Bathroom renovations: comfort and convenience on a budget

Transforming the bathroom into a place of luxury and convenience has become increasingly popular in home renovations. The once utilitarian space is now a “spa-like” retreat full of high-tech goodies; it invigorates the senses and provides a moment of reprieve in today’s busy world. No matter the size of the space or budget, there are a variety of products available to turn your outdated room into a fresh, modern sanctuary.

Today’s trends are centered on low maintenance, clean lines and efficiency. Many products display the EPA’s WaterSense label, which identifies products that use less water while performing as well as or better than conventional models. These products are 20% more efficient and offer measurable savings to homeowners. Low-maintenance products, such as Century’s DiamonFusion coating on glass shower doors and Toto’s anti-bacterial Sanagloss glaze on toilets, reduce the need for harsh chemicals, leaving more time to enjoy the space and allowing you to spend less time cleaning.

Bathrooms are also being remodeled with the future in mind. Aging in place [the ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently and comfortably] and universal design options are available for homeowners who are looking ahead.   Walk-in showers, universal-height toilets and decorative grab bars are all options that provide a beautiful updated space that is equally practical.  

High-tech options and fancy showers are plastered all over design magazines and on popular do-it-yourself television shows. How attainable are these features? The answer is – very. Industry leaders, including Grohe and California Faucets, are continually designing new shower products that allow for thermostatic temperature control and other features to create a customized luxury shower within a reasonable price range. With proper planning and WaterSense products, a custom shower with multiple functions can provide a very affordable and conscientious showering experience.  

Adding steam to the shower or a therapeutic air-jet tub will further add to a “spa-like” feel. Steam can be added to any shower with minimal cost; it provides many health benefits, including improved circulation, increased metabolism and relief of seasonal allergy symptoms.

Air jet tubs offer an extraordinary deep massage using the force of warm air to surround the entire body for overall relaxation. The addition of aromatherapy, mood-enhancing colored lights (chromatherapy) and audio options stimulates the senses, turning a visit to the space into an experience rather than just a task of necessity.

The most common question people ask is, “Where do I start?” A good place to begin is your local bath showroom, where you can get an up-close look at different fixtures and speak to knowledgeable sales personnel who can answer your questions. Once you determine the extent of the remodel and narrow down your style, talk to some contractors to obtain an estimate on labor so you can develop a budget.

Remember, just because it looks expensive, it doesn’t necessarily mean it is. Many manufacturers offer similar designs at several different price points so don’t be afraid to speak up if something you love is outside of your budget. Also, make sure to allow room in your budget for at least one luxury item that completes your peaceful retreat. Whether you splurge on steam for the shower, an air-jet tub, radiant heat for the floor or just a simple towel warmer; this is your space so make it comfortable and convenient for you to enjoy every day.

AMY BEDARD is a showroom sales associate at Robinson Supply Co. She has worked in the kitchen and bath industry for the past decade, spending the last five years assisting customers in the Bath Splash Showroom in Cranston, RI.