Have you ever wondered why some bathroom designs look more like comfortable extensions of the adjoining living space than utility bathrooms? It’s all in the details. When planning your new bathroom you and your Metropolitan Bath and Tile Designer will study the different plumbing fixtures, cabinet doors and finishes but you might think the base of your vanity is a choice that won’t be noticed.
A bathroom vanity is just a vanity – unless you take the time to add the options that turn it into a uniquely beautiful piece of custom furniture. If you want fine furniture detailing for your new bathroom cabinets take the time examine furniture base options. You will go beyond the standard lines of a toe-kick base and add undeniable style. Suddenly your vanity becomes a dresser, a bureau, or a display case because you customized the base. Here are some handsome options from Norcraft Cabinetry® that can make a difference in the mood of your bathroom design:
Choose an Edge Option to get rid of the boxy appearance of your cabinet.
Add a base edge to vanity
Choose a Valance Platform or a Foot to add style and design interest.
Choose a valance option instead of a standard toe-kick
Or, choose a vanity base foot that matches your decor
Base Details Upgrade Your New Vanity
See the amazing transformation? Your MetroBath designer will be happy to show you the special custom options from any line of cabinetry you wish that will combine the functionality of a quality vanity with the rich appeal of gorgeous furniture to truly personalize your bathroom remodeling results from the bottom up!
A Wide Array of Countertop Choices for Bathroom Remodeling
You’re going to remodel your bathroom, but what makes a good countertop choice? Waterproof , stain resistant, attractive countertop materials give you unlimited possibilities for your bathroom design. If you use heated, hair appliances you may look for heat-resistance. If it’s an area where makeup is applied, look for stain-resistance. If it’s the home’s main bathroom consider easy maintenance. Because bathroom countertops are usually not expansive like a kitchen’s they can be a nice splurge towards getting the look you want. Here’s a rundown of some modern manmade and natural finish materials:
Laminates: vast array of color and styles like Formica®, can scratch but is the least expensive.
Solid Surface and Composites: non-staining, easy to clean, and can be repaired. Includes Silestone®, Caesarstone®, and Corian®, cultured marble. Easily fabricated to your specifications and can feature interesting edges and built-in sinks. Stone patterns or solids are available.
Ceramic Tile: durable and unlimited styles, colors and textures but grout can stain and sometimes has an irregular surface.
Stone: includes granite and marble. Very popular, with organic appeal – and rich looking -but more expensive. Durable, heat resistant, range of natural colors and textures. Marble, in particular,can stain in some instances and requires sealers. Because natural stone is so hard it’s not very forgiving if you drop a glass container on it.
Wood: soft, natural surface that looks at home in an Arts and Crafts decor but can stain, mildew and rot unless heavily prepped and finished. Mahogany, teak are tougher, more stain resistant than a typical butcher-block.
Stainless Steel: non-staining, heat resistant, easy to clean but can dent or scratch. Great for a sleek, modern look.
Concrete: durable, heat resistant, can be cast in a variety of shapes. Can fade, stain and discolor as well as crack, but lends an artsy, high-tech look.
Metropolitan Bath and Tile Designers are here to help you through the maze of selecting the perfect countertop matched to your usage and budget. Stop by one of our convenient showrooms in Maryland or Virginia. Browse our samples and our gorgeous bathroom displays and get started on your bathroom remodeling today. As always at MetroBath, the largest residential bathroom remodeler in the US, estimates are free.
Just need a countertop? Metropolitan Bath and Tile specializes in bathroom remodeling and doesn’t sell individual countertops for purchase.
You’ve picked out the most fabulous tile for your new bathroom so the last thing you want to do is hide it. Tempered glass shower enclosures are a modern and almost invisible way of keeping your shower water where it belongs.
There are two basic types to choose from: frameless and framed.
Frameless showers are extremely popular because of their clean modern look but tend to be the more expensive because they need thicker glass. The hardware for frameless doors are a lot less intrusive and don’t detract from the tile as much.
Framed door systems are stronger and cost less because they use lighter-weight glass and are are easier to install.
You’ll need to decide whether your doors should slide or hinge. Hinges can be wall or glass mounted. Shower stalls that require hinged doors that swing outward will need room for clearance and a bottom gutter to collect the dripping water when opened. Sliding doors will need a track but a variety of finishes are available to go with your faucets.
Clear glass is a little harder to keep perfectly clean but gives a less enclosed feeling. You can also opt for various patterned or frosted translucent glass panels that don’t show water spots.
Curtains
You may simply like the color, pattern and soft look of a shower curtain to enhance your tiles. A bathroom that is in sync with an older house’s architecture may look best with a shower curtain –especially with certain types of old-fashioned tubs. Talk to your designer at Metropolitan Bath and Tile about hiding or recessing the shower rod for a more sleek appearance and custom look without going over your budget. Or, upgrade that standard curtain rod for one that coordinates with your new fixtures.
Stop by one of our showrooms and browse our many displays of shower and tub enclosure options and find that perfect tile you’ll love to show off from our huge collection for bathroom remodeling!
top: American Standard® Reminiscence Countertop, Undercounter, American Standard® Dorian Glass Vesselbottom: American Standard® Town Square Pedestal Sink, Kohler® Tableau® wall-mount lavatory, Solid Surface Sink
Bathroom sinks can set the tone in any bathroom remodeling. What you choose will probably depend on how much you need to store in your bathroom. They can receive hard use in the main bath or just sit and shine in a power room but are functional pieces just the same. Bathroom sinks are also known as lavatory sinks or “lav” sinks. Here is a breakdown of installation methods to help you find one with your MetroBath Designer that’s right for your bathroom remodeling:
Countertop: Also called “drop-ins” because they are self-rimming and are designed to go on and into a vanity countertop.
Under-counter: Similar to a drop-in, these sinks are attached completely “under” the countertop where only the inside of the bowl is visible. When paired with a vanity can offer generous storage underneath. Easy to clean because the rim is not on top of the counter. They can be selected to match or contrast with the countertop.
Vessel sink: Technically a top-mount sink– these high-end lavs expose the entire bowl above the countertop like the washbasins of years gone by. An exceptionally contemporary and stylish look when made from spun glass, but come in a variety of materials.
Pedestal sink: Freestanding pedestal style sinks can be classic or contemporary depending on their lines. These are decorative lav sinks anchored to the wall, and sit atop matching pedestal bases or console tables that don’t occupy much floor space. They have limited countertop space but can be all that is needed in a powder room that doesn’t require a lot of storage space.Usually come in 32″-36″ heights for standing adults.
Wall-mounted lavs: Often called wall-hung sinks. Wall-mounting a bathroom sink can be the best choice for accessible needs as they can be hung at different heights. Sinks hung at 30″ can be a better height for children or people in a seated position. 36″ is a better height for a standing adult.
Solid surface sinks: All-in-one countertop/sinks made from manmade materials like cultured marble, Corian® or Silestone® are durable and are easy care. The seamless properties translate into a sleek appearance and their one-piece construction eliminates leaks.
You’ve chosen a perfect design layout for your new bathroom remodeling with Metropolitan Bath and Tile. What’s next? Color. Your choice of color is very important for the bathroom - or any room – because it has a psychological effect. The bathroom is a functional room, though – a personal place to get ready for the world, to bathe, to relax. Choosing the right colors for the fixtures, tile, countertop, floor and walls of your home’s new bathroom can have a distinct effect on the mood of all those who enter.
Traditional color associations:
Cool Colors – relaxation, promotes concentration
Blue is calming, relaxing and reminds of of sky and water – like an outdoor pool.
Green in many parts of the country is strongly associated with nature, new growth, trees and shrubs. Greens that are more yellow-based will remind you of the Spring, wheras deeper greens are linked to maturity, such as older plants or trees (it can provide a peaceful, tranquil feel). Warm Colors - exciting or dramatic
Red can be rich, sophisticated or cozy . Deeper, grayer-toned reds are common associated with a warm, friendly rural feeling (apples, farmhouse). A popular color for a powder room.
Yellow is a happy color and calls to mind sunshine -clean, fresh and cheerful.
Whites & Pales – reflects the most light
White is generally associated with adjectives such as pure, clean, new and bright. Depending on the warmth or coolness of the white, it can be elegant, peaceful, or modern.
Dark Colors - absorb light, makes room seem smaller, more intimate
Brown is most frequently associated with earth, Mother Nature and warmth. Soft cocoa browns and taupes can be treated as neutrals and complement stronger colors well (like gold or red towels). Deep browns can be rich and elegant.
Grey is prevalent in nature also as stone and sky. It lends a traditional, quiet tone to the bath. The deeper charcoal tones can be elegant for a man’s decor.
Tip: Want a trendy color now but you tend to redecorate every few years? Keep your sink, toilet, tub and tile in white or creme – and paint your untiled areas in your favorite hue (for now!).
The fabulous new shower heads can provide a gentle mist to a virtual deluge and are capable of providing a range of experiences to match your changing moods and needs. Many choices for your new shower when remodeling with MetroBath! Here are just a few…
In2ition from Delta
New from Delta
In2ition: Use the integrated showerheads together or separately to get water where you need it most. Another reason Delta is more than just a shower.
You undock by simply pulling the integrated handshower from the showerhead and dock by snapping the handshower back into place when finished.
With a lever positioned on the side of the showerhead, you can set your In2ition shower to one of three options: Showerhead and Handshower combined, Showerhead only, and Handshower only.
The pause functionality on the handshower reduces the water to a trickle, allowing you to conserve water while doing tasks such as lathering up or shaving your legs.
A handshower allows you to perform a multitude of different activities such as; bathing your children, easily rinsing your hair, washing your pets, cleaning your shower, and massaging sore muscles.
Selections from Kohler
Kohler Single-Function Showerhead
KOHLER single-function showerheads are engineered to deliver a full, consistent spray.
Kohler Multi-Function Showerheads
Choose your experience. Rejuvenate with a wide spray. Enjoy a gentle massage from a pulsating spray. Or calm your body and mind with an aerated spray.
Kohler Rain Showerheads
A perfect expression of the soothing sensations of a spring rainfall, these showerheads are available in contemporary and traditional styles.
Kohler WaterTile Showerheads
WaterTile showerheads are a harmonious marriage of form and function. Their subtle, efficient design and profound performance help create a luxurious showering experience.
Kohler MasterShower Showerheads
Choose from three distinct styles: Invigorating, Relaxing and Family for the sensation that fits your lifestyle.
Here’s just a few makeover tips and ideas to consider when it’s time to remodel that old bathroom of yours:
Don’t rush into it. You’ll be living with your bathroom a long time – make it special! Start with a bathroom wishlist, collect photos from magazines you like, find color schemes you’re looking for that create the mood you’re trying to achieve
Want a soothing space? Keep your color scheme “quiet”.
Just love one of Metropolitan Bath and Tile’s tile colors or tile designs? Cover the bathroom – it’s practical and luxurious – or just an accent row around the room may satisfy your need for pattern.
If you’ve got room, don’t forget the architecture. Arches or molding can add visual interest and reflect the lines of your fixture and cabinet choices.
Add a vanity for grooming – better yet, add one for him and her to speed you through your mornings. Two matching sinks and mirrors is a popular & functional request for today’s bathroom.
Need some color in your life but not a lot of green in your wallet? You can add a wall of a strong color tile or pattern and then add matching accessories to tie it in. When you’ve got a new favorite – just redo the wall and accessories.
Need a “masculine” bathroom? Go for white, beige, greys, taupes – even black - with modern fixtures for a sleek, unfussy bathroom. Dark or natural woods are a good choice.
Clean and classic: Fresh, all-white never goes out of style and is a good choice if you’re planning on selling your home in the near future.
Cozy room: add a fireplace to turn a bathroom into a comfortable, un-bathroom-like space.
Add a few plants (imagine orchids next to your tub). Plants and flowers are reminiscent of a “back to nature” relaxing scene and can add color to your spot.
Storage, storage, storage. Keep your bathroom, no matter what the design, organized and uncluttered for showhouse style. Add plenty of cabinetry for soaps, cleaners, grooming appliances – and a linen cupboard to store those extra towels.
Small space? Deep colors and simple accessories will charge it with some sophistication.
Lighting can be a room changer. Try a small chandelier or double sconces with your mirror to break the boring barrier. Lighting with shades can be an upscale and flattering way to warm up your vanity. Don’t forget to optimize natural lighting and open the room up with a large window and plenty of mirrors.
“Old” is the new “New”. With many historical residences in the Metro Washington DC and Baltimore Area you may want a remodeling job that doesn’t forget its past. Talk to your MetroBath design about retro sinks & fixtures, black and white tile and footed tubs.
You want the works? If you want to have a special place to unwind from the stresses of the day discuss expanding your bathroom with MetroBath. If you have room – add that soaking tub or whirlpool. It will be your own private spa in the comfort of your own home. Don’t forget the candles for evening.
Shower is all you need? Metropolitan Bath and Tile can show you how to make it an experience with glass doors, handheld showerheads, bodysprays & jets, thermostatic valves, seating, bars, shelves & much more.
Bring us your basic concept and our bathroom designers will help you find your perfect space.Visit any of our four showrooms in the Maryland, Washington, DC, Baltimore, and Northern Virginia area today and you’ll be enjoying your uniquely-styled bathroom before you know it!
Are vessel-style sinks here to stay? Their popularity here at MetroBath tells us “yes”. A sink style from ancient times has emerged as one of the most sought after designer bathroom trends of the 21st Century. Whether your bathroom design is traditional or exotic – there’s a vessel sink for you.
What is a vessel sink? A vessel sink is a basin that sits on the countertop or piece of furniture. These basins are in all sort of sizes, depths and materials – from glass, china, ceramic to metals. There’s so many styles and materials to choose from now – ask your Metropolitan Bath and Tile designer to show you.
You don’t have to coordinate everything with a vessel sink – it can be the jewel-in-the-crown, so to speak. If you have a simple tub and toilet – the sky’s the limit to what type of vessel sink you can choose. Vessel sinks are a focal point like a piece of art.
It’s a good idea to decide whether you want a vessel sink before you start planning the plumbing in your new or remodeled bathroom. The type of sink you install will impact the placement of your pipes and this should be done in the initial phase.
Vessel sinks also require a different counter height than most traditional bathroom sinks. Conventional recessed-bowl sinks sit at counter height, usually 32 to 36 inches above the floor, which is a comfortable height for most adults for brushing teeth and washing hands.Since the sink is higher, the counter height needs to be lower. Consider whether you want to lower all of the countertops in your bathroom or have counters of varying heights. You can also mount your vessel sink right on the wall with a bracket or install it on a piece of furniture designed especially for a vessel sink.
You can use almost any type of countertop material you like, so be creative: wood planks, on concrete, on tile, including mosaic, granite, marble, glass, tile, engineered stone – whatever expresses your style.
Vessel sinks need special consideration when it comes to choosing their faucets because the water from the faucet should flow down into the bottom of the sink – not the sides – so as not to cause splashing. There should be enough room between the faucet and the sink for users to wash their hands or brush their teeth.
Vessel sinks require a counter-based faucet with a long neck that can reach up over the side of the basin and also allow adequate clearance in the basin OR a wall-mount faucet which probably is the most popular. In either case, reaching the center of the sink is the goal.
Vessel sinks are perfect in the powder room or guest room because they are so showy and elegant - they are an experience to use. Ask one of our Metropolitan Bath and Tile designers to show you what’s available in shape, materials, style – you’ll be amazed – and will most likely want to fit at least one of them into your bathroom design plans!
Same Moen® Kingsley Faucet - Different Finish & Effect
There are many things to consider when choosing a faucet (& your matching accessories like lighting, towel bars, toilet paper dispenser). What style? Shiny or brushed? Silver or Gold?
Here’s some of the most popular finishes & considerations to mull over about each:
Choose a finish that is appropriate for the style of your fixture and the person who will use it the most (you, kids or Pampered Guests).
Polished Chrome: the most popular: flexible with different styles and least expensive
Polished Brass: adds a rich, elegant flourish but can show water spots/fingerprints
Brushed Nickel: softens a bathroom to make it more like the adjoining rooms, coordinates well with stone countertops. Matte finishes also don’t show water spots as easily as polished
Polished Nickel: shiny like chrome but adds more sophistication with elegant vanities with the look of furniture
Bronze: goes equally well with traditional and contemporary décor. It can be particularly effective for a cabin style or other rustic look, or as a neutral for traditional-style baths. Bronze itself can come in a variety of shades and can even be black like wrought iron.
Hammered Nickel: similar to brushed nickel but with a rough, handhewn finish
We are pleased that you are interested in bathroom remodeling as much as we are! We will be covering all types of subjects here on showers, tubs, sinks, fixtures, vanities, design, trends and the bathroom business in general. Thanks for visiting MBTalk!
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