Advantages of a Bathroom Remodel

Advantages of a Bathroom Remodel

There's no question that when it comes to home improvement projects, bathrooms are one the first rooms people look to update. After all, the bathroom is typically one of the first and last places we spend our time in during the day; thus, it should be a place that we enjoy. Are you considering a bathroom remodel? Great! Not only do they add value to your home, a bathroom renovation can mean improved storage, appearance, efficiency, and more.

 

Bring the Spa to Your Home

A bathroom remodel can create a more comfortable and calming space. Over recent years, the trend of creating a spa-bathroom has skyrocketed. Bathrooms have transformed from serving as a purely functional space, into a space that homeowners enjoy and want to spend their time in. A bathroom remodel is a great excuse to incorporate spa-inspired features to create a more relaxing space.

 

Make Necessary Repairs

Whether a sink has a leak, or if a few tiles are cracked, a bathroom renovation is the perfect opportunity to make necessary repairs. As a bonus, if the fixture or component has reached the end of its life, planning a bathroom remodel is the perfect opportunity to choose new fixtures that better represents your new style.

Create an Effective Use of Space

If you find yourself constantly bumping into fixtures or components, a bathroom remodel is the perfect opportunity to update the layout with a more effective design. This can be through adding square footage by taking some unused space from an area of the home adjacent to the bathroom. Or this can mean simply changing up the location of the fixtures in the current space.

Upgrade to Energy Efficient Lighting

A huge benefit of having a bathroom remodeled is the opportunity to upgrade light fixtures to new, energy efficient fixtures. Whether you are looking to go green or not, upgrading to energy efficient fixtures can mean money saved on energy bills.

Boost Storage Space

Another key advantage of a bathroom renovation is updating your bathroom to include more storage. As bathrooms are becoming larger, more homeowners are incorporating more storage solutions, such as cabinets and shelves, to help minimize clutter in other areas of the home. Working with a bathroom renovations company, such as Balducci Additions and Remodeling, can help you plan and strategize the best organization methods for your bathroom needs.

Increase Home Value

According to Remodeling 2017 Cost vs. Value report (www.costvsvalue.com), the average cost of a bathroom remodel in Richmond is $17,154. On average, you will get about $7,643 of that investment back, which is about a 44.6% return. While it is impossible to see the full return on your investment, having an updated bathroom can make the home easier during resale. After all, an outdated bathroom can deter many potential buyers. Even if you don't plan on moving within the next few years, a bathroom renovation is a practical update that will be sure to add comfort and style to your home.

While there are many factors to consider, bathroom remodels have many advantages. To name a few, a bathroom remodel is a great way to improve storage space, increase home value, create an updated design, and more. If you have any questions about getting started on a bathroom remodel, feel free to contact Balducci Additions and Remodeling for a free consultation.

© 2017 Hanley Wood Media Inc. Complete data from the Remodeling
2017 Cost vs. Value Report can be downloaded free at www.costvsvalue.com.

Shower Door Design

Over recent years, the trend of creating a spa-bathroom has skyrocketed. Bathrooms have transformed from serving as a purely functional space into a space that homeowners enjoy and want to spend their time in. Thus, bathroom design has changed immensely, which includes everything from the layout, square footage, materials, fixtures, and more.

Up until now, one of the most popular shower configurations was the standard shower/tub combo since it promoted functionality and "did the job." Currently, the big trend in bathroom design is to either convert the shower/tub combo into a walk-in shower, or adding square footage into the bathroom for a separate shower and bathtub. (Feel free to check out this blog post on Creating an Efficient Shower Design For Your Bathroom Reno). Since separate shower spaces are rising in popularity, the design of the shower becomes a high priority in bathroom renovation planning. One design aspect of the shower to be considered is the shower door.

Shower Door Design

Previously, shower doors had a simple function to keep water off of the floor to prevent any water damage to the space. Now, shower doors are no longer an afterthought of the room; they can even be a focal point.

Since homeowners aren't confined to the standard shower/tub combinations (and standard shower doors), there is much more opportunity for creativity in the design of the shower door. With so many options to choose from when choosing a shower door, you might be wondering "what are some popular designs?" Well, let's take a look at a couple of the current trends in shower door designs.

Design Trends

The minimalist design trend has become popular for the home, including the bathroom (and shower door). A minimalist shower door typically has less (or nonexistent) hardware and framing.  This design tactic is perfect for intricate shower tile designs as this allows you to show off the shower design. It also makes the bathroom appear lighter and more open.

On the other hand, this is an increase in popularity in having the shower door as a strong focal point. This includes choosing bolder finishes such as dark bronze and warm brass for the door's hardware and framing.

Concerning the glass on the shower door, current style trends tend to favor clear glass. While the traditional frosted glass provides privacy, clear glass creates an open feel and can give the illusion of a larger space.

Choosing the Shower Door

When choosing a shower door, it is important to look at the types of doors offered. There are several types of shower doors to choose from, including sliding, pivoting, and hinged doors. Typically, sliding doors are good for shower/tub combos, while pivoting doors are a good choice for a narrow shower. Ultimately, the type of door you choose will be the one that suits your shower configuration and space the best.

Once the door type is chosen, the glass, hardware, and framing should be picked out. Choosing the right finishes on the shower door can help tie the shower design with the rest of the bathroom. If you have any questions on getting started with your bathroom remodel, feel free to reach out to us to schedule a free in-home consultation.

Celebrate National Escape Day: Spa Bathroom

Have the winter blues set in? Need a break for yourself? You're in luck. January 30th is National Escape Day, which means it's the perfect excuse to take some time for yourself.

“Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is relax.” - Mark Black

While you can celebrate National Escape Day a thousand ways, why not take some time to yourself in your in-home spa (aka, your bathroom)?

Here's a roundup of our top 10 most relaxing bathrooms. Which space appeals to you the most?

10. Shower with beige tile. The beige tile with dark accents creates a warm and inviting feel.

9. Soaker tub with a large glass block window. This deep soaker tub is the perfect place to unwind after a long day.

8. Walk-in corner shower. This clean, minimal shower gets extra light through two accent windows, which helps the space feel more airy.

7. Jetted tub and shower with accent tile. The blue and tan accent tiles resemble coastal color schemes, which enhance the calming atmosphere of this space.

6. Gray tiled shower with glass enclosure. The glass enclosure and streamlined design keep this bathroom looking like something that would be seen in a spa.

5. Separate shower with a freestanding slipper soaker tub. This vintage inspired in-home spa includes a slipper tub and leg tub filler, which exude timeless elegance.

4. Contemporary brass and brown double vanity. Lighting is an important aspect of any spa bathroom and is done effectively in this home addition.

3. Turquoise spa bathroom with rain shower head. The shower in this bathroom features two shower heads to create a spa-like feel, including a rain shower head.

2. Classic granite with separate soaker tub and shower. The neutral colors of the tile and accent in the shower display an elegant look, which makes this space relaxing.

1. Freestanding tub with a nature view. This beautiful bathroom feels as though it is outside with the two large windows, which creates the perfect spa-like experience.

Interested in a creating your own spa bathroom? Balducci Additions and Remodeling is happy to help you create a bathroom that you want to escape to. Contact us to get started!

Lighting for a Bathroom Renovation

Lighting can dramatically change the look and feel of any room in the house. While most homeowners tend to focus on lighting in the kitchen or living room areas, the bathroom is a room of the house that requires lots of lighting. Good bathroom lighting is essential for your safety while showering, bathing, and grooming.

Trying to achieve that spa-like bathroom feel in your bathroom renovation? One of the best ways to make your bathroom feel more luxurious is to layer several types of lighting. Some bathroom lighting options include recessed lights, vanity or makeup lights, wall sconces, and decorative ceiling lights.

Photo: Pinterest

One of the biggest trends in bathroom lighting today are decorative lights, such as pendant lights and chandeliers, over the bathtub. As we all know, safety becomes a concern when mixing water with electricity-especially over the bathtub. when choosing a light fixture for over the bathtub, it is imperative to comply with all electrical codes. The National Electric code clearly outlines the guidelines regarding bathtubs as follows:

"410.4(D) Bathtub and Shower Areas. No parts of cord-connected luminaires (fixtures), hanging luminaires (fixtures), lighting track, pendants, or ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans shall be located within a zone measured 900 mm (3 ft) horizontally and 2.5 m (8 ft) vertically from the top of the bathtub rim or shower stall threshold. This zone is all encompassing and includes the zone directly over the tub or shower stall."

Once you calculate how low your fixture can hang below your ceiling, it is time to determine which fixture style you will be choosing. It is best to choose a fixture that best represents your personality. Even though it is popular to hang a sparkly chandelier over your tub, don't feel as though you need to choose something glitzy and glamorous if that is not your style. There are many simplistic options on the market that will add drama and interest to your bathroom renovation.

Photo: Pinterest

Lighting is a key factor in helping to create a relaxing bathroom, especially over the bathtub. To further elevate your lighting, try adding dimmers to some light fixtures in the bathroom. This will help to create that spa-like ambiance everyone dreams of for their bathroom renovation. If you have any questions regarding bathroom renovations, or even lighting in general, feel free to contact us. We work with the best master electricians in town, SmartWire 360, to make sure the job is done on time and correctly.

Storage Solutions for a Bathroom Renovation

Photo: Pinterest

Does this sight look familiar? We can all imagine our bathrooms filled with products and other miscellaneous items that seem to make our countertops disappear. If this is the case, it may be time to consider alternative storage storage solutions for your bathroom renovation.

Wall Storage

Don't forget about the wall space! This is especially true for small bathroom renovations that don't have as much square footage available. Adding in a couple of shelves can be perfect for that extra bit of space that you need, while adding some visual interest to bare walls.

Photo: HGTV.com

Small Furniture Storage

A small piece of furniture, such as a small dresser, bench, storage ladder, or any other idea you can think of can be the perfect storage solution for your bathroom. As a bonus, freestanding storage can be easily swapped out as your style changes-without requiring any wall touch-ups.

Bathroom Renovation by Balducci Additions and Remodeling

Custom Cabinetry Storage

Perhaps the most luxurious storage solution, custom cabinetry can be one of the best investments for your bathroom renovation, When designing your bathroom renovation, it is important to bring in a professional, such as Balducci Additions and Remodeling, to assess your current bathroom and assist you in determining the best cabinet solution for you. For example, a center vanity console divides two sink areas to create "privacy" while including an abundance additional storage space.

Custom bathroom renovation by Balducci Additions and Remodeling

Under-Sink Storage

Don't neglect the space you already have! Is your under-sink cabinet being utilized to its fullest potential? If not, consider investing in sliding drawers or stacking bins. In comparison, if your under-sink area is open, purchasing baskets and bins to store away bath products are a necessity.

Photo: Bed Bath & Beyond

Storage is a huge concern for any homeowner-especially bathroom storage. These storage solutions are great ways to minimize the look of clutter and allow for relaxation. Your bathroom should be a place where you can escape the daily stresses of life-instead of feeling overwhelmed by clutter.

The Anatomy of a Relaxing Bathroom

As summer comes to an end, a load of responsibilities are set to start for many families as the kids go back to school. In preparation to school starting, it’s time to think about creating an oasis to escape to. Forget going to the spa and bring the spa to your home with these easy rules to make any bathroom a place to relax in. With National Relaxation Day on the 15th of this month, there’s no better time to transform your space (complete gut job is not required).

Create a calm space by decorating with a natural palette. The warm brown tones remind us of nature, which correlates to iPhone-less relaxation.

Stock up with white towels to add a luxury hotel feel. Bonus: buy fresh flowers that accentuate your decor.

Add some blues to your bath. The cool hues remind us of the ocean’s calming waves and the cool blue skies.

Consider lighting. A peaceful mood can be created by using lighting the right way. Skip the fluorescents and go for candles and a modern chandelier.

Even though these tips can be applied to almost any bathroom, it is important to include elements that help you to relax. Don’t be afraid to include your personality in your home design. As always, if these photos inspired you to get started on a bathroom remodel or addition, feel free to give us a call. We will be happy to set up an appointment for a free estimate! 804-730-0982.

Bathroom Remodel Idea: Freestanding Tubs

Freestanding bathtubs are becoming more and more popular today due to their spa-like feel. Long gone are the days of noisy bubbling jets and in with the quiet and serene soaks. Freestanding tubs can update any bathroom and provide an element of tranquility. While the classic shower/bathtub combination may be efficient, it is not as efficient for relaxation.

Some reasons to consider a standalone bathtub for your bathroom remodel:

1. Freestanding tubs look updated and fresh. They are one of the most popular options on the market today and can help to create an updated look to any bathroom.
2. They are available in almost any style. Freestanding tubs come in a variety of styles, from modern and sleek, to classic and ornate, and everything in between.
3. Freestanding tubs come in a variety of materials. Popular materials for freestanding tubs include stone, acrylic, copper, wood, cast iron, and fiberglass. The price of a freestanding tub will vary greatly, depending on which material you choose.
4. They are visually lighter than built-in or drop-in tubs due to the open area surrounding the tub, and even underneath of the tub depending on which style you choose. Traditional drop-in and built-in tubs are very bottom heavy and bulky since they are “built-in” against the wall and take up entire sections, or corners, of the bathroom.
5. Freestanding tubs can be placed almost anywhere since they don’t require wall space to be installed. Thus, freestanding tubs serve more as furniture and a structural element to any bathroom, as opposed to a bulky tub in the corner.

For example, we recently completed a bathroom remodel in which we replaced a once bulky jetted tub to an elegant clawfoot slipper tub. The transformation of the space when the new bathtub was installed was remarkable. The tub that these clients chose blends the vintage characteristics of traditional clawfoot tubs, while keeping a simple silhouette and feet.

Before

After

Before you decide on a freestanding tub for your bathroom, it is important to consider your space, budget, and needs. These types of tubs may not be a good choice for small bathroom remodels since they come away from the wall so they typically require more room than a traditional built-in or drop-in tub. Pro tip: when choosing the size for a freestanding tub, make sure that it comfortably fits the largest person who will be using it. Additionally, some standalone tubs can get rather costly, depending on the material you choose. Also, it may be worth considering how frequently you plan on indulging in a bath? Once a week? Once a month? This can help you determine whether installing a standalone tub will be worth your investment. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Balducci Remodeling at balducciremodeling.com and set up an appointment for a free estimate. No obligations.

Pros and Cons of Replacing a Bathtub with a Shower

The idea of a calming bubble bath at the end of a stressful day might be appealing; however, how often are we able to indulge and take the time to enjoy our own spa-like bath? For most people, it happens very rarely or not often at all. Some homeowners may consider baths to be a waste since they are not used. Before converting your tub to a shower, consider the pros and cons of this option.

Shower with Sliding Glass Doors

Pros:

Easier to access. In addition to extra elbow room, larger showers may be handicap accessible; which means that your home may be a place for you to age in place. A large shower, especially those without showers doors, are much easier to access than climbing over the tub.

Turning your bath into a shower can conserve water (depending on the amount of time) and save you money. According to the United State Environmental Protection Agency, “a full bathtub can require up to 70 gallons of water, while taking a 5-minute shower uses only 10 to 25 gallons.”

Can add extra square footage to your bathroom. Some showers take up less space than baths, which will free up some of the unused space from a tub.

Cons:

Converting from a tub to a shower can hinder your resale value. This is especially true if you are converting the only tub in your home. It is a major drawback to families with small children.

Showers have the potential to use more water than a bath depending on the amount of time you spend in the shower. Generally, if your shower lasts longer than 10 minutes it uses more water than a tub. Good news is that the average American takes about an 8 minute shower.

After 30 years of business, Balducci Additions & Remodeling has come to be an expert in bathroom remodels. Large and walk-in showers can provide a spa-like atmosphere. To get inspiration on spa bathrooms, visit this blog post. If you’re ready to convert from a bath to a shower, or upgrade your bathroom, give us a call and we would be glad to set up an appointment. Visit us at balducciremodeling.com or call us at 804-730-0982.

The Anatomy of a Relaxing Bathroom

As summer comes to an end, a load of responsibilities are set to start for many families as the kids go back to school. In preparation to school starting, it’s time to think about creating an oasis to escape to. Forget going to the spa and bring the spa to your home with these easy rules to make any bathroom a place to relax in. With National Relaxation Day on the 15th of this month, there’s no better time to transform your space (complete gut job is not required).

Create a calm space by decorating with a natural palette. The warm brown tones remind us of nature, which correlates to iPhone-less relaxation.

Stock up with white towels to add a luxury hotel feel. Bonus: buy fresh flowers that accentuate your decor.

Add some blues to your bath. The cool hues remind us of the ocean’s calming waves and the cool blue skies.

Consider lighting. A peaceful mood can be created by using lighting the right way. Skip the fluorescents and go for candles and a modern chandelier.

Even though these tips can be applied to almost any bathroom, it is important to include elements that help you to relax. Don’t be afraid to include your personality in your home design. As always, if these photos inspired you to get started on a bathroom remodel or addition, feel free to give us a call. We will be happy to set up an appointment for a free estimate! 804-730-0982.