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5 Questions to Help You Create a Great Space on Any Budget

Mar 14, 2018
Modern Bathroom With Large Mirror

Now that you've decided to make over your master bathroom, where do you begin? The master bath is a combination of form and function that's unlike other bathrooms in the house. To help you create the perfect melding of these two ideas, here are five questions to answer before you swing a hammer.


1. Tub or Shower?

Installing a large and luxurious soaking bathtub used to be all the rage in master bath suites. But these days, many homeowners realize that they don't spend enough time in such a tub to justify either the cost or the space in the room.


Instead of assuming you need a big, focal point bathtub, consider how much you will really use it. Would it be better for you to spend your money on a modern shower system with beautiful stone tiles instead?

2. How Does Traffic Flow?

People rarely think about traffic flow in the bathroom the way they do in other rooms. But many families and partners find that there are two, three, or more people shuffling around a bathroom at the same time, especially in the mornings.


Ask yourself questions about how many people will need to use the space at the same time. How comfortably can they


pass one another? Are the various stations in the bathroom - such as the sink and the shower - far enough apart that people won't trip on each other? If the width or depth in the bathroom is lacking, you may find outsize benefit in spending the money to widen it.


3. More Counters or More Sinks?

The double sink is a staple of most master bathrooms. But, as with a large tub, it can be something that people simply assume they need for a luxury space. In fact, what many people actually need more than another sink is more counter space to work at the same time.


Rather than adding sinks, some modern homeowners opt for grooming stations. This is a counter space with a good mirror and lighting that can be used to perform beauty or grooming without the need of a sink. Add some cabinets or shelving for beauty supplies or accessories for a spot that does it all.


4. Can You Add More Light?

Unlike many other bathrooms in the house, the master bath is often situated where you could allow more natural lighting. Natural light not only makes the room seem larger and more luxurious, but it can also alter the lighting to a more natural hue for grooming.


Even if your master bathroom doesn't already have windows or a skylight, consider installing one or both. Since many master suites are on the upper floor and/or along an outside wall, you may be able to do so with less cost than expected.


5. What Splurges Do You Want?

Of course, as part of the master suite, the bathroom should look and feel luxurious. Even on a tight budget, make sure you set aside some money to spend on at least one splurge item.


Which splurge is right for you depends on your personality. It could be anything from heated tile floors to a body spray shower system or built-in speakers. If you have trouble deciding, make a priority list in order of importance so that you and your partner can choose what will add the most value to your lives.


Answering these five questions while still planning your master bath renovation will help you hone in on what you really want and what you can afford to do. For more help, call us at JO Contractors today. With more than 20 years of experience helping homeowners realize their remodeling dreams, we can help you too.

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