Interior Design Based on Zodiac Sign

 Shower? Tub? Both? Let the Planets Decide

Ever considered coming up with your interior design based on zodiac sign? It can be a powerful way to understand what will make you consciously and unconsciously comfortable in your space. Let’s take a closer look at what your zodiac sign might tell you about the shower and bathtub you select for your bathroom.

Here’s the run down by each sign of the zodiac.

Aquarius (January 20-February 18)

Aquarius likes to keep things interesting but wants to know they can count on the people and things in their life. They hate being bored and lonely. They are the first to embrace new technology. They’d be lost without a cause to fight for. 

The ideal bathing situation for an Aquarius is a wet room that includes multiple showerheads and a large bathtub so it can be an experience for more than one person at a time. They love tech features like thermostats and smart controls. An Aquarius will absolutely insist on water-saving showerheads.

Pisces (February 19-March 20)

Pisces values alone time but would give you the shirt off their back if you needed it. They love romance and relaxation and would never turn down a getaway.

Pisces perfect bathing situation is a spa-inspired bathroom where they can get alone time in a serene setting. Both a shower and bathtub are necessities and kudos if they are beautiful as well as functional. As you might expect, Pisces is a lover of water so a soaker tub is a must-have.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

For an Aries, comfort is a top priority. They have confident personalities and enthusiasm and they know what they want. They have no patience for lolligaggers and prefer to work alone or be the leader. 

The ideal bathing situation for an Aries is a simple, well-laid out bathroom that won’t hold them up in the mornings. A shower should be sufficient for the Aries. Ergonomic features and perks like temperature control will make them comfortable and happy. 

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

A Taurus is very tactile and sometimes sensitive. They are the most reliable and responsible people you will meet but have a stubborn streak. They like their own space and hate change.

A Taurus can share a bathroom but should have their own space. They have a taste for the luxurious so treat them to a shower panel with some perks like jets. Make sure they never run out of hot water with temperature control at the shower fixture in addition to a good water heater.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Kind, curious, and collaborative, Gemini are great friends and associates. However, they do like being alone in their cozy spaces. They prefer their well-worn routines but are adaptable.

A small, cozy bathroom and shower are ideal for the Gemini. A showerhead with simple operation is best—too many options will overwhelm them. Their fun-loving side will appreciate a rain showerhead. No hand showers, jets, or temperature control is necessary for the easy-to-please Gemini.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

Cancer likes to be at home and/or near water. They love being with people and offer an imaginative perspective to the world. They are sensitive and sentimental and deeply involved in their home and family. 

Don’t even think about making changes to the bathroom without getting Cancer involved as they are passionate about their spaces, especially the bathroom. They are all about relaxing in the water so prefer large soaking tubs or even whirlpool baths. Spa design in the bathroom will help Cancer feel at home and calm their moodiness. 

Leo (July 23- August 22)

Leo’s are all about luxury and pampering. They are creative and generous, fun to be around until their stubbornness rears its ugly head. They love fun, colors, vacations, and adventures. They’re attracted to drama and sometimes make their own drama.

The bathroom’s of Leo’s are luxurious and colorful, full of top-notch products. They like things the way they like them so once you figure that out, make sure it’s a part of the bathing experience. A spa-inspired setting with a wet room and tricked out shower system and tub are a good place to start.

Virgo (August 23-September 22)

A Virgo approaches the world mindfully and works hard (behind the scenes) to make the world a better place. They love health, nature, and cleanliness and hate rudeness and having to ask for help.

In the bathroom, a Virgo is most concerned with cleanliness. A white, no nonsense bathtub and chrome shower with simple lines is enough to make them happy. A Virgo can get behind the natural aesthetic of a rain shower too. Add some plants to the bathroom to increase their comfort. 

Libra (September 23-October 22)

Libras are cooperative and avoid conflict at all costs. They are constantly seeking balance and symmetry in both the physical world and their inner world. They love the outdoors and seek out companionship in everything they do. 

A Libra’s ideal bathing situation would include room for their significant other in a large shower with multiple showerheads. They focus on water-saving features and can do without the bathtub. A well balanced design in the bathroom will keep a Libra happy.

Scorpio (October 23- November 21)

A Scorpio values truth and despises hypocrisy. They are loyal and good secret keepers. They are passionate and fun loving. A Scorpio researches everything to ensure they have a good understanding of everything around them. 

The bathroom of a Scorpio is straightforward but has a passionate side. Their resourceful nature embraces bathroom tech like smart showers, temperature controls. They aren’t afraid to take on a complex shower panel or chromatherapy tub—they’ll do their research and own it as long as they are convinced of the value of the features. 

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)

Always in search of meaning and exploring the world, Sagittarius loves freedom and deep thinking. They can’t be bothered with the details but bring life and enthusiasm to everyone they meet. They sometimes over-promise and don’t have much patience. Give them their space and they’ll be happy.

The ideal bathing situation for a Sagittarius includes large showers, no bathtubs, and simple but reliable functionality. They do like to have options so a shower system may be just the thing to help them feel at home in their bathroom.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)

A Capricorn is independent and self-disciplined. They can be negative but are realistic and good managers. They love tradition and status without being sobby. 

In the bathroom, Capricorn likes luxury but not opulence. They insist on quality craftsmanship. Being sure about the quality of showers and tubs in their bathroom will help combat misgivings about them that will probably come up in the future. 

Want more help designing your bathroom? Visit our blog for all the latest and greatest in design and inspiration.

8 of the Hottest Bathroom Design Trends for 2024

If there’s a new bathroom on your horizon in 2024, start with these trends to begin your planning. We’ve turned to cutting-edge design experts and the staying power of the trends of the last few years to curate the eight hottest bathroom trends you can expect to see in 2024 and beyond. 

1. Statement Lighting

Bathrooms in 2024 and beyond are all about a modern minimalist sort of vibe. That doesn't mean boring, however. Consider the vanity lighting, where one of the hottest trends is simple, yet stunning statement lighting that leans toward the modern style. 

Though simple, it's interesting and makes a statement that sets the stage for the bathroom aesthetic. Try something architectural that adds an interesting, yet not overstated shape. Choose unusual bulbs that stand on their own design merits. 

2. Smart Tech

Technology has seamlessly permeated every facet of our lives, and even the bathroom has not remained untouched. The integration of smart technology into bathroom fixtures and accessories is ushering in an era of unparalleled convenience and customization. 

Features like motion-activated faucets, touchless toilets, and programmable shower systems empower users to tailor their experience while concurrently promoting water conservation. Furthermore, the inclusion of smart mirrors equipped with built-in LED lighting, Bluetooth speakers, and voice-activated virtual assistants elevates the overall functionality of this space.

One of our favorites? The vanity mirror. A fancy mirror isn't just for a movie star's dressing room, they are for your bathroom too, according to 2024 design experts. It's a perk you definitely want in your bathroom.

3. Bold Color & Warm Color

The earthy, nature-inspired colors we've loved for so long are taking a backseat in 2024. Bold colors and patterns are coming forward on everything from the walls to the more permanent features of the bathroom. Warm colors are also popular in both your neutrals and accent colors. Sage, terracotta and bold blue all invite the calm you want for a relaxing bathroom environment but are much more interesting than naturals..

Don't forget to add metallics like copper, silver, or gold to add this ambiance to your space. 

4. Spa Features

The growing aspiration to recreate a spa-like ambiance within one's home has spurred a surge in the popularity of upscale bathroom fixtures. As we transition into 2024, homeowners are showing a interest in lavish amenities, such as expansive walk-in showers featuring multiple showerheads, standalone soaking tubs, heated towel racks, and integrated sound systems. Moreover, cutting-edge technologies like intelligent mirrors with built-in lighting and voice-activated temperature management are being integrated, ushering in a new era of opulent bathroom experiences. 

A unique bathtub offers a quick update that can have a huge impact on the bathroom vibe. Unique might mean an asymmetrical curve or clean-lined rectangular shape. It might mean a unique color or decorative elements. It might mean a unique materials like cast iron, copper, or stone. 

5. Mixed Materials

The trend of using opposite materials and textures together is rapidly gaining traction in the realm of bathroom design. The fusion of elements such as concrete and brass accents, marble paired with matte black finishes, or the marriage of glass with natural wood, culminates in a bathroom space that is both diverse and visually captivating. 

Texture is artfully introduced through the inclusion of patterned tiles, textured wallpapers, and distinctive mirrors, infusing depth and personality into the overall bathroom design.

6. Spacious Layout

Big bathrooms are in. Be sure to give your bathroom a large footprint if you are building a new home. If you have to deal with the space you already have, there are ways to make your bathroom look and feel bigger. 

Use a light color palette and introduce lots of light (natural and electric) to expand the space visually. You can further enhance this effect by choosing reflective materials for your bathroom. Glossy finishes shiny metallics, and large mirrors go a long way to trick your brain into thinking your space is bigger than it is. 

7. Statement Fixtures

Another hot bathroom trend in 2024 is statement faucets. Not only are these the centerpoint of functionality in your bathroom, they also attract a lot of attention visually. Those are both good reasons to make sure they perform optimally in every sense.

Making a statement with your faucets may be about introducing top-of-the-line technology like voice activation or touch activation. It might also be about how they look. Opt for clean-lined, angular designs or tall curving goose-neck style faucets. Of particular note in 2024 is the spout style faucet.

8. Sustainability

As we step into 2024, homeowners are displaying a growing awareness of their environmental impact. Sustainable bathroom design has assumed a paramount role, with eco-conscious fixtures, water-conserving attributes, and energy-efficient lighting taking center stage as essential elements. 

Low-flow toilets, LED lighting, and water-saving showerheads are not only beneficial for the planet but also contribute to reduced utility expenses, offering a dual victory for both the environment and homeowners.

Bathroom design trends of 2024 introduce luxury without being fussy and simplicity without being spare. Let your bathroom benefit from these trends that will add value to your home and panache to your everyday life. 

Need more ideas for your bathroom remodel? Here are more tips. Or go to our blog to find the perfect aesthetic and products for your remodel. 

Bathroom Ideas

How to Keep the Bathroom Warm this Winter without Running Up the Bill

The struggle between keeping the house warm and not overdoing it on the utility bill is never ending. One place you really feel it is in the bathroom where it’s always a shock to step out of the warm water and into the cold. 

Traditionally covered with hard surfaces that tend to be cold anyway, the bathroom falls prey to the winter unlike any other room in the house. Either your bill is astronomical or you suffer the cold in silence. But it doesn’t have to be that way. 

What if there was some middle ground where you could achieve some warmth in the bathroom without destroying your utilities budget? Good news, there is a way to do just that. Ready to learn how to keep a bathroom warm in the winter? Here are 12 ideas to get you started.

Rugs

Cover those bare floors with some rugs. Not only does it cover the cold floor, but it adds a layer of insulation between the floor and the rest of the room. Cold is kept under the rug so ambient room temperature stays higher. 

Rugs also visually make the space warmer. Enhance that effect by selecting warm colors to trick your brain into thinking it’s warmer.

Heated Towel Rack

Combat the shock of getting out of the shower on a winter morning with a warm towel. The best way to achieve this is a heated towel rack. Simply flip it on before you climb into the shower and by the time you’re done, your towel will be toasty.

Easy Access

If you have to go across the room to get a towel or bathrobe, you’ve defeated the purpose. Install hooks and racks where they’re only an arm’s reach away. The key to how to keep the bathroom warm in winter without spending a dime is to maintain what heat you already have. You waste hard-earned warmth when you have to traipse across a cold room.

Heated Floor

Radiant heat installed under the bathroom tile is an excellent way to keep the bathroom warm. It’s the perfect combination to create and keep warmth. 

Installing a heated floor is a big (and costly) renovation job. However, it’s an addition that pays for itself over the years because it’s based on sound scientific principles. Heat rises so warmth originating from the floor will move up and heat the whole room. Additionally, tile, a popular bathroom floor material, is excellent at holding heat. The floor will continue to be warm and warm the room long after the heat cycle turns off. 

Bigger Showerhead

A larger, or wider showerhead has a larger spray that covers more of your body at once. This keeps you warmer while showering and decreasing your need to make the bathroom warmer. Add a few other perks like heated towels and a bathrobe and you won’t even notice that it’s winter.

Heat Bulbs

Install a heat lamp in your bathroom for some added warmth. These can be turned on when needed and off when you’re away, saving you money. 

If you’re not outfitted with the capability for a heat lamp, you can install heat bulbs into regular light fixtures (check manufacturer instructions for proper specs and safety). Voila! You have some heat right at the point it’s needed most.

Decrease Circulation

Usually circulation is a good thing but if you’re trying to get the bathroom warm and keep it that way, it might serve you better to isolate it. Close doors to keep the warmth you’ve generated inside the bathroom instead of mixing it with air in other rooms.

While you’re using the bathroom, turn fans off to decrease drafts. Worried about a foggy mirror without the fans running? Try an anti-fog mirror, which generates its own heat to stay mist free. 

Weatherstrip Windows

Older windows can become a highway for warm air to go out and cold air to go in. Seal them up with some new caulk and weatherstripping. Windows and doors are a big culprit for adding dollars to the monthly energy bill so regular attention to them is important all over the house. 

Luxury Shower Features

As you race from your bed to the warm shower on a cold winter morning, imagine how much better it would be if you had some fancy shower features to look forward to.

Steam showers and shower jets give you more warmth in all the right places. No more rotating in the shower to keep all your parts toasty.

Heated Bathtub

The worst thing about a bath is when the water starts to go cold. What if you never had to worry about that again? Install a bathtub with temperature control and heaters so your water stays at the temperature you started with until you turn all prune-y.

Fireplace

A fireplace in the bathroom? Yes! There are so many options for fireplaces now that it’s easy to install an electric one that gives you a little heat right where it counts. Plus there’s the ambiance factor. There’s nothing better than a fireplace to make you feel all cozy.

Natural Light

The cheapest way to warm your bathroom is to let the sunlight in. You may want to cover up windows to keep cold air out, but resist the urge. Weatherstip those windows instead and let the sunlight do its thing. 

Skylights are an excellent way to let a little more light in. If there’s a bathroom remodel in your future, consider adding a skylight to your bathroom.

How to keep your bathroom warm this winter without blowing the budget is really a matter of a few, simple adjustments you can make quickly. Use your resources to find ways to make and keep heat in your bathroom and you’ll stay toasty all winter long. 

Ready to remodel your bathroom without breaking the bank? Here are some ideas to get you started. 

Cheap Ways to Remodel Your Bathroom

16 Top Rated Bathtubs You’ll Love

Whether you’re in the market for a luxurious soaker or want the health benefits of a whirlpool, the bathtub can be the center of your bathroom. Take a look at these top rated bathtubs to start your search for the perfect fit. 

BainUltra

BainUltra aims to transform the bathing experience from one of necessity to one of bliss. Shift your focus to relaxation and health in the bath. These bathtubs offer hydrotherapy, LED lighting, customizable features, and the ultimate in comfort. 

Shop BainUltra 

Neptune

Innovative and relevant, Neptune’s products spring from customer needs. The well thought out products give you the ability to create your own chic and enjoy a perfect balance of form and function. Expert’s at tucking luxury bathtubs into corners and alcoves, let a Neptune tub complete your design.

Shop Neptune

Neptune Rouge

Practical, pure, and functional, this is design that complements your lifestyle. Transform your bathroom into a unique and exclusive living space with the elegant shapes of these freestanding bathtubs perfect for the well-appointed bath.

Shop Neptune Rouge

Fleurco

Specialists in the design of high-end bathtubs, Fleurco relies on technology to bring top-quality products to you. Every detail matters on these freestanding tubs. The elegant arching lines of the soaking tubs are as beautiful on the outside as they are on the inside.

Shop Fleurco

Cheviot

A leading supplier of luxury for the bathroom, Cheviot is influenced by Victorian and Art Deco designs but they also have a selection of modern lines as well. Explore their clawfoot and cast iron bathtubs to add vintage chic to your design.

Shop Cheviot

Barclay

Curator of beautiful bath products from around the world, Barclay takes the approach that innovation and design go hand in hand when creating a luxury bathroom. Barclay offers both vintage looks and clean modern bathtubs. 

Shop Barclay

Cambridge Plumbing

Focused almost solely on clawfoot bathtubs, Cambridge Plumbing offers classic cast iron and lighter-weight acrylic tub designs. Affordable luxury is the name of the game for Cambridge Plumbing. Achieve a high-end look at a fraction of the price.

Shop Cambridge Plumbing

Jason

Health and enjoyment are at the heart of Jason’s soaking, whirlpool, and hydrotherapy tubs. They have developed technologies like air jets, ergonomic design, and heaters that make the bath experience more than just hot water. 

Shop Jason

Aquatic

Made in America, Aquatic sets a benchmark for the industry worldwide. They specialize in customizable features that make the bath a luxury. There’s an Aquatic bathtub for everyone regardless of budget or project. 

Shop Aquatic

Premier Copper Products

Rustic yet elegant, these copper soaker tubs  introduce an enduring aesthetic that centers any bathroom design. Go with simple or opt for a highly detailed design to set your bathroom apart.

Shop Premier Copper

Native Trails

With a combination of age-old artisan tradition and modern, sustainable materials, these sophisticated bathtubs are perfect for adding character to your bathroom. Available in copper and sustainable NativeStone (a blend of natural jute fiber and cement).

Shop Native Trails

TOTO

The hallmarks of TOTO are sleek design and cutting-edge Japanese technology. Their motto is “perfection by design” and they blend efficiency alongside style for products that have been leaders in the industry for decades. Soaker bathtubs, air jets, and lighting round out TOTO’s offering.

Shop TOTO

Ella

Spearheading the manufacture of acrylic walk-in bathtubs since 2005, Ella offers exceptional craftsmanship and creative design that allows customers to maintain ultimate independence and elegance.

Shop Ella

Hydro Systems

Drop-ins, freestanding, and alcove whirlpool bathtubs come with all the perks at Hydro Systems. The strong belief that whirlpool bathtubs were for everyone has driven Hydro Systems and kept these high-quality tub affordable. 

Shop Hydro Systems

American Acrylic

Dedicated to old-fashioned standards, American Acrylic isn’t afraid to embrace technology and explore new materials that will make bathtubs better. These whirlpool tubs include luxuries like LED lighting and air massage systems. 

Shop American Acrylic

American Standard

American Standard raises the bar for the industry. Their care and commitment is reflected in every product they create. American Standard has a huge assortment of jetted tubs of all shapes and sizes. There’s one to suit your luxurious bathroom.

Shop American Standard

Start your search for the perfect tub with these top rated bathtubs. The dedication to quality and comfort plus the sheer amount of choices will help you create the perfect bathroom.

Shop All Bathtubs

More than Just a Handicap Accessible Bathroom

Designing a handicap accessible bathroom ensures that anyone with a disability can easily and safely make full use of the space. Out of accessibility design was born aging in place design, which aims to do the same for the elderly. 

New retirees who downsized into homes they planned on staying in for the remainder of their lives quickly spotted a problem. They didn’t need a handicap accessible bathroom, but weren’t sure whether or not they would in the future. 

Thus, universal design was born. The theory of universal design makes bathrooms accessible to everyone regardless of ability, age, size, etc. Universal design creates spaces that are comfortable, functional, and look good enough that anyone would want one.

9 Necessities for Universal Design in the Bathroom

The bathroom can be one of the most dangerous rooms in the house for anyone, let alone the handicapped, aged, or children.  The CDC says that about 235,000 people over the age of 15 visit emergency rooms for bathroom-related injuries every year. 

Making the bathroom safer is a main priority for universal design in the bathroom. Functionality is the other big player. Many people worry that a functionally accessible bathroom doesn’t look as good as a traditional one. While it needs to incorporate certain specifications, creative architects and designers have made a universal bathroom cosmetically indistinguishable from any other bathroom.

Let’s take a dive into the minds of the makers of a universal design bathroom. Here are 12 things they think about and how they make it look good.

#1 No-Drama Doorway

You can’t enjoy that bathroom unless you can easily get into it. The hallway outside the door should have a width of at least 36 inches to ensure enough space to get a wheelchair turned to face the door. The doorway itself should be at least 32 inches wide. Doors that swing out instead of in leave more space inside the bathroom.

There are many handsome options for doors. A simple way to get a gorgeous doorway with plenty of clearance is double doors like French doors. Pocket doors are a great option too since they move completely out of the way.

#2 Main Floor Living

One-level homes are all the rage for aging in place and universal designs. You have everything you need all on one level and don’t have to worry about the dangers of stairs. Most multi-level homes have half bathrooms on the main level that have to be converted  at great expense to make them accessible. 

Full bathrooms on the main level are becoming much more common. The spa bathroom trend is also helpful, introducing luxurious elements into the bathroom that go hand in hand with universal design: think wet rooms, grand entries, roomy square footage, etc. 

#3 Expand the Bathroom Real Estate

You’ll need an open area of about five feet in order to achieve the right turning radius for a wheelchair, but this can also end up looking out of place unless you’re creating a luxurious bathroom with a generous amount of space.

These large bathrooms can be dressed up with spa-like features that make the space feel less empty but maintain the area you need.

#4 Light It Up

Take something that’s already potentially dangerous like the bathroom and you’ll multiply that danger exponentially if it’s dark. Lighting is one of the easiest ways to make a bathroom safer. Another trick is to use contrasting colors so that things like edges of countertops and freestanding tubs pop out of the design so they are more visible.

Employ general lighting across the room, vanity lighting, sconces, and lights over the tub and shower. Include some accent lighting too. It not only gives the room some mood but brings additional lighting and safety.

#5 Hardware Matters Too

Knobs and pulls on the cabinets, handles on the doors, and faucets all play a huge role in accessibility in the bathroom. Small knobs or ornate pulls can be hard to grasp and sometimes make it more difficult to get things done in the bathroom.

Long d-shaped pulls, one-handed or touchless faucets, and lever door knobs make it easier to get full use of the bathroom.

#6 Floating Vanity

A wall-mounted or floating vanity is a must-have in an accessible bathroom. They provide clearance under the sink for wheelchair access and can allow for you to sit while you use the space. They can also be placed at any height (since they’re not dependent on the floor).

Floating vanities are right on trend. Choose from dozens of options in all styles to create a bathroom that’s easy to use and looks great. 

#7 Zero-Entry Bathing

Any raised areas on the floor are a potential hazard. Transitions between one room and another should never have a raised edge. The same goes for the shower and bath. Having to climb into a bathtub or step/wheel over a shower pan decreases accessibility significantly. 

You can get around this with walk-in bathtubs but a favorite trend that fits right in with this is the walk-in shower/zero-entry shower/wet room. Spa-like wet rooms are essentially expanded showers or shower/bathtub combinations that are a waterproof room within a room. They are ideal for universal design bathrooms.

#8 Hand-Held Shower Attachments

Once upon a time, a handshower was a tell-tale sign of an accessible design. But these days, no luxurious spa shower is complete without one. The functionality of the handshower has moved beyond necessity and become an item of luxury. 

In fact, the latest in shower technology not only has accessible attachments, but panels that come much lower in the shower for an experience everyone can enjoy. Think, body jets, steam showers, and more. 

#9 Inconspicuous Toilet

It’s hard to get around those taller toilets made for accessibility. They stick out like a sore thumb. But there’s one very good way to skip the whole dilemma. Wall-mounted toilets.

A wall-mounted toilet removes the taller toilet completely from the equation. You can mount it at any height for the ultimate in universality and style. Some well-placed and discreet grab bars can add support that anyone can appreciate.

Include universal design in your bathroom plans. Ensure that your bathroom is fully functional today and into the future for everyone.

Get More Great Ideas for the Bathroom

9 Cheap Ways to Remodel Your Bathroom . . .

. . . But Still Look High-End

An Instagram-worthy bathroom remodel is the envy of every homeowner. But at some point, reality kicks in. High-end remodels full of marble, custom tile, gorgeous fixtures, and luxe spa features can break the budget in a hurry.

Do you have to give up on your dream bathroom? Never. There are plenty of ways to get a gorgeous and luxurious bathroom on a budget. In fact, here are 10 ways to upgrade your bathroom for cheap.

1. Repair Instead of Replace

You can save a lot of money by doing some repairs on existing items in your bathroom instead of replacing them. This works best for cosmetic and minor issues. For major items, be sure to consult an expert.

A leaky faucet may just need a gasket replacement. An endlessly running toilet probably needs a new flapper. A single cracked floor tile doesn’t mean the whole floor needs replacing. 

If the bathtub looks a little aged, you might consider giving it a thorough scrubbing or even bringing in a professional cleaner. A good cleaning is an excellent way to give new life to your bathroom. You can fix superficial damage to many bathtubs and sinks with a refinishing kit.

2. Lookalike Products

If you have your heart set on a marble vanity top you can save money by opting for a marble look-alike. Engineered or cultured marble and marble-look granite has the same look but at a much nicer price. Or trim even more from the budget by going with an epoxy-topped concrete countertop. 

Wood look tile or vinyl on the floor offers the look you want at a fraction of the price. Instead of hardwood cabinets on the vanity, try a high-density fiberboard cabinet finished to look like hardwood (or veneered). 

Sometimes, as is the case with wood look tile and HDF cabinetry, these lookalike materials have better durability than their counterparts adding value to your bathroom remodel.

3. Refresh with Hardware

That old shower surround or dated vanity can be spruced up with some new hardware. New drawer pulls or knobs can transform the look and feel of your bathroom. A good cleaning and a new spa shower may be all it takes to amp up the shower.

A new sink faucet may make you forget that the sink itself is a holdover from the past. Consider something flashy or edgy that draws attention to itself and away from the plainness of other elements that you’d rather replace.

4. DIY

A huge amount of your bathroom remodel budget goes to labor. The craftspeople who work on your remodel do excellent work and can be worth every penny for things you know nothing about. However, if there are things you have some skill in (or could easily learn), do it yourself. 

Painting, installing a toilet, replacing knobs, even tiling are great projects for the skilled adventurous. Be realistic about what you actually have the skill and time for and you’ll achieve a cheap bathroom remodel with some DIY.

5. Keep the Footprint

Some of the costliest items in the budget come when you change the layout of your bathroom. Moving the toilet from one wall to another may seem pretty simple but it requires a shift in the plumbing and that can be involved. 

Keeping the same footprint in your remodel will save you a bundle. If you really feel that your layout must change, ask the experts how to change things up with the least impact. Slightly adjusting the layout will cost less than completely stripping it back and starting over. 

6. Recycle

There’s nothing better to save money than to buy used or repurpose something you already have. If you saved a sink from another remodel or you can move a bathtub from one bathroom to another, that’s money you don’t have to spend. 

Check out  websites like Craigslist or shop stores like ReStore that sell used bathroom items. You may just find a gem that makes your bathroom unique. Lighting is an excellent item to buy used. The technology hasn’t changed much so it remains compatible with your electrical. 

7. Don’t Change Your Mind

One of the most costly, and avoidable, things that can happen in a remodel is deviating from the plan. During a remodel when you’re finalizing materials and colors, you’re bound to see some must-have that you can’t live without. But resist that temptation. 

Changing things once you’re already in motion is very expensive. Even if it looks like nothing is happening yet, all the behind the scenes work is well under way and any changes waste what’s already been done. Plan ahead and stick to the plan. Focus your energies on finding the very best price for what you’ve already decided on. 

8. Do Your Research

What you don’t know can hurt you. For instance, did you know that round toilets and elongated ones are generally priced differently? Or that it costs more to install a wall mounted vanity than a traditional one? What about the fact that water-saving fixtures can save upwards of 700 gallons of water per year (big money savings!).

Research can help you determine what you can do yourself versus what you need to hire out. DIY can save you big money, but only if you have the skills. DIY projects gone wrong can actually end up costing you. Bottom line, find out before you start a project if you’re equipped to do it. 

9. Shop Sales

If you know a bathroom remodel is in your future, start watching for the sales. Getting a discount on your bathroom products can help offset and pad the budget a bit. 

Labor Day and Presidents Day are traditionally some of the best sales you’ll get on home products. But look for other offers as well. You may also find extra savings from exclusive sales if you subscribe to emails and newsletters from your favorite online retailers.

Upgrade your bathroom for cheap and still get the space of your dreams with a few tricks. From DIY to being a savvy shopper, you can trim up your budget and keep that money in your pocket for your next project. Kitchen remodel anyone?

Find More Remodeling Tips

10 Top-Rated Toilet Brands

Find the Best Toilet Brand for You 

The toilet is one of the most complicated fixtures in the bathroom. Its function and design has changed little over the years. However, some high-tech features on the toilet can make it easier to clean, conserve water, stop pesky clogs and other unsightly issues. 

When it comes to the toilet, there’s no messing around. You need it to be functional first. But a little style, if it doesn’t interrupt the functionality, can go a long way to making your water closet a bit more interesting to look at. 

Here are 10 top rated toilets you should have a look at in your search for the best toilet brand to add to your bathroom.

TOTO

The hallmarks of TOTO are sleek design and cutting-edge Japanese technology. Their motto is “perfection by design” and they blend efficiency alongside style for products that have been leaders in the industry for decades. Their toilets and bidets feature dual flush technology, programmable functions, water conservation, and the ultimate in comfort.

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Fresca

Fresca believes that the bathroom is the most important room in the house. That is reflected in the quality, durability, and cutting-edge designs they produce. They feature stylish toilets with nice perks like soft close seats and high-tech flushing mechanisms that increase flush power and decrease water consumption.

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EAGO

Large sanitary manufacturer, EAGO specializes in ceramics for the bathroom that are eco friendly and comfortable to use. The one piece units feature soft close seats and high efficiency design and construction.

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Laufen

A Swiss brand, Laufen employs design, quality, and function to produce practical products that respect your way of life and the environment. The selection available offers unique shapes and minimalist design that still packs a punch for functionality. 

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Icera

Icera’s aim is to improve the quality of life with luxury bathroom design, ecological efficiency, and practical performance. Their industry-leading toilet fixtures help you complete a suite that results in a unified experience. Look for their EcoQuattro flushing technology that allows for max water force without extra water.

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American Standard

American Standard raises the bar for the industry. Their care and commitment is reflected in every product they create. Look for quiet yet powerful units that keep things cleaner longer. Some toilets can handle high traffic and larger masses with ease and that means no clogs.

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Duravit

A leading supplier of bathroom ceramic, bathroom furniture, accessories, bathtubs, and more, Duravit makes the bathroom simple and functional.  The one-piece configuration keeps the focus on precision in design and functionality. “WonderGliss” treatment on the ceramic helps make cleaning easy and sanitation simple.

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Grohe

Grohe sees design as more than simple aesthetics. Design also incorporates quality. That means the perfect synthesis of form and function. Grohe’s motto and their products exude “smart looks, smart technology, and smart price”. These elongated seat toilets are minimalist but get the job done with style.

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Neptune

Innovative and relevant, Neptune’s products spring from customer needs. The well thought out products give you the ability to create your own chic and enjoy a perfect balance of form and function. Contemporary in design and forward thinking in their technology, these toilets deserve a look.

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Barclay

Quality products born from concepts from around the world, Barclay toilets aim to bring the best to your bathroom. They aren’t afraid to travel through time either, where they find the styles and technologies that bring you unique bathroom products. 

Shop Barclay

Ready to find the toilet that’s perfect for you? Start now at DecorPlanet. Our selection is sure to offer you something different.

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