Bringing timeless elegance and modern convenience to the most-used room in the house.
Introduction
The bathroom is one of the most essential rooms in any home. As a high-traffic space used multiple times a day by all members of the household, the bath should be both beautiful and functional. When undertaking a bathroom remodel or redesign, it’s important to choose a style that won’t soon go out of fashion, while also taking advantage of layout and storage solutions that improve convenience and accessibility.
This week, we’re highlighting a gorgeously updated bathroom that artfully blends traditional styling with contemporary layout concepts to create a soothing, spa-like retreat. Read on for ideas you can borrow for your own bathroom refresh.
Choose Timeless Fixtures
When selecting fixtures and finishes, opt for styles that straddle the line between old world and new world for a classic look.
- Freestanding tub: A freestanding soaking tub serves as a sculptural focal point and evokes a vintage aesthetic. Opt for a design with sleek, contemporary lines to modernize the traditional tub style.
- Clawfoot tub: For serious old-world glamour, consider a clawfoot tub set atop a decorative riser. Clawfoot tubs have stood the test of time and still look beautiful and elegant.
- Pedestal sink: The pedestal sink is a classic choice that flatters both traditional and contemporary bathrooms. A rounded bowl contrasts nicely with the clean lines of the pedestal.
- Subway tile: Subway tile has been popular for the past century, and shows no signs of going out of style. Use it on the walls, shower surround, and floor for a seamless look.
- Hexagonal floor tile: Hexagonal tile adds visual interest underfoot. For a modern twist, opt for large-scale graphic tiles in black and white.
- Marble countertops: Elegant marble brings natural drama. Choose a classic white, light gray, or Carrara marble for lots of veining and character.
Optimize the Layout
Take advantage of an improved layout to enhance functionality and access without detracting from the timeless vibe.
- Curbless entry: Eliminate the tub/shower threshold and extend tiles to create a curbless entry. This makes the space feel more open and improves accessibility.
- Barrier-free design: Include a walk-in or roll-in shower with a fold-down seat and grab bars to accommodate users of all mobility levels.
- Recessed niches: Recessed niches in the shower provide an ingenious way to store shampoo, soap, and other shower necessities while maintaining a sleek, clean look.
- Floating vanities: Floating vanities with undermount sinks open up floor space visually and make cleaning easier. Include drawers and cabinets for concealed storage.
- Wall-hung toilet: A wall-hung toilet improves the look and makes cleaning easier. Just be sure to have it installed properly for optimal support.
- Natural light: Add windows and skylights to bathe the space with rejuvenating natural light. Minimize privacy concerns with textured glass.
Calming Colors and Materials
Use restful colors and luxe materials to enhance the spa-like atmosphere.
- Soothing hues: Stick to soft, neutral hues like white, beige, gray, and tan. Accent with tones of blue, green or metallic for a pop of color.
- Natural stone: Natural stone exudes luxury, choose honed marble, travertine, or limestone in soft earthy hues.
- Wood accents: Warm up the space with wood cabinets, a wood medicine cabinet, live-edge vanity, or wood shelf.
- Fabric shower curtain: Use a linen, cotton twill, or velvet shower curtain in place of plastic for a touch of refinement.
- Woven baskets: Tuck neatly rolled towels into woven rattan, bamboo or seagrass baskets for texture.
- Plants: Add life with leafy potted plants, like snake plants and orchids which thrive in humid bathroom environs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about creating the bathroom of your dreams? Here are answers to some common queries:
What’s the best way to arrange my bathroom for optimal function?
Carefully evaluate how your family uses the bathroom and design the layout accordingly. Place the tub/shower, toilet and sinks in an efficient sequence that minimizes cross-traffic.
How do I add storage without cluttering the space?
Take advantage of wasted space between studs to build recessed wall cabinets. Install floating shelves, medicine cabinets and under-sink organizers. Use stackable woven baskets for towels.
What type of lighting works best?
Layer lighting for a great look and optimal visibility. Use recessed can lighting, accent lighting at the vanity, and decorative pendants or chandeliers.
Should I get a separate tub and shower?
Having both a spacious shower and a relaxing soaking tub provides greater versatility. But if space is tight, choose whichever you’ll use and enjoy most.
Are there low-maintenance materials I should select?
Porcelain and ceramic tile are durable choices that require little upkeep. Quartz or solid surface countertops resist scratches, stains, and heat damage better than marble.
Final Thoughts
Updating a tired, outdated bathroom by blending timeless style with an improved layout creates a peaceful oasis for wellness and rejuvenation. Carefully curated finishes and an optimized floorplan result in a comfort- and convenience-enhancing bath suited for 21st century lifestyles. With an ageless design that easily stands the test of time, this is a bath you’ll enjoy for decades to come.
