Homeowners embarking on master bathroom remodels often make upgrading the shower a top priority. With showers becoming more customizable and “spa-like,” this part of the bathroom offers many possibilities to improve function and aesthetics. Here is an in-depth look at how homeowners are focusing on showers in their master bathroom remodels.
Why Homeowners Focus on Showers in Master Bathroom Remodels
There are several key reasons the shower tends to be a focal point when renovating the master bathroom:
- Enhancing relaxation and luxury – Many homeowners want to turn their shower into a spa-like retreat. High-end showers with features like multiple showerheads, temperature-controlled water, Bluetooth audio, and seating areas help create a relaxing sanctuary.
- Increasing accessibility – As homeowners age, having an accessible, easy-to-enter shower becomes more important. Curbless and low-threshold showers paired with grab bars and benches aid accessibility.
- Improving functionality – From insufficient water pressure and outdated plumbing to small, cramped stalls, older showers often have functional issues. Remodels let homeowners install more functional showers.
- Updating aesthetics – Dated fiberglass surrounds and low showerheads can make a shower feel unsightly and dark. New decorative tile, lighting, and glass doors give showers an updated look.
- Boosting resale value – An impressive, spa-like shower can be a major selling point for potential home buyers. Focusing on shower upgrades helps boost a home’s value.
Key Shower Renovation Trends
Here are some of the most popular shower upgrades and trends homeowners focus on:
Spacious, Luxurious Showers
Oversized showers with room for multiple showerheads, benches, and even exercise equipment are a top request. Showers with space for two people make it easy to unwind together.
High-End Hardware and Materials
Homeowners often invest in premium materials like natural stone tiles, glass mosaic accents, and metal or solid wood storage niches. Rainfall showerheads, body sprays, and handheld shower wands also provide luxury.
Curbless Entry
Curbless showers with linear drains provide smooth, unobstructed entry, especially beneficial for those with mobility issues. This barrier-free design also lends a sleek, modern look.
Technology Integration
From wireless Bluetooth speakers to waterproof LED lighting, digital shower controls, and temperature displays, today’s high-tech showers integrate technology for added convenience.
Spa Features
Steam generators, chromatherapy lighting, and fold-down seats or benches turn showers into personalized home spas. Some include water features like rainfall showerheads or body sprays for a soothing sensory experience.
Key Design Elements to Focus On
When remodeling a shower, there are several key elements homeowners should focus on:
Waterproofing
Waterproof membranes and tile backer boards provide critical protection behind finished shower walls and floors. This prevents leaks and moisture damage.
Drainage
Proper slope and high-capacity linear or square drains ensure water flows away quickly and efficiently. Curbless showers require extra care taken with drainage.
Ventilation
Exhaust fans, HVAC integration, and even heated mirrors limit humidity and prevent mold and mildew growth in showers.
Lighting
Waterproof LED lighting ensures the shower is bright and comfortable while setting the desired ambiance. Lighting above and within the shower stall is ideal.
Storage
Built-in niches and shelves hold toiletries within easy reach. Shower benches can include storage space inside.
Accessories
Cues taken from luxury hotels and spas can enhance the shower’s aesthetics and functionality. Design elements like grab bars, towel hooks, mirrors, and slip-resistant surfaces make the space more useful and easy to navigate.
Common Shower Upgrades in Master Bathroom Remodels:
Here are some of the most popular shower-focused upgrades homeowners choose for their master bathroom remodels:
- Replace dated fiberglass surrounds with decorative tile, like glass, marble, or granite mosaic tiles. This provides visual interest and luxury.
- Install a curbless/barrier-free shower with linear drainage for step-free entry and easy maintenance.
- Upgrade standard showerheads to a rainfall showerhead, tower showerhead, or add body sprays for a spa experience.
- Incorporate a handheld shower wand for functionality when bathing kids or pets.
- Add a fold-down or built-in bench for shaving legs or relaxation.
- Install a steam generator or sauna unit to create a home spa environment.
- Swap out sliding doors for frameless glass doors to enhance light and visibility.
- Add smart digital controls to regulate time, temperature, lighting, and music.
- Install waterproof LED lights for visual appeal and safety.
- Include storage niches and organizer shelves for toiletries and bath accessories.
- Ensure proper ventilation with a humidity-sensing exhaust fan to manage moisture.
Focusing on the shower offers homeowners a chance to add major value and enjoyment to a master bathroom remodel. With the range of upgrades available today, the shower can transform from purely utilitarian to an inviting, spa-like space for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Focusing on the Shower in Master Bathroom Remodels
What are some key benefits of upgrading the shower in a master bathroom remodel?
Some top benefits of upgrading the shower during a bathroom remodel include improved functionality, accessibility, aesthetics, comfort, and luxury. This can also boost energy efficiency, property value, and resale potential.
How much does it cost to upgrade a shower during a bathroom remodel?
The cost to upgrade a shower varies widely based on the size, materials selected, and type of improvements made. Basic upgrades like new shower doors may cost $500+ while a fully redesigned spa shower with custom tile can cost $5,000-$10,000 or more.
What are some smart ways to keep shower remodeling costs down?
Strategic ways to save on a shower remodel include keeping the existing footprint/plumbing, installing a shower surround instead of tile, choosing affordable porcelain tiles, using a shower pan instead of a custom-tiled shower floor, and purchasing materials from budget-friendly retailers.
Should you upgrade the shower before selling your home?
Replacing an outdated or dysfunctional shower can add value and give your bathroom a fresh, updated look before selling your home. However, a full spa shower renovation may not provide as much ROI. Focus on small, affordable upgrades that fix flaws and improve functionality.
How long does it take to remodel a shower?
Depending on complexity, the demolition, installation, tiling, plumbing, and drying time involved mean most shower remodels take 1-2 weeks. More extensive remodels involving enlarging the footprint or moving drain/water supply lines can take 3-4 weeks.
What kinds of accessibility features should you incorporate?
For accessibility, include a curbless/zero-entry threshold, grab bars, a fold-down seat or bench, an adjustable hand-held showerhead, slip-resistant flooring, easy-turn handles, and digital controls mounted lower on the wall within reach.
Conclusion
When remodeling their master bathroom, today’s homeowners place high priority on upgrading their shower. With well-planned design selections, the shower can be transformed into a therapeutic retreat that is accessible, functional, and beautiful. Focusing investment and attention on the shower is a rewarding way to increase enjoyment of the space and boost the value of your home.
