners are increasing the size of their bathrooms, they are experimenting with unique fixtures and high-end amenities. To keep up with the trends, manufacturers are now developing vanities and hardware not just for functionality, but to transform the bathroom experience as a whole. In addition to enhancing the look and feel of showers and baths, homeowners are achieving the at-home spa look by installing contemporary lighting, deluxe faucets and heated flooring.

Items you traditionally see in a kitchen, such as granite countertops and stainless steel, are making their way into the bathroom. Although a granite top is a bit pricier than your average vanity, it’s a popular choice for vanities that hold dual, his-and-her sinks, and is a modern alternative to marble.

To complete the spa feel, proper lighting is essential. In order to imitate the atmosphere of a real at-home retreat, soft lighting is key. Some bathroom renovations are even showcasing chandeliers and wall sconces!  

If you’re looking to move from functionality to more, you’re trending with the rest of the country. Moving to user experience is the direction renovations in all rooms of the home are taking, and starting in the bathroom is a great way to add sophistication!