Waukesha County Home

(BPT) — If you're thinking about remod- eling your small bathroom, you may know that studies show updating a bathroom of any size can increase the value of a home. However, there's a statistic from a Houzz survey you might not know: 75 percent of people who renovate a master bathroom don't make it bigger. Enlarging a small master bathroom is often impractical; you may need to take space from another room, or extend an exterior wall to accomplish an expansion. Both options have disadvantages and costs. The truth is, you don't need to move walls or spend like a home improvement show host in order to create big luxury in a small master bathroom. Here are five ways to make a small bath- room space feel lavish and spa-like: 1. Rethink the shower stall versus tub debate. Many large luxury bathrooms have a sep- arate shower and soaking tub. In a small bathroom, which may be used by multiple members and generations of a household, creating an upscale feeling by separating the tub from the shower might not be a real- istic option. Instead, look for ways to boost the appeal of your tub/shower space, per- haps by choosing a visually appealing, bright-white model for an updated, yet clas- sic, style. For example, Americast bathtubs from American Standard combine unmatched strength and durability with elegant, tradi- tional design lines that blend perfectly with stylish bathroom décor. Patented three- layer Americast construction gives the tubs a porcelain enamel finish, sound-dampen- ing qualities and superior resistance to damage, all in a lightweight material that makes for easy installation. 2. Step up your shower game. The shower isn't just where you get clean; it's also a morning wake-up tool or end-of- day relaxation therapy treatment. Deluxe showers often feature multiple jets, rainfall showerheads and hand showers. Replacing an ordinary showerhead with a shower sys- tem is a cost-effective and easy way to add a luxurious experience to the shower. Options like the GROHE Retro-Fit Show- er System offer a drenching rain shower- head, along with an integrated hand show- er for ultimate convenience. Since the main showerhead is mounted on a movable arm, you can position the spray overhead (to function as a rainfall shower) or at an angle for additional comfort, all with the choice of spray patterns. Even better, the system works with existing plumbing, eliminating any need to open the wall to change piping. For added indulgence, consider a shower system with an elegant brushed nickel fin- ish to elevate the look of your overall show- er and bathroom décor. 3. Splurge on luxury materials. Yes, materials like travertine tile or gran- ite countertops can be costly, but when you're renovating a small bathroom, you need less of those materials. Adding mar- ble tile above a small tub/shower area will cost far less than outfitting a large walk-in shower. Replacing a modestly sized vanity with a new cabinet and granite countertop won't be nearly as expensive as redoing a large, double-sink vanity. When you have less real estate to refur- bish, high-end materials can be a cost-effec- tive choice. For a reasonable price, you can use quality materials to significantly boost the upscale feeling of your small bathroom. 4. Add pizzazz to functional elements. You can increase a small bathroom's feel- ing of extravagance by adding some flair to functional items like faucets, mirrors and cabinet hardware. For a modest invest- ment, you can turn everyday, often-over- looked elements into items that underscore the overall beauty of the room. For example, replacing an ordinary or outdated faucet with a modern-style option from the Colony PRO bath collection is an affordable way to improve aesthetics and functionality. Sleek styling translates well into modern bathroom design. Plus, single- or double-handle design means that faucets are user-friendly for children and adults of all ages and mobility levels. Replacing a typical bathroom medicine cabinet or mirror with a luxury model is another way to elevate a small bathroom to premium status. Today's medicine cabinets come with an array of leading-edge features, such as defogging functions, built- in electrical outlets, night lights, USB out- lets, interior lights and set-in magnifying mirrors. 5. Lighten up the space. Finally, adding more natural light into a small master bathroom can make the space seem larger and more appealing. If your small bathroom already has a window, forgo blinds or shades in favor of easy-to- apply privacy film. Readily available in home improvement stores or online, in a breadth of simple or fancy patterns, this opaque film allows light to enter the room while providing the necessary privacy. If your budget allows, consider adding a skylight for natural lighting and passive ventilation. Even if your small master bathroom is on the ground floor, it may be possible to use a tube skylight to bring more natural light into the space. Achieving ultimate comfort and luxury in your small-space bathroom is at your fingertips, easily and affordably. HOME JULY 2018 4 4820 W. Loomis Rd. 414.744.9400 Greenfield 2142 E. Moreland Blvd. 262.524.1455 Waukesha Lifetime Installation Warranty! FREE Financing w/approved credit. Not valid with any other offers or previous purchases. www.stusflooring.com Expires 8/31/18 SALE Residential Customer Appreciation Residential Customer Appreciation TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR 15% OFF ALL ORDER OUT CARPET ONLY Free Carpet Removal & Disposal with Carpet Purchase See Store for Details 261111006 Big luxury in a small master bathroom BPT Small bathrooms can be big on luxury and comfort, with the American Standard bright white Americast tub accented with a high-style Colony PRO shower/tub faucet set and matching bathroom sink faucet, all for an affordable price.

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