Basic Bathroom Design

Basic Elements of Design for the Bathroom

Decorate your bathroom to be a quiet getaway. Pamper yourself. Where better to soothe away the stress of the day and rejuvenate your spirts than your own personal bathroom turned spa?

Whether you are designing a new bath or updating an old one, fixtures come first. For bathtubs, sinks, and showers, always buy high quality faucets, as these are the most frequently used parts of the room. Make sure brass fixtures are always guaranteed not to tarnish. When you install or replace a shower head, the tallest member of your family should stand in the stall so that you can determine where the shower head should be placed.  If your bathroom size allows, try upgrading to a whirlpool tub or steam shower. Add a double vanity if two share a bathroom.  Surfaces set the mood with dramatic colorful tiles, marble, or granite. Stone, slate, marble, ceramic or glass wall tiles in the shower are the best ways to go. They last longer and clean up better than other materials.  Make sure you bathroom floors are always condusive to water. Water-loving tile or stone can be softened with a warm decorative bath rug. 

Warm lighting provides a comforting backdrop for this area of your home. For a shadow free makeup spot, lighted vanity mirrors work best. With light dimmers or multiple light sources, you can choose a brighter atmosphere for getting ready, or a more muted stage for long, candlelit soaks.

Splurge on fabrics. For romance, consider gathered curtains and replace under sink door on a newer vanity with softly shirred sink skirt on a tension rod. Plastic shower curtains are clingy and not very fresh, whereas natural fiber shower curtains are simple to launder. You can create a personal paradise with moisture absorbing towels from Home Source Linens, or a Home Source Shower Curtains that also serves as a liner.

If your bathroom is aging, revitalize it with cover ups and splashes of color. Paint the walls, give the cabinetry a facelift, decorate with fabric and don't forget the small touches such as the door knobs and decorative light fixtures. Select white toilets, tube, and sinks, and your bathroom will not date. You can always inject color in your walls, window curtains, and towels.  Keep the knickknacks to a minimum.  Hang pictures on the walls --they add a charming and friendly note.  The bathroom is the least expensive room in your home to decorate, so get started today.