Aug 16 2010

Where to Find Ideas For Modern Bathroom Designs

Posted by Modern Homes in Bathroom

Unless you have a degree in interior design or a similar field, you may feel overwhelmed with where to begin your bathroom remodel. Not only do you have to choose a new sink, toilet, shower, and bathtub, but you also have to determine a layout that logically accommodates each of these fixtures. And that’s just the beginning. Next, it’s time to select finish materials such as floor and wall tiles, bathroom counter tops and fixtures for lighting and fixtures to operate your plumbing (think faucets, shower heads, etc.). Maybe it’s time to take a step back and a deep relaxing breath and learn where to find some bathroom remodeling pictures to serve as a frame of reference and inspiration.

Sure, you want your bathroom remodel to be unique and reflect your own sense of personal style. It’s possible to arrive at that solution on your own, but most likely, if you take the time to research other successful remodels by looking through books, websites or magazines that feature bathroom remodeling pictures, you be able to stay on schedule and enjoy your dream bathroom so much sooner than you expected.

Start by entering a few basic terms in your search engine, the most straightforward being “bathroom remodeling.” click the Google Images tab and you’ll be directed to a page with image after image that hopefully pertains to the style of remodel you are undertaking. Try different keywords if you’re looking for more modern bathroom designs or if you prefer a traditional look.

If this type of research seems random and vague, visit the website of a reputable design magazine such as Better Homes and Gardens or Architectural Digest, depending on your personal sense of style. If you prefer a more modern bathroom design, consider Dwell magazine. Purchase a few copies and tear out images of bathroom remodels that you like. The goal is to accumulate a “look book” of ideas you’d use in your own bathroom design.

Finally, the library is still a limitless research on just about any topic. Look up books on showers and baths specifically or on modern or traditional homes, depending on your style. Photocopy images you like (just don’t tear them out!).  Take these images to your interior designer or shower designer much like you’d take pictures of a celebrity with hair styles you like to your hairdresser. Now you’re a lot closer to understanding what type of bath remodel that you want to undertake.

Jul 10 2010

Update Your Bathroom With These Bathroom Shower Fixture Ideas

Posted by Modern Homes in Bathroom

If you are looking to update and remodel your home, consider remodeling either the bathroom or the kitchen. Bathrooms and kitchens can greatly affect your home resale value.

Keep in mind that most homeowners will never live in the same house for the entire duration of the actual mortgage. When you’re choosing your remodeling ideas, keep in mind that you want something unique however it should also be somewhat universally appealing.

The best ways to update your bathroom is to replace the existing fixtures. Waterfall shower heads can greatly increase your showering experience. This can give you the feeling of showering in an outdoor environment similar to a tropical rainfall. You can purchase waterfall shower heads online or from a local retailer. If you buy one from a local retailer, your chances of finding one you like may be limited. This depends on where you live, and how many stores there are.

Stores such as Home Depot may have some waterfall shower heads, however overall selection will be limited. You may have to go to a specialty retailer to find exactly what you want.

If you’re upgrading your showering, most likely you should also consider upgrading your water capacity. Often times new owners will find that they joy of showering somewhat that they increase how much time they spend in the bathroom. The problem is, is that most likely your water heater may not have the capacity for this type of activity.

If you do not have enough physical space for a larger water heater, you can also consider purchasing a tank less water heater. These work by keeping your water on an as needed basis.  The drawback to these however is that it may take a few seconds before you actually begin receiving hot-water.

Another idea may be to separate the plumbing system for your shower versus the rest of your home. If you do not know where to begin, you may want to go to your local bookstore. There many books on home improvement projects that can help you get a good start.