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 WoodworkingYou love your home, but there are some areas that are no longer working for you, if they ever did at all. You have made the big decision to renovate your kitchen, to give yourself the space you have always envisioned, but it feels overwhelming. How do you know which layout will work best for you? Which style best represents you, and what wood type will pair perfectly with certain colors? The kitchen can be a more difficult renovation because it involves multiple facets, such as plumbing and electrical. Adding in the appliances, lighting, and cabinets decisions can be enough to make your head spin. Planning is a critical part of a kitchen renovation, making it a key area of focus, which is why an experienced designer can help you accomplish your dreams on time and on budget.
James Martin Vanities has not disappointed us but provided many of our clients with a bathroom vanity that suited their unique needs, and the shorter lead times have allowed them to get the upgrades they needed within their timeframe. Our goal will always remain to provide our clients with the best possible products that fit their project, whether that is a custom, semi-custom, or predone option like the James Martin Vanity. We are here to assist you in finding the vanity that works for you, which is why we offer a variety of options. Are you ready for a change? Come visit our showroom where we have multiple vanities available for you to browse, and if you like one, you can take it home with you.
Walker Woodworking The kitchen sink has often been used to describe someone who packs everything they can think of when going on a trip, but in reality, it is a vital part of the kitchen and one of the most frequently used elements. It’s how we maintain a clean environment as we wash our hands, food, countertops, and dirty dishes. Our entire meal prep revolves around the sink since it is where most of the food is cut and prepared to be turned into a delicious dish for the family, and all the pots are filled. With so much happening around the sink, and it fulfills many roles, the type you choose is important. It should have the capacity to do everything needed in one easy design, which is why Greenbrook Design is proud to be a dealer for the Galley Workstation, a company that has reinvented the sink. Let’s talk about what it is and why you should choose it for your new kitchen sink.
Home is more than just a place to prepare for the next day, to sleep at night, and to eat your meals. It is a place where memories are made. It is where you can take a break from your routine and do something fun with your family. While everyone enjoys gathering in the kitchen, it is not the most ideal area of the home to play a board game or watch a movie. Many homeowners enjoy the idea of having a separate area where the kids can play, or they can host a Super Bowl party. Carving out a place in the home dedicated to just fun is a great way to enjoy family time without worrying about making a mess. Let’s talk about some ways to build your home for entertainment.
Walker WoodworkingThe kitchen is the center of the home, which means it should be given good consideration when planning its layout. This is especially true when it comes to cabinet design. Closed, glass front, and open shelving are the options available for kitchen cabinets. Open shelving has become a popular choice with homeowners and designers alike due to the elegance and style it brings to the kitchen. Let’s talk about the benefits it can bring to your home and some helpful design tips.
Greenbrook Design 
Walker Woodworking