Nothing sends home remodelers running for the hills faster than the idea of bathroom updates. Yes, changing bathroom fixtures is a big-time (and money!) commitment, but it is worth it! Keep in mind that you’re not just updating the look, you’re replacing fixtures that have a set shelf-life. This is about good home maintenance, not just about cosmetics.
Bathroom updates are also a good time to improve the function of your bathroom. There’s no better time to tinker with your plumbing than when you peel a room back to the studs. Do you want a separate soaking bath, or maybe even want to steal space from an underused closet for a larger shower? This is your chance to really transform your space from its original builder-grade look and layout.
Don’t Overspend on Bathroom Updates
While bathrooms offer good returns on remodeling investment, not only in function for your family but in cold hard resale cash, it is possible to overspend. A good rule of thumb before you embark on a bathroom update is to compare your home to new construction homes in your area. Do new primary bathrooms have separate tubs, large showers, and double vanities? Match your updates to the level you’re seeing in local new homes to make sure you’re not overdoing it.
1 – Glass-enclosed shower
Look, fancy bathtubs are great, we all love an indulgent soak once-in-a-while, but functional showers are an absolute necessity. That’s why a glass-enclosed shower is a great place to put your remodeling dollars. They look great, they clean easily, and they’re what busy grown-ups are looking for in a bathroom these days.
You don’t need to devote a lot of space to your glass-enclosed shower, but you should make sure it’s a not going to feel cramped when a future buyer tours your home. It’s a good idea to tour some model homes and get an idea for what a buyer might be looking for. And you can decide what size you’d most like to live with, after all this bathroom is for you!
2 – Subway Tile
Yes, the subway trend doesn’t seem to be going anywhere, although it has evolved since it first came on the scene. While the classic white laid horizontally seems to be unstoppable, and is now often paired with more splashy tile, there are also a lot of new subway tile colors and tile-laying styles that have given the look fresh life.
We love the blocky look of vertical-laid subway tile. This takes a tried-and-true material and gives it a fresh updated look, which is always a smart choice. Don’t overlook different textures or colors as subway tile options, either. We adore the hand-glazed subway tile look.
3 – Double Vanities
Once the domain of primary bathrooms alone, double vanities are making appearances in more family bathrooms. It makes sense for multi-child households to add in that second sink for busy mornings or nighttime teeth-brushing routines. Storage is also the name of the game when it comes to these updates, this is a great time to add more drawer or cupboard space.
Beyond function, double vanities make a beautiful canvas to paint your bathroom’s identity on. Side-by-side vessel sinks are impressive, as is a marble, granite, or quartz countertop. You’ve got extra space with a larger vanity to really make a style impression.
Go bold with your vanity colors, and don’t be afraid to paint! Deep rich colors are in, along with the usual whites and grays. You can pair them with your favorite hardware looks and colors.
4 – Shower Niche
All we can say is that once you’ve had shower niches, you’ll never go back. No more shower cady hung over the showerhead, no more bending over for shampoo on the floor. A remodel is a great time to get the shelf and storage space your shower has always needed. We recommend at least one, although two or three would be even better!
A shower niche is also a great spot to add some verve to your decor. You can opt for an eye-catching statement tile that would be too expensive to use in large quantities, or you can just add a refreshing pop of pattern or color.
5 – Color Pops
Don’t feel constrained by the white and earth-toned bathroom styles of yesteryear. Color is in, and bold color is even more in.
From your vanity to your floor and shower tile, don’t be afraid to go for daring statement pieces that will make your bathroom a real showstopper.
Whether you go for one bold splash of color in an otherwise neutral bathroom, or you cover every surface in the loudest color you can find, the key is to choose colors you really love and can’t live without, not just to follow trends. Your bathroom updates will only be a success if you truly love your finished product!
