Remodeling tips for your bathroom that you can copy

Before you begin any project, it’s important to put your expectations into perspective when it comes to your bathroom layout and how much money you’re willing to invest. The size of your bathroom, the quality of materials you want to include and whether you’re planning to do some of the labor yourself all can affect the cost of a remodel and the overall layout. A smart tip is keeping all the elements of the bathroom efficient. It's the most cost-effective design, but it's also the most limiting.

The best approach to a well-lit space is to incorporate layers of task, accent, ambient and decorative lighting. Use ceiling-mounted fixtures or add style and mood with pendant lights. Enclosed showers and tubs usually require enclosed vapor-proof downlights.

This bathroom design by Beth Nejm features accent lights that spotlight an accent wall feature and contribute sparkle and mood.

One important consideration when planing for remodeling is knowing the accurate measurements. Typical countertops are 32 to 34 inches off the floor, but you need to consider how your sink will add to or take away from the countertop’s height. If you have an above-counter vessel sink, for example, you’ll want to make your counter height lower so you can wash your hands or brush your teeth comfortably.

Color has the power to energize and to soothe, to wake you up and calm you down. Consider the mood you want to evoke before selecting your palette of materials. As you develop your bathroom color scheme, remember that color comes from more than wall paint and fabric. 

Take a cue from this design by CAFElab studio -- the small tiled walls has a calming effect to the bathroom. Go big with colors by incorporating it on other areas of the bathroom.

Another remodeling tip is going for upgrades (if you have the budget, of course). Luxury showers replicate the spa-resort experience in a dream bathroom. Plan on a variety of spray heads like ceiling-mounted rain shower showerheads, body sprays, and handheld showerheads.

For a custom-made stall, choose your favorite waterproof material to cover walls, floors, and ceiling. Frameless glass doors showcase stunning tilework, like the black granite shower shown here.

Remodeling doesn't only mean upgrading or redecorating. It mainly focuses also on checking and inspecting for breakage and wearing off of utilities, cabinetry, and other facilities in the bathroom. The smallest details are actually the most important components of the bathroom. A smart tip is to keep a maintenance check on your bathroom to see if there are minor cracks and dents on the areas, and mold and mildew growing on the showerheads and faucets. If there are any major damage that you see, have it immediately repaired by an expert in renovation.

Vanities aren’t just for looks. Get one too big and you could mess up your bathroom’s traffic routes. Too small and you’ll be scrambling for more countertop space and storage. Pick the wrong material and you could have maintenance issues on your hands. Thus, it is imperative that choosing the right vanity and mirror will make your life easier.

Bathtubs are the natural focal point of a bathroom and have a powerful impact on the decorating style. Freestanding bathtubs may rest on claw-and-ball feet or a pedestal base, or they may be streamlined and straight-sided like a piece of sculpture like in this photo.

Want to upgrade your bathroom? This ideabook will help you -- click here!