Bathroom showers have surged in popularity in recent years, making bathtubs a secondary feature in many remodeling projects. If a makeover is in your future, here are a few things to consider before getting your feet wet.
Expansive size. In some instances, showers have become so large, they may not even need doors, a definite plus when it comes to cleaning. Consider the placement of the showerheads to see if your remodeled shower needs a door. Another major perk: A larger shower allows for inside towel racks, sparing you the chill of stepping out to grab a towel.
Styles in glass. All-glass partitions are nothing new, but frameless glass has become increasingly the norm. The glass can be full length or partial, atop a half wall. Glass blocks are also popular, admitting light while preserving privacy.
Showerheads. Low-flow shower heads use 1.6 gallons of water per minute instead of the standard 2.5 — without cheating on velocity. Handheld nozzles are a nice feature. The most popular new showerhead is the overhead rain type. Kohler even has a nozzle with an audio speaker.
Surface choices. The most important style element for your shower is the surface. White subway tile has become increasingly popular. Accent tiles of contrasting lines and designs are also trending. While you’re at it, consider installing Inset spaces to hold shampoo bottles and soap. The grout you choose is important, too. If you choose a white or light-color tile, consider a contrasting dark grout to mask discoloration over time. Choosing marble over tile provides elegance, but given the higher price, be certain to take into account the surface area.
Lighting. For practical reasons, don’t skimp on lighting in a bathroom. If the ambient light from the room is inadequate for the shower, an overhead recessed light within the shower ceiling is a good choice.
Which bathroom? While master bathtubs haven’t disappeared, large stand-alone showers have definitely become the primary focus in redesigned master bathrooms. However, in guest and children’s bathrooms, shower-tub combos remain popular.
Accessibility. For forward-thinking homeowners who would like to “age in place,” popular shower remodeling features include: showers with edgeless thresholds, 36-inch wide doors, grab bars and even seats.
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