Are you thinking about getting your bathroom remodeled? With so many choices and decisions to be made, many homeowners don't know where to start. Here are some guidelines to help you through the process.
Figure out what you want in your new bath
Write down some words to describe how you would like the room to look and feel. For example, if you are remodeling your master bath, you may decide you want it to feel like a retreat or spa. Or maybe you want it to remind you of your honeymoon in Italy. Don't be afraid to dream!
Think about how the room will be used. Besides the usual functions of the bath, are there other things you will want to do in there? Perhaps you will watch tv or read. Maybe you need storage for linens or want to sit down at a vanity to put on your makeup.
Gather bath design ideas from current books, magazines and online sites
Now that you have jotted down some thoughts, look for some visual ideas. There is a wealth of information out there. Start with the new books section of your local library. Peruse book stores and home improvement stores. Look online. A great website resource is houzz, where you can search photos by style. This has been called the "flickr of design idea sites."
Get help from an interior designer
Consider enlisting the help of a professional. A trained designer can save you time, prevent you from making expensive mistakes and guide you through the whole process. She will ask you about your ideas, needs and preferences (from the steps above) and interpret them into a design that will be functional and a reflection of you. In addition, she is knowledgeable about building codes and space planning and will have access to current products and resources to get the job done. Designers also get trade discounts, which they may be willing to pass on to you.
Draw up a floor plan and elevations
Your designer can do this for you. If you are doing it yourself, you will have to learn some basic drafting. Get a pad of 1/4 inch graph paper, a straight edge, an architect's scale and a drafting pencil with eraser. Draw your room in 1/4 inch scale, 1/2 inch if there is room on the paper.. A floor plan is a bird's eye view looking down and shows room dimensions, windows, doors and placement of fixtures. Elevations are wall views and should be drawn in 1/2 inch scale. Take your plans with you when you go shopping and reserve a set for your contractor. Refer to them to see what size fixtures, counter top and cabinets will fit in the space, and for planning your tile design.
Shop for and purchase products
Make your shopping list. Find out what the prices and lead times are on all the products you will need. If your handmade tile is going to take 9 weeks, you need to allow for this. If you are working with a designer, the two of you can discuss how to do the shopping and purchasing. Typically, designers will do the shopping and present you with a few choices that will work for your plan.
Line up a contractor
Start looking for a reputable contractor. Your designer may have a few that they like to work with. If you are going about the search on your own, here are some guidelines on hiring a contractor. Once you find one you like, you will want to get on their schedule. Make sure you sign a contract. Most contractors will want you to have all your fixtures and materials on site before they start the work.
Prepare for construction
Remodeling is a messy job, but if you know what to expect and prepare the surrounding spaces, you can minimize the inconvenience. Ask your contractor to explain the stages of construction, his time line and how you can prepare for the remodel.
Pay attention
Check in on the job without getting in the workers' way and inspect the site at the end of each day. Be available to make decisions as issues come up. Your contractor will be checking to make sure things are progressing according to plan. Enjoy the process! It's fun to see the various stages of transformation and soon you will have a beautiful new bathroom.
DIY
If you are a DIYer, take advantage of Home Depot's Bath How-To Center.
For more info:
ds design studio - snider.deb@gmail.com
Comments
Very inspirational bathroom picture with a nicely done article.
Inspirational bathrooms from small to large master baths all start with a floor plan and elevation designs.
Free Bathroom Designs
www.homeplansforfree.com/Free-bathroom-designs/index.php
Wishing you the very best.
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