Clients are often baffled when trying to choose among the available options among bathroom sinks. The truth is that selecting one can be a bit overwhelming, but only when you’re not sure what you’re looking for. You need to consider which room you are shopping for (master bathroom, family bathroom, powder room), who will use the room, and how much space you have. So before you choose your new bathroom sink, have a read and be armed with the information you need to help narrow down the best options for you and your space.

1. Undermount sink. This type of sink sits underneath the counter. The rim of the sink is fixed to the underside of the countertop, as opposed to sitting on top of it.
Pros: This sink creates a seamless, clean look, as less of it is visible. Water and spills can be wiped directly from the countertop into the sink without any obstruction, making it an easy-to-clean option for family bathrooms.
Cons: Undermounting a sink will usually only be possible with a solid-surface countertop, such as stone, and isn’t suitable with a laminate, as it can’t be sealed as well against moisture. These sinks also tend to cost more than top-mount ones.
Good for: Busy family bathrooms.

2. Top-mount sink. A top-mount, or drop-in, the sink is designed to sit on top of the counter, as the name suggests. Generally, most of the sink sits below the counter, with just the rim of it sitting on top of, and visible above, the counter. The rim can be either slim or chunky depending on the style you choose.
Pros: Top-mount sinks are suitable for most countertop materials, including wood and laminate, as the cutout is covered by the sink and therefore doesn’t risk being damaged by water. They are also less costly than undermount sinks to install on a stone countertop because they don’t require polishing of the cutout edges.
Con: You can’t wipe water and spills straight from the counter into the sink.
Good for: Elegant master bathrooms and minimalist schemes.

3. Pedestal sink. If your preference is a simple wall-mounted sink, but your waste pipe has to go through the floor and can’t be changed, then a pedestal sink is a great option.
Pros: The pedestal under the sink sits between the underside of the sink and the floor, concealing any pipework in between. A pedestal sink is also aesthetically pleasing and perfect if you want to give your bathroom a classical vibe.
Cons: You won’t have any storage space under the sink or any counter space around it. This option can also be a bit tricky to clean around, as there is usually a gap between the wall and the back of the pedestal.
Good for: Period bathrooms and traditional schemes.

4. Vessel sink. A vessel sink is one that generally sits completely on top of the countertop, although there are some models that sit partially below the counter.
Pros: Unlike sinks that are exposed above the counter a little or not at all, vessel sinks demand attention and are a way to create a statement in your bathroom. As the name suggests, a vessel sink is basically like a large bowl, so it is a great choice if you like a deep sink that can hold plenty of water.
Cons: Due to the height of vessel sinks and the way they sit above the counter, careful planning of the counter height, and of the height of the cabinets below, is required to ensure that the sink doesn’t end up being too high and uncomfortable to use. This often leads to less storage space under the counter. Cleaning around the base and back of the sink can also be a bit tricky.
Good for: Master bathrooms and powder rooms.

5. Integrated sink and countertop. Many off-the-shelf vanity cabinets offer an all-in-one countertop with a sink. With this style, the sink is molded as part of the countertop. It can be made from various materials, such as porcelain or acrylic.
Pros: An integrated sink is easy to clean. There are no ridges or seams, so it’s streamlined and a great choice for busy family bathrooms. These sinks are generally available in set standard sizes. Some suppliers may offer the option to have one custom-made to the size that suits your space best.
Con: Integrated tops are usually designed so the countertop gradually slopes down and inward to create a sink in the middle. This can lead to having less flat counter space than with other models.
Good for: Those who want to buy off the shelf for speed and cost rather than opt for a custom vanity.

6. Semirecessed sink. If your bathroom has limited space, but you would still like some cabinet space below your sink for storage, then a semi-recessed option might be the solution you need.
Pros: A semi-recessed sink sits at the front of the cabinet and countertop, allowing you to have shallower cabinets — maybe even as shallow as about 12 inches, depending on the model you choose. This frees up valuable floor space. It also keeps a lot of the counter space free. This can be a good option for young children and people with limited mobility, as you can get closer to the sink to reach the faucet without the obstruction of a countertop and cabinets.
Cons: The storage space underneath is limited. Also, because there isn’t any countertop around the front of the sink to catch water, splashes, and spills onto the floor are more common, especially in a home with children.
Good for: Children’s bathrooms and tight spaces.

7. Wall-mounted sink. This is fixed directly to the wall without needing to sit in or on a countertop. It looks streamlined and gives a minimalist feeling to a room.
Pros: A wall-mounted sink doesn’t have cabinets below it, which saves on space and also leaves a more visible floor area, making the room feel bigger. For a wall-mounted sink to work in your space, the plumbing, including the waste, must be positioned inside the wall to have a clean look.
Cons: There is no storage space, and there is a lack of “landing” space due to the absence of a countertop. Consider your need for storage in your bathroom before opting for a wall-mounted sink and maybe reserve it for the powder room, where storage isn’t as important.
Good for: Small spaces.

8. Washplane sink. Washplane sinks often spotted in sleek hotels and restaurant bathrooms, are the simplest of the options. They’re slim, streamlined, and stylish.
Pros: Washplane sinks take up very little space, so they can work in a room where space is limited, such as in a powder room. A stonemason can make them in this style from granite, marble, or engineered stone. They mount a small stainless steel trough under the sink to catch the water before it runs into the waste pipe in the wall behind.
Cons: Washplane sinks are best suited to the powder room, where the sink will be used just for handwashing. They don’t come with the option of having a plug, plus they are extremely shallow, so they’re not designed to hold water.
Good for: Powder rooms.

The post How to Choose the Right Bathroom Sink appeared first on GCMM - Home Improvement LLC.

These small bathroom ideas go beyond making the most of the available space and prove that bold design elements can be right at home in even the tiniest rooms. Here are the best ways to turn powder rooms, half-baths, and just little tiny (sometimes windowless) bathrooms into less cramped, more enjoyable situations. Your small bath may just be your next favorite room.

1. Keep Your Colors Light and Bright

A wood floor and vanity give this city bathroom a warm and serene feeling. A soft mint-green hue reflects natural light from the window. The space surrounding the freestanding tub makes the room feel more open, as does the lightweight curtain fabric, which allows maximum light to enter.

2. Or Double Down on Dark Color

Wait, what? “Oftentimes I like to paint small bathrooms [typically windowless rooms] a dark color, like black. It gives depth and creates an illusion of a larger space,” says Jenny Wolf of Jenny Wolf Interiors. “Go with a high-gloss in a super dark color,” advises Fleming James of Oliver Street Designs. The hue will simultaneously impart a big-night-sky effect and also bounce the little light you have around the space. (Doing so will also draw attention to the light fixtures, she points out, so you’ll need to choose them thoughtfully—bulbs that bring in plenty of light, shapes you don’t mind being pretty pronounced.)

3. Mirror a Wall

Rather than just hanging one above the vanity, consider mirroring a whole wall of your tiny bathroom. The reflection of light and pattern (and, sometimes, that open door) will do the same good work a window does.

4. Or Incorporate Multiple Mirrors

If mirroring an entire wall won’t work in your space, you can just add multiple mirrors to one wall.

5. Opt for a Glass Shower Door

If you’re starting your small bathroom design from scratch, consider scrapping the curtain entirely. “I also recommend glass shower doors in a small bath, as it will help to open up the space,” Wolf says.

6. Or Remove Your Shower Door Completely

The slightly more adventurous might even consider no shower door at all (a good drain is wise in that case).

7. Backlight the Mirror

“This can be a chic and modern way to amplify light,” James says, “if you do not have room for sconces or simply want a more minimalistic look.”

8. Take On Tile

Tile is a durable way to add impact and can be used from floor to ceiling. “For smaller bathroom walls, we like to specify ceramic tiles that are small,” says Suzanne McGrath of the design firm McGrath II. The designer is a fan of using one-by-four and two-by-six floor tiles—which are also less expensive—on bathroom walls.

9. Give the Curtain a Lift

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If you have the luxury of choosing where your shower curtain goes, James says to “take the fabric all the way up” past the usual height of the tub. “Extending the curtain nearly to the ceiling will certainly elongate the walls,” she says, adding that the taller your ceiling in the bathroom, the more this will help.

10. Install a Pocket Door

Though this trick is a little more labor-intensive, replacing your door with a pocket door that tucks away into the wall can open up room for additional storage. You’ll just need to find another spot to hang your towels.

11. Keep the Floor Clear

Covering the floor with a vanity or storage containers can create a cramped space, not to mention tripping hazards. A pedestal or floating sink keeps the floor clear, and installing floating storage will help keep everything you need at arm’s length.

12. Try a Large-Scale Wall Covering

You might think you need to go for a petite motif, but it’s actually better to go big. “Medium- and large-scale wallpapers and tile patterns can actually make a space feel larger,” James explains. Whether you choose big tiles or an even bigger pattern is up to you; she says they’ll both “give an illusionary scale in tight quarters.”

13. Use High-Gloss Paint to Reflect Light and Amplify the Space

Designers Casey Kenyon and Jonathan Beck’s Brooklyn bathroom feels decidedly airy thanks to light-reflecting high-gloss paint.

14. Extend Bathroom Tile Into the Shower

Unbroken lines give any space more depth. Use this concept in your bathroom by installing the same tile on your floor and shower. The effect is an unbroken surface that makes the entire room seem larger.

15. Opt for a Patterned Floor

Believe it or not, this bathroom is windowless. Tall mirrored medicine cabinets and a glass shower amplify light from the interior fixtures, brightening up the space. Wolf used built-in cabinets to save floor space. A herringbone wood floor gives the illusion of a larger and warmer bath.

16. Install a Shelf in the Shower

Some of the best small bathroom ideas are all about creating space for storage, including your soaps and bottles. If you shower lacks space, you can install a shelf in about 20 minutes.

17. Add a Shower Niche

Another major space saver? A shower niche. If you’re designing a small bathroom, make sure to include a shower niche in your plans.

18. Use a Ledge to Create Space

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A narrow ledge along the entire length of this bathroom is the perfect perch for a mirror, toothbrush, and other essentials.

19. Move Your Towel Bar

In a West Village powder room by designer Ashley Darryl, a towel bar is fastened to the side of the floating sink.

20. Upgrade Your Bathroom Accessories

Patterned towels, vintage rugs, and sophisticated lighting also add pops of personality. “Lighting and bath fixtures are like the jewelry of the room. Use them to bring a little glamour into the space,” says Los Angeles–based interior designer Sarah Samuel.

21. Rethink Your Sink

If you’re designing your tiny bathroom from scratch (or remodeling), consider a tiny corner sink. There’s no rule that says you have to have a full-size standard sink. A corner sink gets the job done just as well—plus it gives you plenty of space and less to clean.

22. Choose Compact Pieces

Hulking vanities and blocky tubs may look at home in a larger bathroom, but they can make a small bathroom feel claustrophobic. Install compact toilets and sinks or consider floating versions to open up the space. If a tub is a must, consider a Japanese soaking tub to add serenity without taking up square footage.

23. Use Closed Storage to Stay Organized

Bottles and tubes scattered on the countertops are guaranteed to distract from even the most gorgeous bath. Samuel suggests closed storage, such as a linen closet or vanity with drawers and doors, to keep things tucked away. “Display only your favorite and most frequently used, well-designed products.”

24. Get Your Cabinets in Order

Don’t forget about what’s inside the cabinets too. Compartmentalize your cabinets with specific storage sites for tools and toiletries. Large baskets keep hair dryers, flat irons, and brushes from becoming a tangled mess, while smaller trays are great for holding makeup and beauty products.

25. Curve Some Surfaces

Reclaim some of your space with a curved sink or shower. It might not seem like much, but it can make a difference, especially in a tiny space where real estate matters.

26. Add Stylish Shelving

Molena 3-Tier Display Wall Shelf

Forget anything basic. Opt for a sleek shelf that fits your decor and gives you extra space (a precious commodity in a small bathroom).

27. Choose a Wall-Mounted Faucet

Not only is a wall-mounted faucet a real space saver, it’s also stylish, modern, and easy to clean.

28. Use a Bathtub Caddy

Expandable Bathtub Caddy

Whether or not you find yourself with a small bathroom, you just might find yourself with a small bathtub ledge. When bathtubs are made to fit compact spaces, designers may opt to shave off the width of the edges—and if you don’t have a shower niche or corner shelf, you’re out of luck. The solution? A bathtub tray. Sure, it’s made for relaxing in a bathtub with a book and a glass of wine, but it doubles as a place to set your toiletries.

29. Get Creative With Storage

In cramped rooms, any open space is an opportunity. Take the area underneath the sink in this Carnemark-designed bath, which is just the right size for a stack of artfully rolled towels.

30. Add a Ladder for Towels

We love this country-chic small bathroom that gets creative with a ladder. It can hang more towels than a bar, and it gives the bathroom a unique feel. If you don’t have enough space for a ladder that stands alone, choose one that is made to sit above a toilet.

31. Pare Down Your Bottles

Let’s be honest: We usually don’t need all those toiletry bottles. Streamlining your grooming products will give you more space, so do a Marie Kondo and pare down your shampoo collection. Or, at the very least, store the products you don’t use daily somewhere other than your counters or bathtub ledges. Getting rid of any clutter will make your small bathroom seem much bigger.

32. Go for Custom Toiletry Bottles

Custom Toiletry Bottles

You can take this a step further and actually get custom toiletry bottles, which come in a variety of styles and sizes. In a small space, every design choice matters—so even this seemingly small upgrade can really streamline your surfaces and make everything look organized and clean.

33. Install a Skylight

This is one of the more ambitious small bathroom ideas, but it will make a major impact. Installing a skylight will open up your entire bathroom and significantly brighten the space.

The post 33 Small Bathroom Ideas appeared first on GCMM - Home Improvement LLC.

(Image credit: Future)

These small bathroom ideas are designed to make a compact space feel not just bigger and well-functioning, but super-stylish too.
When it comes to small bathroom design, clever planning – which includes everything from layout, to fitting choices, to smart storage options – is key to ensuring that even a tiny bathroom can still feel spacious. Stylish finishes that are also practical are the icing on the cake.
Up to recently, small bathrooms always required a compromise – often with the bathtub becoming the first victim in the battle for space – not to mention issues arising from lack of storage.
But the latest modern furniture and fittings can still create a luxurious bathroom from the minimal square footage. Shower baths remain a popular option in compact rooms, mini bathtubs are growing in popularity and the choices in scaled-down fixtures are greater than ever – there is a plethora of bathroom ideas for compact spaces to choose from.

BRILLIANT SMALL BATHROOM IDEAS

Whether you opt for a sleek streamlined look, or traditional detailing, there are plenty of ways to pack a decorative punch with your small bathroom ideas.

1. USE A COLORED BATH AS A FOCAL POINT

(Image credit: BC Designs)

When space is tight, the key is to distract the eye, and this can be done by choosing a stunning bath in a color other than white. The vertical ribbed design seen here also helps visually. Barrie Cutchie, Design Director at BC Designs, says: ‘Bathroom design is all about color and a great way to slowly introduce it is through subtle pastel shades. A bath in a traditional-style design will add personality to your bathroom and a pastel shade will liven it up. ‘Color also draws your eyes in and helps to create a striking focal point. The key to making a freestanding bath a success, no matter the size, is to allow 10cm between the edge and the walls. It creates a feeling of space and also makes cleaning it much easier.’

2. MAKE SPACE FOR A NICHE

(Image credit: Interior Fox)

Tired of chasing slippery shampoo and body wash bottles around the shower floor? When designing a bathroom, consider including a shower niche into your design – ideal for both showers and baths. It’s one of the best small bathroom storage ideas for saving space and it looks stylish. ‘Avoid a floor of toiletries or an overcrowded caddy by installing a recessed shower shelf,’ advises Jenna Choate, Founder of London-based design studio, Interior Fox.  ‘It’s a practical and streamlined way to add storage space, without taking away elbow room. Make a feature out of the area by using a colored trim that contrasts against the wall tiles.’

3. MATCH WALL AND FLOOR TILES

(Image credit: Stone & Ceramic Warehouse)

An all-encompassing look makes for an uber-stylish bathroom, and one that most definitely creates the feel of a luxury spa design. It also creates the illusion of space as seen in the ensuite bathroom above. ‘Using the same tiles on the walls and the floor will enhance the feeling of space by creating a continuous look,’ explains Jo Oliver, Director at The Stone & Ceramic Warehouse.  ‘Pale colored tiles can make a small bathroom look bigger as they reflect more light than darker colors, giving an airy and spacious feel. ‘We’ve seen a huge increase in the popularity of slab or ‘large format’ porcelain tiles in recent years. These large-format designs mean fewer grout lines, and therefore less maintenance and cleaning. Slab tiles are ideal for creating a striking, high-end look, and can often make smaller rooms appear larger thanks to their seamless appearance.’

4. PAINT WALLS AND WOODWORK IN THE SAME SHADE

(Image credit: Farrow & Ball)

Paint is such a wonderful design tool, and you can use it in this instance to make a small bathroom feel larger.  When you paint the woodwork white, for example, it visually splits up the wall – from the skirting, window frames and any edging above like picture rails. By painting the whole area in one color you create a seamless feel that the eye can flow around without interruption.  Painting a bath in a color also distracts and if you’re looking for small bathroom flooring ideas, wide planked floorboards will make a floor space appear larger. It’s all about creating visual illusions.

5. FIND SPACE IN THE EAVES

(Image credit: Future/Veronica Rodriguez)

Embrace small and suddenly there’s so much more scope for adding a compact bathroom. This neat little attic space has been planned into a loft conversion but it feels far from wedged in.  A stunning Crittall-style shower screen adds drama, while a skylight and pale scheme ensure this is a light, bright room. Finishes are crucial in a small space, so it pays here more than anywhere to go for bespoke fittings and high-spec tiles and brassware.

6. CREATE ROOM FOR MANOEUVER WITH POCKET DOORS

(Image credit: Future/Veronica Rodriguez)

Where space is at a premium, pocket doors really are your friend. Here they have been used to divide an already small space to combine a bathroom with clever and compact laundry room ideas.  Being able to close the door on piles of washing is a must if you’re planning a relaxing soak in the bath. However, because the doors slide into the wall cavity, there’s much more room for maneuver should you need it.

7. EMBRACE DEEP COLORS IN A SMALL BATHROOM

(Image credit: Future/Colin Poole)

You rarely hear a small bathroom being described as cozy. Yet use the right bathroom color ideas and materials, and a warm, cocooning look can be achieved – creating a space you’ll long to return to at the beginning or end of the day.  Here, every designer’s favorite shower tile idea – the Lily Pad tile – has been used to maximalist effect. The jewel blue shade and brass and copper detailing give the space the opulence you might not previously have thought achievable in a small bathroom.

8. MAKE THE MOST OF A SMALL BATHROOM LAYOUT

(Image credit: Future/Davide Lovatti)

When it comes to designing a small bathroom, every inch counts. It is important to measure precisely and take into account doors, windows or sloped ceilings that may dictate your bathroom layout ideas.

Don’t be afraid to play with pattern, even in awkward spaces. In this dark bathroom from Pippa Paton, the hexagonal tiled flooring and splashback give a cohesive look, creating a backdrop for this rustic vanity that not only fits perfectly into the alcove but also gives a subtle nod to the house’s barn heritage.

9. MAKE A SMALL BATHROOM A WET ROOM

(Image credit: Future/Davide Lovatti)

While it may be a more expensive option than a conventional shower, considering wet room ideas for your space could be worthwhile.

The main cost is tanking to make the area waterproof, but the result is a roomier space as you don’t need a closed-off shower enclosure.

Instead, take note from this design by Katie McCrum which shows that you can have the same flooring throughout and a frameless shower screen 
to contain splashes without feeling too restrictive.

10. PLAN SMALL BATHROOM LIGHTING EARLY

(Image credit: Industville)

In the early planning stages, it is important to get placements of every aspect of a small bathroom right and this includes picking your bathroom lighting ideas promptly.

‘The most overlooked part 
of planning a bathroom is all the different types of lighting needed,’ says Marketa Rypacek, managing director at Industville. Ensure you have overhead lighting, as well as task lighting around the mirror.

Consider where natural light comes into the space and remember that 
all bathroom lighting needs an appropriate IP rating.

11. DECORATE A SMALL BATHROOM WITH WALLPAPER

(Image credit: F&P Interiors)

One easy way of injecting character into a country-style bathroom is with patterned wallpaper, like this design from F&P Interiors.

While it may not be the first choice, standard wallpaper can be applied as long as the room is well-ventilated with an extractor fan, so steam doesn’t damage it.

Apply a strong adhesive underneath, and add a coat of decorator’s varnish on top to help protect against moisture. Or, use vinyl wallpaper designed especially for bathrooms, though it’s best to stick to tiles or panelling in wet zones such as around the bath or above a sink.

12. USE THE RIGHT PAINT SHADE

(Image credit: Little Greene)

Many people use lighter, whiter shades in small bathrooms, hoping to open up the space. Although this approach works, it is also important to get the tone of paint right.

As a rule, cool undertones suit south-facing aspects while warmer shades work well in north-facing rooms – in both instances the shades help balance natural light entering the space. Results vary, so always test the bathroom paint ideas you are considering first to see how they look when applied to certain walls.

Here, the paint color – Salix 99 from Little Greene – flows seamlessly from walls to the eaves for an elegant finish.

13. ADD A LITTLE LUXURY

(Image credit: West One Bathrooms)

‘If there is one room that needs a little luxury, it’s your bathroom,’ says Louise Ashdown, head of design at West One Bathrooms.

She recommends using wall-mounted furniture to keep floor space clear in a small bathroom and sticking to a neutral palette 
if you want an elegant spa-like finish.

‘This helps avoid breaking up the room with different colors, which will make it feel boxy,’ she explains. And don’t be shy of adding 
a little glamor to your spa bathroom ideas – it’s these brushed gold fittings that really make this bathroom shine.

For instance, a bath caddy can help create a polished look if you have a bathtub. To house candles, bubble bath, and more. Otherwise, when it comes to your fluffy towels, a freestanding towel rack or rail will add sophistication to this room.

14. CHOOSE QUALITY FINISHES

(Image credit: Wolf Lewitt Interiors)

A plus side of designing a small bathroom is that you may be able to splash out on higher-quality materials and finishes than if you were having to decorate a larger room.

In this project from Wolf Lewitt,  a bespoke map wallpaper was commissioned to fit the room and add interest. The unusual design has been paired with smart grey panelling, which helps to box in any unsightly pipework while also creating 
a handy shelf around the walls. Authentic encaustic tiles on 
the floor complete the look.

15. CREATE ZONES, EVEN IN A SMALL BATHROOM

(Image credit: BC Designs)

It might be worth reconfiguring a family bathroom into zones – such as the shower and bath on one side, with the basin and toilet on the other – so that someone could pop in and brush their teeth while you’re doing bath time with the kids, for example.

‘Choosing 
to have a wet room can actually be hugely beneficial when wanting a bath to sit in the same space,’ says Sally Cutchie, marketing manager at BC Designs. ‘If you opt for a painted bath, use exterior eggshell paint as this is extra durable around water,’ she adds.

Different flooring can also be used to create zones – our bathroom floor tile ideas include tips for picking complementary designs.

16. MAKE A STATEMENT

(Image credit: Future/Davide Lovatti)

A powder room is usually one of the smallest rooms in your house but it’s the one most of your guests will end up seeing. This can be an ideal opportunity to experiment with color and pattern and impress visitors with your flair for design.

Keep fixtures and fittings to a minimum, opting for a corner or reduced-depth basin, a monobloc mixer faucet and a simple towel holder. Then focus your efforts into adding impact through your powder room wall decor with a beautiful, bold wallpaper pattern or 
a few pieces of statement artwork.

17. USE OPTICAL ILLUSIONS

(Image credit: Future/Chris Snook)

When choosing small bathroom tile ideas, use optical illusion to create a sense of space in your washroom. For example, horizontal lines can help widen the appearance of your room and these metro tiles are a timeless option.

To prevent tiles looking too bare 
or clinical, incorporate natural materials to add layers of texture and warmth to the space, such as real wood or plants. The gray bathroom tiles on the floor help pull together the scheme by bringing out the dark grouting on the walls.

18. EXPOSE A BRICK WALL TO GIVE A SMALL BATHROOM CHARACTER

(Image credit: Future/Colin Poole)

In a narrow bathroom, avoid a corridor feel by giving opposite walls different finishes. Here, a rustic exposed brick wall has huge impact and brings visual warmth to what is so often a clinical and cold space.

Pop a feature at the end of the room to draw the eye through – this roll-top bath has been placed on a platform to highlight its importance (and possibly add some extra support to the floor below).

19. BUILD IN STORAGE TO USE SPACE WISELY

(Image credit: Future/James Merrell)

Good bathroom storage ideas can go a long way to making a small bathroom feel less cluttered and crammed in.

It may seem counterintuitive to put more things in to a small room. But shutting lotions, potions, loo rolls and even towels inside slim built-in cabinetry will streamline the space. To help your furniture blend in, panel the walls to the same height all around the room.

20. WALL MOUNT TO MAKE A SMALL BATHROOM FEEL LARGER

(Image credit: Future/Colin Poole)

Conversely, if you don’t have a lot of bathroom clutter to hide, try to keep furniture and sanitaryware to a minimum. Wall-mounted basins and WCs clear the floor area and have minimal impact on your walls, so they will make a small bathroom seem bigger. They’re also much easier to keep clean.

Be inventive about where you place your sanitaryware, too. This basin fits perfectly in the gap between wall and window and because it’s in a corner, it’s less intrusive.

21. USE MIRRORS TO MAKE A SMALL BATHROOM FEEL LARGER

(Image credit: Kate Martin)

Antique mirrored walls can be an effective way to create the illusion of a much wider space.

Also, if the passage between a master bedroom and its adjacent small bathroom is wide enough, consider adding a shower enclosure.

‘Ensure it sits seamlessly in the background by using clear glass – possibly with a modesty panel – and a flush-to-floor tray,’ says Kirsten Wain of West One Bathrooms.

22. MAKE THE MOST OF AN ODD-SHAPED SMALL BATHROOM

(Image credit: Matthew Williams)

Awkward ceiling shapes in loft conversions can be cleverly turned into stylish walk-in shower ideas with fixtures such as shower heads built into sloping walls.

In this scheme, sandblasted glass panelling neatly partitions the bathroom from the sleeping area.

23. SIMPLE SOLUTIONS ARE MORE STREAMLINED

(Image credit: Future/Jonathan Gooch)

‘Architecturally and visually, it is best to keep a small bathroom feeling open by not crowding too many things into it,’ explains Barbara Sallick, Co-founder, Waterworks. ‘Edit your amenities often, hang your towels on bars or hooks, keep pattern to a minimum, and generally, make it simple.

‘The room will feel bigger if you use a pedestal sink rather than a bulky vanity, a clear glass door rather than shower curtain and reflective surfaces such as glossy ceramic tiles in a large scale,’ adds Barbara.

This wet room idea is the perfect example of keeping things streamlined.

24. PICK A BATHTUB THAT IS MADE TO FIT

(Image credit: The Albion Bath Company)

A small bathroom can cater to a tub – and a good-looking bathtub that is center stage-worthy – provided you pick a design that has been created specifically for the space.

There are plenty of reduced-width models to choose from. Thanks to its clean lines and simple design, this tiny slipper tub from The Albion Bath Company is equally beautiful in a period home as it is in a contemporary-style space.

Its Tubby design, meanwhile, comes in a 59inch/1500mm size while still boasting a double-ended roll-top look.

Also look out for built-in models that are attached to the wall but have the appearance of a freestanding bath from the front.

25. CHOOSE MINIMAL FIXTURES TO BOOST A SMALL BATHROOM

(Image credit: Future/Mark Bolton)

In a small space, it’s important to avoid closing it off too much with excessive furniture. Opt for frameless glass when choosing a shower screen in a wet room to ensure the space remains light, bright and uncluttered.

26. HANG A MIRROR TO MAKE YOUR BATHROOM FEEL LARGER

(Image credit: Darren Chung © Future)

Decorating with mirrors is essential in any cloakroom, both practically and aesthetically. They bounce natural light around a room, making the room seem instantly larger and brighter.

Ornate options look fantastic in guest cloakrooms and are great statement pieces. If you prefer to keep things simple, then a mirror with a bevelled edge is an effective but subtle detail.

27. LIGHT A SMALL BATHROOM TO MAKE IT FEEL BIGGER AND BRIGHTER

(Image credit: Future/Davide Lovatti)

Bathroom lighting zones are a key consideration, as getting the lighting right can make all the difference to the ambience created in your bathroom. Try installing a dimmer switch so that you can control the intensity of light, depending on your mood.

For bathroom ceiling lighting ideas, spotlights, either recessed, fitted to a track, or as part of a multi-light fitting, will instantly brighten a room.

28. BE ADVENTUROUS WITH SMALL BATHROOM DECOR

(Image credit: Future/Polly Wreford)

A small bathroom or cloakroom need not be dull or boring. Small spaces can be elevated with bold decorating choices, like this compelling pictorial terrarium wallpaper idea, used with moody moss-green tongue-and-groove panelling.

29. PICK A COHESIVE STYLE THAT SUITS YOUR HOME’S PERIOD

(Image credit: Future/Paul Raeside)

Many people shy away from classic styles as they assume that they can crowd a room and can be too oppressive, but this isn’t the case.

By using light colors and tones and embracing traditional fittings such as an Art Deco style, you can achieve a period look in your bathroom despite its small size.

30. KEEP FLOORS CLEAR

(Image credit: Future/Carolyn Barber)

Wall-mounted modular furniture remains a favorite for storage, due to its fuss-free, streamlined look. Available in a range of heights, widths and depths, semi-bespoke small bathroom storage ideas allow you to create storage that best suits your space.

You’ll find a wide range of colors, from soft hues to strong brave tones, available too, as well as plenty of different textures.

31. BE RID OF SHOWER ENCLOSURES FOR A MORE OPEN SPACE

(Image credit: The Albion Bath Company)

Transforming a small bathroom into a wet room is an excellent choice – you make the room look bigger by not closing it off with unnecessary screens.

Bathroom tile ideas that stretch from the floor right up the walls can give the space a cozy cocooned look, too.

You can of course also consider incorporating a generous shower into a large tub instead – giving you the option of both.

32. KEEP THE DECOR SIMPLE BUT ADD ELEGANT FIXTURES

(Image credit: Future/Jonathan Gooch)

In lieu of being able to enlarge room dimensions, the clever use of surface finishes can maximize the feeling of space. In a small dark space, you could keep the space light and bright with minimal pattern or color.

‘Use reflective finishes on joinery and recessed handles,’ says Nick Stuttard, co-founder of London Projects. ‘They reflect light back into the room and streamline surfaces, minimizing any awkwardness in moving around a narrow space.’

33. BE BRAVE WITH BOLD PATTERN

(Image credit: Future/Simon Bevan)

While wallpaper is an excellent option for adding pattern to a cloakroom, depending on the level of extraction you have in your bathroom, it may not be the best choice if you use to it to bathe or shower often.

An excellent alternative to wallpaper is patterned tile, whether in a simple repeat or a mural-style design like this one by Surface View.

34. INVEST IN A VINTAGE WASHBASIN

(Image credit: Future/Paul Raeside)

Worried your bathroom design may look to contemporary and cold? Mix the old with the new for a relaxed, organic look. A vintage wash basin or compact vanity unit will offset the modern fixtures that are often necessary for a scaled-down scheme, giving the room a more lived-in look.

35. CHOOSE LUXE SURFACES AND ACCESSORIES

(Image credit: Future/Paul Raeside)

‘Cleverly chosen surfaces can completely transform the look and help you make the most of even the smallest space,’ says Leila Roberts from Fired Earth.

Luxurious, tactile finishes such as polished marble, make a space space feel a lot less utilitarian. The addition of accessories like decorative lighting and a beautiful mirror, also ramp up the feeling of luxury.

‘Using large-format tiles means there are fewer grout joints, making walls and floors easier to clean, too,’ Leila adds.

36. PICK A WASHBASIN THAT’S A DECORATIVE FOCUS

(Image credit: Murals wallpaper)

Like a more traditional look? Demonstrating the perfect balance between classic design and contemporary color palettes, the vibrant blue hues of the Georgiana and Lorelei countertop washbasins will sit beautifully against any backdrop.

Whether you pick watercolour teals or contrasting, marble-effect dusty pinks, these bathroom vanity ideas will steal the limelight in a small bathroom – distracting from the rooms diminutive proportions.

37. CREATE A FOCUS – WITH PATTERN

(Image credit: Artisan of Devizes)

A small bathroom always runs the risk of being characterless but you can easily rectify this with a single wall of patterned tiles, placed strategically to draw attention to an end wall or a feature wall.

‘Whether it’s stars or stripes, monochrome patterns or colors that pop… pattern and print play a big part in bringing personality into any home – it injects life into small spaces,’ says Hamish Smith, Ca’ Pietra Creative Director. ‘Think that pattern tiles are just for contemporary spaces? Think again and opt for a Victorian-inspired patterned tile, or a trellis pattern for a shower space to make it timeless.’

38. DRAW THE EYE UP

(Image credit: BC Designs)

A saving grace of some small bathrooms is that, while they’re not big on floor space, they can make up for it with ceiling height. If that’s the case, add features that encourage you to look up and take in the roominess above.

The trick employed here is to simply hang a bathroom chandelier – being sure to check IP ratings.

39. COMBINE DARK FLOORS WITH PALE WALLS

(Image credit: Future/Veronica Rodriguez)

You may be surprised to learn that dark flooring can help to make your room look bigger. Once paired with the right cooling shade for wall colour, a space really can appear much bigger than it is.

The most obvious combination is black and white, as seen here. But you could also combine a deep gray or emerald green with blush. Or dark wood with pale sage green.

40. SQUEEZE IN SHELVING TO BOOST STORAGE IN A SMALL BATHROOM

(Image credit: Future/Rachael Smith)

It doesn’t matter how small your bathroom is. If you look carefully there are opportunities for space-saving storage everywhere. Take this little alcove of shelving in an attic bathroom.

Don’t overload your shelves, however. Instead curate little vignettes and use house plants or ceramics to add pops of color.

41. HANG ARTWORK WISELY TO DISTRACT FROM SMALL BATHROOM PROPORTIONS

(Image credit: Future/Rachael Smith)

Wallpaper is one way to bring a small bathroom to life, and carefully positioned artwork is another. Here, the owner has used clever bathroom art ideas by hanging each canvas high, emphasising the clear wall space rather than the room’s size.

42. CLASH PATTERNS

(Image credit: London Basin Company)

One way to detract from a room’s scale is to give it energy and vibrancy through clashing patterns. A cloakroom like this is the perfect place to experiment.

Featuring Grecian inspired ogee wallpaper, warm brass accents and and a richly decorated basin by London Basin Company, it makes a big statement.

43. SHOCK WITH PINK

(Image credit: Emily Murray of @pinkhouseliving / Photography Susie Lowe)

There’s something both moreish and Moorish about this delicious pink shower room, which demonstrates how going bold in a small space can pay off.

The brass shower and taps from Perrin & Rowe will develop their own unique patina over time, enhancing the vintage bathroom vibe that’s already been created with polished plaster walls.

44. CLAD A WALL OR TWO WITH TEXTURE

(Image credit: Roper Rhodes)

For those who fear color may overwhelm their small bathroom, introducing texture may be a more palatable way to introduce feature walls. Cladding is a good way to achieve this – you could pick roughly hewn timber cladding or, for something more modern, a fluted finish.

According to George Holland at Victorian Plumbing, ‘Fluted cladding is a great choice for smaller bathrooms prone to lots of condensation. The fluted design helps eliminate wall moisture, especially when using water-resistant ribbed tiles.’

45. REVEAL THE FLOOR TO STRETCH SPACE

‘When planning a small bathroom, it is important to create a sense of openness even if your actual space is limited,’ advises Yousef Mansuri, Head of Design at C.P. Hart. ‘Revealing as much floor as possible gives the impression of a larger room, so consider wall-mounting your basins, WCs and radiators. This will also make cleaning hard-to-reach areas much easier.

‘Corner cisterns for wall-hung toilets are a great option for tight bathrooms, as they take up much less space than regular ones. Paired with a compact, wall-hung toilet (50 to 45cm depth) they can really maximize the space.’

46. BOOST LIGHT LEVELS

‘Lighting zones are a key consideration in a cloakroom bathroom, as getting the lighting right can make all the difference to the ambience created,’ continues Yousef Mansuri.

‘I always recommend installing a dimmer switch, so that you can control the intensity of light depending on your mood. Mirrors are an essential part of any small space, both practically and aesthetically. They bounce natural light around a room, making the space seem instantly larger and brighter, while also providing a great statement piece.’

47. CLAD A WALL WITH MIRRORS TO CHEAT A BIGGER BATHROOM

(Image credit: Future/Davide Lovatti)

An easy and effective fix – mirrors really help exaggerate space, so simply hanging a large mirror in a small bathroom will make it feel far larger.

Combining a mirror with a dark or dramatic color scheme will help too. Shape the space you want with different kinds of frames – frameless mirrors will feel luxurious while round ones will make a room feel softer.

Expert tip – if you can’t fit one big mirror in, put up smaller ones for a similar effect.

48. USE VERTICAL SPACE IN A SMALL BATHROOM

(Image credit: Future)

Instead of the usual bulky towel racks and rails, look for longer, thinner versions, designed to go up the walls. Invest in ladder shelves, or open shelves. This will add a relaxed feel to the space and the bathroom won’t feel so boxy. Take advantage of dead space you wouldn’t usually fill and stretch out your furnishings to save space.

Expert tip – tall and sleek corner fitting cabinets are an ideal small bathroom idea.

49. STRETCH SPACE IN A SMALL BATHROOM WITH WALL LIGHTING

(Image credit: Studio Bizley)

Lighting is often forgotten when it comes to bathroom design, and many people rely on the single ceiling bulb to do the job, but adding pools of light around the room – particularly with wall lights – is one of the easiest ways to make a small bathroom feel bigger.

Expert tip – a light around a mirror will make a room feel brighter and bigger still.

50. GO BIG WITH TILES

(Image credit: Mandarin Stone)

Think a small bathroom would need smaller tiles? When it comes to tiny bathrooms, the bigger the tiles the better. Smaller tiles mean more grout lines, which will make the space feel tight and grid-like. Wider tiles will make a bathroom feel bigger, especially if you choose light colors. Go big with tiles to create a real illusion of space.

Expert tip – if you do want to include smaller, mosaic-style tiles limit them to an area that’s already small such as the shower or an alcove.

HOW DO YOU DESIGN A SMALL BATHROOM?

If you’re pondering how to design a small bathroom, the truth is that every aspect needs to be carefully considered. But that doesn’t mean you need to compromise on style.

Clever storage solutions can make all the difference, and thankfully there are now many compact options for bathrooms – from reduced-depth bathtubs and basins to slimline shower trays and frameless screens to enhance the illusion of space.

Also, bear in mind that wall-hung designs will optimise floorspace, and reflective surfaces can help bounce light around the room.

WHAT IS THE BEST COLOR FOR A SMALL BATHROOM?

So, what’s the best color for a small bathroom? The truth is that it depends on your own space.

First, take account of the natural daylight in your small bathroom: if it is poor or if the bathroom is north- or east-facing, you would be better choose a bathroom color that reflects light and has a touch of warmth to it.

If your bathroom is flooded with daylight thanks to a large window, there’s no reason not to choose a dark color.

Consider how the bathroom color will look on all four walls – in a small space, it may be over-powering if it is dark or bold; or it may make the room feel entirely characterless if it is pale – and this is where you need to be clever with adding pattern and texture to complement that color.

What to avoid? A strong color and poor lighting, whether daylight or artificial light – the effect will be that the entire space with have a tinge of that shade, and when you look in your small bathroom mirror you might find your face reflects that shade – which is unflattering and not conducive to wellbeing.

IS IT BETTER TO USE SMALL OR LARGE TILES IN A SMALL BATHROOM?

We asked the Ca’ Pietra design team what their view was on using tiles in small bathrooms, and they offered some differing options.

‘Some say that small mosaic tiles are the best way to go in a bijou bathroom whereas others advise to go for larger tiles to open the space up,’ they explain.

‘What it comes down to is whether or not you want to run with the cosiness of the room, emphasizing its small proportions and celebrating its cosiness. In which case, you can go for little tiles like our Yoga Penny or Brasserie mosaic tiles.’

‘But, if you want to help a small bathroom appear larger, go for 30-60 cm plain-coloured tiles on both your walls and floors and they’ll blur the boundaries so your floor space isn’t so defined.’

WHAT ARE THE TRENDS FOR SMALL BATHROOMS IN 2021?

Bathroom trends have undergone a huge leap in design of late, and thanks to the effect the pandemic has had on everyone’s homes – with bathrooms becoming our stay-at-home spas – this trend is set to continue right through 2021 and beyond.

Super practical, utilitarian, minimal designs have been replaced by softer lines, organic shapes and warmer colors being applied in small bathrooms, as well as large.

Modern technology too is being utilised to the max with ink-jet printing technology allowing manufacturers to produce all kinds of tiles, from wood and stone-effect tiles that look so similar to the real thing that it’s hard to tell the difference, as well colourful and intricate patterns.

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If you’re planning a kitchen, there are a few essential kitchen layout ideas you need to keep in mind as you’re designing and planning.

Before you make any big decisions or get carried away with the aesthetic, here are 7 essential kitchen layout ideas you will want to incorporate to make your kitchen design a success:

1. Reduce Traffic

No matter what, the kitchen is probably going to be a high-traffic area of the house. But there are ways you can get around making the kitchen a catch-all for mail and backpacks and coats.

Create a space before you get into the kitchen, like a mudroom, to control the chaos that can come sweeping in every day. Once in the kitchen, make sure the primary pathway through the kitchen is hazard-free and will not be obstructed by the refrigerator or oven door when open.

                   Create clear zones for circulation, meal preparation and cooking in your kitchen layout.

2. Make the Distance between Main Fixtures Comfortable

When laying out your kitchen it’s important to keep the main tasks in mind – preparing, serving, and cleaning up from meals. You don’t want to put the stove across the room from the sink, or the fridge too far away from the stove because that will complicate whichever task you are working on.

3. Make Sure the Kitchen Island Isn’t too Close or too Far

A kitchen island is where much of the meal preparation happens. If your kitchen layout will include one, consider its location carefully. Make sure that it will not block the area in front of your major appliances, such as wall ovens, dishwashers, and refrigerators.

Allow enough space for the appliance door swing plus room to pass when the doors are open. But you also don’t want to place it too far. Make sure your island is located within a comfortable arm’s reach from each of these fixtures.

4. Place the Sink First

When creating a kitchen layout, many designers place the sink first and then design from there. While this is probably grounded in tradition from the days when people spent a long time scrubbing dishes, it remains a good rule of thumb.

The oven and fridge are vital to preparing meals, but somehow the sink seems to still be the place where we spend the most time. Think about placing the sink where there is a view out a window or into the room. A kitchen island is also a great location for the sink.

5. Always Put the Stove on an Exterior Wall

When you’re deciding where to put the stove and oven, remember to put them on an exterior wall rather than an island or interior wall. This will make it easier (and less expensive) to install a proper ventilation system.

6. Keep Vertical Storage in Mind

Instead of focusing all of your energy on creating enough cabinet and drawer storage, put a little of that energy into configuring convenient wall storage.

Storage walls are a great way to incorporate pantry storage, small appliances, baking accessories, extra china, or even a broom closet – in one convenient location. Open shelves, wall hooks, and overhead pot racks are not only convenient – if stocked with the right stuff, they can also add dimension to the aesthetic.

7. Create a Floor Plan and Visualize Your Kitchen in 3D

No matter how much designing, measuring, and pinning to your dream kitchen Pinterest boards you do, your completed kitchen can still come as a surprise once the contractors are finished – and not always in a good way.
Draw your kitchen floor plan, add fixtures, finishes, and cabinets, and see them instantly in 3D!

Get Started on Your Kitchen Design

Create 2D Floor Plans, 3D Floor Plans, and 3D Photos just like these, to share with your family, friends, or contractor for more accurate pricing.

The post 7 Kitchen Layout Ideas That Work appeared first on GCMM - Home Improvement LLC.

Dave and Les Jacobs/Lloyd Dobbie/Getty Images.

We have a hard time saying the bohemian look is a trend. Instead, this style has become a design category all its own, and it’s the epitome of effortless and cool. The look encourages heavy use of unique textiles — be they rugs, pillows or curtains. And there is no scarcity of color in a boho room — indoors or out.
While we love seeing bohemian living and bedrooms, we go gaga when this look is used for outdoor spaces. If you are taking on your own porch or patio project, here’s all the boho inspo you need.

 

Mix & Match

Nothing’s more bohemian than an eclectic mishmash of furniture, so take a note from this tiny little outdoor space and mix your favorite pieces. A bench hidden under a sheepskin throw for added texture is all the seating needed; elsewhere, a metal tray table and a low wooden stool provide ample space for all your green friends. And as any boho decorator worth their salt will tell you, cramming as much greenery as possible in any given space is a must to properly convey the chill-yet-chic aesthetic bohemian decor is known for.

   Photo : Ashley Batz.

Bright Space

This bright and bold escape is one where we could certainly see ourselves gathering this summer. Rich in color and exaggerated textiles, this space is truly a dream. When looking to pull off this look yourself, remember that incorporating a ton of prints is the name of the game; adding in a variety of patterned pillows will help you easily achieve this look. Photo : Boho Collective.

Small Yet Mighty

Do you think your space is too awkward and cramped for a complete transformation? Think again! Even the narrowest of porches can test out this look, as exhibited by this gorgeous space full of color and interest. Stuff your space full of pillows and plant life, and take advantage of wall space and design upward. Include great tapestries and art on the walls, and string up special lights to really drive the look home.

Photo : Carley Summers.

Mojave Magic

This space is giving us all sorts of desert vibes. The simple furniture really gives a greater emphasis to the bold linens, while terra-cotta planters and copious amounts of cacti transport you to another place entirely. After a few drinks, you could easily convince us we weren’t dining on our friend’s back porch in the ‘burbs — but somewhere much more magical.

Photo : Haneens Haven.

Set the Scene

This space is really all about the special accessories. To copy the look, find yourself a worn and weathered vintage door and hang up some twinkling string lights. While the decor here is pulled together quite nicely, we can’t help but point out that the homeowner has the most perfect backdrop: some stunning scenery.

Photo : _lucyinthesky/Instagram.

Start With a Hammock

Resolve to make this summer the one when you finally get that amazing hammock you’ve been eyeing. This cream macramé option is the epitome of cool. This hammock alone provides your porch with the ultimate in boho, and lush plant life and hanging lanterns really drive this look home.

Photo : Carley Summers.

Be Unique

We are officially calling dibs on this space for the summer. These cushions, covered in vintage rugs, are unlike anything else, and these plants are hung perfectly at varying heights. This stunning space perfectly captures the essence of what it is to be a lover of bohemian decor.

Photo : Glitter Guide.

Party Ready

The furniture is what makes this space what it is — and totally unique in shape and material. This perfect porch set is complemented by the red overdyed rug and blue shibori pillows. Pop in a couple of potted plants, and you are well on your way to a wonderful summer party setting.

The post TRANSFORM YOUR PORCH INTO A BOHEMIAN ESCAPE appeared first on GCMM - Home Improvement LLC.

1. GET STARTED

Find Your Personal Style
Your personal style will determine the direction your dreams flow in. Do you prefer casual or formal mode, vintage or industrial chic, lots of open expanse or small cozy nooks? Which décor materials and colors are you drawn to? How about outdoor space – is a flower garden, fountain, tennis court, or swimming pool your idea of bliss? Check online or in decorating magazines to find home remodels that you love. Or take a course in planning and building your dream home. Then think about how these ideas could be adapted to your own abode.

Stretch Your Imagination
For some of us homebodies, dreaming of remodeling wish lists for our house – and practically every home we visit – comes as second nature. Coming up with the perfect vision is a mental exercise that will stretch the imagination and let your mind have fun with ideas. And on a more down-to-earth level, brainstorming is a useful technique that encourages you to think out of the box, identify your needs and wants, and come up with creative, feasible inspirations.

Make a List
Choose a place – whether a hardbound journal or an online document – to record your ideas. Keep a running list of the essential and not-so-essential features of your dream home. At the same time, write out an inventory of the features of your home as it is now – both pluses and problems. You may find that your home is closer to your personal ideal than you thought – great! On the other hand, if the negatives far outweigh the positives, this may spur you to move ahead with remodeling plans.

2. FOCUS ON SPECIFIC ROOMS

Kitchen
The kitchen is considered the heart of the home, so it’s no wonder that it tops the list of rooms which homeowners choose to remodel. What do you want your kitchen to be? A center for feeding the family, entertaining, and relaxing? A high-tech laboratory for experimenting with gourmet cuisine? A showplace that will be used more for impressing clients and other guests than hands-on cooking? The answer will determine whether you want a large central island with comfortable bar stool seating for a crowd, for example, or a safe place for your kids to sit away from the heat of the cooking action.

Bathroom
If you enjoy pampering yourself (and who doesn’t?), a dreamy bathroom can be your own in-home spa. Take your pick of luxurious features like an oversized soaking tub, multi-jet shower, magnificent view-framing window, chandelier, or tubside fireplace. On the other hand, you might prefer a high tech bath that gets you clean and ready to face the world with a minimum of fuss.

Living Room
Do you go for windows galore or would you prefer a subtly lit, comfy cave? Which would you choose – a chintzy, old-fashioned vibe or ultra-modern concrete surfaces? Do you thrive in a bustling hub of household activity or do you crave a more serene space where you can recharge after a busy day? Is an urban,  what you’d like for your living room, or would you be more at home with French country farmhouse style?

Bedroom
It’s generally believed that asking your bedroom to multitask by serving as a work area as well as a sleeping space can interfere with the quality of your slumber. You may wish to dedicate this room to total relaxation or prove yourself the exception to the rule by making room here for the ultimate home office. It’s your call.

The post Remodeling: Envision Your Dream Home appeared first on GCMM - Home Improvement LLC.

Heated floors are luxurious and affordable. We’ll tell you how to select the best floor-warming system for your home.

Family Handyman

Choose the best infloor heating system. We cover the pros and cons of electric systems and hot water (hydronic) systems for comfort and space heating. Electric are easier and usually cheaper to install. Hydronic are ideal if you already have a boiler.

By the DIY experts of The Family Handyman Magazine

The benefits of in-floor heat

Once you shed your fuzzy slippers and discover the comfort of warm floors, you’ll be sold. Heated floors, often called radiant floors or a radiant heat system, offer benefits beyond foot comfort. They keep entry and bathroom floors dry and provide space heating in cold rooms. You can even turn down the thermostat for your central heating system and still keep some rooms warmer.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the types of radiant floor systems you can install in your home. We’ll tell you the pros and cons, and show you key installation techniques. This will help you decide whether to take on the project yourself or hire a professional. These heating systems are most often installed under ceramic tile in bathrooms, but keep in mind that you can add heat under any type of flooring material (see “Floor Coverings and Heated Floors,” below). All floor heating systems warm the floor with either electricity or hot water.

Electric systems are simple and affordable

Electric floor systems work just like an electric blanket: Electricity runs through “resistance” cable and creates heat. Because electricity is fairly expensive, relatively few homes are entirely heated by in-floor electric systems. However, these systems are great for making especially cold floors foot-friendly. They also boost the temperature in an otherwise chilly room by a few degrees. The warm floor in a bathroom makes getting out of the shower a cozier prospect on a cold day. That’s the payoff.
Electric systems have three components: heat cable, a thermostat and a temperature sensor (Figure A below). The thermostat is connected to the home’s power supply and turns the heat on and off according to the floor’s (not the room’s) temperature. A sensor installed in the floor along with the cable tells the thermostat how warm the floor is. (Most people prefer a floor temperature of 80 to 90 degrees F.) The thermostat and sensor are packaged together; cable is usually sold separately. Don’t use a thermostat from one manufacturer with cable from another.
The electrical connections require only basic wiring know-how, and laying the floor cable is a DIY-friendly project. Because of this easy installation—and the lower cost of materials—an electric system is usually the best choice for small-scale projects like heating a kitchen floor or warming up a cold bathroom. Adding electric heat to a typical bathroom when you install a new floor adds only $200 to $300 to the cost of the project. Operating costs are typically about a half cent per square foot per day.
Often the biggest challenge is “fishing” electrical cable through finished walls to the thermostat and cable. Since these systems generally draw only 10 to 15 watts per sq. ft., you can usually connect them to an existing circuit to heat a typical bathroom. For a larger room, you may have to run a new cable to the main panel and pay an electrician about $120 to connect the new circuit there.
If you’re installing heat over a wood-framed floor, place fiberglass insulation between the joists to drive the heat upward. The system will work fine without insulation but will be more efficient with it. Before you install an electric system over a concrete floor, check the manufacturer’s instructions— they may require a layer of foam insulation over the concrete before the heat cable is installed.
Tip: When you estimate the square footage of a room, include only the areas where you can walk; it makes no sense to heat the floor under appliances or behind the toilet.

Electric system #1: Loose cables ($3 to $6 per sq. ft.)

Photo 1: Thin-set mortar technique

String cable between end channels and fasten the cable to the floor. Screed thin-set over the cable to create a flat surface.

The cable comes on a spool, just like any other wire. Loose cable is by far the cheapest way to heat a floor and it’s just as effective as the other systems. The drawback of loose cable is installation time; you have to position the cable in a serpentine pattern, fasten it with lots of hot glue or staples, and then “embed” it.

Most loose cable systems include end channels that guide spacing (Photo 1). You can place cables close together to make the floor heat up faster and reach a higher temperature or farther apart to use less cable. Manufacturers offer various cable lengths to suit the floor’s square footage. You can’t splice sections of cable together to serve a larger room or repair damaged cable (this is true of all electric systems). Fasten the cable every 6 in. so it can’t shift or float while you embed the cable.

Caution: Work carefully with your trowel. If you nick the cable, the entire system won’t work.

There are two ways to embed cable: You can install the cable over tile backer board and then cover it with “thin-set,” the mortar adhesive used for ceramic tile (Photo 1). The thin-set shrinks as it cures, so you may have to add a second layer after the first hardens to level it out. But creating a perfectly flat, smooth surface with thin-set is difficult. You can make it smooth enough for ceramic tile or a floating floor but probably not smooth enough for vinyl flooring. For a faster, smoother surface, install the cable without backer board and pour on “self-leveling compound,” or SLC (Photo 2). SLC is a cement-based powder that you mix with water and then pour over the cable. It becomes rock hard in a few hours. Reinforce the SLC with plastic lath; metal lath can cut the cable. Covering your floor with a 1/2-in.-thick layer of SLC costs about $2 per sq. ft., including the lath. You can then lay tile, carpet, vinyl or a floating floor directly over the SLC.

Electric system #2: Mesh mats ($10 to $12 per sq. ft.)

Mesh under tile

Cut mesh mats to fit the floor. Position mats with double-face tape and fasten with glue or staples. Cover the mesh with thin-set or self-leveling compound.

The cable comes already woven into a plastic net. The pre-positioned cable installs quickly—in less than half the time for loose cable. You simply staple or hot glue the mesh to the floor. As with loose cable, you then embed the cable and mesh.

Mats are available in lots of different dimensions. You can cut the mesh into sections to cover your floor or fit around corners (photo). But you can’t cut or splice the cable itself. Some manufacturers recommend combing thin-set directly over the mesh and setting tile all in one operation. But this is difficult. Most tile setters prefer to embed the mesh first with thin-set or SLC just as with loose wire. The mesh tends to “float” as you embed it, so fasten it to the floor every 6 in.— even if the instructions recommend less fastening. After embedding it, you can lay tile, carpet, vinyl or a floating floor.

Electric system #3: Solid mats ($10 to $20 per sq. ft.)

Photo 1: Under tile

Lay the mat over thin-set and force it firmly into the thin-set with a grout float. After it hardens, comb more thin-set over the mat to set ceramic tile.

Solid mats are often the most expensive electric system, but they’re also the easiest to install. The cable is completely enclosed in synthetic fabric, plastic sheeting or metal foil. The big advantage is that you don’t have to embed it as you do loose cable or mesh mats. With some versions, you simply smooth the mat onto a bed of thin-set (Photo 1). Then you spread more thin-set over the mat and set ceramic or stone tile as you normally would. Some solid mat systems are even easier to install; you just roll out the mats, tape them together and you’re done (Photo 2). You can then lay a floating wood or laminate floor directly over it.
Mats are available in various dimensions, and you can combine mats of different sizes to cover your floor. Some mats are sized to fit between joists, so you can heat the floor from below (Photo 3)—a big advantage if you don’t want to replace an existing floor. However, don’t install electric heat under a subfloor unless the system is specifically intended for that method.

Hydronic systems heat space as well as your toes

Hydronic radiant floor heating installation:

Photo 1: Under-floor technique

Drill holes in joists and loop tubing between them. Install metal plates to support the tubing and transfer heat. Insulate with fiberglass batts.

In a hydronic system (Figure B), heated water from a boiler or a water heater runs through loops of flexible plastic tubing called “PEX.” (PEX can be used for household water supply lines too.) The hot tubes then heat the floor. The main advantage of hydronic systems is that they generally deliver more heat at a lower operating cost than electric systems. That’s why hydronic heat is usually a better option than electric systems to heat large floor areas or even an entire house. However, because they usually involve a boiler, a pump and gas lines, hydronic systems are more complex than electric systems. You can install hydronic floor heat yourself, but you need basic electrical and plumbing know-how as well as professional design help.

Hydronic radiant floor heating installation cost:

The materials for a small-scale hydronic project will cost at least $600.

The easiest—and least expensive—way to install PEX is to run it under a subfloor between joists using transfer plates and insulation (Photo 1). This method costs less than $2 per sq. ft. for tubing, plates and insulation. To install PEX on top of a wood-framed or concrete floor, you need to lay a grooved channel system over the floor (Photo 2) or embed the tubing in self-leveling compound (see Figure B). Covering PEX requires more SLC than you can mix yourself; leave that to pros who have special mixing and pumping equipment (at least $2 per sq. ft. for the SLC only). With a concrete floor, you may have to lay foam insulation over the slab before installing PEX. In new construction, the tubing is often installed over insulation and the concrete slab is poured over it.
A hydronic system requires several expensive components. But several rooms share the components, so the more area you heat, the lower the cost per square foot. If you want to heat 200 sq. ft. or more of floor, a hydronic system may cost less to install than electric heat.
The heat source for a hydronic system can be a boiler or a standard water heater. If your home is already heated by hot water radiators or baseboard units, there’s a good chance that your existing boiler can handle the hydronic system as well. If you don’t have a boiler, a water heater can heat one room or several, depending on the size of the water heater. If you’re building an addition, you may find that installing a water heater–powered hydronic floor is less expensive than extending your existing central heating system.
Aside from PEX, a heat source and a pump, a hydronic system may require components such as electric zone valves. It may also require additional pumps. You can install these components yourself, but don’t try to design a system yourself. Look for a company that specializes in helping homeowners plan and install hydronic systems. Before you choose to install a system yourself, get bids from professionals. It will help you decide whether the money saved is worth your time and effort.

The post Electric vs. Hydronic Radiant Heat Systems appeared first on GCMM - Home Improvement LLC.

 

Frame your hero piece. Two unique plant stands frame an elegant freestanding bathtub.

Blur the border between a garden and a bathroom. Standing a bathtub on a floor of pebbles creates a natural flow between inside and outside spaces. Grow an indoor garden of potted plants with long fronds to keep the theme going.

 

 

Create a tree mural. Even if you’re not lucky enough to have a bathroom picture window in a private garden, you could place a tree mural behind your bathtub. This unique nature-themed feature wall is a tile design that shows small sections of trees.

 

Set the mood with lighting. Forget harsh overhead lighting when it’s time to sink beneath the bubbles. When it comes to relaxation, softly glowing lamps are where it’s at. Hot bath, book in hand, coffee. Bliss.

 

Time for task lighting. When there’s no time for relaxing in the tub you will be thankful for some focussed task lighting, particularly around the vanity. This particular swing arm wall lamp has an interesting placement though – perhaps there’s some bathroom reading going on in a spot other than the tub…

 

Get creative with plants. The owner of this bathroom must really love plants. Things may get a bit tickly in that crowded shower enclosure.

 

Vanity countertops should be both practical and beautiful. When filling your vanity top with soap dispensers and the like, consider adding a decorative vase for an elegant finishing touch.

 

A bonsai tree grows directly out of this vanity countertop.
Mosaics aren’t just bathroom border tiles. Use a mosaic tile in its intended form, as eye-catching artwork.

 

Evoke grandeur with ornate accessories. Luxury hotel bathrooms are often filled with ornate vanity mirrors and sculptures that can be translated into our very own luxury home bathroom.

 

Highlight furniture fretwork. If your furniture or mirror frames are blessed with intricate fretwork, new backlighting could be all that’s needed to make your bathroom a standout space.

 

Is it the vertical garden or the spectacular pendant light that’s the focal point of this decor? Well, nobody said you were only allowed one hero piece.

 

The hero of this room is most certainly the imposing garden statue art mural, softly lit by small bathroom pendant lights on one side and a floor lamp on the other.

 

Bathroom window shutters suit traditional and modern decor alike. This eclectic minimalist bathroom, influenced by Wabi-Sabi, uses shutters to add a spike of classic French-Italian flavor.

 

Curate a rustic bathroom scheme by selecting highly textured, natural elements. Team the rustic pieces with some modern furniture to keep the look current, like these sleek sinks from By Coccoon.

 

Play up to lofty proportions. This vaulted ceiling looks even taller thanks to a low sunken bathtub and an elongated pendant light.

 

Marble can be colorful too. Check out this molten yellow wet wall.

 

Set the stage. A show-stopping Koi bathtub is set on a raised platform, which gives the piece the prominence it deserves. It also houses all of the not-so-glamorous pipework too.

 

More stunning bathtubs

 

A unique vanity can transform a small bathroom.

 

Decorative floor edging draws attention to a beautiful layout.

 

 

 

The post Luxurious Bathrooms appeared first on GCMM - Home Improvement LLC.

Bathroom Countertop Materials – Drilling Down into Your Options

You have far more options than you might realize here. If you think you’re limited to tile and laminate, you might be surprised at just what else is out there. Of course, you also need to make an informed choice based on more than just aesthetics. Cost per square foot, durability, maintenance and other issues need to be weighed in your decision. Below, you’ll find a discussion outlining your options, as well as their benefits and drawbacks.

Granite

Granite is a hard, resilient, durable stone with plenty of density. It’s more commonly found in areas where that hardness is needed, such as in the kitchen, but it can serve just as well as one of the stronger bathroom countertop materials. Granite resists chipping and cracking, although natural flaws hidden within the stone can cause problems. It’s also stain resistant as long as you seal it properly and then continue to reseal it every year. It’s available in a wide range of colors and patterns, and can include prominent quartz flakes as well. In terms of cost, you’ll find it varies from $75 per foot to over $200. However, costs for granite are falling and you’ll find more affordable options available if you hunt for them.

Marble

Marble is generally used where you need elegance and beauty, but not necessarily lots of strength. It’s weaker than granite, as it’s a sedimentary rock, but its unique marbling makes it the perfect addition for areas that won’t see the abuse and stress found in the kitchen. Marble bathroom countertops can hold up for decades. However, like granite, they need to be sealed to prevent stains and bacteria from soaking into the porous stone. Marble is also easily etched by harsh cleansers, as well as by red wine. With true marble countertops, you’ll be able to resurface if etching is severe, but that’s not true with cultured marble. In terms of cost, marble is one of the more expensive options, ranging from $120 to $250 per square foot installed.

Quartz

If you’re looking for outstanding resistance to chipping, scratching, breaking and staining, then quartz might be the choice for you. Quartz is a natural stone, but a quartz bathroom countertop is not 100% natural. In order to create a countertop from this material, the manufacturer mixes 93% quartz with 7% binding agents to create a solid surface.

The good news here is that quartz countertops are impervious to stains, and they do not require sealing over time. You’ll also find that there are no natural flaws to crop up down the years (it’s engineered stone, and all flaws are eliminated in the engineering process). The cost for quartz countertops varies considerably depending on the manufacturer you choose, and can range from $110 to $250 per square foot installed.

Travertine

Travertine is usually not used in kitchen countertops because of its softness. It scratches more easily than marble. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not one of the better bathroom countertop materials available. Travertine’s warm earth tones make it a favorite for those seeking a relaxed atmosphere in their bathroom, and it’s unlikely that you’ll damage the counter in normal bathroom use.

Like granite and marble, travertine must be sealed every year, and it is porous, so not sealing the counter or doing it improperly will allow stains and bacteria to seep deep down into the stone. Also, like marble, travertine is easily scratched, even with a sealer in place. In terms of cost, travertine is pretty affordable compared to quartz or marble, with high-end sources running you approximately $50 per square foot.

Solid Surface

Solid surface bathroom countertops might look a bit like laminate, but they’re actually very different. You’ll find these counters made from a combination of different materials, including polyester and acrylic. The “solid” part of the name denotes the fact that the material is not porous, which means you have no worries about stains or bacteria. There’s almost no maintenance needed to keep your counters safe and looking great, and no need to reseal your countertop year after year.

There are more pattern and color options than you might know what to do with, but you will find that the material is not particularly heat resistant (not that you’ll be using pots and pans in your bathroom, but your curling iron or hairdryer might pose a problem). It’s also easy to scratch. Scratches can be removed by resurfacing, since the coloration goes all the way through the countertop. It’s also installed seamlessly, which means you never need to worry about dirt or grime getting caught in the cracks. For costs, you can expect to pay anywhere from $35 to $100 per square foot.

Soapstone

The new trendy alternative. Soapstone is the new trendy stone among the stylish set. Like granite, Soapstone is a very dense stone that is extremely nonporous and waterproof. Like granite, soapstone is excellent for bathroom installations because it is anti-bacterial. Soapstone has been used for hundreds of years in laboratories because of its ability to withstand heat, staining and because it has anti-bacterial properties. Like, granite it is easy to clean. Unlike granite is does not require a chemical sealant but rather uses a mineral oil sealant to keep the surface looking attractive. Unlike the granite sealer, which is applied once every two years, the mineral oil must be applied regularly to keep the luster of the soapstone. When not oiled, the stone will turn a dull grey color. The difference is similar to wet vs. dry rocks at the beach.

Stylistically, soapstone has a completely different look than granite so try to see an entire counter before choosing this stone. The soapstone finish is duller and more utilitarian in feel than granite. The color of the stone will also naturally darken over time. In addition, the colors and patterns available are more limited than granite and installation can be more expensive because the slabs are smaller and more joints are usually required. Moreover, contractors who haven’t worked with the stone will be reluctant to take it on because it is much softer than granite and it has a reputation for chipping easily. Lastly, there are fewer soapstone tiles available for DIY installation.

Composites

Composites include something called “cultured marble” which is really marble dust mixed with a plastic polymer. Cultured marble and other composites are usually cheaper than natural stones. In addition, there are several lines of composites that are made from 80-90% recycled materials. Composites are cost efficient; they last well and they don’t need to be sealed. They are also lighter than natural stones if weight is a consideration. Composites come in a variety of colors. Many of them will also mix and play nicely with natural materials. The downside of composites is that no matter how wonderful they are, they never look exactly like real stone.

Wood

Wood has been used as a countertop material for as long as counters have been around. However, it’s not used as frequently as other bathroom countertop materials. It’s much more common to see a wood countertop in the kitchen (think butchers block). Wood has a number of benefits to offer. It’s warm and natural, and any scratches can be sanded down. It also develops real character over the years. However, it’s not without its drawbacks.

Wood must be completely sealed against moisture or it will swell and distort. In serious cases, this can lead to massive problems in the bathroom. That means you’ll definitely need to reseal it annually, or even more frequently. Wood can also be home to bacteria, mold and other threats that thrive in moist environments. You might be surprised at the cost of wood countertops as well – $35 to $70 per square foot. Think long and hard before you opt for wood in your bathroom. There are more appropriate materials available.

Tile

Tile is one of those bathroom countertop materials that never really go out of style. It’s affordable, customizable, and available in pretty much any color you might want. Both ceramic and porcelain tile can make good solutions for your bathroom countertop, and you’ll discover quite a wide range of styles and sizes. Combine colors, sizes and designs to create a unique look and feel for your bathroom. While tile generally doesn’t offer the same luxury feel as natural stone, it is a durable, affordable option for those who want something just a little different in their bathrooms.

There are a few problems you’ll encounter with tile bathroom countertops, though. Grout needs to be cleaned regularly, and even then, it can build up grime and bacteria. If there’s too much moisture, it can actually leak under the tiles and cause mold and mildew growth. You’ll find tile available at an incredibly broad range of price points, from $10 to $80 per square foot.

Tempered Glass

Tempered glass might not be your first thought when it comes to bathroom countertop materials, but it’s an increasingly popular choice. It’s strong, it can be colored in virtually any shade of the rainbow (or left clear if you prefer), and it’s easily molded to fit your needs. Tempered glass bathroom countertops often include a formed-in sink (the counter and sink are a single large piece of glass). It can even be textured if you prefer.

Glass is impervious to staining and bacteria, and tempered glass is highly scratch resistant. Cleaning it requires little more than a good glass cleaner and your preferred spray. That means you don’t have to worry about resealing your counter year after year, and you don’t have to worry about etching from cleansers or other spills. Costs can be as much as $50 per square foot, but they vary considerably depending on your needs and your source.

When To Consider A Bathroom Vanity Without A Countertop

Before buying a new bathroom vanity foro your remodel project, you need to decide if you want to purchase one with or without the countertop. If you know what you want and it isn’t the standard Baltic brown, black granite, white marble, etc, you may want to consider going without a top and having one made locally to your specifications. The biggest con on doing this is of course cost. It will cost significantly more to have one made here in the states. Most of our vanities are made in China and the cost of natural stone is a lot less than it is here. Watch this quick video below.

Are Glass Top Bathroom Vanities Durable?

Glass used for bathroom vanity countertops is usually ½” thick tempered glass meaning if it were to break it would shatter into a bunch of small pieces like a car windshield instead of large sharp pieces of glass that could be dangerous.  Thick tempered glass is extremely hard to break.  It is very similar to what you see in large aquariums at the zoo that hold in thousands of gallons of water or the windshield in an airplane.

Glass can be scratched but again not easily.  You should never use anything abrasive to clean it such as a brillo pad or SOS; these harsh materials can scratch the surface.  Glass is as durable as most other solid surface bath vanity countertop materials in which it will stand up to normal ware and tare for a long time.

Are People Using Concrete for Countertops?

One of our blog readers submitted this question to us recently and it made us look a little deeper into what is emerging as a very niche trend. The simple answer to that question is yes. Though the trend is just beginning to gain popularity and is used primarily in homes utilizing modern design, more and more people are investigating the pros and cons of using this material for a bathroom vanity or kitchen countertop. One resource we found on the subject was from the Vancouver Sun, in an article by Patrick Langston. In his article, Langston investigates some countertop options–concrete being one of them. We’re sharing the pros and cons he listed to help you make a better decision as to if using concrete for your bathroom or kitchen remodel is a good idea!

Pros:

• You can form it into whatever shape you desire (for those who are going for a truly unique look)
• You can choose from an array of colors to suit your bathrooms color scheme and design
• Additionally, Langston mentions that concrete is actually considered a “green” option as much of it is made locally.

Cons:

• Hairline cracks can develop
• Chips, scratches, and stains easily
• Needs to be sealed multiple times during the course of a year

Before you begin remodeling your bathroom or even if you’re only focusing on your bathroom vanity, make sure you take the time to layout the finished look you are going towards. Concrete may or may not be the best solution for you!

How Do I Install A Good-Looking Concrete Countertop?

One of the modern trends we see emerging in modern themed homes is the use of concrete countertops like in bathroom vanities in Los Angeles. Out of these trends, the use of a concrete countertop is one of the most inexpensive, easy to install options. But how do you do it? We asked out General Contractor for tips. He recommends looking for a special concrete mix that is lightweight and has a small aggregate in it to produce the smoothest result. Concrete is easily stained by adding dye to it while mixing or acid staining it after it has cured. This is especially nice as many people are looking for a unique color to match their existing décor. You can find these products at your local home improvement stores. To begin, you’ll want to make a form like you would for any other concrete project and pour it in. You’ll finish it like you would a garage floor, using a trowel to smooth the top. You’ll want to let the form cure a bit, but not completely before you remove the side forms to finish the edges. If you remove the side forms too early, you may end up with concrete all over your floor!

Bathroom Countertops: Granite versus Quartz versus Marble

You have a number of different countertop materials for use in your bathroom, far more than for any other area of the home. For instance, marble might not be the best choice for kitchen counters, but it makes a good option for use in the bathroom, particularly if you’re looking for a serious boost to elegance. Of course, granite can also be used in your bathroom. Both are natural stone, and both provide outstanding durability. How do they stack up for the discerning homeowner? Where does quartz stand?  Read on and learn more.

Side-by-Side Comparison

To really help you get the bigger picture, let’s conduct a side-by-side comparison of several characteristics of the stone types.

Maintenance Costs:

Quartz wins in the area of maintenance and maintenance costs. Most homeowners will incur no additional cleaning costs here.  Both granite and marble countertops will come with ongoing maintenance costs. Both types of stone must be sealed to prevent them from absorbing stains. Granite is more stain resistant naturally than marble, but it will still absorb bacteria and liquids if not treated properly. However, marble is prone to etching so it’s important to use gentle cleansers, which might not be as effective as what you’re used to, increasing your costs over time.

Cleaning:

When it comes to cleaning, quartz is a breeze. A light mist of cleaning spray and a soft cloth is all that’s needed. Both granite and marble will require cleaning, but you’ll likely have more cleaning to do with a marble counter because of the gentler cleansers needed. However, in a bathroom setting, there should be less cleaning necessary than in other applications around the home.

Radon Emissions:

Radon is a natural radioactive gas found in the earth. Marble and Granite have been found to have very low levels of radon, and quartz likewise produces virtually none. All are safe for use in the home for those worried about radon emissions.

Cost to the Owner:

Marble and granite have similar costs per linear foot, but marble is slightly more expensive than granite, and can cost anywhere from $75-200 per linear foot. The cost per foot varies greatly for both stone types, depending on where the stone is sourced from and the cost of shipping it. Quartz is a bit more expensive, coming in at $110 to $250 per linear foot. These materials aren’t what you’d call a bargain. It’s generally more cost effective to purchase bathroom vanities with tops, rather than have custom countertops installed.

Appearance:

This is where most buyers make their decision, and it’s pretty subjective. Both granite and quartz countertops offer plenty of beauty and style, both can be shaped to fit your needs, and both are available in a wide range of colors and color combinations. Quartz edges out granite in colors and patterns, thanks to the 130 different types available on the market and because it’s manmade and can therefore be customized. That doesn’t mean granite is without its benefits, though. Many homeowners prefer granite’s look and the fact that it is a 100% natural material. Marble is unparalleled for formal elegance and beauty. Granite is a lovely stone, but marble can bring a true touch of class to any bathroom. With that being said, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and you’ll have to make your own decision based on which type appeals more to your sensibilities.

These three types of stone offer benefits, but you’ll need to decide on your own which is right for your installation.

Making Your Decision

Choosing between the many bathroom countertop materials available can be difficult to do. They all have their own pros and cons, and most aren’t as inexpensive as you might have thought. However, following a few simple tips will help ensure that you’re able to arrive at a decision that works for your bathroom, as well as for your budget.

1. Consider Your Budget
   Before you do anything else, you need to know how much you can afford to spend on the countertop. Take measurements for the new countertop, and then get a rough estimate of costs for the various materials that appeal to you. Determine what your budget is for the project as well. Are you just replacing the countertop? If so, you can likely afford to spend a bit more on the counter. Are you remodeling the entire bathroom? In that case, you’ll need to balance your wants against the cost of the entire project.
2. Compare Cost of Ownership
   With most bathroom countertop materials, you have two costs. There’s the cost you’ll pay in the beginning, and then you’ll also have the cost of ownership over time. For many different materials, you’ll have to worry about annual resealing, cleaning and disinfecting (particularly if you opt for wood). Those costs add up. Make sure that you can afford them, and that you’re willing to go through that process every year (or more frequently if necessary).
3. Consider Your Options
   Carefully consider each of the available bathroom countertop materials. Just because you’re leaning towards installing marble doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t consider travertine or even tile. Give each option its due, and make sure you compare your options with an open mind. You might just find that going with a less expensive option isn’t “settling”, but really giving you exactly what you want for less cost.
4. Consider the Payoff Later
   Even if you’re renovating your bathroom for purely personal reasons, you’ll have a payoff in the end. Bathroom upgrades increase the value of your home when you decide it’s time to sell. However, not all countertop materials carry the same benefits to homebuyers. Do a comparison of the return you’ll get when you sell versus the upfront investment you’re going to make right now. If the payoff isn’t enough to justify what you want, you’ll need to proceed carefully. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with upgrading your bathroom for personal reasons. Just make sure you’re going into the process informed.
5. Investigate Other Options
   The bathroom countertop materials listed above are certainly not your only choices. You’ll find plenty of others out there, including laminate (the most affordable, but least durable choice on the market), as well as stainless steel, soapstone and even concrete (another super-affordable option, but one that can last for decades, and can actually be immensely beautiful with the right stamping and coloring processes). Investigate all of your options. Make an informed decision based on an in-depth comparison and an analysis of your immediate needs as well as your future goals.
6. Going It Alone or Hiring a Pro
   You should also know whether you intend to install the countertop on your own or hire a pro to do it for you. DIY is the cheaper of the two routes (at least on the surface), but you’ll get real, measurable benefits by hiring a contractor to do the installation for you. Often, the time saved and stress avoided by hiring a professional outweighs the financial costs.

In the end, the choice between available bathroom countertop materials largely comes down to personal preference. You might love the granular nature of granite, or you might be swept away by the elegance of marble, the earthy goodness of travertine, or the affordability and customization of tile. Be open-minded and know your goals, then go with your gut.

How to Measure for a New Bathroom Countertop

Transforming your bathroom lets you do a number of things, including tying it into the theme of the rest of your home, increasing elegance and enjoyment, and installing upgraded fixtures and materials. Perhaps the most frequently replaced fixture in the bathroom is the countertop. You’ll find a wide range of materials on offer here, from natural stone like granite and marble to tile, porcelain and many others.

Whether you intend to go the DIY route or have your counter professionally installed, you’ll need to know how to measure for a new bathroom countertop. It’s important for many things, including getting an accurate cost estimate. If you’ve never measured for a new bathroom countertop, there are a few things you should know before you get started.

Decide on Your Goals

The first thing you need to do is determine a few basic goals, as these will impact the measuring process. Will you be installing a countertop the same size as your existing one? If you’ll be reusing your existing vanity cabinet and/or you only have the existing amount of room to work with, you’ll need to use the same basic measurements. However, if you’ll be extending your countertop, you’ll need to know by how much and then figure that into your measurements.

Things You’ll Need

Before you start the process, you need to gather a few essential items. Make sure you have:

• A measuring tape
• A ruler
• A level
• Pencil
• Paper

Taking Your Measurements

Whether you’re opting for a new counter of granite, marble, tile or something else, you’ll need the same basic measurements. Follow the steps below:

1. Find the Centerline – The first thing you need to do is measure your existing countertop and find the centerline of the sink. Your new counter will have to accommodate the existing plumbing unless you plan to move the sink, in which case you’ll need to modify the plumbing as well. All bathroom sinks require 10 inches of space on either side as well.
2. Measure the Back – You’ll now need to measure the length of the countertop from the back. Start at the left edge and measure to the right. Add in any additional length you want for the new bathroom countertop (measure from the outside edge of the existing counter to the exact point where you want the new counter to end).
3. Measure the width of the counter – Start from the back of an open end so your measurements aren’t thrown askew by the backsplash. Measure from the back of the wall to the front edge or to where you want the new front edge to be if you’ll be installing a wider countertop than what you already have.
4. Account for Variances – You’ll need to account for several additional elements in your measurements. For instance, you’ll need to know the dimensions of the backsplash (depth and height at least, the length should be identical to your counter’s length, unless you intend to install a backsplash only behind the sink itself). You’ll also need to account for the front overhang (usually one inch).
5. Get the Square Footage – The next step in measuring for a new bathroom countertop is to get the square footage of the counter. To do this, all you need to do is multiply the length times the width and then convert inches to feet. For instance, if your counter will be 96 inches by 24 inches, you would follow this: 96 x 24 = 2304 / 12 = 192. You could then estimate the cost of each countertop material for your application (192 square feet).

Notes on Measuring for a New Bathroom Countertop

When you measure for a new bathroom countertop, don’t neglect the little things. One of the most frequently overlooked is the faucet center. If you’ll be going back with an identical faucet arrangement, use your existing dimensions. To determine what you have, you’ll need to measure from the center of the left-hand hole to the center of the right-hand hole. This number will determine what size faucet you purchase (the length is called the “faucet center”, and the standard is four inches).

You should also understand that your costs will vary depending on the edge type you want for your countertop. You can choose from a variety of different styles, including bullnose, ogee and beveled. Custom edge styles are also available if you’re ordering granite, marble or another type of stone countertop (custom countertop creation lets you get creative with the edge design to better match your desired style).

In the end, measuring for a new bathroom countertop is not that difficult. With a little patience, you can get the numbers you need to start shopping around for a new counter and get rough estimates of the costs involved.

Should the Bathroom Countertop be Bigger than the Bathroom Vanity?

This is a question we get often, and the answer is simple:  Yes the countertop usually overhangs the bathroom cabinet by 1” to 1-1/2” on the front and the sides and is flush with the back or up against the wall.

Where to Buy Bathroom Countertops

The best place to start is at your local marble or granite fabricator.  Depending on your needs, big or small, they may have remnants marked down enough to get the job done.  Starting locally will give you a good idea on costs involved in having something made to suite your needs.  You can also try pricing online.  Some companies may offer custom made options and able to get better deals, though keep in mind shipping charges.

How Do We Secure the Sink and Countertop to the Bathroom Vanity?

The best way to secure a countertop to a bathroom cabinet or vanity is set it on the cabinet first to make sure everything looks and fits right.  If so then use some pieces of blue masking tape to mark the top and bath vanity so you can put the top back in the same place.  Then remove the top and use Silicone or construction adhesive like liquid nails or PL to secure it in place.  Use it sparingly because it doesn’t take much to hold a top in place.  Place the top back on and press it down making sure to line the tape marks up where they were on the dry fit. The silicone or adhesive will take about 24 hrs. to fully dry. Laminate tops can be done the same way except using a construction adhesive.  On a wood or laminate top it is possible to use screws from the bottom but make sure to use screws that won’t come through the top.

Sealing Natural Stone Countertops in the Bathroom

Sealing is extremely important with porous natural stone.  Protected stone will be easier to clean and less likely to stain.  Sealing is an investment wisely made to prolong the life of your countertops if the type of stone you have requires sealing.  Granite is a natural substance, meaning it is created by nature and no two pieces are the same.  This also means that no two pieces have the same absorbent qualities – in other words, not all pieces of stone even accept a sealant.  Be sure to ask your manufacturer about the care required for the material you are considering to purchase.  If you chose an extremely absorbent material, then you have a candidate for sealing.  If your stone is one that will not accept sealing, then the good news is that it’s highly unlikely to accept a stain.  Simple!

If you’re not sure of the company that made your counters, or if you’ve inherited them from a previous owner, try this sealer test:  Apply a nickel sized drop of water to the surface of your counter and let stand for at least 15 minutes.  Place a glass over the top of the water to prevent evaporation, and observe.  If your counter does not darken, then your counter is safe from water-based staining.  Testing for oil-based stains is truly more difficult, since you wouldn’t want to deliberately stain your counters for the sake of testing.  It may best to get a professional evaluation.

Not to worry if you’ve been diagnosed with a stone requiring sealing!  It’s not hard to do, and is not a risk to your countertops in any way.  Choose a sealer from your local hardware store or the shop you purchased your counters from.  Use a water-based sealer for resealing a previously sealed counter, or a solvent based sealer for the very first sealing the counter has experienced. You should always read the instructions on the bottle, and use the proper safety equipment – but in summary, you spread it on top of the stone, let it soak in for the recommended time, wipe away the excess and buff clean.  Now you’ll have beautiful shiny countertops for years to come!

How Often Should I Seal A Natural Stone Countertop?

This answer all depends on how much use the counter top gets. The best time frame to reseal natural stone countertops is every six months. If your countertop is used on a regular basis, you’ll want to seal it more often. Strong stone like granite can go a year without sealant but to keep it looking it’s best, you’ll want to do this every six months as well. Natural stones like travertine and marble will need care quarterly. Make a habit of wiping down your countertop; use a soft cloth for regular cleaning. Easy process, just needs some TLC.

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