Bathroom Remodel Lexington KY is an opportunity to express your style or create a functional space that suits you and your family. For example, extra storage can make your morning routine easier.
Upgrading to energy-efficient fixtures helps lower utility bills. Adding a soaking tub or walk-in shower can turn your bath into a spa retreat.
Rethinking the layout of your bathroom can give it a fresh new look without incurring a lot of extra expenses. Even if moving everything around isn’t feasible, you can still dramatically alter the space by refinishing your existing sink and tub or adding a custom shower curtain to make a more open feel. It’s also worth considering installing a few key pieces of hardware that can help save you money in the long run. For example, updating to low-flow toilets and water-saving shower heads can reduce your utility bills and cut your home’s carbon footprint.
The bathroom should be designed with layers of light to improve its visual appeal and function. Begin with recessed lighting in the ceiling to provide overall illumination, and then build upon it by adding vanity lights at the top and sides of the mirror to create a more flattering self-reflection. Be sure to use dimmable switches so that each member of the household can adjust the brightness to suit their preferences.
Don’t forget to include accent lighting, too. Positioned correctly, these fixtures can draw the eye toward decor tucked into alcoves or even to a beautiful view out of an open window. The ideal light for accent pieces should be bright, but not so hot that it casts hard shadows or overpowers the piece.
If you’re thinking about adding an accent light to the room, consider using a bulb in a color that reflects the room’s overall style or décor. For example, a pink bulb might work well with a floral-themed bathroom.
One of the most important aspects of a bathroom remodel is taking the time to address any signs of dry rot or moisture problems. It’s essential to replace any areas of damaged wood and ensure that the space is properly ventilated to minimize future issues.
Finally, if you’re planning on staying in your home for the foreseeable future, it’s worth including elements of Universal Design to ensure that your bathroom will be as functional and accommodating as possible. For example, installing a back-to-wall tub and ensuring that it’s accessible to a wheelchair can make life much easier for people with limited mobility.
Layout Changes
A well-designed bathroom has the potential to elevate a home’s comfort and value. If your bathroom feels dated, cramped, or simply uninspiring, it may be time to revamp the layout. The good news is that you can make significant changes without completely gutting the room. However, reshaping a bathroom requires careful planning.
The existing plumbing and electrical wiring will largely dictate how much leeway you have when it comes to changing the bathroom layout. Before you begin envisioning a new design, it’s best to engage in an initial consultation with a professional plumber and electrician who can offer invaluable insights into what your options are.
If you’re looking to give your bathroom a more modern look, consider swapping out the tub for a large shower. A shower stall can take up 40 percent less floor space than a bathtub, which will give you more flexibility in how to use the room. This can be a cost-effective solution, especially if you don’t want to change the location of your existing fixtures.
Another common bathroom remodel is to add a vanity, which provides plenty of storage and can greatly enhance the bathroom’s aesthetic. A custom-built vanity also offers the opportunity to incorporate elements like a unique countertop and lighting ideas that reflect your personal style.
In addition to adding functionality, a bathroom remodeling project can be an ideal time to upgrade old appliances and fixtures with energy-efficient alternatives. Installing low-flow toilets, shower heads, and sink faucets will not only save you money, but it will also reduce your home’s water usage and carbon footprint.
It’s also a great time to address any moisture issues in the bathroom, particularly dry rot. Removing and replacing affected areas of drywall can prevent future moisture damage and keep the area protected from mold. Similarly, installing a venting system can help minimize moisture in the air.
Altering the Footprint
If your bathroom doesn’t have the functionality you need, it may be time to consider a remodel. An updated plumbing system is essential for good function and will reduce the frequency of clogs and other problems. Likewise, improved lighting and ventilation can make the room more enjoyable to use.
A remodel also provides the perfect opportunity to upgrade your toilet or switch out a vanity for a more attractive model. Technology is continually changing and there’s a lot to love about new toilets that conserve water and warming drawers for towels. A remodel is also the best time to add extra storage for linens, toiletries and other necessities.
Altering the footprint of the bathroom is the largest-scale level of renovation and involves moving walls and fixtures. This type of change usually requires rewiring and can be expensive. However, it can add the most functional value to the room and will be a major selling point in the future.
Some remodels will require a permit and will need to comply with the building code’s energy efficiency standards. These requirements, known as Title 24, apply to most projects but can be exempted for smaller remodeling jobs like a replacement remodel.
Whether you’re going for a simple cosmetic changes or an entirely new layout, a professional will help you determine what’s required to achieve your goals. Having a clear idea of your desired results will be helpful when comparing quotes from different contractors and navigating the remodeling process.
While a remodel can transform the entire look and feel of a space, it is important to differentiate between a renovation and a remodel. A renovation can include any cosmetic changes but should not make structural changes or alter the size of the space.
A remodel should focus on improving functionality and creating a space that meets the family’s needs while enhancing the home’s overall appeal. Even if you can’t expand the footprint of the bathroom, a talented designer and contractor can create more efficient flow and a more functional space with smart layout decisions, creativity, and fresh looking materials.
Adding New Features
Whether you have a modern design in mind, a cozy and rustic look or a luxurious spa-like retreat, your remodel can help create an ideal space for bathing. It’s also an opportunity to add a touch of personal style and express your taste.
Incorporating new features into the bathroom can boost its appeal and make it easier to use. For example, a linen closet is an easy way to add storage without encroaching on valuable floor space. New lighting fixtures can also have a big impact. Try a layered approach with ambient (ceiling fixtures), task (vanity lights) and accent (LED strip lighting) to create the right ambiance.
Upgrades to energy-efficient appliances and fixtures can reduce your utility bills and contribute to a greener lifestyle. For instance, low-flow toilets and water-saving faucets will minimize your consumption of fresh water and conserve energy.
A bathroom remodel is an excellent opportunity to incorporate universal design upgrades that will improve the space’s accessibility as you age or accommodate a family member with special needs. For instance, installing a walk-in shower will provide a safer environment for people with limited mobility. Similarly, adding a grab bar or seat will improve safety and make getting dressed and bathing more convenient for everyone in the household.
As you embark on your renovation journey, it’s important to prepare for any unforeseen expenses that may arise during the process. This includes costs related to obtaining permits, labor and materials. Be sure to discuss the project’s potential cost with your contractor so that you can create a realistic budget.
If you’re unsure how much to budget for your renovation, start by creating a floor plan of the existing space and an image of what you envision for the new space. This will give you a clear understanding of what the remodel entails and how it will transform the room.
Then, compare the two plans to determine how much your new design will cost. You can even use a 3D software tool like RoomSketcher to save time and money with its free floor planning, photo-realistic 3D images, and project cost estimates.