Post by Stacey Walker. Stacey mostly works behind the scenes for Walker Woodworking, managing day to day operations, and marketing. Stacey has helped many clients create their dream space.

Making the Most of Your Master Bathroom

As much as the kitchen is the heart of the home, the master bedroom is your sanctuary, your retreat after a long day. It is where you can go for privacy and relaxation, no master bedroom is complete without a master bathroom. The master bathroom is an essential, complimentary space that provides the homeowners with a place to not only freshen up but have a mini spa experience right in their own home. After all, it is used every day, multiple times a day so it makes sense that it should get more attention than the mudroom or entryway. 

How do you make the most out of your bathroom? What are key items that are needed to make it a place of relaxation? Which products give you the best value? Let’s explore the renovation process and determine how you can get the most out of your new master bathroom.

What matters to you?

We say it often, but planning is the key to any successful renovation because it is what guides the entire project. This is where you decide what matters to you, what style you want to represent you, and of course your budget. The planning stage is when you sit down and go over the goals you want to accomplish with the  renovation. Be sure to ask yourself these questions:

• What style do you want? Are you looking for a more modern look with bold colors and sleek cabinets? More traditional with shaker style cabinets and warm tones? Maybe a minimalist style with a neutral color palette and lots of natural light? This helps your designer know what products to recommend.
• What is your morning routine? While it may sound a little odd, think through what you usually do to get ready. Do you listen to music or a podcast, adding a charging station can be a useful feature. Do you have several hair tools such as a blow dryer and curling iron? Consider adding a docking drawer as an essential feature where the tools can be easily plugged in and stored away. Sufficient lighting is important as well, maybe you will need to include extra around the mirror or even add mirrors with lights
• Is this a relaxing space? If you are looking to create a spa bathroom you may want to look at including some specific upgrades such as tile, and unique countertops such as marble or granite. These products have great durability and also bring a sense of elegance to the space.
• What do you want to spend? We understand that a budget is important which is why we discuss it in our initial consultation. This guides the product selection and the scope  of work that will be done. Sometimes changing out a vanity, lighting, and hardware can give an immediate improvement to the space and is less taxing on the wallet. Be sure to discuss this with your designer.

Going over the basics and taking time to think through the details will mean a project that you will be pleased with for a long time. It is no fun to finish a renovation only to discover that it is not working for you down the road. Good planning means a good renovation. Here is a more extensive list of questions and tips to go over before starting your renovation.

What are the essentials?

Everyone has a list of things that are essential to them and it can be unique for each person. There are a few things, however, that need to be on everyone’s list such as:

• Storage: from cosmetics to hygiene items, there is a lot that gets stored in the bathroom, things that are used from daily to weekly which means storage is a needful component. Choosing a vanity that not only looks good but has storage capacity is a great start. Built-ins and additional cabinets can provide the extra storage needed for linens and such while keeping everything looking good.
• Lighting: good lighting is key to the master bathroom since we often use it early in the morning and late at night. Sconces placed next to the mirror create extra light but also brings elegance to the space. A larger light fixture can compliment the style of a bathroom especially if it is a large area. This is also a great way to add a little fun and a little you into the design.
• Accessibility: your bathroom needs to match you and your particular needs including safety and accessibility. Slip resistant flooring should be considered during the selection process and bar rails in the shower. 

While this is a list of things that are essential, it is great to know that most of this comes in a variety of styles, colors, and selections which means it will still accomplish the design goals you have. Be sure to visit our showroom and browse the many displays we have available.

Best master bathroom layout

Often the master bedroom has some influence on the design of the master bathroom due to their being side by side. While there is no hard and fast rule regarding this, it makes sense because too drastic of a design change can disturb the flow and feel of the overall space. When planning your layout keep these key points in mind:

• Tub and Shower: bigger isn’t always better when it comes to this. It is best to take into account the overall size of your bathroom. Too small is also a factor as it can make the whole space feel very open and empty. Is there room for both a tub and shower? If so what size works best? Should they be placed side by side or across? Do you need both or will you use one more than the other? These are great questions to discuss with your designer.
• Vanity: double sinks are a great feature for a master bathroom since they allow both to have their own space but this does not mean they have to be side by side. Many now have two vanities giving freedom to change up the look by having them across from each other or on either side of the door. It also provides more room to get ready and can adapt to a unique layout if necessary.
• Toilet: if it is possible, it is nice to place the toilet in its own area with a door or half wall for added privacy. 

The goal is to create a bathroom that works well for you and your routine. When a layout does not match your needs it can result in a delay getting out the door to work on time which starts your day with stress, never a good thing. A custom layout means you get exactly what you need for your lifestyle.

Ready for your new master bathroom?

When the renovation is over you should be delighted with your new space and enjoy it for many years. This is why we take our design meetings seriously because that is where the magic happens. Our experienced design team takes pride in helping our clients create a space that is perfect for them. We are only satisfied when you are happy with the completed job. Contact us today to get started on creating a design that will make the most of your master bathroom.