Few rooms in a home are used as much as the bathroom. As such, you want it to be both beautiful and functional. If you’re thinking of beginning a bathroom remodeling project to enhance either its look or its practicalness, the guide below offers some tips for prioritizing your needs.

Smart Strategies for Your Bathroom Remodel

1. Plan It Out

Involve a bathroom remodeling contractor from the beginning. They will let you know the practicality—and the cost involved—of any ideas you have. For example, they will likely suggest keeping your plumbing where it is—unless the pipes are corroded and need to be replaced anyway or the layout isn’t functional. This will save a considerable amount of money. Once you have a plan that you like, try to stick with it as much as possible. Changing layouts or materials in the middle of the project can significantly increase your costs.

2. Choose a Focal Point

Well-designed bathrooms usually have a focal point—some feature that draws the eye. You might decide on an antique wood vanity, a granite countertop, a unique mirror or a teak floor. In addition to making your bathroom more beautiful, you can save money overall by splurging on the one item and using more economical options in other areas.

3. Maximize Your Space

In small- to medium-sized bathrooms, space is at a premium. To make the bathroom feel bigger, use pedestal sinks instead of bulky cabinets, opt for a large mirror over the sink area, and install a glass shower enclosure that makes the room look more open than a shower rod and curtain would.

4. Invest in Lighting

Residential remodeling experts advise using both overhead and ambient lighting in the bathroom. Consider wall sconces near the mirror, LED recessed lights, and pendant lights to help create atmosphere and reduce the risk of tripping.

5. Choose Materials for Durability

Bathrooms are naturally humid, so choose water-resistant materials as much as possible. Porcelain, ceramic, and stone tiles are available in any color and pattern you can imagine. Some are even designed to look like wood, but still have the durability of tile. Glass blocks hold up well, too.

6. Provide Ventilation

If you do not have a window in the bathroom, install a fan to bring in fresh air and get rid of moisture. This will save you a lot of time cleaning mildewed surfaces and ensure good air quality. When building shower enclosures, leave space at the top for steam to escape.

When remodeling your bathroom, use a professional home remodeling service like SkyLimit Remodeling. Based in Lincoln, NE, they will help your project go smoothly and stay within budget. They also provide peace of mind in the form of a 5-year craftsmanship warranty. Call 402-601-1821 for a free estimate or visit the website for more information about their capabilities.