MATERIALS and COLOR
Materials and color can take any direction that is to your liking, but a few guidelines can point the way. Surface colors and materials, especially those on the walls, are reflected into the mirror and ultimately onto your face. This color reflection can enhance and complement skin tones or produce effects that can be less than flattering. Careful choices are important, especially for permanent materials. Warm and cool colors can be artfully blended to create stunning schemes. Rules of course are meant to be broken, so don’t be shy if you’re inclined toward the bold and dramatic. Lighting plays a significant role in the context of color and can change the effects considerably.
Tile is a major element of the design palette and the primary material dominating the look and feel of the bathroom. Manufacturers are continually outdoing themselves and each other, expanding choices of sizes, finishes, colors, and textural effects. Tiles seem to be getting larger, and conversely, smaller. Tiny mosaic tiles are offered in a full spectrum of colors and finishes such as natural stone, metallics and glass. With the availability of selections from the best around the globe, options for dramatic effects with mosaic murals include floral and geometric motifs, gradient effects, and classic rug patterns or medallions for floor insets. New offerings include large scale floor and wall tiles that can be used to create totally new looks and interesting patterns, but should be used with caution as scale plays an important role in appropriate selection. Larger tiles install with fewer joints and less grout which equals lower maintenance.
Water and energy saving strategies are playing a significant role in new product offerings. Manufacturers are on a constant quest to provide the desired bath experience while meeting consumer and governmental conservation demands. For instance, Delta promotes its H2O kinetic technology with the goal to deliver shower power at 1.5 gallons of water per minute that feels like the 2.5 gallons per minute of conventional systems, resulting in up to 36% decrease in water consumption. Options for tankless or on-demand water heaters continue to grow and are a great alternative to conventional water heaters. Water is heated only as it is used resulting in significant energy savings. They are also a great space-saving alternative.
Lighting is one of the most often overlooked but crucial design elements in any bathroom. Task, ambient, and mood lighting are all essential components of good lighting design. Mini chandeliers are popular as a feature element and can create a strong design statement. It’s a good idea to provide more light than thought necessary and use dimmers to control energy usage and create specific effects. High efficiency LED lighting is making its way to the bathroom for additional energy saving options.
RELAX AND ENJOY
Elaborate or simple, traditional or contemporary, your master bathroom is one of the most important spaces in your home and can be a valuable selling feature when that time comes. Create it, and spend quiet moments to relax there when time permits, enjoying the benefits of your private retreat!
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