Getting the most out of your bathroom remodel
For such a small space, a bathroom remodel comes with a lot of different elements to consider. From plumbing fixtures to cabinetry and countertops, the choices you make for your remodel will affect both your bathroom’s style and function.
And because bathrooms are usually smaller scale remodels, they’re often a good starting point for first-time DIYers, said Tammy Johnson, kitchen and bathroom designer at Lampert Lumber.
Whether it’s a master en suite or a small powder room, here are a few things to consider during a bathroom remodel:
1. Maximize storage
Before the remodel, it’s important to think about how the bathroom is used (and who’s using it). Since many bathrooms double as a place to clean up and get ready, having enough storage for towels, soaps, grooming products and other day-to-day necessities is key.
And when working with a smaller space, storage options like cabinets need to be strategic, Johnson said.
One popular storage solution for bathroom cabinetry is a pull-out organizer, which might be specifically designed for a hair dryer or other grooming tools. These cabinets can even include a built-in outlet.
“Most clients are looking for better organization within the cabinetry,” Johnson said. “The main goal in a bathroom remodel is to get rid of the clutter. Most people want just a nice clean, open room.”
Aside from cabinets, built-in shower storage can also help save space and keep clutter at bay. At Lampert Lumber, clients can add custom shelving to shower wall panels to fit their specific needs, Johnson said.
2. Consider more durable options
Due to excess moisture, bathrooms require unique upkeep compared to other rooms in the house. They’re more prone to issues like mold and water damage, and keeping them clean can prove a pain.
Thankfully, remodels present opportunities to increase a bathroom’s durability. At Lampert Lumber, clients can choose seamless countertop, shower and tub surround wall panel options that eliminate cracks and grout lines, making them much easier to clean.
New water-resistant cabinet options can also mimic the look of wood without the risk of damage, Johnson said. And luxury vinyl flooring is a great, lower-maintenance alternative to natural tile.
“There are a lot of great products on the market that are waterproof, water resistant and mold and mildew resistant,” Johnson said.
“It leads to longevity and makes it easier for you to take care of the home.”
3. Combine space and style
Since bathrooms are smaller spaces — oftentimes without much natural light — it’s important to keep things open when considering layout and style choices.
Neutral, lighter colors can help the space feel bigger, Johnson said. Incorporating open shelving can give the impression of more space. And instead of installing an overhead light fixture, consider a backlit mirror to open things up, too.
But even with space limitations, there are lots of ways to incorporate personal style elements into a bathroom remodel. Countertops can serve as a focal point for the room, and marble and quartz finishes have been a popular choice for clients in recent years, Johnson said.
Accent stripes in showers can also add a pop of color. On a smaller scale, even simple updates like cabinet hardware will change the look of the room.
Not sure where to start? Being able to see the products in-person at a showroom like at a Lampert Lumber location can help bring design ideas to life.
“It gives you the opportunity to look at something before you commit,” Johnson said. “There’s a lot of different product categories to select for a small space. So there are a lot of decisions to make.”
Lampert Lumber is an authorized dealer of Bertch Cabinets and StarMark Cabinetry.
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