Design Notes
The master bathroom is considered a special retreat for the owners, a place of relaxation. Over the years, the design has changed from a garden tub and shower combo to walk-in showers and soaker tubs. Some wonder if both are needed or if one is more essential than the other. We want to explore the pros and cons of each and help you know which one is the best fit for you, or if you should have both.
Soaker Tub
Why choose a soaker tub? A bath takes much longer than a shower, but it is also one of the best ways to unwind from the day’s stress and completely relax the body. Soaker tubs are perfect for this, but here are a few things to consider when shopping for one.
- Depth: Because they are designed for soaking, these tubs are deeper than the average one. The minimum depth is 14 inches, and you can go up from there to find one that suits your exact needs.
- Style: Multiple styles are available for your soaker tub, including the elegant Elizabethan age and the classic bowl look. The feet can also be a fun pop, such as the claw foot or brass. An array of shapes is available as well, including the more traditional oval and round, but square, hourglass, and even slipper are also on the table.
- Material: From natural stone to acrylic, there are many options available depending on your style, budget, and space.
- Budget: The price will depend on size and material, but typically starts at $700. Look around for inspirational pictures before talking to your designer, so they have an idea of what you want and can help you find the best price.
Soaker tubs are an excellent option for the master bathroom. They add elegance and create a spa-like atmosphere. This great option can also add value to your home. Get a few more design tips here.
Walk-In Shower
What are the benefits of a walk-in shower? They are easy to clean, efficient, and flexible in size. Let’s discuss the pros and cons of having a walk-in shower.
- Style: There are so many great ways to express your personality in the design, from beautiful tile to fun shower heads. The possibilities are endless.
- Aging in place: One big benefit of a walk-in shower is that it is always easy to get in and out of, whereas a tub may prove difficult over time because one has to step into it.
- Size: Whether you have a small bathroom or lots of space to play with, the walk-in shower is flexible and adaptable. It can be tucked away neatly in the corner and only attached to one wall, with the other three encased in glass or a pony wall. Whatever the size, this is the shower that can go with the flow.
- Placement: As with size, this option can be placed anywhere it needs to be, making it an asset in the design phase.
There are a few downsides to having a walk-in shower, such as:
- Temperature: It can feel a bit cooler since there’s no shower curtain to block the breeze.
- Humidity: Nothing hinders the steam from leaving the shower, so be sure to install a fan that can be run afterward to help prevent mold buildup.
- Privacy: Of course, this is rather obvious, but if you like to take a shower with the peace of mind that regardless of whether a family member surprises you or not, this can be a deterrent for some people.
Be sure to weigh out your options before making your choice. There is no right or wrong answer; this is your home, and you get to decide what you want.
Best Of Both Worlds
Many of our clients have included both a walk-in shower and a soaker tub in their design. This is a great option, providing the best of both worlds in their master sanctuary. Whether they need a quick shower before the day starts or have time to enjoy a relaxing soak in the tub on the weekend, this option is worth considering. Talk to your designer about how to optimize your space so you can get the best possible design.
Walker Woodworking While these inspirational photos spark our imagination, they can also raise a common concern—will that beautiful design actually work for our lifestyle, especially with young children or busy households? The good news is that designing for function in mind doesn’t mean sacrificing style. A luxurious, classy home can also be highly practical and comfortable for everyday living. By thoughtfully blending form and function, you can create a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. And the best part? Elevating your home’s style doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Here are a few easy, functional ways to enhance your home while keeping it elegant and family-friendly.
Walker WoodworkingWhen it comes to most areas in the home, there are things that often get overlooked because they are thought to have little value or impact. The bathroom sink falls into this category, but it holds more value than you may realize. The right sink can add a touch of character to your bathroom space and enhance its overall appearance and style. We have come a long way since the caveman days, when sinks were made from whatever material was handy, such as wooden bowls or even a turtle shell. Today, there are numerous options available as manufacturers have explored various styles and materials to create sinks that suit each homeowner and serve different purposes. With such a wide variety, it can be challenging to determine which one is best for you and your specific needs. Today, we want to explore the selections offered and what they have to offer you.
Greenbrook Design Increasingly, homeowners are not only interested in using eco-friendly products and materials but also in designing their homes to have the least possible impact on the environment. This has led to a rise in zero waste kitchen concepts, with designers seeking to meet their clients’ requests in a way that provides a functional, environmentally friendly, yet stylish kitchen. We know that certain materials are better than others, and incorporating more natural elements into our home is beneficial, but what exactly does it mean to design a zero-waste kitchen or bathroom? We aim to answer that question, while also providing you with helpful tips for your upcoming renovation.
Greenbrook Design The bathroom is a critical part of the home; while we don’t gather for meals and conversation, it is the place we get ready for the day, and one of the last places we go before bed. This means that it should be designed to function in such a way that is beneficial to everyone who uses it. While a bathroom’s primary purpose is to be functional, that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. There are many ways to create a look that represents your unique style and personality, such as through tile and color choices. If you’re considering renovating your bathroom space and giving it some much-needed upgrades and updates, but are lacking inspiration, let us help you. There are several fun and beautiful bathroom trends for 2022. Let’s explore a few of them today.
Walker WoodworkingThere are many elements that make up a room, including color, layout, and decor style, but one key ingredient can add depth and tone to a space: texture. Like many design tools, texture often becomes an afterthought when creating a plan for a new area in the home. Many might even think it has little impact on a design, but that is not true. Texture provides balance, visual weight, and warmth to your home, which is why it should be a part of the planning stage from the start. Texture is not limited to fabrics and furniture, but can also include wallpaper, glass, and plants. Let’s discuss adding texture to your home and creating a space that is inviting to the touch for everyone.
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