Bathroom remodeling is one of the most thrilling projects a homeowner can embark on without breaking the bank – depending on the individual’s taste. For some owners, this may be their first time undertaking this exciting challenge. Hence, it is essential to take the right approach to get the best result. Striking the perfect balance between functional design and creative customization is of utmost priority. When done properly, the new bathroom will not only look breath-taking, but it will also have tons of functional amenities that will make bathing fun.
Image by Barry D
Planning the Ideal Bathroom Project
In a home where the number of occupants exceeds one, the homeowner needs to consult other individuals before seeking professional services. Such a discussion includes the recommended fixtures and finishes required for the bathroom model and their related costs. Speaking of budget, the homeowner has to keep an extra amount aside for unforeseen expenses during the project. Here is a breakdown:
- Set aside a minimum of 20% of the budget should unexpected needs arise while undertaking the remodeling project.
- Create boundaries for this budget and work within it.
By following these instructions, the project maintains steady momentum. There is nothing more embarrassing than starting a remodeling project and not able to complete it. How long will it take to have the new bathroom up and running? A month? Three months? Or more? Have a specific time-frame in mind; this increases project feasibility.
Designing the Bathroom
A typical bathroom features a bathtub, sink, and toilet. Additional features may include a shower, bidet, and an extra sink, especially when there is more than one person in the home. For the master bathroom, the sinks, vanities, and even cabinets may come in twos. One mistake most homeowners make is considering only the bathroom space and leaving out other areas. Of course, this section of the building requires remodeling. However, it is a part of the main home. Hence, there is a need to consider the remaining sections.
Why is this important? It helps the homeowner achieve the right blend between the bathroom layout and other parts of the building. Contrasting designs may cause this section to look off. For example, a master bathroom with bright colors will likely not match the theme of the master bedroom, if the latter has a cool color theme. Such a layout might be distracting. Beyond aesthetics, the homeowner should consider functionality as well.
Customizing the Bathroom
Unlike the standard bathroom, a customized option comes with additional or unique features. These may include built-in cabinets that increase space, matching countertops that enhance aesthetics, double-wide sinks, floating vanities, and many more. Customized bathrooms provide additional comfort and functionality. Apart from the design and functionality, the material type also comes into play. The homeowner may consider using going all the way out with unique wood designs or stick to glass.
When customizing the bathroom, some specific features occupy the top spot. This section must have cabinets to enhance storage. Most owners tend to assume that this is not important. Cabinets provide the capacity to store not only toiletries and store linens but also emergency supplies. They enhance the bathroom’s functionality and aesthetics, rather than having a plain wall holding a showerhead.
Bathroom Remodelling Cost in Canada
According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), the national average cost spent on remodels is $16,000. The rule of thumb is that the entire project amount should be within 5% to 10% of the home’s value. Avoid spending more than that, regardless of whether the project involves remodeling the master bathroom or the visitor’s bathroom.
In 2011, the average cost of mid-range bathroom remodels was $16,552, which increased the value of the home by 62%. Upscale models cost $52,249 and increased the value to 56%. According to NKBA, the following breakdown costs come into play when remodelling a bathroom in Canada:
- Labour takes 20%
- Fixtures take 15%
- Cabinetry and hardware take 16%
- Flooring takes 9%
- Countertop takes 7%
- Faucets and plumbing take 14%
- Lighting and ventilation take 5%
- Walls and ceiling take 5%
- Doors and windows take 4%
- Design fees take 4%
- Other expenses take 1%
Bathroom Remodelling Trends in Canada
According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), the national average cost spent on remodels is $16,000. The rule of thumb is that the entire project amount should be within 5% to
Colour Trends
One noticeable factor everyone notices when they step into an entirely new space is its color. As such, this question comes to mind: What purpose do bathrooms serve? The top answer on most people’s lips is bathing. However, it is more than that. A bathroom is a place that provides relaxation and rejuvenation. The color of this section must reflect those factors. Go for relaxing themes, including rich orange hues, golden shades of champagne, and pastel yellow. Such colors give the bathroom a modern and inviting look.
Shower Trends
The beauty of bathroom remodeling is the ability to experiment with the right themes. Homeowners can incorporate bold and wild décor into their projects. But when it boils down to shower options, the fundamentals reign supreme. In this category, interior décor experts advise sticking to the classics. Neutral colors are a go-to design element, including white, grey, black, or tan.
Of course, keeping it modern is also essential. Hence, it is ideal to get shower tiles with a matte finish. This option beats the traditional shiny tiles hands down. Don’t limit matte-finished designs to the bathroom tiles. Try it on the cabinets as well.
Sink Trends
Of all the fixtures found in the bathroom, sinks are heroes without capes. There are limitless design options, rather than focusing on bland features. Although, the design elements are subtle, when put together, they produce aesthetically pleasing results. Homeowners can opt for bathroom sinks made from natural materials like marble and stone.
The sink layout is another element no creative designer should take for granted. Having the sink nestling at the center of the bathroom can create a dramatic focal point that attracts viewers. On the other hand, placing it at a strategic corner can save space and creating a different design view.
Floor Trends
One feature that experiences intense usage is the bathroom floor. This fixture retains moisture stemming from dripping towels, steamy showers, splashing tubs, damp footprints, and spilled liquid and semi-liquid products. As a result, a homeowner should select a top-quality waterproof flooring material to withstand such activities. An ideal option is terrazzo flooring. But kindly bear in mind that this styling is expensive.
An alternative to terrazzo styling is luxury vinyl tile (LVT). This material is aesthetically pleasing and affordable. It also comes in different custom patterns, colors, and styles.
Other Additional Features
Bathroom remodeling is no walk in the park. Often, the budget becomes a pain point when achieving an ideal custom bathroom. Here are some extra features that will improve the functionality and aesthetics of one’s bathroom.
- Stain-resistant grout. This option is more expensive than the standard version, but it cuts back on maintenance.
- Radiant flooring. Homeowners can go the extra mile to ensure an optimum relaxation experience when using the bathroom. And one way to do that is to incorporate a heating system into the bathroom floors to keep them free from moisture and keep the feet warm. It also serves as a safety measure, preventing slips and falls.
- Heated shower mirror. Mirrors are ideal fixtures that augment the bathroom’s look and feel. However, they tend to stay moist or attract fog during activities, which means that the homeowner needs to keep them clean all the time. It is a different ball game with heated shower mirrors.
- Skylights give the bathroom a natural look, which anyone will find breath-taking. If the bathroom is situated in a location without access to windows, a skylight will serve as the best option to brighten it.
- Framed mirrors provide several design flexibilities, depending on the homeowner’s taste. They create balance as well.
In Summary
Ideally, a bathroom should reflect the homeowner’s personal lifestyle, while providing comfort. It means that there should be fixtures that are not only appealing but also serve the right purpose. There is no point in having a fancy shower head that won’t distribute water properly. In creating the ideal bathroom model, the homeowner factors in professional contractor service, intricate planning, ideal design, and layout, to mention a few.
