Bathroom Remodel Richmond VA is an exciting project that can add value to your home. However, it can also be stressful if you aren’t prepared for the process.
Consider adding safety features like grab bars, lower sinks and shower stalls, slip-resistant surfaces and night light fixtures.
A renovation is less intensive than a remodel and usually includes cosmetic changes that leave the existing layout intact. Some renovations are even DIY-friendly.
When you’re remodeling your bathroom, it’s crucial to carefully consider how the space will be used. This helps you determine the best bathroom layout.
A popular choice, this three-piece bathroom layout puts all plumbing on one wall and places the tub or shower right next to the toilet and sink. It’s a hardworking, efficient design that saves on labor and supply costs.
This layout from Pure Salt Interiors offers room for two vanities and a shower while keeping the toilet out of direct view. The careful arrangement also prevents the door from swinging into the vanity area. This is an ideal bathroom floor plan for a shared master bath. It also allows you to choose a larger shower if you prefer. This style also makes a good option for guest bathrooms. You can still provide privacy with inner partition walls.
Design
It’s a good idea to plan your remodel and have a general design concept in place. This will help you stay on track and avoid costly surprises. It’s also a good idea to double and even triple check your measurements, especially when moving walls or changing the layout of fixtures.
Some people like to add more decor to the room, especially in areas such as the shower stalls and sinks. It’s a great way to tie the bathroom into your overall style and boost resale value. Other people prefer a more minimal look that makes the space feel larger and more open. It’s important to know what you want before hiring a contractor.
Plumbing
Remodeling involves cosmetic changes to a bathroom and can include anything from a simple vanity replacement to a tub-to-shower conversion. This is also the time to update the plumbing and bring it up to code if needed (i.e. new shutoff valves, GFCIs, adding blocking for grab bars if needed etc).
Make sure to protect your furniture and belongings from dust during construction and check your alteration agreement with your co-op or condo building on rules for moving things in and out of the bathroom. Remodeling projects can take longer than expected so being prepared to be flexible can help keep the process stress-free.
Finding vetted contractors and getting estimates can be a long and drawn-out process, but Sweeten can speed up the hiring process to get you remodeling as soon as possible. We can also assist with permits and board approvals if needed.
Electrical
During a remodel, you may need to upgrade your electrical wiring. Rewiring ensures that all the circuits in your bathroom meet modern standards and can handle the amount of power needed by your fixtures.
You might also need to add more outlets for appliances like hair dryers and electric shavers. Make sure to have at least two GFCI outlets installed, one near the sink and the other at a safe distance from water sources.
You can choose from a variety of decorative lighting options to complement the design of your bathroom. You can opt for recessed lights, pendant lights or even sconces. If you’re looking to add more storage space, consider a linen or supply closet. Adding these features will give your bathroom a new look and increase its value when you’re ready to sell.
Flooring
When remodeling a bathroom, the flooring you choose is an important design factor. It needs to be moisture-hardy since bathrooms are humid and wet areas, and it needs to look great and offer slip resistance.
Tile is one of the best choices. It offers a wide variety of colors and textures, and it is also inexpensive and easy to clean. Ceramic tiles are a durable option, and some have a textured surface to improve traction in slippery conditions.
Vinyl is another option, especially in a “hybrid” product like rigid flooring. This new hardflooring innovation has a visual layer that mimics natural materials, and it doesn’t swell in moisture, unlike traditional wood floors. This upscale material adds luxury and value to a bathroom remodel. It also offers anti-microbial protection against mold and mildew. This can add years to the life of your new bathroom flooring.
Lighting
Lighting is one of the most overlooked aspects of a bathroom remodel, yet it can have an enormous impact on creating the perfect atmosphere. A well-rounded lighting scheme enhances visibility while complementing the design, and can transform a dull and uninspiring room into an inviting and relaxing sanctuary.
Task lighting, such as wall sconces over the vanity, helps you perform grooming tasks and make-up applications with ease while eliminating mirror and window glare. Accent lighting adds drama and highlights architectural or design features to elevate the beauty of a space.
Energy efficiency is a top consideration when selecting light fixtures, and incorporating smart controls can offer added convenience and control. LED bulbs and fixtures offer longevity while consuming less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. Integrating natural lighting through windows, skylights or French doors can also reduce your energy usage and costs.
Cabinets
Cabinets are an integral part of any bathroom and play a crucial role in the overall design. They can add color, style, dimension, and even extra storage space to the room. They can also add a more custom feel to your bathroom as they are available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and designs.
They are especially useful for smaller bathrooms as they can help with maximizing space. For example, over-the-toilet cabinets can help with storing toilet supplies, hand towels, or extra rolls of toilet paper.
You can find cabinets that are made from a variety of materials, including MDF which is made from recycled wood shavings from rubber trees that have reached the end of their productive lives. There are also bamboo cabinets that are made from natural bamboo pulp and have a natural texture.
Countertops
The countertops you choose play a critical role in the bathroom. The right material will determine how long they last, what damage and use they can withstand, and how much value they add to your home.
Granite countertops offer durability, natural beauty, and a wide array of hues and vein patterns to suit your decor style. They are also heat-resistant and hold up well against scratches and stains.
Concrete countertops have a raw and rustic aesthetic that complements an eclectic variety of design styles. They are durable and easy to clean, requiring only regular washing with mild soap and water.
Fixtures
Bathroom fixtures are permanent additions that are either plumbed in or screwed on and can’t be moved unless a renovation is in order. They include sinks, toilets, bathtubs, showers, and faucets—all essential components that can make or break your bathroom’s design.
Decorative elements add a luxurious feel to your bathroom and can enhance its style. A framed mirror, beadboard wall, shiplap, or unique lighting can set your bathroom apart from the rest.
In today’s environmentally conscious world, many manufacturers offer eco-friendly bathroom fixtures and fittings that reduce water and energy usage. You can also make a difference by choosing products that have the ENERGY STAR or WaterSense label. You might also consider the basics of universal degisn, such as blocking in walls for future support bars. This will ensure your bathroom can be used by everyone, regardless of age or ability.
Accessories
Accessories are an important part of bathroom remodeling that contribute to the overall aesthetic and functionality of the space. They can enhance the beauty of your bathroom, create a luxurious retreat, and even promote self-care in a relaxing environment.
Towel bars and hooks provide a convenient place to hang towels or robes. Robe hooks are also popular and can help keep robes and other clothing off the floor for easy access. Toilet paper holders are a necessity and keep toilet paper neatly rolled within reach.
Decorative bathroom accessories are also available in a variety of materials, colors, and textures. Shelving units and framed paintings or photographs are a great way to add some personality to the space and help make the room feel like your own. However, it’s crucial to choose durable, quality products that will stand up to the moisture and humidity of the bathroom.