Bath

Bathroom remodels can be rewarding processes that increase both the comfort and value of the home. Yet, without a guided plan, many homeowners struggle with their home improvement project, spending extra time, energy, and money on steps they don’t need. According to recent data, even a mid-range bathroom remodel can cost $25,000 on average, while upscale remodeling jobs can cost over $79,000.

With the baseline remodeling cost so high, this article aims to help homeowners plan their dream bathroom remodel step by step and avoid unnecessary extra costs. Thoughtful planning can help protect a dream bathroom transformation from becoming a nightmare remodel, or two.

1. Define the Project’s Scope and Vision

Before beginning the process of sourcing materials and choosing fixtures, homeowners should first try to define the scope of their remodel. This means asking important questions about the project’s priorities such as expectations of aesthetic and purpose.

For example, a remodel that aims to revamp the style of the bathroom to be more in line with the architecture will have a different scope than one that prioritizes increasing storage space. Likewise, remodels that a homeowner plans to live with for years should prioritize different costs than those in a home they plan to sell within the next few years. 

Homeowners can consider making a list of “deal-breakers” to begin putting the project in perspective. Regardless of whether the remodel prioritizes layout changes, aesthetic choices, material updates, cabinet updates, color shifts, or architectural redesigns, these priorities should be clear to both the homeowner and their contractors.

2. Set a Reasonable Budget

The quality and cost of materials can change the project’s budget, but this is not the only way that renovations can go over the initial cost expectations. Unexpected expenses, project delays, and other unwelcome discoveries can cause the cost of a bathroom remodel to go up unexpectedly.

During the renovation process, contractors may discover a pest infestation, rotted floors or walls, discontinued materials, out-of-code wiring or plumbing, or other causes of project delays. This can lead to permit costs, additional labor, and other unforeseen issues, underscoring the importance for homeowners to always be honest about their budget and prioritize the most important elements of the remodel. 

Communicating the budget with contractors and designers helps to manage expectations and make judgment calls based on the owner’s priorities. Around 10-15% of the total budget should be set aside for unforeseen problems to make sure there’s enough leftover to complete the project as planned.

3. Prioritize the Layout

While it may be tempting to begin a bathroom remodel by choosing lights, tile, sinks, bathtubs, and paint colors, the layout should be the priority when beginning the plan. The first step is deciding whether the bathroom will be modern or traditional to guide the tone of the remodel. For some owners, drastic changes may not be needed; however, if the current layout fails to meet certain needs, the investment may be worth it.

This would be a good time to ask whether the house will be sold in the next few years, which can make a layout change a less worthwhile investment. Accessibility is also a pertinent issue since many homeowners remodel bathrooms to make the space easier to use or accommodate a disability. If the doors, cabinets, drawers, and fixtures are not easy to access, a more open and organized floor plan could be a valuable investment.

4. Choose the Right Materials

The materials and finishes should fit within the project’s budget, match the intended tone of the remodel, and offer the right balance of durability and elegance the owner envisions. Natural stone can offer a comforting, spa-like experience when used to create floors and counters or accent certain fixtures.

Bathroom cabinetry should be moisture-resistant, so homeowners should ask their designers about customizing the work to match their vision. Brushed metal, luxury vinyl, and natural stone provide durable and decorative options that homeowners can mix and match according to their budget.

5. Focus on the Flow

Flow is important in any room, but it’s arguably most important in the bathroom, which needs to be comfortable, durable, and elegant even through daily use. The first step to refining the flow is to find ways to reduce clutter and improve the placement of the room’s key features: the toilet, sink, door, cabinets, and shower.

By opting for recessed, floating, built-in, or custom fixture options, homeowners can work with their designers to find creative ways to maximize storage, declutter the room, and improve flow. Lighting is another essential aspect of flow since overhead lighting, task lighting around mirrors, and accent lighting around architectural details can enhance the practical use of the room while bringing its style to life.

6. Partner with Design Professionals

Planning a bathroom remodel is a multi-step process that homeowners don’t have to do alone. At Southern Maryland Kitchen & Bath, our goal is to bring homeowners’ visions to life by helping them plan the best layout, choose the right materials, and keep the right priorities to build the bathroom of their dreams.

Our designers and builders are accomplished in meeting and exceeding the expectations of our clients. Our high quality materials can be seen in our expansive showroom to better support your vision. Contact our team today to see what your luxury bathroom vision can look like in reality.

Ideally, a master bathroom should provide an experience beyond functionality. When properly designed or remodeled, master bathrooms can become personal retreats, spaces that put luxury and comfort first without sacrificing efficiency. Some outdated designs can be difficult to rework into an exceptional master bathroom, but the potential benefits are worth the effort.

These five essential features can make any bathroom remodel more functional, modern, comfortable, and luxurious. When executed properly, a master bathroom can increase the sale value of the home or become the best part about keeping it for years to come.

1. Spa-Like Shower

For master bathrooms that can accommodate them, designers and homeowners should put a spacious walk-in shower at the top of their priority list. Once the shower-tub combination is removed from the design, the space opens up to create a more airy, relaxing, and navigable experience.

Working with designers, homeowners can use new showers to create a spa-like experience. Adding features such as frameless glass enclosures, built-in shelves or seats, high-end tiling, and luxury body jets and showerheads, the experience can become the focal point of the room and even a selling point for the house.

2. Quality Flooring Materials

Refreshing the tile or stone floors can completely revitalize a master bathroom. Experienced designers source high-quality materials in different colors, sizes, and shapes and leverage the experience of their tradesmen to match the look of the new floor to the owner’s exact vision.

Today, the pattern, material, and style of flooring are just as important as what the new floor can add to the experience. Most homeowners know that wooden floors are a poor match for the high-humidity bathroom environment. Despite this, high-quality laminates can mimic the appearance of wooden flooring without the disadvantages.

However, for spaces that can accommodate it, tile and natural stone give bathroom flooring the grounded, spa-like feel that many homeowners aim for. Integrating modern features like underfloor heating systems with smart thermostats elevates the vision for a remodeled bathroom into true spa-like luxury.

3. Dual Vanity Space

Dual vanities can turn a master bathroom into a more practical space for multiple individuals to use at the same time. Without sacrificing privacy, dual vanities can complement the overall design with high-quality countertop materials, customized storage solutions, and durable hardware.

To maximize their utility, designers can integrate hidden drawers and organizers into the vanities themselves to declutter the space. Using matching mirrors, integrated lighting, and sophisticated fixtures, dual vanities can turn a remodeled master bathroom into a private hotel suite, capable of accommodating busy mornings without sacrificing sophistication.

4. Luxurious Tub

Though standard bathrooms represent everyday utility, luxurious soaking tubs should not be neglected if the space can comfortably accommodate one. In addition to a shower, soaking tubs become statements of pure luxury that can elevate an evening or weekend routine into something special.

The bathroom layout should be considered when choosing a tub, but even medium-sized bathrooms can integrate clever built-ins to reduce their footprint. For spacious, open-plan rooms, a freestanding soaking tub made from natural materials like copper or cast iron, or one made from acrylic or stone resin, offers a range of aesthetics for homeowners to choose from. 

While half-baths can focus on pure utility, the master bathroom can be reworked into a luxury experience. Few fixtures embody this better than a freestanding stone or metal soaking tub.

5. Revamped Lighting Design

Lighting can be just as important to the flow and harmony of a master bathroom as the tile or fixtures. The right lighting directs the user’s gaze, improves their experience, and invites feelings of comfort and enjoyment. Rather than a single direct source of lighting, modern designers can take a layered approach to combining different lighting types to create a more cohesive experience. For example,

• Task lighting can be focused around mirrors and other fixtures to give direct light when needed
• Ambient lighting overhead can be recessed to provide general lighting only when needed
• Accent lights can highlight fixtures and architectural features to create a softer atmosphere
• Natural light can be incorporated through skylights or windows to make the space feel calmer and more inviting

Remodeling the master bathroom lighting should focus on adding highlights, accents, and harmony to other features commonly used purely for utility. For example, strategically placed lights can accentuate a mirror or improve its overall functionality. Combining techniques can enhance the impact of every remodeling choice, not just the lighting fixtures.

Partner with Southern Maryland Kitchen & Bath to Remodel the Master Bathroom in Style

Master bathroom remodels provide exciting opportunities to enhance an important space with essential features such as high-end flooring, spa-like showers, freestanding tubs, dual vanities, and better lighting choices.

At Southern Maryland Kitchen & Bath, our designers partner with tradesmen and material suppliers to prioritize essential features and turn homeowners’ visions for their ideal master bathrooms into new daily routines. Contact our team today to integrate these essential features in a way that makes sense for your unique space.

The perfect bathroom may be slightly different for every homeowner; but most would agree that everyday spaces like bathrooms should be comfortable, functional, and above all, luxurious. With the help of experienced designers, you can elevate your bathroom remodeling project to new heights. From the choice of materials and designs to the colors and fixtures that create the impression of a spa-like retreat, every detail is important.

If you are considering a bathroom remodel in Maryland, continue reading our list of luxury design ideas to turn a simple bathroom into a permanent spa vacation.

1. Use an Open Layout

Leisure spas don’t feel or look cramped and enclosed; they are airy, elegant, and luxurious. Consider an open floor plan to emulate this ambiance in your bathroom remodel. With the right design choices, your space can become more open and spacious without sacrificing privacy. Glass partitions or island vanities can define the space where needed, promoting flow and enhancing relaxation.

2. Incorporate Natural Materials

People tend to relax when they experience nature, which is why spa designers incorporate organic elements to promote a sense of grounded calm and comfort. Natural stone and wood can transform a bathroom into a warm and indulgent experience through custom fixtures, floors, or accent walls designed for sustainability, naturality, and quality. These elements can guide the overall design of your bathroom as well.

3. Consider a Freestanding Tub

The humble bathtub can become a striking focal point when crafted for luxury rather than simple functionality. Freestanding tubs, not attached to floors or walls, are symbols of pure indulgence. They can be oval, round, or rectangular depending on the limitations of the space.

They can also be made from a variety of materials. Acrylic tubs are budget-friendly, light, and easy to install, as are fiberglass tubs. However, these materials scratch and crack easily, which can reduce the spa-like atmosphere.

Solid surface tubs can provide the clean, elegant look that homeowners are searching for. Copper tubs can be finished with a beautiful patina, allowing them to resist rust and mildew. Stone resin tubs can have a more naturalistic look, and resist cracks and scratches. When combined with an open layout, these natural, freestanding tubs promote an unparalleled sense of freedom and relaxation.

4. Use the Vanity to Make a Statement

Vanities are available in all shapes and sizes to promote relaxation. They can be minimalistic to make the space more open or centralized as an island to create a functional focal point for the entire room. To elevate your vanity into a spa-like experience, use natural materials as accents and take advantage of natural light whenever possible.

Vanities can also be customized with built-in storage space, another key aspect of spa-like bathroom design. The relaxing atmosphere of a spa depends on a spacious environment free of clutter. Homeowners can move their personal care items from their sinks and shelves into this dedicated storage space to create a cleaner and more inviting environment.

5. Upgrade to Heated Flooring

Spas often install heating mats under the stone or tile flooring, allowing guests to step out of their bath, shower, or sauna onto heated stone. This seemingly small luxury makes a big impact on their experience and can be easily integrated into a residential bathroom remodel by experienced designers. Smart thermostat technology allows you to adjust the heating systems remotely so they are always set with your preferences in mind.

6. Utilize Natural Light

Natural lighting is a key element in spa-like bathroom designs. When properly utilized, natural light enhances the feeling of openness and comfort while drawing attention to the natural fixtures and accents throughout the room. Even in smaller bathrooms, natural light can make spaces feel more expansive. By incorporating skylights, windows, and mirrors, designers can bring natural light into the room to create a more inviting, less artificial space.

7. Pick Neutral Colors

Spas are known for neutral, calming colors such as beige, slate, and white. This palette encourages a more peaceful atmosphere. Soft matte finishes and natural textures further enhance the relaxation. While bright colors may seem attractive, they can also be visually stimulating, which should be avoided when creating spa-like spaces.

8. Invest in Smart Technology

Although spas often prioritize nature, subtly integrated smart technology can also enhance comfort to provide an improved user experience. This technology can be integrated into a home bathroom design through adaptive heated flooring, smart lighting systems, mirrors, voice-activated lights, aromatherapy diffusers, and more, engaging all of the senses in the user’s ideal bathroom experience.

9. Incorporate Lounge Designs

Luxury bathroom remodel designs often include lounge-inspired elements that prioritize comfort, aesthetics, and versatility. By incorporating plush seating, warm materials, and thoughtful lighting, these spaces create a spa-like retreat that encourages relaxation and functionality. Adding a seating nook with chairs or a space to store soft bathrobes, towels, scented candles, and other amenities ensures this leisure space is always stocked with desirable spa comforts.

Start Your Bathroom Remodeling Project in Maryland Today

A luxury bathroom design extends beyond functionality to create an atmosphere of spa-like comfort. For many homeowners, the bathroom represents a focal point of potential relaxation; the right design choices can turn a daily routine into a luxury experience.

At Southern Maryland Kitchen & Bath, our goal is to bring dream bathrooms into reality. We make bathroom remodeling stress-free with the materials, designs, and fixtures to create in-home spa relaxation. Contact our team today to learn how professional design choices can completely upgrade the atmosphere of your bathroom, no matter the size of the space or the budget you have in mind.

Natural light is an essential part of the beauty and functionality of your bathroom remodel design. When properly incorporated, natural light can enhance the space, improve its ease of use, and add accessibility. However, not all bathroom designs can easily utilize natural light, which is why modern designers prioritize windows, skylights, and mirrors to distribute, redirect, and utilize available light as effectively as possible.

If you live in a populated area where privacy is a concern, the placement and position of natural lighting can be even more valuable. Continue reading to learn how windows, skylights, and mirrors can impact your bathroom remodel and maximize its functionality.

How Windows Maximize Light

Windows provide the most direct way to increase natural light in your bathroom design. However, they may not be appropriate in all situations, especially when the house is located in a well-populated area.

Depending on the situation, your bathroom remodel design should utilize natural window light while strategically accounting for privacy concerns. Experienced designers can help you choose between different types of windows to maximize the functionality of your natural light, including:

• Bay Windows: Bay windows are beautiful but large, allowing natural light to flood into the room, provided the space can accommodate them.
• Frosted Glass: Frosted glass can provide much-needed privacy. It’s a stylish option for homeowners who want to incorporate natural light in populated areas.
• Storm Windows: Storm windows are efficient and safely designed, allowing homeowners to introduce more natural light while preparing for inclement weather.
• Custom Windows: With an interior designer’s help, windows can be customized to the needs of the space with the shape, functionality, elegance, and privacy that the homeowner requires.

This is not an exhaustive list of possible window types, but it provides homeowners and designers with a starting point to conceptualize their bathroom designs while keeping both privacy and functionality in mind.

How Skylights Maximize Light

Skylights provide an upscale option to enhance the natural light in your bathroom, adding beauty and functionality without sacrificing privacy. In areas with direct sunlight, skylights provide a flood of natural light that can accent the room without wasting electricity, leading to energy savings.

In a large open-plan bathroom, skylights can illuminate the entire space with natural light. Alternatively, smaller bathrooms can use multiple skylights to complement the layout. Using skylights requires strategic planning, but they offer an upgraded customization option for bathrooms that are able to accommodate them.

Importantly, there are both fixed and ventilating skylights. Fixed skylights remain in place, while ventilating skylights can be opened, allowing residents to bring fresh air into the space as desired. The orientation, size, location, and type of skylight will change its impact on the room. 

Regardless of the type you choose, properly constructed and expertly installed skylights provide a visual expansion of the space, opening the ceiling into the sky and sunlight, while improving your energy efficiency by reducing the need for artificial lighting.

How Mirrors Maximize Light

Mirrors cannot produce natural light, but they can reflect and redirect natural light from other sources. With proper placement, style, and size, mirrors can make rooms appear fuller, more functional, and more beautiful.

However, mirrors can also reflect light inconveniently. If placed incorrectly, morning sunlight can be redirected into the user’s eyes or onto a metal accent surface. When strategically placed, mirrors allow designers to manipulate sources of natural light, while avoiding inconvenient glare.

Designers can also add to the functionality of a mirror with lighting sources that mimic or augment natural lighting. For instance, backlit mirrors can simulate natural lighting while distributing it evenly, avoiding direct glares.

Full-spectrum LED lighting can create balanced white light that feels natural, such as over the counter or under the sink. Cove lighting installed along the ceiling edges can create a soft accent that illuminates important features.

Maximizing the functionality of natural light while carefully mitigating its direct impact is a key task for modern bathroom remodel design teams. When working with designers, you will evaluate the limits of your space and the lighting systems that make the most sense, especially when you have the advantage of a natural light source to work with.

Contact Southern Maryland Kitchen & Bath to Design Your Dream Bathroom Remodel

Experienced interior designers can use natural light to create a more functional and beautiful bathroom space. Using windows, skylights, and mirrors, light can be strategically placed, reflected, and accented to illuminate important features and make the space feel larger while maintaining privacy for the users.

At Southern Maryland Kitchen & Bath, our interior designers focus on natural light as a source of functionality and beauty. Depending on the limitations of your space, we will outline the features that best complement your layout and maximize the impact of the available natural light. Contact our experienced team today to learn how we can use natural light to make your bathroom redesign more functional and beautiful.