shower | Sweeten https://sweeten.com/tag/shower/ Renovation stories, tips, and inspiration Mon, 13 Feb 2023 14:12:39 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.1 https://sweeten.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/cropped-sweetenlogo-pinterest2-1-1-150x150.png shower | Sweeten https://sweeten.com/tag/shower/ 32 32 5 Shower Bench Ideas for a Bathroom Remodel https://sweeten.com/ideas-and-inspiration/5-shower-bench-ideas-for-a-bathroom-remodel/ https://sweeten.com/ideas-and-inspiration/5-shower-bench-ideas-for-a-bathroom-remodel/#respond Tue, 07 Dec 2021 14:57:59 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=52259 The post 5 Shower Bench Ideas for a Bathroom Remodel appeared first on Sweeten.

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The shower bench: A bathroom detail to add for relaxation and functionality

two-tone-bathroom-with-glass-shower

The bathroom remodel holds second place as the most popular project in the home. (The kitchen is the most popular.) While choices for tile, layout, and storage are usually top-of-mind, adding details like a shower bench can also make a big impact.

For many, shower benches are a nice add-on as they provide both form and function. They can help people with mobility challenges. Provide a special place for relaxation. Add a unique design perspective to the room. Or, all of the above. Here, five shower bench designs from Sweeten renovations show the comfort of taking a seat.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

Eye-catching wraparound shower bench seating

bathroom wet room

One way to make a statement is with a long shower bench that wraps around the area. It gives the space an almost spa-like feel. This Sweeten homeowner took it even a step further. She elevated the design by adding in under-mounted lights. This larger-sized bench allows for extra storage as well. This Sweeten homeowner keeps a handy shower caddy at the ready. But others have been known to use it as a way to add interesting accents, like candles or even plants.

A pulldown shower bench with a purpose

foldable wooden seat in bathroom with white wall tiles and grab bars along with glass shower door with long handle after renovation

Sometimes you just don’t have enough room to add a built-in shower bench. Don’t worry: you still have options! Smaller spaces can accommodate drop-down shower bench seats. These are great additions if you have mobility challenges (for example, for recent injuries or are elderly). They provide a safe spot to steady yourself or take a rest. This Sweeten renovation combined two crowded bathrooms to create a larger, more accessible one for a father’s limited mobility. Now, his wheelchair and walker can fit and move with ease. The shower needed to be safe and comfortable with a shower bench and grab bar. Mission accomplished!

A luxuriously long bench

walk-in shower with bench and marble tiles on walls and recessed shelves and glass door after renovation

If you do have the space, consider putting in a long shower bench—one that runs the length of your shower. This is a luxurious addition to any bathroom design. It will provide you with space for a basket of shower accessories. Or, just use it as a place to sit and relax as you enjoy the steam of a hot shower. Like the wraparound bench, it provides a visually appealing design element to the space. This Sweeten homeowner updated her bathrooms with resale in mind and felt that this added feature would be a draw.

A versatile freestanding shower bench

frameless glass sliding doors to a walk in shower with steel bathroom fittings and open shelves after renovation

For Sweeten homeowners, Olivia and Greg, it was the upcoming birth of their first child that sparked a remodel. They wanted an overall update to their prewar co-op and to be more versatile. Olivia pictured a bathroom that would be a place she could retreat to. “We wanted something that looked good, but was also functional so that I could shave my legs and relax during a hot shower,” Olivia said.

A functional floating bench

two-tone-bathroom-with-glass-shower

The aesthetic of a floating shower bench is streamlined but functions like all other shower benches. When installed properly (it is important to hire an expert contractor for the project!) a floating shower bench can hold up to 400lbs. Sweeten homeowner Megha added this feature to her bath without using up a lot of space. Since it is open underneath, she could store toiletries and other necessities.

Finding the right general contractor to add a shower bench

Having a successful bathroom remodel depends on the expertise of the right general contractor, and architect or design team. Are you looking for general contractor experts near you? Sweeten matches homeowners with vetted general contractors, offering guidance and financial protection—at no cost to the homeowner. Start by posting your project on Sweeten today

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

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What Goes into Converting a Tub into a Shower? https://sweeten.com/process-and-planning/how-to-convert-bathtub-into-a-shower/ https://sweeten.com/process-and-planning/how-to-convert-bathtub-into-a-shower/#respond Wed, 27 Apr 2022 14:03:42 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=51549 More popular questions How much does a walk-in shower cost?  A walk-in shower can cost anywhere between $2,000-$15,000, including installation, plumbing, fixtures, and kits. Keeping the drain in the same location will make connection fast and easy. Depending on how intensive the work, moving the drain will cause the price to increase. How much does […]

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See the costs, materials, and end benefits associated with this common bathroom project

Small white bathroom with glass separator and sink vanity after renovation

(Above) Sweeten homeowners Ylia + André’s tub-to-shower conversion

Deciding whether to convert a bathtub into a shower

Bathtubs have their place, but most of us take many more showers than baths. So why were most bathrooms outfitted with a bathtub rather than a walk-in shower over the last few decades? The simplest answer is flexibility. You can take a shower in a bathtub, but not vice-versa. Also, families with children do well with a bathtub, and they’re useful for bathing dogs. 

However, stepping over the tub rail every time you shower is not ideal, and is not possible for many people. If you’re ready for a change, this guide by Sweeten lays out how to convert a bathtub to a shower (luckily, it’s pretty straightforward!)

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

Showers are ideal for aging and multi-generational families

Converting a bathtub into a shower has become much more common as our population ages, aided by the increasing popularity of accessible and universal design. These design concepts are aligned with the Americans with Disabilities Act and include features such as entry ramps in place of stairs, rocker-style light switches, and lever-style door handles in place of knobs. The magic of this approach, even when not mandated, is obvious with multigenerational families, or when you find yourself with an injury or chronic health condition. These thoughtful home designs can accommodate your needs however they may change.

In a bathroom remodel, the shower can use a curbless entrance that doesn’t impede a wheelchair user. (Another benefit of the curbless design is its streamlined, modern look!) Another popular feature you can specify is a built-in or removable bench. Even better, there is a multitude of design and hardware options to add these elements.

light tiled bathroom with large mirror and shower glass for walk in shower area after renovation

(Above) A Sweeten remodel for an accessible bathroom

Figure out if a shower will work for you

Before ordering materials and fixtures, post your project on Sweeten and discuss with your contractor whether your desired shower size will fit in your space. Create an overall plan that includes the finished size of the shower, location of existing or desired windows, lighting, exhaust fan, and the condition and location of existing plumbing. If the shower drain stays in the same location, the connection is simple and fast. If the drain must be moved, you’ll see the cost rise, depending on how extensive the work is. Items like the faucet and showerhead will come in later. 

Materials for converting a shower

For the shower unit itself, you can choose a good-quality pre-formed pan and walls, but high-quality tiled pans and walls have become prevalent and usually have a better “feel.”

Bathroom tiles are also one of, if not the most, powerful aesthetic statements in the room. This is where you can really get creative. Ceramic, glass, stone, and even metal tiles are available in any color, multiple textures, and finishes. You can truly have any look you love with tiles, and apart from normal cleaning and sealing, their maintenance is low.

Costs to convert a bathtub to a shower

Costs to convert a bathtub into a shower are usually quite reasonable. If you’re starting with a bathroom that’s in good condition, you can plan for $1,500 or so for a quick and basic conversion. If you upgrade to a tile pan and walls, you’ll be looking at $3,000 and up. These figures are for standard materials. However, when you make changes to the room size, or add windows that require new framing, your costs will increase.

White and brown bathroom with floating vanity and shower curtain after renovation

(Above) Sweeten homeowners Megan + Zak’s walk-in shower remodel

Costs for faucets and showerheads

Faucets and showerheads are available in countless styles and finishes, and you’re probably aware of rainfall showerheads. Full-body jets are another popular and luxurious feature, but definitely are considered an extra. Good faucets will cost $100 and up and they’re worth every penny.

One item you mustn’t overlook is the shower door system. You’ll find clear glass, frosted glass, and so on, but the aesthetics are less important than the quality. Like the shower pan, the door keeps the water where it belongs and should seal completely. A tiny leak, unnoticed for five years, is a disaster in the making. Fortunately, you can prevent this scenario easily with a high-quality door system installed by your contractor. A good unit will cost you $500 and up, depending on the size you need.

A remodeling team to guide your bathroom remodel

Just like kitchens, bathroom remodels can be more complex than other rooms. This is due to their heavy, daily usage and the requirement for more fixtures in a small space. Toilet, sink, shower, and storage all have to be integrated into one of the smallest rooms in the house. That’s where interior designers and general contractors shine. Find the right general contractor to help you navigate these decisions. 

A note on fixture and appliance deliveries: If you’re on a tight timeline, Appliances Connection has over 50,000 items in stock and ready to ship nationally. If you’re in the NY/NJ metro area, in-stock items typically deliver within 2-3 days.

More popular questions

A walk-in shower can cost anywhere between $2,000-$15,000, including installation, plumbing, fixtures, and kits. Keeping the drain in the same location will make connection fast and easy. Depending on how intensive the work, moving the drain will cause the price to increase.

The price will greatly vary depending on the tile chosen. Standard ceramic tile can start at just $1.50 per square foot yet marble tile is closer to $40 per square foot. Plan to add a standard overage amount of at least 10%. Being short on tile will cause delays.

First, discuss your plan with a contractor. Share your desired shower size to determine if it will fit in the space. Create a plan that includes the finished shower size, the location of new or existing windows, lighting, exhaust fan, and the condition and location of plumbing. If the shower drain is staying in the same location, the connection will be simple and fast. However, your costs will increase if the drain must be moved. Once you have a plan in place, you can order materials.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

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My Sweeten Story: A Crown Heights Duo Takes on Their Smallest Spaces https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/a-crown-heights-duo-takes-on-their-bathroom-and-closet-renovation/ https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/a-crown-heights-duo-takes-on-their-bathroom-and-closet-renovation/#respond Thu, 02 Sep 2021 13:57:29 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=51230 The post My Sweeten Story: A Crown Heights Duo Takes on Their Smallest Spaces appeared first on Sweeten.

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A dream shower and walk-in closet complete this Crown Heights closet and bathroom renovation

black and white bathroom with subway tiles and black honeycomb or hexagon floor tiles and vanity and walk-in shower after renovation

“After” photos by Miao Jiaxin for Sweeten

  • Homeowners: Kate + Max posted their bathroom and closet renovation on Sweeten
  • Where: Crown Heights in Brooklyn, New York
  • Primary renovation: A new bathroom layout and combining closets in a 610-square-foot apartment
  • Sweeten general contractor
  • Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free..

Written in partnership with Sweeten homeowners Kate + Max

      Finding the right time to renovate

      We’ve all walked into homes where two different sets of ideas are in play. This renovation was part of a quest for cohesion. We’d established an aesthetic when we’d updated the kitchen two years before, and we were now putting in a bathroom and closet we could love. The old set of ideas included a showerhead on the long side of the bathtub and pitch-dark storage spaces. We were not sad to see them go.

      small bathroom with walk-in shower and vanity and built-in medicine cabinet after renovation

      We are Kate, a creative director for a women’s wellness startup, Max, a data analyst at a tech firm, and Lenny, a female Pitbull/Rat Terrier mix. We live in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, in a 1926 co-op building. We’re first-time homeowners of a 610-square-foot one-bedroom apartment. We purchased in January 2016 as first-time buyers. We didn’t change the place until 2019 when we renovated the kitchen.

      We planned to wait to continue renovating, but the combination of being home due to Covid-19 and having few opportunities to spend money meant that we wanted a nicer place and we accelerated our savings plan. We decided to go for it this year and renovate the bathroom and our closet as a single project.

      Swapping out the tub for a shower

      Remodeling the 35-square-foot bathroom was a style choice, but also one of function. In the existing room, neither the floor nor the walls were level. We hated that the shower head was in the middle of the wall on the tub’s long side. We wanted a modern stand-up shower with a glass door instead of the step-in tub and wraparound shower curtain. The closet redo made sense to tack on because of its proximity to the bathroom. We wanted to combine two small adjacent closets—one accessible from the bedroom, the other from the hallway—into a single large one. Neither closet had electrical wiring, so finding our things was a challenge. We knew we could net more storage if we merged them into one large closet.

      black and white walk-in shower with subway tiles and in-built shelf and sliding door after renovation

      small black and white bathroom with vanity and wall mounted medicine cabinet with mirror and subway tiles after renovation

      This was easily the most challenging phase of the project, since we’d left Brooklyn on a road trip and were far away when the contractor discovered the problem. We didn’t need to worry.

      Creating a whole new bathroom layout

      We started in the bathroom. We rearranged the whole bathroom, so this was not a simple “rip and replace.” Moving the shower to the back wall meant relocating the toilet and reconfiguring the plumbing proved necessary. Our biggest questions were about the unknowns. In a nutshell, here’s what we learned: You can’t prepare for what’s behind a wall or under the floor. You carry out the demolition and hope to get lucky.

      We’d decided we wanted white subway tile with a dark gray grout on the walls. The floor tiles had a distressed texture in dark gray. The vanity’s light wood finish matches our kitchen cabinets, and it offers tons of storage even though it’s only a 24-inch unit. The toilet search was more challenging than expected since we had specific size requirements, but eventually, we found one we liked.

      The contractor handles the discovery under the subfloor

      We’d heard plenty of nightmares about people moving plumbing in New York City bathrooms and hoped our fate might be different, but it wasn’t. Having completed most of the demolition, the contractors lifted the floor tile. Beneath the visible layer, they discovered two additional layers of tile. Once the subfloor was exposed, it was clear it had been compromised, both by years of trapped moisture and the weight of those three tile layers.

      built-in home library with parket floor after renovation

      hallway with hardwood floors pendant light and dark base shoe molding after renovation

      The co-op’s engineer brought onsite recommended pouring a new concrete slab, which added expense and impacted our schedule. This was easily the most challenging phase of the project since we’d left Brooklyn on a road trip and were far away when the contractor discovered the problem. We didn’t need to worry. Our contractor worked with the building’s engineer to pour the new slab to the required specifications.

      Smooth communication with their contractor

      Our Sweeten contractors provided us with updates via an online project-management tool that helped with communication throughout the job. The team used the tool to share photo and video updates. It helped to keep everyone in sync and organized. That platform really streamlined the conversation regarding every aspect of the job. The bathroom came together exactly as we’d hoped. We’re thrilled with the new storage, including an inset bottle nook in the shower. And the rain showerhead combined with our building’s incredible water pressure makes for an immersive experience every morning.

      Combining closets for a larger one

      The expanded bedroom closet came next. The contractors removed the wall separating the two smaller closets in order to merge them; we kept the door on the bedroom side. I love being able to see things in the closet, thanks to the increased space, and the addition of wiring let us install good lighting. For the shelving, we took a hybrid approach, buying all of the parts separately. The white shelves are typical closet shelves, but the racks are meant for garage storage. We can finally find our clothes!

      small walk-in closet with door and hardwood floors and track lights after renovation

      small custom walk-in closet storage with shelves after renovation

      This closet hack would also mean addressing the hallway with trim and paint. On that side, the contractors closed the door opening and painted the wall, where we later created a gallery wall for art and photos. The previous door trim was missing chunks of wood (likely from people moving big objects in/out of rooms and banging into the door frame.) It had also been painted a million times and was generally an eyesore. We knew replacing the door and window trim would go a long way towards refreshing the space. The red light fixture provides a nice pop of color.

      small bathroom with vanity medicine cabinet and storage above toilet and walk-in shower after renovation

      Their Sweeten contractors: the right renovation partners

      This was a much larger project than we thought we’d be taking on this year, but it worked out beautifully. Our Sweeten contractors were transparent about billing, supplying us with perfectly itemized invoices. They were terrific problem solvers, with elegant design sense and ideas that enhanced our final results. We love our new apartment!

      Thank you, Max and Kate, for sharing your bathroom and closet renovation with us!

      Materials Guide

      BATHROOM RESOURCES: Bond Tile “Palermo” gray ceramic floor tile; Elite Tile “Crown Heights” ceramic subway wall tile; DreamLine “Encore” shower door with ClearMax™ Technology; Latitude Run “Ranjeet” 3-tier display wall shelves; Wrought Studio Strobel surface-mount medicine cabinet: Walmart. Modern brass wall-mount shower set in matte black finish, #J020862-US-12IN-THSV-SB: Homary. Marina 24” Natural Oak Vanity: Eviva. Vega vanity light: Lightology. Toilet: Woodbridge.

      CLOSET RESOURCES: Shelving: The Container Store. Rebrilliant “Kintzel” heavy-duty racks: Wayfair.

      HALLWAY RESOURCES: Paint in White Opulence OC-69 in matte finish: Benjamin Moore. Light fixture: Light Stock Store.

      Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

      The post My Sweeten Story: A Crown Heights Duo Takes on Their Smallest Spaces appeared first on Sweeten.

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      How to Splash a Bath with Color https://sweeten.com/ideas-and-inspiration/how-to-splash-a-bath-with-color/ https://sweeten.com/ideas-and-inspiration/how-to-splash-a-bath-with-color/#respond Tue, 17 Aug 2021 13:45:35 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=47360 Adding color to a bathroom—in small accents or large splashes—can have a big design impact Adding colorful accents to your bathroom when you renovate is a good way to show your own style and personality. These colorful accents can be in the form of vanities, wall paint, and tile.  By selecting your favorite hue and […]

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      Adding color to a bathroom—in small accents or large splashes—can have a big design impact

      color ideas for bathroom

      Adding colorful accents to your bathroom when you renovate is a good way to show your own style and personality. These colorful accents can be in the form of vanities, wall paint, and tile.  By selecting your favorite hue and incorporating it into your next bathroom remodel, you can effectively create any mood/vibe you like.

      Here’s how some Sweeten renovators incorporated colorways outside of neutral making a trip to the bathroom a happy event.

      Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

      Bold in blue bathrooms

      bathroom

      Blue comes in all shades, making it a good color choice to accommodate many design styles. Sweeten renovators Katherine and Chris needed more space for their growing family. They found a promising two-bedroom in Park Slope, Brooklyn, that they could transform with the help of a Sweeten contractor. Their contractor overhauled the bathroom and the couple decided to add a splash of color with a dramatic blue vanity and storage closet.

      shower tile

      For their 1,800-square-foot full apartment renovation, Dara and Mauricio posted their project scope to Sweeten and found a contractor to update their bathroom. “In terms of style, we tried to reach a middle ground between our preferences,” says Mauricio. “I chose a more eclectic style for the second bathroom: gray-and-blue patterned tiles on the floor and shower wall mixed with large white subway tiles.”

      powder blue vanity with white farmhouse sink and large frameless vanity mirror after renovation

      Peggy and her husband also found themselves in a similar situation in that they couldn’t put off a renovation any longer. Except for this couple, there wasn’t a new baby on the way: the bathroom was leaky and in bad need of repair. They wanted to stay true to the feel of their circa late-1800s brownstone, so Peggy selected classic design elements, including a blue vanity.

      White door with knob opening to white bathroom with blue penny tiles with white vanity and white tub after renovation

      When Kate and Daniel redid their bathroom, they went spent a lot of time researching different styles online and on social media. They went with classic subway tile for the walls and hexagonal tile in a royal blue colorway for the floor.

      Greens with envy

      With so many different shades of green to choose from, it is no wonder so many renovators are finding it easy to pick the one that suits their style. Brooklyn residents Gus and Katherine (above) used a clever mix of tiles for their bathroom remodel, which includes a herringbone ceramic in Jadite for a statement wall.

      Green hex tiles with sunburst pattern double floating vanity after renovation

      Fellow Sweeten renovators Kavi and David also selected an unconventional tile for their bathroom renovation. They replaced a subdued floor with a cement Dandelion tile in Lawn/Milk. These hex tiles with watercolor edges and abstract white lines depict sunburst.

      walk-in shower with recessed shelf and sea green tiles on wall and brushed gold shower head and fixtures after renovation

      Allyson, an attorney who purchased a 1920s home in East Flatbush, Brooklyn, also used green to make a design statement in her bath. “I really wanted my bathroom to reflect my love of travel and combine vintage and mid-century modern elements,” says Allyson. Her Sweeten contractor installed shower tiles in a rich aqua green that features a windblown texture—the idea behind them was to make you feel like you’re surrounded by water.

      Orange is the new black

      wallpaper, bathroom, home, design, renovation

      These Brooklyn homeowners turned to a Sweeten contractor to remodel their apartment that hadn’t been updated since the 1980s. A black color scheme was chosen with a pop of color in the flooring tile. They installed black tile on the wall by the sink, and offset it with a geometric tile on the floor in burnt orange.

      women general contractorsLiz and Kevin, residents of Los Angeles, were thrilled with finding a home in SoCal. The catch? The 1923 house had water damage that required the bathroom to be gutted. With the help of a Sweeten contractor, they were able to transform the space into a modern oasis. They took a chance and added a striking backsplash to the sink area. “The orange,” Liz said, “felt like a risk, but a little playful, like us.”

      Back in black

      Today, a lot of home design blogs are touting “blue is the new black” or “yellow is the new black.” But rest assured black is back—and here to stay. Look no further than Sweeten renovator Veronica’s bathroom remodel. She worked with a Sweeten contractor to update her entire bath after she found a leaky pipe in her Manhattan co-op. She was happy to get rid of the outdated beige tile and old jet tub and replace them with more chic options. By painting the walls black, it lends a modern aesthetic to the room. “The bathroom got very little light to begin with, so I decided to embrace the cave-like atmosphere and go dark,” Veronica says.

      When Alicia and Ed got a new dog, Roxy, they realized they wanted a pet-friendly neighborhood. They found a 1,400-square-foot brownstone in Brooklyn but it needed to be renovated. The bathroom had broken tiles and much of the space was outdated and in need of repair. For the guest bathroom, the couple selected a black-and-white color palette. The result is a classic yet sleek aesthetic.

      Want to see more? Check out Sweeten’s before & after bathroom transformations.

      Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

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      All About Wet Room Bathrooms https://sweeten.com/process-and-planning/what-is-a-wet-room-bathroom/ https://sweeten.com/process-and-planning/what-is-a-wet-room-bathroom/#respond Fri, 10 Jun 2022 13:38:27 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=50440 Definitions, pros and cons, special features, cleaning tips (Above) Sweeten homeowners Liz and Kevin’s wet-room-style bathroom renovation Designing a more efficient bathroom often means taking down barriers and smoothing traffic flow. Can opening the shower to the rest of the room create a more efficient, luxurious-feeling space? Sweeten explores the possibilities of this intriguing approach. Sweeten […]

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      Definitions, pros and cons, special features, cleaning tips

      wet room shower and tub

      (Above) Sweeten homeowners Liz and Kevin’s wet-room-style bathroom renovation

      Designing a more efficient bathroom often means taking down barriers and smoothing traffic flow. Can opening the shower to the rest of the room create a more efficient, luxurious-feeling space? Sweeten explores the possibilities of this intriguing approach.

      Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering advice, support, and secure payments—at no cost to the homeowner.

      What is a wet room bathroom? 

      A wet room is a bathroom that typically has no enclosure separating the shower or tub from the rest of the bathroom. All of the walls and the flooring are sealed against water, just like the surfaces in a typical shower stall. 

      The main flooring of the wet room is on the same level as the shower floor. The section of the wet room where the shower is located has a floor with a sharp slope to aid with water drainage. The rest of the bathroom floor is sloped toward the same drain. But the floor slope is more gradual.

      Because there is so much water, bathroom facilities such as the toilet and sink are either raised or are water-sealed.

      Due to how wet rooms work, the function of the room is prioritized over the style. Subsequently, most wet room design is clean and spare.

      Why are wet rooms so popular?

      • Frameless showers let in more light. These use sheets of thick, unframed glass to surround the shower in a wet room. They make the whole room lighter and airier. 
      • Since wet rooms are designed with excellent ventilation, they typically see less mold and mildew growth.
      • Wet rooms are much easier to clean. There are no cramped enclosures to deal with, and the whole floor can be hosed down.
      • Wet room bathrooms are ready for all phases of a person’s life. There are no steps or curbs keeping walkers and wheelchairs out of the shower area. The toilet area merges seamlessly with the shower, too. 

      Pros and cons of wet rooms

      Pros

      • The bathroom feels brighter and more spacious because it has fewer walls and barriers.
      • The floor is easy to clean—all water can be directed to a single drain.
      • Accessibility: there is no shower curb or bathtub wall to step over. Wet room designs comply with many aging-in-place design rules.
      • There’s less chance of mold, mildew, and water decay.
      • The bathing area does not steam up because it is not enclosed.

      Cons

      • Splashes from the shower can go everywhere.
      • It’s best to have plenty of space, to keep the shower separate from dry areas.
      • In smaller bathrooms, dry areas need to be made water-resistant.
      • It can feel colder in the shower, since there’s no enclosure to hold in heat.
      • The need for more tile work may increase costs.
      • They can be acoustically loud and bright because of the open design and hard materials.
      • Most things stored in the bathroom need to be enclosed in water-resistant cabinets.

      Features and special considerations

      • Shower enclosures: Many wet room bathrooms are built without any shower enclosures. However, you can opt for an open enclosure with no door. Or you can add a half-wall to minimize splashing.
      • Bathroom storage: Locating storage and linen cabinets outside of the bathroom is one way to deal with moisture. Another is to install water-resistant cabinets in the room.
      • Large wet rooms: If you have a big enough space, you may be able to store moisture-sensitive items in the bathroom without special cabinets. 
      • Radiant heating: You can install radiant floor heating even though the floor will see plenty of water. Special underfloor radiant heating kits are available.
      • Raised sink cabinet: Pedestal sinks or cantilevered countertops are ideal choices for keeping cabinetry off the floor.
      • Relocated heating register: Heating vents cannot be built into the floor. Either build the vents into walls or use another type of heating.

      When you’re ready to begin your bathroom or home remodel, discuss with your Sweeten contractor if a wet room is possible in your space.

      Wet room bathroom maintenance and cleaning

      Homeowners may worry about installing wet room bathrooms on upper floors. Yet a professionally installed wet room is no different than locating a freestanding shower on an upper floor. The waterproofing methods are the same—just on a larger scale. Be aware that just like with any bathroom, a wet room could eventually spring a leak and require maintenance.

      Wet room floors are easy to clean. You can clean the flooring with a mild floor cleaner and a rubber-bladed mop. Start on the far end of the room and push water toward the shower drain. You can also use a hand-held shower head as a hose.  

      Walls in regular bathrooms can be difficult to clean, especially when they’re made of drywall or plaster. Wet room walls are hardscaped and water-sealed. So, you can clean them with soap and water without fear of damage.

      A note on fixture and appliance deliveries: If you’re on a tight timeline, Appliances Connection has over 50,000 items in stock and ready to ship nationally. If you’re in the NY/NJ metro area, in-stock items typically deliver within 2-3 days.

      paymen

      Popular questions asked

      In a typical wet room, the shower or bathtub has no separation from the rest of the bathroom. All surfaces—walls and floors—are sealed against the water. With no enclosures, the whole floor can be cleaned and hosed down with the entire floor sloping towards the drain. Some wet rooms do install frameless, thick glass to surround the shower allowing the room to be brighter and airer.

      Wet rooms are easy to clean with few barriers and enclosures. Floors that can be hosed down around all areas, including the toilet, toward a single drain. Design the room with good ventilation, and a wet room will produce less mold, mildew, and water decay. There are no shower curbs to inhibit walkers or wheelchairs and can comply with aging-in-place design rules. 

      A wet room is an open space with no separation between shower, tub, sink, and toilet. Walls and floors are sealed against the water. The shower floor is level with the main flooring. A sharp slope in the shower area helps with draining the water. The rest of the bathroom floor also has a slope—but gradual—towards the same drain. The toilet is raised and sealed while a pedestal sink or cantilevered countertops are good options for a wet floor. Expect more tile work to be required. 

      Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

      The post All About Wet Room Bathrooms appeared first on Sweeten.

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      These Design Trends Took Off During the COVID-19 Pandemic https://sweeten.com/process-and-planning/popular-home-design-trends-from-covid-19/ https://sweeten.com/process-and-planning/popular-home-design-trends-from-covid-19/#respond Wed, 07 Apr 2021 13:33:05 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=48717 During COVID-19, certain renovation projects became even more important for homeowners (Above) A Sweeten homeowner turns the garage into a living room The COVID-19 pandemic forced us to take a hard look at our homes. Many were grateful for the security and comfort our homes offered. But many more made note of the features that […]

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      During COVID-19, certain renovation projects became even more important for homeowners

      Image of the interior of a renovated Hamptons ranch home

      (Above) A Sweeten homeowner turns the garage into a living room

      The COVID-19 pandemic forced us to take a hard look at our homes. Many were grateful for the security and comfort our homes offered. But many more made note of the features that their homes lacked. At a time when almost half of the workforce was working from home and schools relied on distance learning, renovation projects became top of mind. 

      But the renovation mindset may be a little different going forward. Jean Brownhill, the founder and CEO of Sweeten discussed the current state of renovation on Design Time, a podcast hosted by Domino editor-in-chief Jessica Romm Perez. One trend they discussed is the emergence of practicality and functionality.

      Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

      Everyone’s goal is to make their finished project picture perfect. But to actually live in the space, other things may be more important. Here are some top projects Sweeten saw grow in popularity over the last year.

      Top COVID-19 renovation projects

      Creating new living areas

      With people spending so much time at home, they adapted their living spaces to new uses. Many people upgraded their outdoor living areas by adding outdoor kitchens and other living spaces. Also, it wasn’t clear if a vacation away would be possible, so outdoor living space became more important. It also makes it possible to socialize with others if indoor entertaining isn’t an option.

      Because health clubs and gyms were closed, many people looked for ways to squeeze a workout space into their living areas. People adapted spare rooms or unfinished areas like basements to create home gyms. 

      Kitchen and bathroom remodels still in the spotlight

      Kitchen and bathroom renovations are still popular. Although kitchens have always had many uses, their multitasking ability became more important during the pandemic. Kids often did their remote learning there, and adults used them for makeshift home offices. That’s in addition to the regular cooking, eating, and cleaning that goes on in a kitchen. The National Kitchen and Bath Association reports that in addition to upgraded appliances, there was an increase in requests for easy-to-clean surfaces, video watching ability, and device charging stations in the cook space. 

      Bathrooms became personal sanctuaries more than ever before. After a few weeks that turned into months into the pandemic, people came to value self-care more than ever. Even those who had not considered bath renovations undertook them to improve on their self-care routine. 

      Some bath update trends include oversized showers that feature multiple spray heads and body sprays, as well as a steam option. Voice commands can activate preset water temperatures and start music from a personal playlist. Ventilation fans do more than removing moisture: some have LED lighting that helps prevent mold growth. Others feature multi-color lights to change the mood of the room. Many spa-like features can be controlled by smartphones. 

      One thing that most renovations had in common was ease of maintenance. You can renovate a space that looks great, but you have to live in it. “I think that is one reason why porcelain tiles and planks are so popular,” said Jean. “They are easy to clean and they can be made to look like any material. “

      Reworking existing spaces

      By now, we can relate to how the COVID-19 pandemic has changed our work habits. The typical household can get hectic with everyone vying for counter space where they can work, as well as computer time. The problem was frequently solved by setting up work and play areas throughout the house.

      Jean mentioned the trend of installing temporary glass panels in the home. These solve the noise problem that happens when someone is on a video call while someone else is unloading the dishwasher, other people are having a conversation, and kids are running around playing. Panels and interior windows give people acoustic separation. “We’re not looking for visual separation, but what we do want, and need, is acoustic separation,” she said. 

      A closet organizing system that lets you store things neatly and efficiently may be of more use than a room straight out of the pages of a magazine. “As someone doing a renovation, you don’t rise to the level of your goals so much as you fall to the level of the systems you put in place,” said Jean. While we usually want our homes to look fashionable, the emphasis for homes was on function for 2020. 

      Using unused space

      As floor plans were reconfigured, any unused or underutilized areas became prime real estate. Guest bedrooms became home offices or study lounges. But the real stars were spaces like basements, attics, and garages. 

      Attics became playrooms for children. Basements were also used as play areas, but many were converted to home gyms. Some drywall and flooring, and maybe a little weatherproofing, turned these storage areas into useful living spaces.

      In some places, such as Los Angeles, people are adding ADUs. An ADU is short for accessory dwelling unit. It is a new living space added to an existing building. Garages are being converted to home offices, but also studio apartments. The apartments can be rented out in the future. 

      The pandemic presents new reasons to think creatively about our living spaces. Although we hope the pandemic will stay a once-in-a-lifetime event, we can all take cues from these COVID-19 renovation projects to inspire our own spaces at home.

      Looking for a licensed, expert general contractor to help you with a renovation project?

      Post a Renovation Project

      Renovations can take place at any time of the year. Here’s what you need to know about financing your remodel.

      Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

      The post These Design Trends Took Off During the COVID-19 Pandemic appeared first on Sweeten.

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      My Sweeten Story: Siblings Renovate an Arlington Basement Bathroom https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/bathroom-renovations/a-sibling-duo-renovates-an-arlington-basement-bathroom/ https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/bathroom-renovations/a-sibling-duo-renovates-an-arlington-basement-bathroom/#respond Thu, 20 Oct 2022 13:54:44 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=48724 The post My Sweeten Story: Siblings Renovate an Arlington Basement Bathroom appeared first on Sweeten.

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      When a sister moves in, a never-used basement bathroom lands on the remodel to-do list

      virginia renovation

      • Homeowners: Sisters, Nicole and Missy posted their basement bathroom remodel on Sweeten
      • Where: Arlington Ridge, Virginia
      • Primary renovation: Updating an old bathroom on the lower level to feel more modern and open
      • Sweeten general contractor
      • Homeowner’s quote: “I scored with a respectful and professional contracting group that made my rip-and-replace renovation run smoothly, even as I worked from home.”
      • Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovators with vetted general contractors, offering input, support, and secure payments—for free.

      Written in partnership with Sweeten homeowner Nicole. “After” photos by Nova Soul Imagery for Sweeten. Styling by Simon Staging.

      Remodel a basement bathroom for a welcome upgrade

      I love my Arlington Ridge neighborhood with its hilly streets and access to the metro, my favorite Mexican restaurant, and grocery store. When I found the 2,000-square-foot 1950s Virginia ranch home, I fell for the windows, cathedral kitchen, glass porch, and spacious yard. My older sister, Missy, deciding to move from San Francisco back to the East Coast, was a perfect excuse to renovate. She asked to use my downstairs as her temporary home.

      basement bathroom

      Before we renovated this (almost) windowless basement bathroom, it was creepy and unwelcoming. The shower had a horrible wall partitioning it off from the rest of the room. The door opened to a full view of the toilet. We never used it. I wanted an open-plan bathroom with plenty of light—a room that guests wouldn’t be scared to use when they visited me in Arlington.

      I went into this as a first-time renovator. My biggest question was: Will it be a huge interruption in my workday? I work in business development, so I am on Zoom a lot. We posted our project on Sweeten and we could not have been happier with the woman-owned general contractor we selected.

      Behind the not-so-pleasing wall

      When the contractor removed the wall, she discovered a very vintage pipe system that needed replacement. We looked for a plumbing specialist, and that search set us back a couple of days. Meanwhile, our contractor took the room down to the studs so the plumber could install new piping. The job involved breaking the foundation concrete, but even on days when the jackhammers were out or the water had to be turned off, we had advanced warning.

      Expanding the design palette

      Arlington bath remodel

      My Sweeten contractor made the job seamless and easy, even though what I initially envisioned changed dramatically. I thought I wanted the bathroom all white and clean but decided instead to let this room give the downstairs character. When she proposed the sliding glass barn door as a shower enclosure, I was sold.

      The vanity is another fantastic piece, not only for its look but for the storage it brought to the room. I never would have guessed I would pick the gray shower floor, but it all came together and it works.

      Image of glass shower with gray penny shower tile

      “My contractor was really helpful…providing the right resources and materials. I understood what to expect throughout the process…”

      Image of recessed shower niche with white tile

      Image of wooden bathroom vanity with circular mirror

      A beautiful result, and a satisfying experience

      I wanted a modern bathroom to match the rest of the house—and my future renovation plans—and I really lucked out. My contractor was really helpful, connecting with my sister and me and providing the right resources and materials. I understood what to expect throughout the process, and we are both so happy with how the bathroom turned out. Missy, a former tech executive, now works as a startup advisor. She is really enjoying the new digs.

      Image of bathroom vanity sink top

      Throughout the process, my contractor’s crew was amazing. My one-year-old beagle, Callie, would shake with excitement when they arrived, play for ten minutes, and then allow them to work. She returned throughout the day to check progress and get head scratches.

      My Sweeten general contractor answered my questions, updated me on changes, and discussed any challenges. The team was respectful of my space, too. They covered the downstairs areas to keep them as clean as possible and left the workspace tidy. I scored with a respectful and professional contracting group that made my rip-and-replace renovation run smoothly, even as I worked from home. I always knew what to expect the next day.

      Image of Moroccan floor tile in bathroom

      Image of open wooden shelves in bathroom

      After a remodel, a basement bathroom has real appeal

      Missy’s gorgeous bathroom is now my favorite thing to show off in the house. It inspired her, too. She recently sold her house and is thinking about where she—and her Aussiedoodle, Ellie—should buy next. New, modern, and clean…what an upgrade.

      Thank you, Nicole and Missy, for sharing your dream bathroom remodel with us!

      Renovation Materials:

      BATHROOM RESOURCES: Adessi Florentina gray ceramic 16” x 16” floor tile; Villa Artisan Mist ceramic 3” x 12” shower wall tile; Festival matte gray porcelain Penny Mosaic shower floor tile; Zipcode Design’s New Milford metal bathroom/vanity mirror; and Varenne sink faucet: Wayfair. Fontaine by Italia’s Hotel de Ville single-handle square 1-spray-setting shower faucet in matte black: Italia Faucets. Frameless sliding shower door: Glass Warehouse. Woodbrook 37-inch vanity in white-washed oak with cultured-marble vanity and white sink; Power Flush two-piece 1.28 GPF single-flush elongated toilet: Glacier Bay. Three-light dimmable vanity fixture: Joss & Main.

      Looking for contractors near Arlington, Virginia? Work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors.

      Get Matched With Contractors

      Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

      The post My Sweeten Story: Siblings Renovate an Arlington Basement Bathroom appeared first on Sweeten.

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      A Small Bathroom Remodel in Atlanta on a Budget https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/a-budget-bathroom-remodel-in-atlanta-keeps-it-real-and-luxe/ https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/a-budget-bathroom-remodel-in-atlanta-keeps-it-real-and-luxe/#respond Thu, 21 Jul 2022 13:31:45 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=48070 The post A Small Bathroom Remodel in Atlanta on a Budget appeared first on Sweeten.

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      This couple wanted to spend $5,000 on their small bathroom in Atlanta. Their Black-owned contracting firm guided them.

      bathroom remodel Atlanta with walk in shower

      • Homeowners: Sweeten homeowners posted their bathroom remodel on Sweeten
      • Where: Clarkson in Atlanta, Georgia
      • Primary renovation: Refreshing and opening up the bathroom of a split-level house
      • Sweeten general contractor
      • Homeowner’s quote: “[Our contractor] never took over the vision. She was organized and communicative, and we appreciated her helping us stay (almost) within our revised budget, even after plumbing issues popped up.”
      • Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering advice, support, and secure payments—at no cost to the homeowner.

      Written in partnership with the Sweeten homeowner. “After” photos by Jaksnap Photography. Stylist: TFStyle Homes, LLC.

      Deciding to remodel an uncomfortable small bathroom

      We initially looked for a move-in-ready home, but didn’t find many in our budget in Clarkson where we wanted to live. The bathrooms in our new split-level house were built in 1982. They would need to be remodeled eventually but we’d tackle them as we could afford them. Three years later and with a toddler in our midst, we were ready. The master bathroom would be our first big project.

      We had many problems with the original en-suite bathroom. Mainly, it was hideous. I disliked the color scheme on the wall, the warped laminate vanity, and the stick-on floor tiles. Not only was the pattern terrible, but the tiles were coming unglued. The plastic-insert shower was the worst offender. It was small and claustrophobic, and no amount of scrubbing would remove the mold and mildew stains. Even if it was just cleaned, the bathroom still felt dirty. I couldn’t stand showering in there.

      The search for a compatible contractor in Atlanta

      I’d already gotten a few estimates, but we were looking to work with a Black-owned contracting firm and hadn’t found one with availability. In addition, not many contractors want to take on a small space bathroom renovation, not to mention on a minuscule budget. Then I stumbled on a Sweeten blog post featuring Black-owned general contractors.

      I posted my project on Sweeten and found one that was also a woman-owned general contracting firm. I felt really good about her, and she was willing to squeeze us into her schedule.

      blue bathroom with vanity and toilet

      Finding solutions on a shoestring budget

      As first-time renovators, our biggest question was, “What does a bathroom remodel cost?” We had a limited budget and no idea what was reasonable. Our budget was $5,000, but quickly realized how below the average cost it was. We would have had to cut too many corners. We couldn’t afford to change the floorplan, so we agreed on the goal of transforming the bathroom into a pleasant, relaxing space. As a result, I decided to save money by designing the bathroom myself and doing it around an existing light fixture.

      A crash course in a small bathroom remodel

      I started gathering bathroom remodeling ideas on Pinterest and making a vision board. We considered replacing the shower insert to keep costs down, but the contractor said it would just get gross again. I had no idea what went into building and tiling a walk-in shower. First, I found out it costs a lot more to install mosaic subway tile than larger tile. In addition, I learned that a shower floor’s drainage slope requires mosaic tile, and the ones that come in sheets require less labor. 

      bathroom remodel Atlanta with subway shower tile

      in-shower storage

      With so many types of tile out there, we were glad to have the options narrowed for us. We chose large-format ceramic tile for the shower walls and hexagonal mosaic tile for the shower floor—in marble—as I wanted just one aspect to be luxurious. Even with the thoughtful choices, the materials and labor were costly. We gave up replastering the walls, removing the stippling from the ceiling, and installing a recessed light in the shower, all to keep costs down. We even kept the existing toilet, since it was fine.

      Coaching and seeking economy

      There were moments when I felt like, “We just can’t afford to do this the right way,” but our Sweeten contractor helped us identify projects we could do ourselves (caulking holes and repairing molding). We chose inexpensive bathroom flooring for the room. An inexpensive vanity helped, and I found the mirror at a discount home store for around $30. Consequently, we saved money and used quality materials where they mattered.

      Our Sweeten contractor provided great input and direction—including talking me out of some bad tile choices and kindly suggesting bright, simple colors and patterns. She never took over the vision. She was organized and communicative, and we appreciated her helping us stay (almost) within our revised budget, even after plumbing issues popped up.

      color in bathroom

      The final budget—and excellent outcome

      All told, we more than doubled the original budget (thanks to our family for the generous gift!) coming in just at the starting minimum cost for a bathroom remodel in Atlanta. This included labor, materials, random plumbing parts, and a zillion trips to Home Depot for the paint and other stuff I did on my own.

      The final result feels larger and is the spa bathroom of my dreams. It’s so serene. My first bathroom with a walk-in shower and a natural stone floor, both of which feel truly luxe. It’s so lovely to step in there now. Everything is well-installed and of good quality. It’s exactly what we hoped for.

      Thank you for sharing your new space in Atlanta with us!

      When you’re ready to get started on your bathroom or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors in Atlanta.

      Renovation Materials

      BATHROOM RESOURCES: Alpine Frost Rigid Core Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVT) floor tile; Pearl Veincut polished ceramic shower wall tile; Blue Forest hexagon polished marble mosaic shower floor tile: Floor & Decor. PROFLO chrome towel racks: Target. Spectra-Versa 4-function complete shower system: American Standard. Glass shower doors: The Shower Door Guy. Behr Ultra paint in Brisk Blue; Behr Premium paint in Distant Star; Home Decorators Collection Sedgewood 30 1/2″ bath vanity in Dove Gray with solid surface vanity top in Arctic and white Sink: Home Depot. Pfister Ladera 4″ centerset faucet in polished chrome: Appliances Connection. Toilet and lighting: Existing. 

      Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

      The post A Small Bathroom Remodel in Atlanta on a Budget appeared first on Sweeten.

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      7 Bathtub to Shower Conversions Upgrade in Style https://sweeten.com/ideas-and-inspiration/renovators-converted-tubs-to-showers/ https://sweeten.com/ideas-and-inspiration/renovators-converted-tubs-to-showers/#comments Wed, 24 Aug 2022 14:00:20 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=41110 Popular questions asked How much does a shower remodel cost? Are you converting a bathtub into a shower? A bathroom that’s in good condition can undergo a quick and basic tub to shower conversion starting around $1,500. An upgrade to a tile pan and walls increase the cost starting at $3,000+ for standard materials. If […]

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      In smaller bathrooms, a bathtub to shower conversion saves space

      tub to shower conversion with double showerheads

      This bathroom refresh tops the wishlist

      If you love walk-in showers, you’re not alone. A larger shower area, easy entry, and a streamlined look make walk-in showers an attractive choice. The decision to move forward on a bathtub to shower conversion is closely connected to lifestyle. For example, a family with small children may want to keep a bathtub if there is only one bathroom. Accessibility for limited mobility is another reason.

      If you’re already planning an overall bathroom remodel, this is a good time to consider whether swapping the tub for a shower makes sense. Discuss with your contractor if your desired shower size will fit in your space. For a bathtub to shower conversion consider shower size, windows, lighting, exhaust fan, and the condition and location of plumbing. Find inspiration from these Sweeten homeowners who made the change.

      Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering advice, support, and secure payments— for free.

      Gaining a more useful shower

      Without a second bathroom in their Upper East Side co-op, Laura and Randy had to maximize their one bath. They removed the pretty, but impractical, bathtub. And they installed a modern walk-in shower—with three different shower heads and a seat.

      white bathtub with white pedestal sink in a small bathroom with penny tiles before renovation

      Replacing the bathtub with a glass shower opens the space and is more practical for homeowners

      A new supercharged shower

      Meg and Brett already had a spacious glass shower/tub combination in their loft apartment. However, by removing the tub, they added several more layers to create a luxurious experience. A low curb reveals a patterned floor tile for a two-person shower. Double shower heads, body sprays, and a rain shower complete the upgraded vista.

      tub to shower conversion with double showerheads

      Accessibility with style

      The primary reason for Mickey’s remodel was to build a bathroom shower. Looking towards retirement and possible limited mobility, he replaced the high-walled tub with a walk-in shower. His Sweeten contractor handled all of the paperwork for the co-op board approval so Mickey was able to focus on choosing materials.

      tub to shower conversion with white subway tile

      Removing an unwieldy fixture

      Charon and Lex’s apartment bathtub took up too much space; it took up almost the whole room. The new shower with the glass door makes the room feel huge without the bulk. 

      Replacing a bathtub for a standing shower leaves this space feeling spacious and streamlined

      A new layout with lots of personality

      Inspired by her own parent’s accessibility updates, Megan and Zak decided to follow suit when renovating their guest bathroom. They converted the old bathtub to a standing shower and opted for no glass doors.

      white bathroom with white toilet and double hung window before renovation

      Converting this bathtub to a shower created a more modern look and feel to this home bathroom

      Setting bathroom priorities

      Removing the small, pink tub in Giulia’s bath was the best way to get more space for a larger sink. She designed an open shower that was shorter than the original tub, making more room for a larger vanity and mirror.

      white shower curtain over a pink bathtub and small bathroom with white toilet before renovation

      After bathtub to shower conversion, this homeowner had room for an extra-large sink

      Safety first

      For Elaine, safety was paramount. When undergoing the bathtub to shower conversion, she tasked her Sweeten contractor with building a walk-in shower with accessible features: a hand bar and shower, plus a rough stone floor for traction.

      floating bathroom vanity with mirror and taupe walls and floor tiles and walk-in shower with glass wall and mosaic floor tiles after renovation

      When you’re ready to get started on your bathroom or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors.

      A note on fixture and appliance deliveries: If you’re on a tight timeline, Appliances Connection has over 50,000 items in stock and ready to ship nationally. If you’re in the NY/NJ metro area, in-stock items typically deliver within 2-3 days.

      Popular questions asked

      Are you converting a bathtub into a shower? A bathroom that’s in good condition can undergo a quick and basic tub to shower conversion starting around $1,500. An upgrade to a tile pan and walls increase the cost starting at $3,000+ for standard materials. If you make changes to the room size or add windows that require new framing, your costs will increase.

      Before you order materials, talk with a contractor about your desired shower size to see if it will fit in the space. Make a plan that includes the finished shower size, location of new or existing windows, lighting, exhaust fan, and the condition and location of plumbing. If your shower drain will stay in the same location, the connection is simple and fast. If the drain must be moved, costs will rise, depending on how extensive the work is. The faucet and showerhead are the final pieces.

      Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

      The post 7 Bathtub to Shower Conversions Upgrade in Style appeared first on Sweeten.

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      Reno Tricks to Make a Bathroom Feel Bigger https://sweeten.com/ideas-and-inspiration/renovation-tips-bigger-bathroom/ https://sweeten.com/ideas-and-inspiration/renovation-tips-bigger-bathroom/#comments Mon, 04 Feb 2019 16:00:53 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=39689 Tackling a bigger bathroom renovation project—six ways to make the most of the space you have Have a too-small bathroom?  While some renovators choose to expand the space or reimagine the footprint, those types of changes can increase the budget. So how can you make a bathroom appear larger with the space you already have? […]

      The post Reno Tricks to Make a Bathroom Feel Bigger appeared first on Sweeten.

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      Tackling a bigger bathroom renovation project—six ways to make the most of the space you have

      Have a too-small bathroom?  While some renovators choose to expand the space or reimagine the footprint, those types of changes can increase the budget. So how can you make a bathroom appear larger with the space you already have? Read on to learn how Sweeten general contractors undertook bigger bathroom renovation projects. Here’s how they updated homeowners’ small bathrooms to feel bigger—without changing the overall square footage.

      1.) Install a floating vanity

      floating vanityIf having a closet in or next to your bathroom isn’t an option, consider a vanity with drawers or doors. Some vanities are freestanding, but floating vanities are attached to the wall and do not “sit” on the ground. That extra space means the flooring can extend to the wall, which actually makes the room look larger. Nancy’s bathroom perfectly demonstrates that idea, showing off the ornate black and white tile. Since she couldn’t change the layout of the space due to code compliance, this offered a great alternative in the overall vision of opening up the bathroom.

      2.) Or if you have enough storage, try a pedestal sinkpedastal sink with black faucet and fixtures and wooden shelves above toilet and black hexagon floor tiles and medicine cabinet with mirror after renovation

      If storage isn’t an issue, a classic space-saving option is a pedestal sink. In Saira and her husband’s East Village apartment, they had two small bathrooms they needed to update to accommodate their family of four. In the powder room, they opted for a classic, white porcelain pedestal sink. They used shelving above the toilet and a mirrored vanity for their storage needs.

      Black and white bathroom remodel

      Jeremy and Chris chose a pedestal sink with console legs that show off the tiled walls and floors, and give this classic NYC bathroom a more spacious feel. “In such a small space, we took a cue from hotel bathrooms and put a pedestal sink atop console legs to keep the space open. An extra-tall recessed medicine cabinet provides both storage and electrical outlets,” Jeremy shared.

      3) Stick with neutrals or go tone-on-tone

      white farmhouse sink near glass shower door to walk in shower and vanity mirror over marble countertop after renovationToo much color can be hard to get right in a small space. A safe bet to opening up a small bathroom? Choose neutrals that don’t compete for attention. Jessica and Kevin swapped out pink marble for a white and gray color palette that lent their space a more spa-like feel.

      4.) Opt for a larger mirror

      small bathroom
      Christina had wanted to renovate her 550-square-foot studio in Murray Hill since she moved in. She knew exactly what she wanted—including tons of bathroom storage space. To achieve this, she installed a large, mirrored medicine cabinet. The mirror takes up most of the wall, automatically giving the room the illusion of more space, without changing the layout at all.

      5.) Take advantage of wall spaceScandinavian white bathroom with storage

      Even if your bathroom has a small footprint, you can always build onto the wall, or in Maria and Eric’s case into the walls. Their recessed shelving unit tucks in just behind their bathroom door. This minimalist solution boasts more storage without adding bulk.

      6.) Ditch the tub & shower curtain for a bigger bathroom

      light-filled bathroomA fairly common bigger bathroom renovation project is to ditch the tub in favor of a walk-in shower with a glass shower door. Using glass in place of a shower curtain allows light to flow through the space, which is especially important if the bathroom has a single source of natural light. In one of Tara and Mike’s bathrooms, they did just that, while leaving the rest of the floorplan as-is.

      Gramercy Park bathroom, bathroom renovation, tile, glass divider, tile floor, tile wall, toilet
      A glass bathroom door is even more effective when used in an open shower style, like in Charon and Lex’s bathroom. Removing the tub altogether opened up the space, making it more comfortable for two people (especially since Lex is 6’2″). Another factor that worked in their favor: the use of one color (in different shades). 

      Check out the biggest bathroom renovation trends of 2019.

      Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten

      The post Reno Tricks to Make a Bathroom Feel Bigger appeared first on Sweeten.

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      A Bathroom Goes from Clunky to Classy https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/bathroom-renovations/a-bathroom-goes-from-clunky-to-classy/ https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/bathroom-renovations/a-bathroom-goes-from-clunky-to-classy/#comments Wed, 11 Jul 2018 18:17:24 +0000 https://blog-v2.sweeten.com/?p=33797 In Gramercy, a full bathroom and vanity renovation transitions a space from “1980s Mafia movie” to “personal heaven” “After” photos by Kate Glicksberg for Sweeten Before: Give a Gramercy bathroom a much-needed facelift for storage, style Dated tile (“the bathroom looked like a 1980s Mafia movie!”) and no storage (“with a pedestal sink and no […]

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      In Gramercy, a full bathroom and vanity renovation transitions a space from “1980s Mafia movie” to “personal heaven”

      white farmhouse sink near glass shower door to walk in shower and vanity mirror over marble countertop after renovation “After” photos by Kate Glicksberg for Sweeten

      Before: Give a Gramercy bathroom a much-needed facelift for storage, style

      Dated tile (“the bathroom looked like a 1980s Mafia movie!”) and no storage (“with a pedestal sink and no drawers or shelving, we didn’t even have room to store extra toilet paper”) drove homeowners Jessica and Kevin to finally renovate their bathroom. She’d been living in the 750-square-foot, one-bedroom co-op overlooking Pete’s Tavern, the oldest tavern in NYC, for seven years. Renovating the bathroom had been on her remodeling bucket list since day one.

      Slideshow:
      bathroom before Sweeten vanity before Sweeten walk in shower renovation Sweeten bathroom vanity renovation Sweeten

      After getting married, they used wedding money to fund their renovation, enthusiastic to update the aesthetics by losing the “burnt-red marble, gold hardware, and wall-to-wall mirrors” and adding storage solutions. Jessica posted her project to Sweeten and chose her Sweeten contractor.

      Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free..

      After: A dramatic change resulted when white modern tile replaced the “heinous red marble tile” Jessica still has nightmares about. Their bathroom, which was trapped in an ‘80s vibe, became a calming, minimal space aligned with the couple’s style. The white and pale gray palette lent the former bathroom new life with a spa feel.

      The couple replaced the “clunky” bathtub with a modern shower with two heads and switched to chrome fixtures. Next, they tackled their storage woes. A console sink with open shelving for towels gave an airy illusion and contributed to the room feeling more spacious.

      While designing their new bath space, Jessica was mindful of potential future buyers. She said, “When I bought the apartment, I found it very frustrating there were so many permanent fixtures, including a built-in glass shelf over the toilet, wall-to-wall mirrors, and tile covering most of the walls.” To give the next homeowners the room to express their own personal touch, she kept the walls painted instead of tiled, installed a mirror that could easily be replaced over the vanity table, and hung two simple towel hooks.

      Slideshow:
      white shower renovation white tile shower renovation Sweeten bathroom vanity renovation

      Jessica offered this sage advice, ”If you are purchasing your own materials for the renovation, have it arrive before the start date.” This will help avoid waiting for products to arrive and delaying the project.

      Now Jessica calls her new bathroom a happy place and is appreciative of her well-matched contractor. “As with any NYC renovation, you tend to get a lot of complaints about uncontrollable things like dust and loud noise which comes with the territory of living in an apartment building. My Sweeten contractor handled everything like a pro and had much more patience for people than I ever could have exhibited,” she said. “He was extremely flexible and true to his word with regards to price and timing of the project.”

      Bonus: Jessica doubled their storage by adding a two-drawer unit under the existing vanity table as well as a cabinet, creating a “personal heaven” she uses every morning to get ready for work.

      Thanks for sharing your fantastic bathroom and vanity renovation with Sweeten, Jessica and Kevin!

      Ready to start your own home renovation project?

      Get Matched With Contractors

      Style finds: CoreLux Driftwood Hickory engineered vinyl plank flooring: Lumber Liquidators. Shower floor tile: Jeff Lewis. Shower wall tile: Jeffrey Court. Shower doors: Appliances Connection. Hardware and shower fixtures: Appliances Connection. 24″ Hammonton Console sink/vanity set: Wayfair. Toilet: Appliances Connection. Medicine cabinet: Appliances Connection. Vanity table mirror and storage cabinetry: Pottery Barn.

      Keep your materials budget in check. Here’s how to accurately measure for the amount of tile you will need.

      Refer your renovating friends to Sweeten and you’ll both receive a $250 Visa gift card when they sign a contract with a Sweeten general contractor.

      Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

      The post A Bathroom Goes from Clunky to Classy appeared first on Sweeten.

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      A Guide to Glass Shower Doors https://sweeten.com/renovation-materials-101/a-guide-to-glass-shower-doors/ https://sweeten.com/renovation-materials-101/a-guide-to-glass-shower-doors/#comments Fri, 05 Jan 2018 20:46:33 +0000 https://blog-v2.sweeten.com/?p=29106 Glass shower doors abound in styles, mounting, and finish options for a fully custom look Nancy and Aram’s bathroom renovation The shower has, at last, stepped up next to the tub—separate and equal—to become a focal point in the bath. However, there’s more to a fabulous shower experience than a multi-spray shower head and pretty […]

      The post A Guide to Glass Shower Doors appeared first on Sweeten.

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      Glass shower doors abound in styles, mounting, and finish options for a fully custom look

      frameless glass shower doors

      Nancy and Aram’s bathroom renovation

      The shower has, at last, stepped up next to the tub—separate and equal—to become a focal point in the bath. However, there’s more to a fabulous shower experience than a multi-spray shower head and pretty tiled walls. You will also want to consider the shower door, which sets the tone for the shower’s overall appearance and harmony with your bath’s décor.

      Spa-like and almost invisible? Check. Framed and architecturally attention-worthy? Check. As you research and shop, you’ll find a shower door to suit every bathing enclosure and décor. Sweeten, a free service matching renovating homeowners with vetted general contractors, surveys the factors involved in selecting a shower door to better inform you as you research this important feature.

      Glass shower doors: Getting started

      You may decide to place the shower next to the tub because it looks nice, or because you don’t want to make major changes to the water lines. Perhaps you only need a shower in a space with limited square footage, so you want to put it in the corner. Wherever the shower ends up, your design will require one of the following door mounting options:

      • Framed shower doors
      • Semi-frameless shower doors
      • Frameless shower doors
      • Freestanding shower doors

      The style you choose can be based mostly on your taste. However, before committing, you will want to consult with your contractor to assess the bathroom space for quirks. After all, not all bathrooms are made alike: dimensions vary from ceiling to floor, plumbing lines wander, walls and floors are not always plumb. Your contractor can help you determine the best location for the shower, including making sure that the walls can bear the weight of frameless shower doors.

      frameless glass shower doorsMary Ann and Frank’s bathroom renovation

      Styles for glass shower doors

      The door you select will depend not only on your preferences as to the style and movement of the door but also any space restrictions. Is there room for the door to swing open? Or can the width handle sliding doors? Placement of controls on one or two walls and the width and height of the shower enclosure will also factor in. Consider the following options:

      Sliding shower doors

      Two panels fit in a frame and slide in either direction to open and close.

      Moroccan tile floorA sliding glass shower door in Nicole & Missy’s Arlington, VA bathroom

      Swing or pivot shower doors

      A single pane attached to a wall swings open from the left or right.

      Door and panel

      One narrow pane is fixed to the wall while next to it, a panel is fixed with hinges to the other wall and operates as the door.

      garage showerA door-and-panel style shower door in Jaime Ray Newman’s bathroom

      Butterfly or bi-fold doors

      Two equal-size panels are hinged at the center to open inward.

      Fixed shower doors

      A single pane of glass attached to the wall holding the showerhead protects the bathroom from splashes; the rest of the shower opening remains uncovered.

      Shower door mounting options

      Once upon a time, framed was the only way to go. (Remember those shower doors when you were growing up?) With the widespread popularity of open design, semi-frameless shower doors and frameless showers have caught homeowners’ attention. Improvements in mounting systems, including thicker glass supported by sleeker, stronger hinges, means you can have a shower that seems to float or even disappear. Your choices come down to four solutions:

      Framed shower doors

      This product features a metal frame around all four edges of the operating doors. In addition, metal channels framing the shower opening allow for hinges that attach swinging doors or the gliding motion of sliding doors. Framed glass doors are created to fit standard shower openings. The appearance doesn’t have to be standard, though. Manufacturers offer a range of looks, from super contemporary clean-lined chrome to matte black in a windowpane pattern from Coastal Shower Doors that will conjure your own private Downton Abbey. Duravit makes a glass enclosure with two self-locking doors that fold against either wall when not in use, so the shower disappears entirely.

      Special details notwithstanding, framed doors can be the thriftiest way to go and the easiest to install. The glass panes are typically 1/4-inch thick

      small bathroom with walk-in shower and vanity and built-in medicine cabinet after renovationA framed shower door in Max & Kate’s Brooklyn bathroom renovation

      Semi-frameless shower doors

      Semi-frameless shower doors may include framing around the entire shower opening, but not around the actual door panels. It also typically features 1/4-inch glass. Semi-frameless doors lend themselves to some creative trends in headers, like exposed industrial-style hardware with rollers and bars that suggest barn door hardware.

      Frameless shower doors

      Not completely without hardware, frameless is still the way to go if you want an open, seamless, truly spa-like effect for your shower. Advances in hardware engineering and glass manufacturing make this type of installation appear to float. Glass panels attach to hinges that then attach to walls. There is commonly a combo of a fixed panel and a swinging door, both made of 5/8-inch safety glass. Besides the hinges, the only hardware is the door handle and possibly a towel bar, though after going to all this trouble, why would you want anything to block the view?

      bathroom skylightA nearly-invisible frameless shower door in Amy and Kevin’s L.A. bathroom

      Freestanding shower doors

      At the very high end, you will find freestanding shower enclosures. They consist of a shower pan with a four-sided metal framework in which glass panels fit, one of them a door. Drummonds, an English manufacturer, makes several models for the United States market. If you can afford the hefty price tag, you can have this shower up and working in a couple of hours.

      Finishes for glass shower doors

      Finally, you will choose a finish for the frame and its accompanying pieces—hinges and hardware. A good rule of thumb is to choose the finish that matches your shower head and any other shower fittings, like a hand shower or jets. Of course, the choice is up to you, and here, too, is a range—brushed, nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and ever-popular chrome.

      All edges of your shower door should arrive finished or polished. Styles for the appearance of the flat surface include:

      Opaque shower doors

      A holdover from the previous century, opaque shower doors are good for those seeking privacy. Ask to see a manufacturer’s offerings in this category, which can range from pebbled to brushed to the appearance of raindrops.

      Clear glass shower doors

      These remain a strong trend in bathrooms. Rightly so: they promote the open appearance in a bath while showing off sleek shower fittings and surface treatments of tile or stone.

      Tinted glass shower doors

      These are created during the manufacturing process and come in subtle, natural tones like gray, bronze, and blue. As a bonus, they complement America’s favorite bathroom color—white—as well as stone, tile, and metals for faucets and showerheads, and controls.

      blue bathroomAn etched panel shower door in Andy & Cory’s L.A. bathroom

      Etched glass

      Etched glass shower doors permit privacy with opaque designs etched onto clear glass. Patterns available can be figurative, like images from nature, or abstract. Custom designs will cost you more and must be specially ordered. The etching is on the outside face of the shower.

      Glass shower doors: Thickness & durability

      The less framework for the door, the thicker the glass. Standard glass shower doors come 1/2- or 3/8-inch thick; frameless doors should be 5/8-inch thick. All must be made of safety glass, which shatters into small pieces when broken, not into lethal shards.

      The shower door—a seemingly small yet often overlooked feature—makes a huge impact on the look and feel of your bathroom. As you make your decision, think about how you shower, and what’s important to you as you experience your daily bathroom rituals. You want the shower to feel like it’s part of the of the bathroom. The right glass shower door can do that.

      Turn your shower into an at-home spa with features like body sprays, steam, and more!

      Refer your renovating friends to Sweeten and you’ll both receive a $250 Visa gift card when they sign a contract with a Sweeten general contractor.

      Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

      The post A Guide to Glass Shower Doors appeared first on Sweeten.

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      Glass Enclosures Turn Small Baths Grand https://sweeten.com/ideas-and-inspiration/glass-shower-door-small-baths/ https://sweeten.com/ideas-and-inspiration/glass-shower-door-small-baths/#comments Mon, 25 Sep 2017 14:00:21 +0000 https://blog-v2.sweeten.com/?p=27166 A glass shower door brings light and transparency to any space While shower curtains can add flair to your bathroom, they aren’t always ideal for smaller spaces or a more streamlined look. Enter the glass shower door: it immediately makes a room feel more spacious, modern, and clean. They’re also easy on upkeep—a quick swipe […]

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      A glass shower door brings light and transparency to any space

      While shower curtains can add flair to your bathroom, they aren’t always ideal for smaller spaces or a more streamlined look. Enter the glass shower door: it immediately makes a room feel more spacious, modern, and clean. They’re also easy on upkeep—a quick swipe with a squeegee and you’re good to go. These glass panels come in a variety of styles, can be framed with metal or rimless for a “floating” look, and can be fixed, sliding, or made to swivel on a hinge. Take a look below for some favorite bathroom renovations done by Sweeten, a free service matching homeowners with vetted general contractors.

      glass shower door

      Katie and Lance found they needed to retain a glass panel at the end of their tub to prevent water from splashing out. A black-rimmed pane was a chic solution that complements the rest of their matte black fixtures while adding some contrast to the bright white subway tile.

      glass shower door

      Charlie’s space-saving glass shower door is not only stylish, it echoes the paneled barn door leading into the bathroom.

      glass shower door

      The frameless partition and hinged glass shower door in Kavi’s Brooklyn townhouse are perfect for allowing light from the window into the rest of the bath.

      glass shower door

      A simple half-pane is enough to keep the water where it belongs in Cody and Marissa’s bath refresh, and it invites in plenty of light from the fixture above the vanity.

      glass shower door

      Nazli’s walk-in shower in a gut-renovated guest bath has a simple glass panel and matching door that stops a few feet short of the ceiling to aid air circulation.

      glass shower door

      Claudia’s bathtub features two glass panels, one on hinges that enables the pane to swivel, the other a fixed panel at the end of the tub.

      glass shower door

      With walls on three sides, Ana and Leo’s shower would have felt confining without the visual airiness of the glass, plus the transparency shows off the interior’s gorgeous marble tile.

      glass shower enclosure

      A frameless enclosure and sliding glass shower door in Nancy’s bath makes the room seem twice as large.

      We’ve got a few ideas on clever bathroom storage ideas.

      Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

      The post Glass Enclosures Turn Small Baths Grand appeared first on Sweeten.

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      Shower Heads 101 https://sweeten.com/renovation-materials-101/shower-heads-101/ https://sweeten.com/renovation-materials-101/shower-heads-101/#comments Fri, 01 Sep 2017 18:50:23 +0000 https://blog-v2.sweeten.com/?p=26450 Set your bathing experience with a wide range of shower heads to satisfy every mood, style, and budget What’s your preferred method of bathing? If like most Americans, it’s the shower, then you probably have a showering style. But it may not be the same for all the members of your family. Perhaps you like […]

      The post Shower Heads 101 appeared first on Sweeten.

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      Set your bathing experience with a wide range of shower heads to satisfy every mood, style, and budget

      shower heads

      What’s your preferred method of bathing? If like most Americans, it’s the shower, then you probably have a showering style. But it may not be the same for all the members of your family. Perhaps you like a gentle relaxing wash, while your partner prefers a bracing, wake-me-up experience. Maybe the type of spray depends on the day. Good news: Many shower heads include adjustable features that let you select the spray pattern and the intensity of the water flow.

      There’s a lot to consider. As you narrow down the selection, a few factors play first into your decision:

      *The type of shower experience

      *The size of the shower

      *The style of your bathroom

      Experience: If you’re going through the trouble to replace the head, or remodel your bath entirely, consider thoughtfully how you shower. What’s the most important function for you? Rinsing off after a workout? Soothing tired muscles? Unwinding with some water therapy? Many manufacturers today offer features that allow you to get a custom luxury experience at home.

      Size: Take into account, too, the dimensions of the shower. If it’s big enough for two, you may want twin shower heads, or one adjustable and one fixed. Or you may indulge in an oversize rain shower centered overhead.

      Style: Take into account your bath décor. Whether your look is traditional or contemporary, you can find a shower head to suit the space. However, most of the new products tend toward the sleek and straight-lined, which may not suit a Victorian-style bathroom.

      shower heads

      Shower head fixture options

      Even a simple, inexpensive shower head can provide a satisfying shower, but a higher price point provides more options. Here’s a rundown of the types of shower heads you’ll find as you shop. (Note: Check with your contractor before your final selection. You need to be sure your home’s plumbing can handle the model you want, particularly if you choose to install more than one.)

      Single-head: The simplest go-to style, the single-head is attached to the wall at the height you determine and then it stays there. Some models come with an adjustable shank so you can tip the head higher or lower or side-to-side, as you wish. You can find this version with one or multiple spray modes, from concentrated to mist and even pulsating, which can be adjusted with a lever or a twirl of an encircling ring.

      Handheld: Attached to flexible tubing, this shower head can be moved to spray wherever you want, including rinsing down walls after cleaning the shower stall. When not in use, this type hooks into a wall-mounted cradle or onto a slide bar that lets it glide up and down on the wall. Either installation method allows it to be used as a fixed shower head. This is a great option for its versatility and convenience. It also benefits a shared shower with bathers of different heights or a person who may need to be seated when showering.

      Dual-head: As the term indicates, this style offers two shower heads, one fixed and one handheld. Another combo could be a rain shower head and a handheld. A single set of levers or handles controls temperature, but a diverter valve can allow the bather to operate one or the other shower head, or both, at the same time.

      Rain shower head: This fixture comes round or square in shape. The face is flat and large and fitted with many small holes through which water flows to simulate a rainstorm. The water flow is typically gentle, and best suited to a soothing experience than to routines like washing and rinsing hair.

      Shower systems: More elaborate than a dual-head arrangement, a shower system typically comprises multiple shower head components including a rain shower head, a hand shower, body sprays, and misters, to achieve an ultra-luxurious spa experience.

      shower heads

      Spray patterns

      Shower heads come with a single spray mode, or with multiple functions, like these popular water works:

      *Full-body spray: a full, even stream of water for daily bathing

      *Massage or pulsating spray: emitting a pulsating stream of water tension

      *Soft aerated: mixing air and water to provide a gentle flow

      *Needle: a fine yet penetrating spray

      Most of these shower heads will also include settings that let you toggle between wide and narrow water flow. Some manufacturers will go up to 12 settings with varying intensities and combos of the above-described modes.

      shower heads

      Fixture finishes

      Just like your sink faucet, you can expect a vast array of finishes—brushed or polished chrome, brushed or polished nickel, stainless steel, brushed or oil-rubbed bronze, polished or antique brass, as well as baked-on enamel or epoxy finishes that come in a few colors, most commonly black or white.

      Manufacturers also boast finishes that resist water spots, particularly an issue if your water is hard, but polished finishes will still require attention with a soft cloth to keep that mirror-like appearance.

      shower heads

      Saving water

      All shower heads made today are required by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to emit water at a flow of no more than 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM). Look for the WaterSense label, a program from the EPA that certifies shower components that use no more than 2 GPM, or 20 percent less than the 2.5 GPM requirement. The program also covers standards of performance, so a WaterSense product should offer a satisfying shower experience. Another benefit: In addition to conserving a precious natural resource, you’ll save on your utility bills, including the water heater.

      A shower head may be small, but it packs a lot of power in its compact form to give you the bathing experience you want in any given moment. Choose wisely, and enjoy the soothing, rejuvenating, invigorating results. You deserve it!

      If you’re looking to kick your shower game up a notch, check out luxury shower systems with add-on features like steam, chromotherapy, and music.

      Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

      The post Shower Heads 101 appeared first on Sweeten.

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      A New Bath Takes Its Cue From Contrasts https://sweeten.com/spotlight/bathroom-renovation-ideas-constrast/ https://sweeten.com/spotlight/bathroom-renovation-ideas-constrast/#respond Wed, 23 Aug 2017 18:36:11 +0000 https://blog-v2.sweeten.com/?p=26194 Simple bathroom renovation ideas perk up an outdated space, including items to splurge on and what to stop cleaning! Project: Bringing a dilapidated bath into the 21st century in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn Before: Last week, we saw how Natalie and Cartier transformed the kitchen and living room of their one-bedroom apartment in the Clinton Hill Co-ops. Their […]

      The post A New Bath Takes Its Cue From Contrasts appeared first on Sweeten.

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      Simple bathroom renovation ideas perk up an outdated space, including items to splurge on and what to stop cleaning!

      bathroom renovation ideas

      Project: Bringing a dilapidated bath into the 21st century in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn

      Before: Last week, we saw how Natalie and Cartier transformed the kitchen and living room of their one-bedroom apartment in the Clinton Hill Co-ops. Their bathroom was in a similar state of disrepair from a rust-stained bathtub and matching sink to the peeling, flowery wallpaper and lavender tiles that were not to the couple’s taste at all. With the help of their Sweeten contractor, they implemented a set of bathroom renovation ideas that contrasted white tiles with dark grout for a look that’s thoroughly modern.

      After: As in the rest of the apartment, Natalie and Cartier created a clean, streamlined look by combining white tile, flat-front cabinetry in a dark wood finish, and chrome Grohe fixtures. The choice of a 4” x 12” subway tile for the walls gave the bath a more contemporary look than the traditional 3” x 6” subway tile. The couple chose a dark grout for contrast and paired it with charcoal flooring in porcelain tile. Sleek bar lighting and recessed lights maintained the unfussy look. The space was a typical NYC bathroom, which meant that they had to maximize storage space without it feeling too cramped. Another one of their bathroom renovation ideas involved two niches built into the wall of the shower to provide a convenient area for storing bath products. An IKEA sink and vanity helped to keep the cost down while the pair splurged on a thermostatic shower system that includes a rain shower, a handheld showerhead, as well as a faucet. They decided on the thermostatic shower valves because of bad experiences in past apartments with drastic changes in shower temperature, and this technology addressed that problem.

      Bonus: Cartier hated the way that shower curtains got dingy over time (no matter how diligent you were about airing them out!). As a result, he was particularly excited about the glass partition between the tub and the sink which simplifies the task of cleaning.

      Style finds: Porcelain floor tile, PT 12″ x 24″ Basaltina Linosa (cut into squares): Arizona Tile. White 4” x 12” Glossy Subway wall tile: South Cypress. Starlight Chrome fixtures, Essentials Collection; Thermostatic Europlus Starlight Chrome shower fixtures, Cosmopolitan Collection: Grohe. Godmorgon sink and vanity: IKEA. Modern Ceramic Dual Flush toilet: Eago. Saber LED Bath Bar lighting, #WS-3127-CH: Modern Forms.

      Thanks to Natalie and Cartier for sharing their sleek new bath! If you missed it, don’t forget to check out their kitchen and living room!

      bathroom renovation ideasbathroom renovation ideasbathroom renovation ideasbathroom renovation ideasbathroom renovation ideas

      Contrasting light tile with dark grout, as seen in Lia and Chris’ bath, is a simple way to make a bold style statement.

      Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

      The post A New Bath Takes Its Cue From Contrasts appeared first on Sweeten.

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      5 Bathroom Renovations That Cost $15K-20K https://sweeten.com/ideas-and-inspiration/bathroom-renovation-costs-15k-20k/ https://sweeten.com/ideas-and-inspiration/bathroom-renovation-costs-15k-20k/#respond Mon, 21 Aug 2017 13:19:08 +0000 https://blog-v2.sweeten.com/?p=26272 These 5 remodeling projects prove that with a $15-20K budget, homeowners can get a lot Tiles are popping off the wall, the toilet makes a strange gurgling sound when it flushes, and stepping into the shower feels like entering a dark closet. If this situation sounds familiar, then your bathroom is ready for an upgrade. […]

      The post 5 Bathroom Renovations That Cost $15K-20K appeared first on Sweeten.

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      These 5 remodeling projects prove that with a $15-20K budget, homeowners can get a lot

      Tiles are popping off the wall, the toilet makes a strange gurgling sound when it flushes, and stepping into the shower feels like entering a dark closet. If this situation sounds familiar, then your bathroom is ready for an upgrade. But what will it cost? A $15k-20k budget is an excellent range to cover all the basic bathroom renovation costs—materials, installation, and labor included—for a new toilet, sink, vanity, fixtures, tile, flooring, and lighting. With that in mind, it’s also important to consider that the need for plumbing, electrical, or layout changes will likely add to the amount. Sweeten, a free service matching homeowners with general contractors showcases five of their bathroom remodels below as good examples of what a $15K-20K budget will allow.

      $15k takes the blues away in a Brooklyn bathroom remodel

      bathroom renovation costsAllison and Jovito’s bathroom in Ocean Parkway, Brooklyn

      Upon purchasing a 1910 brick row house, Allison and Jovito got to work on a serious renovation, starting with the upstairs bathroom. The bathroom hadn’t been touched since the 1950s and was very blue—blue tub, blue toilet, blue tile. With a budget of $15k to cover essential bathroom renovation costs, which limited them from expanding the footprint or moving plumbing, the goal was to focus on form and function. A new, dual-flush toilet, console sink, and clawfoot tub—all in white—replaced the original blue fixtures. The simple, classic look they achieved with marble flooring and white subway tile mesh well with the history of the house.

      Sleek fixtures and denim-like tile shine for $15K

      bathroom renovation costsMario and Joe’s bathroom in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn

      Mario and Joe’s main motivation for their apartment renovation was the bathroom. With a budget of $15k, they kicked off their remodel with a gray porcelain tile that had the look of coarse denim and installed it along the floor and vanity wall. The sink was swapped out for a streamlined IKEA vanity that was customized to fit a raised basin sink, and the existing mirrored medicine cabinet was replaced with a much larger one. A glass shower door, slim toilet, brushed nickel fixtures, and light above the vanity complete the transformation.

      For $17K, a Brooklyn couple raises the ceiling and gets double cabinet storage

      bathroom renovation costsEllen and Ben’s bathroom in Kensington, Brooklyn

      Budgeting $17k for the bathroom renovation costs, Ellen and Ben decided to focus on modernizing their master bath. To make it feel more open, the stand-up shower and dropped ceiling were removed and replaced with an open shower stall fitted with a glass door. The beige vanity was kicked to the curb and a wooden side table from West Elm, customized to fit a marble countertop and sink, took its place. Two medicine cabinets installed side by side provide ample storage. A new toilet and fixtures complete the functional upgrade, while black hexagon floor tile and floor-to-ceiling white subway tile fulfill the modern aesthetic.

      An architect’s $20K travel-inspired bathroom remodel

      bathroom renovation costsBrian and Erin’s bathroom in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn

      An uninspired bathroom led Brian and Erin to a $20k remodel that would take their space on an international adventure. The remodel was prompted by outdated fixtures and finishes from the ‘80s and a leak in an upstairs bathroom that had ruined the ceiling. To create a unique space, Brian drew inspiration from the many hotel bathrooms he had seen while traveling for work as an architect. Floor-to-ceiling white subway tile was chosen as a simple backdrop, while blue penny tile was selected for the floor. Mirroring the blue tile, a luxurious clawfoot tub with a blue exterior took the look from standard to standout. The rest of the space was outfitted with a new toilet and bronze fixtures, an antique basin table and sink, and a custom red balau wood medicine cabinet.

      For $20K, everything had to go (except the tub and toilet!)

      bathroom renovation costsCeleste’s bathroom in Park Slope, Brooklyn

      Stained limestone tiling in her bathroom was the tipping point for Celeste, who, after a few unsuccessful attempts to remove the stains, budgeted $20k for bathroom renovation costs. Creating more storage space became a priority, so a custom vanity with unique drawer configurations was installed. In order to decrease visual clutter, a dedicated spot within the vanity was designed to hold a small trash can. Celeste chose a marble tile with a cube effect for the floor and beveled subway tile for the walls. Although she decided to keep her original tub and toilet, she finished the look with additional new materials like the sink, countertop, and a new lighting fixture.

      For an in-depth breakdown of the costs involved in renovating your bathroom, check out our guide Budget Basics: Bath Renovation Costs.

      Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

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      Shower Systems 101: How to Assemble Your Dream Shower https://sweeten.com/renovation-materials-101/luxury-shower-systems-steaming/ https://sweeten.com/renovation-materials-101/luxury-shower-systems-steaming/#comments Fri, 05 Nov 2021 16:00:31 +0000 https://blog-v2.sweeten.com/?p=25645 Shower systems offer spa-like luxury, from multi-functional showerheads to a steam shower and chromotherapy (Above) Leslie’s renovation with Sweeten resulted in a separate room for a full shower system including a steam shower, rain showerheads and jet sprays Americans have become highly sophisticated about their renovation choices and preferences. And nowhere is this more evident than […]

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      Shower systems offer spa-like luxury, from multi-functional showerheads to a steam shower and chromotherapy

      shower systems(Above) Leslie’s renovation with Sweeten resulted in a separate room for a full shower system including a steam shower, rain showerheads and jet sprays

      Americans have become highly sophisticated about their renovation choices and preferences. And nowhere is this more evident than in the bath. Homeowners count on their bathrooms to help them rev up in the morning and wind down in the evening. Manufacturers now create elaborate shower systems that provide a luxurious shower experience. Here, Sweeten’s guide to modern shower systems outlines popular features and add-ons, with tips on adding one into your bathroom remodel plans.

      Design to go with the flow

      Let’s begin with the layout. Shower systems should be isolated, almost like a room, and shouldn’t be part of a tub. While it doesn’t have to be big enough to fit two, there should be enough footage to move around and extend your arms fully. Simple materials and clean lines deliver the best aesthetic to convey a feeling of serenity. This means frameless glass doors and a floor-level shower tray. (Bonus: It’s fully accessible!) A built-in bench, particularly if the shower is clad in stone, adds another luxurious touch. Make sure you assess your plumbing capacity to be sure it can supply sufficient volume pressure. Your water heater must also be ready if you include a steam shower or body jets. (These features often operate at the same time as the shower.) Ensure your contractor evaluates the drain so it evacuates all that water quickly. Next, you’ll want to plan your shower system features!

      Luxury shower system options

      Luxury shower systems in the home go way beyond simple showerheads, even one with diverse spray patterns. The typical luxury shower system is a combination of individual features that come as a unit in a panel, or those you choose individually. You’ll want a shower head with several spray patterns, a hand shower on a wall-mount slide bar, and several pairs of body jets (six to eight are common). This arrangement should come with a thermostatic diverter that controls the water temperature to a preset degree. This means you don’t have to fiddle with it each time you turn it on.

      Shower panels

      For a few hundred dollars, you can find an all-in-one shower panel at a box store such as Home Depot. (This is at least half of what you would spend on a shower system of individual components.) The panel includes a showerhead, two to eight body jets, and an adjustable hand shower. Advantageously, a shower panel provides quick installation at a price that fits most budgets. The disadvantage: the panel mounts to the wall, extending several inches into the shower space. If you want a sleeker look, you will need to go with individual components that recess into the wall. Either way, make sure that your plumbing provides sufficient water pressure for all the features to operate simultaneously. If not, your contractor should make adjustments before installation.

      Rain shower heads

      An increasingly popular type of luxury shower head is the rain shower head. Rain shower heads are preferred for the soothing effect that its name indicates. These luxury-type shower heads can be mounted to the wall and angled to drop directly down, or installed on the ceiling. Look for an extra-wide spray span, as much as 15 inches, and a choice of spray patterns, from gentle to drenching. Grohe and Appliances Connection also offer digital controls with their rain shower systems. These controls allow you to preset your favorite spray pattern with your preferred water temperature. You simply push a button to start your shower and enter your specific experience. Kohler developed a showering panel that simulates the varying sizes and angles of raindrops as they fall, for a fully sensory occurrence.

      If you really want to splurge, you can get a shower panel installed in the ceiling that will shower you with several spray patterns simultaneously. This requires special framing for the ceiling, so you need to plan this feature before you start your renovation.

      blue bathroom

      (Above) A rain showerhead in Andrew & Cory’s L.A. bathroom remodel with Sweeten

      Body sprays

      These components allow for water therapy that hits every inch of your body to soothe or stimulate. Surface-mounted or recessed, the sprays are typically installed in pairs. Pay careful attention to placement, particularly if people of varying heights will use the shower. Swivel body sprays can help for minor adjustments. The top-level jets target the shoulders, the middle, the waist or hips, and the lowest, the thighs or knees. Some jets pop out when in operation, then retract when the water is turned off. You can find these sprays in the classic faucet and showerhead finishes—chrome, nickel, bronze, polished or brushed—and in square or round shapes from most major manufacturers including American Standard, Kohler, Hansgrohe, Grohe, Delta, and Appliances Connection.

      Steam

      Technological advances have made it possible to bring the coveted spa experience of steam into modern homes. The operation appears simple: steam is emitted by heads installed on the shower wall, and operated by a control pad programmed for temperature and session length. However, you will need to plan with your contractor to allow for several precautions. Don’t forget: steam showers generate more moisture and heat than a regular shower. As a result, your contractor will first install vapor proofing material to prevent water vapor from seeping through the walls. The shower door should be airtight, too, so water doesn’t escape to create mildew on wallpaper and paint. The ceiling should be curved so that condensed vapor droplets run down the walls, instead of dripping on you.

      For operation, a steam shower requires a generator and a ventilation unit. Both of these features are concealed from sight. Accordingly, your contractor can help you to determine the best, most effective placement for each. Alternatively, you can buy a stand-alone steam shower, complete with rain shower, hand shower, massage jets, whirlpool tub, steam generator, and LED lighting. Companies that specialize in steam showers, as well as major manufacturers like Kohler or Appliances Connection, offer many choices. If you don’t want to go the custom route, a two-person unit will cost you about $2,000. If you are creating a custom steam shower, expect your costs to double, to about $4,000. For either route: work with a contractor to ensure properly-installed plumbing and electricity.

      steam shower system with wooden bench and glass shower door

      (Above) A steam shower system in Ilene and Neil’s West Village home remodel with Sweeten

      Seating for shower systems

      When planning to introduce a steam shower to your bathroom, plan for it to be big enough for at least two people to use. Also, allow footage for a bench for lounging and even reclining.

      Chromotherapy

      We know that humans crave the healing power of light based on our innate need for sunlight and full-spectrum light in wintertime. You can isolate the individual colors that make up full-spectrum for healing effects in the bath. This is called chromotherapy. You’ll want at least four lights installed in your shower ceiling for even illumination. You can find LED versions in primary colors, and connect them to a separate switch in the shower. Amazon sells chromotherapy bulbs in seven colors—orange, red, blue, aqua, indigo, green, and yellow. You can change them at will, or set them to cycle through all the colors. Make sure your contractor adds a dimming capability. You can also choose a chromotherapy package made to go with a tub or steam shower enclosure from a manufacturer.

      Adding music to your shower system

      Once upon a time, you set your radio on the counter to listen to news and music. Kohler is among a handful of manufacturers that lets you bring music right into the shower. They offer a shower head with a wireless speaker that you can connect to your phone with Bluetooth® technology. The speaker docks in the center of the showerhead when in use, and is removable for recharging the battery, which lasts up to seven hours. The showerhead is available as a wall-mount or rain shower. Grohe also makes a rechargeable wireless speaker that attaches to the slide bar of the hand shower. For under $100, you can opt for wireless Bluetooth® speakers, compatible with most smartphones, that attach to the wall by suction cups.

      When it comes to the bathroom, it makes sense that your shower should provide the personalized experience you seek. By adding one or all of the features described above, you can luxuriate in your favorite spa rituals every day without leaving home.

      Curious to learn more? See how Sweeten helps make dream bathroom renovations a reality.

      Find out which types of professionals you may need for your bathroom remodel, from architects to designers and contractors.

      Bathroom storage is often scarce, but it doesn’t have to be. We’ve got bathroom storage ideas for every nook and cranny of your bath.

      Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

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      A Fresh Approach to Shower Storage https://sweeten.com/ideas-and-inspiration/shower-storage/ https://sweeten.com/ideas-and-inspiration/shower-storage/#comments Fri, 22 Dec 2017 21:00:35 +0000 https://blog-v2.sweeten.com/?p=17889 Tiled niches and marble shelves…pretty and practical While the minimal approach of floor-to-ceiling tile in the shower surround can be beautiful, where does one keep the shampoo? If the answer is the lip of your tub, adding a few shelves or niches in the shower can be a game-changer. Below, five homeowners who worked with Sweeten, a free service matching […]

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      Tiled niches and marble shelves…pretty and practical

      While the minimal approach of floor-to-ceiling tile in the shower surround can be beautiful, where does one keep the shampoo? If the answer is the lip of your tub, adding a few shelves or niches in the shower can be a game-changer. Below, five homeowners who worked with Sweeten, a free service matching renovators with vetted general contractors, mix storage and organization with style.

      shower storage shower storage

      Rachel and Michael designed a backdrop of penny tile in a multitude of blue hues for their shower, extending the tile to nearby niches. The mosaic, clearly visible behind the glass door, is now the couple’s favorite part of the bathroom.

      shower storageshower storage

      Marble corner shelves were cut from the leftover tile for Holly and Christian’s space, an idea that scores points for ingenuity and thriftiness.

      shower storage

      Mario and Joe used gray porcelain tile with the appearance of coarse denim to fill the alcoves in their shower, a callback to the floor tile and accent wall behind the sink vanity that ties the room together.

      shower storageshower storage

      For a sleek, streamlined approach, glass shelves attached to the tile surround in this half-bath create the perfect perch for bottles of shampoo and conditioner.

      shower storage

      Pallavi and Keyur added some much-needed depth with contrasting black accent tile to their shower niches and along the tub exterior in their mostly white bath.

      This post has been revised and updated from its original publication on July 20, 2016.

      You can never have too much storage! Keep things nice and neat with bathroom storage ideas for every nook and cranny.

      Refer your renovating friends to Sweeten and you’ll both receive a $250 Visa gift card when they sign a contract with a Sweeten general contractor.

      Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

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