According to a recent poll of their members, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) says that many people are postponing major renovation projects due to the economy but are tackling smaller home projects now.   And it seems that bath remodeling projects are really hot!

In fact, a few trends are emerging about customer requests and decorating trends for the new year:

1. They want cozy so earth tones are back!  Getting away from the white, minimalist look, those warmer greens, browns, and earthy colors are surfacing again.
2. Metallic finishes compliment and update those earth tones in more contemporary, modern ways.  Finishes like aged or oil rubbed bronze are used more and more for faucets, light fixtures, and hardware.
3. Bamboo floors and energy efficient windows and fixtures are becoming even more important for the environmentally conscious decorator.  What used to be unique and rare is becoming more affordable and common.
4. People want a more tranquil, relaxing atmosphere at home.  So spa-like bathrooms provide the space for winding down after a long day at work.  Features like multiple shower heads and steam showers help to create a more zen-like bathroom environment.

You’re probably thinking “I could be happy with a bathroom like that!” And we would love to help you!

Before embarking on your bathroom remodeling project in San Antonio, call or contact us for an appointment to talk about your vision for your new bathroom.

We’ll listen to what you want and share our expertise in creating the bathroom of your dreams.  It doesn’t have to be difficult.  Our years of experience will help you save time and money on your bath remodel.

We look forward to working with you.

The greatest benefit is perhaps the increase in value it means for your home – especially in Texas!  According to Remodeling Magazines latest report on the relationship between remodeling costs and the resale value, you can expect a Mid-range project to recoup about 71% of the original project’s cost at resale time.

However, this report also indicates that the area which enjoys the largest value recouped for a remodeled bathroom is the West South Central area which includes Texas (and Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana) with 81.7% of the remodeling costs.  That’s far exceeding the 71% national average!  Of course, it’s important to note that if your brother-in-law did a shoddy job on your bathroom you shouldn’t expect to see this higher level of return.  Make sure the workmanship is quality!

And we already know that potential home buyers list updated bathrooms and kitchens at the top of their list.  So those homes with remodeled bathrooms and kitchens are more likely to sell quicker than those that haven’t been updated.

In addition to the increase in value, a new bathroom may improve the entire appearance of your home.  The roll-over effect is often felt throughout the house with a new bathroom -  if one area is updated then other areas look better, too.

Who knows, you may get ready quicker in the morning when you don’t have to share a small bathroom space with your spouse.  Or, maybe your stress level will go way down when you can look forward to relaxing in your new tub at the end of a long day.  And your social life may improve when you start inviting family and friends over more often than ever before!

The value of a new bathroom is measured in lots of ways.  You better get started now!

How many times have you heard that dark colors make a room look smaller?   What about needing to stay away from oversize wallpaper designs?  Think again!

You’ll be surprised how beautiful a vibrant wallpaper pattern or a dark color will punch up a small space – especially if you add splashes of white trim or light colored accessories to offset the darker colors.  Consider using a gloss finish paint to reflect the mirrors in the room or catch the light from the window.

If you’re fortunate enough to have a window in the space, have fun with the window treatments. A beautiful woven shade or a coordinating fabric roman shade adds a functional, stylish look that can be found in a wide menu of colors.

If space is tight, you may opt to use a pedestal sink.  Not only do they take up less floor space, pedestal sinks also add a bit of “air” to the room while helping it to look lighter and not so heavy with furniture.  You’ll still have many choices regarding style, shape, and design.  Even very small bowl sinks are available for those really petite powder rooms.

However, if you have enough space to accommodate a vanity, think about re-purposing another cabinet or even a dresser.  It’s not difficult to cut holes for the basin and faucets if you measure correctly!  Talk about trash to treasure!  You could really have fun incorporating a faux paint finish or even covering the cabinet in mirrors.  The updated cabinet vanity would certainly be the focal point of the room and would provide some extra storage as well.

Another powder room remodeling idea is to max out the mirror.  Either max it out in size (keep it proportionate to the room and vanity) or max out the design.  You might find just the perfect unique, decorative mirror for your guest bath or you might consider a little DIY effort and dress up a mirror you already own.  A little paint and a few embellishments can make a big difference.   For example, a shell covered mirror is the perfect topper in a beach theme bathroom.

Whatever style you choose to adopt in your powder room, give yourself permission to add a bit of fun and don’t be afraid to push the limit.