What To Think About When Planning A Master Bathroom Remodel.

As home remodelers, we should not have favorite projects.  That would be similar to having a favorite child, right?  Well, here at Ashley’s Building, we cannot hide our deep love and passion for a master bathroom remodel!

The past few years have seen a bathroom revolution in the Shreveport-Bossier area, where these rooms have evolved into so much more of a multipurpose room.  They are rooms for getting dressed, putting on make-up, taking long showers, hiding from your children while you eat chocolate….

Master bathrooms, specifically, have emerged into the emotional rooms of the house.  When you enter this room, you should inhale invigorating smells that encourage relaxation and exhale the stress and burdens of the day.  This room should be your retreat, your place to find solace and peace.

Partnering with Ashley’s Building on a master bathroom renovation can help your bathroom dreams and goals become a reality.  We can design and bring to fruition a space that will bring you ultimate relaxation, maximum comfort, health and wellness while never losing focus of your personal style.  Our promise to you is to meet or exceed your expectations to the very best of our abilities, all while creating a beautiful space worthy of HGTV.

A master bathroom transformation involves many decisions.  Let’s break down some of the major ones.

Master Bathroom Expansion and remodel in Benton, Louisiana Ashleys Building and remodeling.

SHOWER OPTIONS FOR YOUR MASTER BATHROOM MAKEOVER

The single most important item to a large majority of our master bathroom remodel clients is the shower.  Hands down, a larger shower with multiple body sprayers, a shower seat and a shower niche is the most requested bathroom item we hear.

Below are some types of trending showers that guarantee to check all the boxes!

Curbless Shower:  A curbless shower is exactly that – a shower with no curb at the point of entry.  There is no divider between the shower floor and the bathroom floor, which allows for an easy entrance and exit.  You have a lowered risk of tripping, and this is a HUGE bonus for those of us entering our golden years.  This type of shower is also perfect for individuals in a wheelchair due to its level flooring.

As far as visual appeal is concerned, the curbless shower rates a 10/10.  The room feels larger, more spa-like and modern, and more airy.  To put it plainly, curbless showers are just good looking.

Are they for every master bathroom?  No, they are not.  This type of shower requires a larger area in order to have the appropriate slope for drainage and to have adequate space for at least a 3” recessed pan.  Pier and beam floors are ideal for this type of shower; concrete floors are not out of the question but are more labor intensive.

If you are considering this type of shower, our team will assess your foundation, electrical and plumbing to ensure this is a viable option.

Roman Shower:  In basic terms, these are open showers.  There are no doors and you, simply, walk in.  Choosing this type of shower gives your master bathroom the feel of pure luxury.  If privacy is an issue for you, you can opt to have a half-glass or half-stone wall installed.

During the design phase, additional drains will be added to ensure the water flows out of the shower and not into your bathroom.  The floor will also be sloped downwards for this same purpose.  We want the water in the shower and not on your new floor!

Frameless Shower:  This is also called an “all-glass” shower, which shines a spotlight on the tile or stonework in the shower.  The frameless shower gives your master bathroom a modern, airy feel.  There are no metal tracks to distract you or to block the view of your gorgeous, new shower.  The best part?  No track to clean, which means no nooks and crannies for gunk to accumulate.  We call that winning!

Extras:  No matter which type of shower you chose for your master bathroom renovation, certain amenities are now considered necessary.  Shower niches for hair and body products are a must!  A floating shower bench has numerous uses, including relaxing, shaving or meditating.  Another luxurious addition is a heated towel rack waiting right outside your shower.  Oh, my!

For added pleasure during those showers, we can even add audio therapy with integrated speakers or aromatherapy with essential oils.

large walk in master shower with rainfall shower head and shampoo niches and bench in Shreveport bossier Benton Haughton Ashleys Building Home RemodelersCUSTOM SHOWERHEAD OPTIONS

 If you are transforming your master bathroom into your favorite room in your home, do not forget to elevate your shower routine by choosing the ultimate type of showerhead.  Some options are:

Handheld:  These showerheads look like the traditional, fixed style, but they are not attached to the shower arm.  As the name implies, this type of showerhead is attached to a long hose and can be held in your hand for directional control of the water.

Rainfall:  This type of showerhead is installed overhead with the intention of creating a standing-in-the-rain experience.  Rainfall showerheads are intended for slow, long showers where you can prepare for the day ahead or wash away the stress from the previous hours.  These heads have a range of 8”-12” (and even up to 20”!) in comparison to traditional heads, which have a range of 3”-6”.

Dual:  Can’t choose between handheld and rainfall showerheads?  We have the perfect option for you!  Dual systems have the best of both worlds.  You can skip having to choose between the two options because you can have both!

If the ultimate shower experience is your goal, we have the system for you.  The Panel Shower System or Body Shower System delivers water through multiple sprayers for your full body massage.  These jets cover from your shoulders to your knees, leaving you feeling squeaky clean as well as completely relaxed.  You will soon be asking yourself how you ever lived without this…

BATHTUB OPTIONS

We are asked this question quite often:  Do we need a tub in our master bathroom?  Generally speaking, it comes down to two things – space and preference.

If you want the ultimate spa-like experience, a soaking tub is a MUST.  These beauties are called “soaking tubs” because you fully submerge in the warm water while your joints and muscles loosen from the day.  Your skin will also thank you.  Soaking tubs have an average height of 23” versus the traditional tub height of just under 19”.

Soaking tubs are available in two types:

Drop-in soaking tub: with surrounds made from granite, marble, porcelain tile or quartz.

Freestanding soaking tub: in oval, rectangular or kidney shape. Other options include clawfoot tubs and ones elevated on a platform so they are the focal point of the room.

Jetted or non-jetted is another option to consider.  This has been a heavily debated topic in recent years in the world of home building and remodeling.  If you are selling your home, potential buyers may be wary of a jetted tub due to the potential for harmful bacteria or mildew.

An alternative to the water jet tub is the “air jet” tub, which has 48 air pin-hole jets that deliver thousands of air bubbles.  This option is gentler than the traditional jetted tubs and is easier to clean.

If you need to reclaim some space in your master bathroom in order to make room for a larger shower or for more storage or closet space, then removing the existing tub and not replacing it may be your only option.  Along these same lines, if your space is somewhat limited, omitting the tub can make the area feel less crowded.  If you plan to sell your home in 5-10 years, however, leaving one tub in the home is good for resale.

As home remodelers, we should not have favorite projects. That would be similar to having a favorite child, right? Well, here at Ashley’s Building, we cannot hide our deep love and passion for a master bathroom remodel! The past few years have seen a bathroom revolution where these rooms have evolved into so much more of a multipurpose room. They are rooms for getting dressed, putting on make-up, taking long showers, hiding from your children while you eat chocolate…. Master bathrooms, specifically, have emerged into the emotional rooms of the house. When you enter this room, you should inhale invigorating smells that encourage relaxation and exhale the stress and burdens of the day. This room should be your retreat, your place to find solace and peace. Partnering with Ashley’s Building on a master bathroom renovation can help your bathroom dreams and goals become a reality. We can design and bring to fruition a master bathroom that will bring you ultimate relaxation, maximum comfort, health and wellness while never losing focus of your personal style. Our promise to you is to meet or exceed your expectations to the very best of our abilities, all while creating a beautiful space worthy of HGTV. A master bathroom transformation involves many decisions. Let’s break down some of the major ones. SHOWER OPTIONS FOR YOUR MASTER BATHROOM MAKEOVER The single most important item to a large majority of our master bathroom remodel clients is the shower. Hands down, a larger shower with multiple body sprayers, a shower seat and a shower niche is the most requested bathroom item we hear. Below are some types of trending showers that guarantee to check all the boxes! Curbless Shower: A curbless shower is exactly that - a shower with no curb at the point of entry. There is no divider between the shower floor and the bathroom floor, which allows for an easy entrance and exit. You have a lowered risk of tripping, and this is a HUGE bonus for those of us entering our golden years. This type of shower is also perfect for individuals in a wheelchair due to its level flooring. As far as visual appeal is concerned, the curbless shower rates a 10/10. The room feels larger, more spa-like and modern, and more airy. To put it plainly, curbless showers are just good looking. Are they for every master bathroom? No, they are not. This type of shower requires a larger area in order to have the appropriate slope for drainage and to have adequate space for at least a 3” recessed pan. Pier and beam floors are ideal for this type of shower; concrete floors are not out of the question but are more labor intensive. If you are considering this type of shower, our team will assess your foundation, electrical and plumbing to ensure this is a viable option. Roman Shower: In basic terms, these are open showers. There are no doors and you, simply, walk in. Choosing this type of shower gives your master bathroom the feel of pure luxury. If privacy is an issue for you, you can opt to have a half-glass or half-stone wall installed. During the design phase, additional drains will be added to ensure the water flows out of the shower and not into your bathroom. The floor will also be sloped downwards for this same purpose. We want the water in the shower and not on your new floor! Frameless Shower: This is also called an “all-glass” shower, which shines a spotlight on the tile or stonework in the shower. The frameless shower gives your master bathroom a modern, airy feel. There are no metal tracks to distract you or to block the view of your gorgeous, new shower. The best part? No track to clean, which means no nooks and crannies for gunk to accumulate. We call that winning! Extras: No matter which type of shower you chose for your master bathroom renovation, certain amenities are now considered necessary. Shower niches for hair and body products are a must! A floating shower bench has numerous uses, including relaxing, shaving or meditating. Another luxurious addition is a heated towel rack waiting right outside your shower. Oh, my! For added pleasure during those showers, we can even add audio therapy with integrated speakers or aromatherapy with essential oils. CUSTOM SHOWERHEAD OPTIONS If you are transforming your master bathroom into your favorite room in your home, do not forget to elevate your shower routine by choosing the ultimate type of showerhead. Some options are: ● Handheld - These showerheads look like the traditional, fixed style, but they are not attached to the shower arm. As the name implies, this type of showerhead is attached to a long hose and can be held in your hand for directional control of the water. ● Rainfall - This type of showerhead is installed overhead with the intention of creating a standing-in-the-rain experience. Rainfall showerheads are intended for slow, long showers where you can prepare for the day ahead or wash away the stress from the previous hours. These heads have a range of 8”-12” (and even up to 20”!) in comparison to traditional heads, which have a range of 3”-6”. ● Dual - Can’t choose between handheld and rainfall showerheads? We have the perfect option for you! Dual systems have the best of both worlds. You can skip having to choose between the two options because you can have both! If the ultimate shower experience is your goal, we have the system for you. The Panel Shower System or Body Shower System delivers water through multiple sprayers for your full body massage. These jets cover from your shoulders to your knees, leaving you feeling squeaky clean as well as completely relaxed. You will soon be asking yourself how you ever lived without this… BATHTUB OPTIONS We are asked this question quite often: Do we need a tub in our master bathroom? Generally speaking, it comes down to two things - space and preference. If you want the ultimate spa-like experience, a soaking tub is a MUST. These beauties are called “soaking tubs” because you fully submerge in the warm water while your joints and muscles loosen from the day. Your skin will also thank you. Soaking tubs have an average height of 23” versus the traditional tub height of just under 19”. Soaking tubs are available in two types: ● Drop-in soaking tub with surrounds made from granite, marble, porcelain tile or quartz. ● Freestanding soaking tub in oval, rectangular or kidney shape. Other options include clawfoot tubs and ones elevated on a platform so they are the focal point of the room. Jetted or non-jetted is another option to consider. This has been a heavily debated topic in recent years in the world of home building and remodeling. If you are selling your home, potential buyers may be wary of a jetted tub due to the potential for harmful bacteria or mildew. An alternative to the water jet tub is the “air jet” tub, which has 48 air pin-hole jets that deliver thousands of air bubbles. This option is gentler than the traditional jetted tubs and is easier to clean. If you need to reclaim some space in your master bathroom in order to make room for a larger shower or for more storage or closet space, then removing the existing tub and not replacing it may be your only option. Along these same lines, if your space is somewhat limited, omitting the tub can make the area feel less crowded. If you plan to sell your home in 5-10 years, however, leaving one tub in the home is good for resale. MASTER BATH WET ROOM What about creating a WET ROOM? A hot design for a master bathroom renovation is placing a freestanding tub inside the shower to create a literal wet room. We believe this is the epitome of practicality! This entire area is waterproof, lessening your cleaning time. Also, this combination is quite pleasing to the eye. ADD A TANKLESS WATER HEATER Nobody likes running out of hot water. During your master bathroom remodel is the perfect time to update your water heater to a tankless heater. This ensures that the spa-like shower experience you love so much never gets cut short. Also, during the cold January and February months in Shreveport-Bossier, the addition of radiant floor heating would keep those bones warm while getting dressed. BATHROOM FLOORS & SURROUNDS This is one of the biggest decisions for your master bathroom transformation. You want something that blends beauty and functionality, something that is timeless, and something that makes you smile when you enter the room. Tile floors are front runners for master bathrooms due to their extensive color and style selections as well as their resiliency. There are a plethora of material options, such as: porcelain tile, porcelain-backed marble tile, wood-look porcelain tile, classic ceramic tile, subway tile and terrazzo tile. Natural stone and engineered wood are options for a more earthy feel. If you want THE most luxurious feeling, then marble tile and marble mosaics are for you. ARE TWO VANITY SINKS BETTER THAN ONE? I read once that having two sinks in the master bathroom can either be considered a luxury or a relationship-saver. We, simply, believe having two sinks is a win/win for both parties! The love between partners is a strong bond, but getting ready at the same time can sometimes test that. So, simply stated, two sinks is most definitely better than one! Freestanding vanities made from classic hardwood are still the most popular with white and natural being the leading finishes. While these colors are neutral, they also bring an organic feeling to the room. Quartz is a top choice for vanity tops due to its toughness. Marble and stone are other options. The perfect master bathroom includes vanities with drawer organizers, trays, bins and pull outs. Sounds amazing, right? Take this one step further and add a pullout laundry basket. Now, your master bathroom renovation has been elevated to the next level. BATHROOM FAUCETS AND FIXTURES I wanted to touch on vanity faucets for just a minute. Our favorite for the spa master bathroom is the waterfall spout mixer faucet. A single handle controls the hot and cold water, which is dispensed at the perfect temperature with a waterfall-like appearance. Like so many other items we have discussed, the options here are endless. Another nice touch is having your lavatory fixtures wall-mounted rather than mounted to the actual vanity. This makes cleaning a breeze. Plus, it looks super cool. Cabinets pulls and knobs are completely a matter of personal preference. We do not hold tightly to the “rule” that the same metal and finish must be used throughout the remodeled master bathroom. This is YOUR bathroom and your space. We believe in having fun with this decision and letting your personality come into play. I also like to think of the hardware as the jewelry of the room. BATHROOM STORAGE GALORE Organization is key in all areas of the home, and the master bathroom is no exception. During your renovation, planning for open shelving will give this space a modern feel. Including ceiling-height linen towers will provide ample storage for towels, toiletries, etc. With adequate storage, you will not sacrifice your countertop/vanity space. If you are like me, I need every inch possible! As the old saying goes, everything has a place and everything in its place. When choosing the finish for the linen cabinets, you could add an element of depth by making these cabinets a different finish than the vanities. Think kitchen island versus kitchen cabinets. MASTER BATHROOM LIGHTING Another question we are asked often is regarding lighting. The possibilities and options for lighting (master bathrooms are no exception) are literally endless. The type of lighting really depends upon the environment or feel you are trying to project. You can choose wall sconces, flush mounts, pendants, or recessed/overhead. Chandeliers are always a great idea! LED lights are the best choice for vanity areas due to their damp-rating, energy efficiency and perfect glow for makeup application. FINAL MASTER BATHROOM THOUGHTS: ● Skip the plain, traditional bathroom rug. Go with something that accents your personality in a high-quality area rug. ● Choose timeless and elegant accent pieces. ● Plants are always a great idea! We LOVE using plants in our master bathroom remodels. Ones that thrive in a moist environment are a must; adding one in the shower is a bonus! ● Mirror selection is one of the most enjoyable parts! Choose something you love because you will be staring at it A LOT. The decisions surrounding a master bathroom remodel do not have to be overwhelming, although we understand it can seem that way. The easiest place to start is by making the decision that it’s time to do this. Once you make that decision, call us. We will walk you through the process step-by-step. Together, we can create the master bathroom you have always wanted! Your muscles, joints, and sanity will thank you.MASTER BATH WET ROOM

What about creating a WET ROOM?  A hot design for a master bathroom renovation is placing a freestanding tub inside the shower to create a literal wet room.  We believe this is the epitome of practicality!  This entire area is waterproof, lessening your cleaning time.  Also, this combination is quite pleasing to the eye.

ADD A TANKLESS WATER HEATER

Nobody likes running out of hot water.  During your master bathroom remodel is the perfect time to update your water heater to a tankless heater.  This ensures that the spa-like shower experience you love so much never gets cut short.  Also, during the cold January and February months in Shreveport-Bossier, the addition of radiant floor heating would keep those bones warm while getting dressed.

BATHROOM FLOORS & SURROUNDS

This is one of the biggest decisions for your master bathroom transformation.  You want something that blends beauty and functionality, something that is timeless, and something that makes you smile when you enter the room.

Tile floors are front runners for master bathrooms due to their extensive color and style selections as well as their resiliency.  There are a plethora of material options, such as:  porcelain tile, porcelain-backed marble tile, wood-look porcelain tile, classic ceramic tile, subway tile and terrazzo tile.  Natural stone and engineered wood are options for a more earthy feel.  If you want THE most luxurious feeling, then marble tile and marble mosaics are for you.

ARE TWO VANITY SINKS BETTER THAN ONE?

I read once that having two sinks in the master bathroom can either be considered a luxury or a relationship-saver.  We, simply, believe having two sinks is a win/win for both parties!  The love between partners is a strong bond, but getting ready at the same time can sometimes test that.

So, simply stated, two sinks is most definitely better than one!

Freestanding vanities made from classic hardwood are still the most popular with white and natural being the leading finishes.  While these colors are neutral, they also bring an organic feeling to the room.  Quartz is a top choice for vanity tops due to its toughness.  Marble and stone are other options.

The perfect master bathroom includes vanities with drawer organizers, trays, bins and pull outs.  Sounds amazing, right?  Take this one step further and add a pullout laundry basket.  Now, your master bathroom renovation has been elevated to the next level.

 

BATHROOM FAUCETS AND FIXTURES

I wanted to touch on vanity faucets for just a minute.  Our favorite for the spa master bathroom is the waterfall spout mixer faucet.  A single handle controls the hot and cold water, which is dispensed at the perfect temperature with a waterfall-like appearance.  Like so many other items we have discussed, the options here are endless.

Another nice touch is having your lavatory fixtures wall-mounted rather than mounted to the actual vanity.  This makes cleaning a breeze.  Plus, it looks super cool.

Cabinets pulls and knobs are completely a matter of personal preference.  We do not hold tightly to the “rule” that the same metal and finish must be used throughout the remodeled master bathroom.  This is YOUR bathroom and your space.  We believe in having fun with this decision and letting your personality come into play.  I also like to think of the hardware as the jewelry of the room.

BATHROOM STORAGE GALORE

Organization is key in all areas of the home, and the master bathroom is no exception.  During your renovation, planning for open shelving will give this space a modern feel.  Including ceiling-height linen towers will provide ample storage for towels, toiletries, etc.  With adequate storage, you will not sacrifice your countertop/vanity space.  If you are like me, I need every inch possible!  As the old saying goes, everything has a place and everything in its place.

When choosing the finish for the linen cabinets, you could add an element of depth by making these cabinets a different finish than the vanities.  Think kitchen island versus kitchen cabinets.

Farmhouse Fab Master Bathroom Vanity AfterMASTER BATHROOM LIGHTING

Another question we are asked often is regarding lighting.  The possibilities and options for lighting (master bathrooms are no exception) are literally endless.  The type of lighting really depends upon the environment or feel you are trying to project.  You can choose wall sconces, flush mounts, pendants, or recessed/overhead.  Chandeliers are always a great idea!  LED lights are the best choice for vanity areas due to their damp-rating, energy efficiency and perfect glow for makeup application.

FINAL MASTER BATHROOM THOUGHTS:

  • Skip the plain, traditional bathroom rug. Go with something that accents your personality in a high-quality area rug.
  • Choose timeless and elegant accent pieces.
  • Plants are always a great idea! We LOVE using plants in our master bathroom remodels.  Ones that thrive in a moist environment are a must; adding one in the shower is a bonus!
  • Mirror selection is one of the most enjoyable parts! Choose something you love because you will be staring at it A LOT.

The decisions surrounding a master bathroom remodel do not have to be overwhelming, although we understand it can seem that way.  The easiest place to start is by making the decision that it’s time to do this.  Once you make that decision, call us.  We will walk you through the process step-by-step.  Together, we can create the master bathroom you have always wanted!  Your muscles, joints, and sanity will thank you.