Do you think it is time to transform your outdated bathroom into a modern space with some strategic upgrades? Bathrooms are one of the most used rooms in the house – and having a nice bathroom can make such a big difference in not only the look but also the value of your home.
If you live in the competitive housing market of Grand Rapids, Michigan, going for functional and aesthetic home upgrades is always a good idea. A bathroom is one of those areas in the home where your investment will never go to waste.
The median sale price for homes in Grand Rapids is up 7.1% since last year – so you can say that the competition here is a bit tough. But it also means that if you have a “hot home,” there is a chance your home will sell for above 9% list price.
Amazing, right?
So, while your bathroom remodeling project will create a more functional space, don’t forget the ROI it will bring when deciding on the upgrades to go for. Let’s explore eight ideas to create your dream bathroom.
More Natural Light
If small windows are limiting the amount of sunshine in your bathroom, consider enlarging them, adding more windows, or installing a skylight. You can strategically place new windows higher up on the wall or use textured glass for privacy.
Sunshine streaming in through enlarged or new windows can make a bathroom feel more open and warm. It can also help to reduce the need for artificial lighting, which can save energy and money.
Shower Replacement
Trading a cramped tub/shower for a spacious, contemporary walk-in shower can transform your bathing experience. For shower replacement in Grand Rapids, consider All Weather Seal of West Michigan, which offers a wide range of beautiful and accessible showers that can be installed in just one day.
When choosing a new shower, it is important to consider the following factors:
Size: Make sure to choose a shower that is large enough to comfortably accommodate you and your family members.
Accessibility: If you have mobility issues, consider a zero-entry threshold model or a shower with a built-in seat.
Features: Look for a shower with features that are important to you, such as a rainfall showerhead, multiple body sprays, and a built-in bench.
Mirrors for Space
Strategically placed mirrors can make a small bathroom feel much larger and more spacious.
To create a focal point and anchor the space, hang a large, statement-making framed mirror above the vanity. For a particularly dramatic and opulent effect, consider extending the mirror wall-to-wall behind the sink. The reflections from multiple mirrored surfaces will bounce natural light around the room, creating the illusion of a larger space.
Pocket Door’s Miracle
Pocket doors are a great way to save space in small bathrooms. Unlike traditional swinging doors, which take up valuable floor space, pocket doors slide into the wall to open and close. This makes them a perfect choice for bathrooms where every square foot counts.
When installing a pocket door, it is important to reinforce the pocket that houses the door when it is open. This will ensure that the door operates smoothly and quietly. The hardware for pocket doors also allows you to adjust the alignment of the door and keep it sliding smoothly.
When open, a pocket door tucks away neatly into the wall, freeing up extra floor space. When closed, it still provides the desired privacy and maintains a clean, uncluttered look. Overall, pocket doors are an ingenious and space-saving solution for small bathrooms.
Flooring Matters
While vinyl, laminate, or linoleum can be budget-friendly flooring options, upgrading to tile can significantly enhance the elegance and visual appeal of your bathroom. Tile is also extremely durable, easy to keep clean, and water-resistant, making it ideally suited for high-moisture areas like bathrooms.
Consider installing floor heating under the tile for warmth underfoot on chilly mornings. Natural stone tile options like marble, travertine, or slate also lend an elegant, upscale appeal. Whatever tile material you end up choosing, brand-new flooring can pull the whole room together visually and provide a polished look.
Lighting Advantage
Proper bathroom lighting is essential for both everyday tasks and creating a pleasant ambiance. For overall brightness, install overhead ceiling lights that provide general ambient lighting. Then, incorporate lighting fixtures around the vanity mirror for tasks like applying makeup.
You can also mount individual light bars vertically on either side of the mirror to provide task lighting. Also, include decorative wall-mounted fixtures like sconces as well as pendant lights over the vanity or tub for additional ambient lighting and style.
Storage Solutions
Incorporating storage solutions is an essential part of keeping bathrooms organized and free of clutter. Take advantage of every available nook and cranny to maximize storage space. Consider floating wall-mounted shelves for display and storage. Make use of corner areas with specialized angled shelving units. Integrate drawers into the vanity base for storing bathroom essentials and supplies.
Install hooks on walls or the back of doors to hang towels, robes, and more. Strategically designate specific zones in cabinets or drawers for certain items like makeup, first aid supplies, cleaning products, etc.
Ventilation Improvements
Proper bathroom ventilation is essential to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Exhaust fans should be ducted directly to the outside to remove moist air and particulates generated from bathing. Upgrade older exhaust fans to higher CFM ceiling-mounted fans for more effective ventilation.
In areas with existing mold and mildew problems, use primers and paints specifically formulated for bathrooms to inhibit mold growth on surfaces. Consider adding a floor-mounted or wall-mounted vent fan to supplement the exhaust fan and keep air circulating.
Regularly clean and service all ventilation systems to maintain proper performance.
Conclusion
In summary, you can customize your bathroom to better meet your needs with strategic upgrades like a walk-in shower, proper ventilation, and intelligent storage solutions. By thoughtfully incorporating these suggestions, you’ll be able to create a functional and aesthetic space.
