Bathroom Remodel Ideas to Fit Many Life Stages and Budgets

Did someone say, “Time to remodel the bathroom?” Sounds good! People visit the bathroom
many times a day but tend not to pay much attention to it. It’s easy for a bathroom to gradually
become outdated or for damage to be superficially addressed. Bathroom remodels or
renovations can be a smart investment, pave the way for necessary repairs, and are a great
way to reflect your shifting priorities in life. Read on for bathroom ideas that fit various life stages
such as aging in place or sharing one bathroom with a bunch of kids, family members, or
roommates.

The “Just for Me” Stage

You have the flexibility and budget to remodel your bathroom exactly the way you want and
suited to your tastes 100 percent. Why not try a copper tub? Copper elevates your bathroom
from just another room to a unique and extraordinary space. Copper is distinctive and requires
little maintenance. A copper tub offers a compelling focal point for the bathroom and comes in
various designs.

For example, the CopperSmith bathtubs are available in freestanding, clawfoot, and custom
designs with various colors for each style. Options include standard and overflow tub drains and
tub faucets. You can get custom soaker bathtubs or pink clawfoot tubs. Just as important,
copper retains heat well for longer, hotter baths. Copper is so durable you should never need to
purchase a replacement tub.

Aging in Place

Functionality, safety, and convenience are most important when redoing a bathroom for seniors
aging in place. First, the obvious is worth stating just in case: The bathroom you’re working on
should be on the first floor. If it is not, remodel the bathroom that is actually on the first floor, or
revamp a space on the first floor into a bathroom. Considerations for the bathroom include:

● Doorways wide enough to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs (typically a minimum of
32 inches)

● Grab bars and rails, especially around toilets, tubs, and showers
● Seats, stools, and benches for transferring and showering
● Bidet attachments for toilets
● Elevated toilet seats
● Countertop and mirror heights a little lower than usual to accommodate present or future
wheelchair use
● Enough space in the bathroom to navigate with a walker or wheelchair
● Step-in tub, walk-in shower tub combo, or curbless shower to avoid falls and having to lift
feet up and over tub edges
● Removable or adjustable shower heads
● Nonslip floors, mats, and rugs
● Smart lights and lights set lower in reachable distance

The “More the Merrier” Stage

You probably don’t want more people in your bathroom, but the reality is that you must share the
space with your kids, significant other, various family members, or roommates. When you’re
remodeling or renovating, useful ideas include double vanities and/or double sinks. That way,
more people can easily get ready at the same time.

A similar idea applies to giving the toilet its own tiny water closet. One person can do their
business while other folks use the rest of the bathroom. Keeping the shower out of general view
serves the same purpose.

Also, think about generous storage. You can never have too much when multiple people share
the same bathroom. Options include over-the-toilet shelving systems, large mirrored cabinets
that run to the ceiling, slimline inset cabinets with push-to-close doors (no handles getting in the
way when space is limited), and top-mount vanity cabinets. Mini-stacking shelves and storage
compartment units are hugely helpful as well.

Use a shower recess or recessed niches to make ample space for shampoos, conditioners, and
soap in the shower. No one will have to store their items in the main part of the bathroom.

On a Small Budget

Many folks, no matter their stage in life, are on a small budget. No shame in it, and you can get
really creative. Ideas include tiling your walls or floors but not both. Even better, avoid tile if you
can. For example, you could use laminate flooring, peel-and-stick tile, or engineered wood for
the floors. For walls, paint could work instead of tile. Use an accent wall or wainscoting to add
color and style.

Fiberglass is another possibility for shower inserts and the wall above your bathtub. It comes in
solid, brick, and marble patterns. Acrylic panels can work too instead of tile in your showers.
For art, go with posters or framed photographs, which are less likely than expensive artwork to
sustain steam damage. Metal wall art and decorative plates can be eye-catching, too.

Simply reorganizing your bathroom or redoing the vanity may also give the vibe of a bathroom
renovation. To add storage, install shelves, take advantage of your bathroom door, and use
baskets. For vanity work, think about replacing the hardware (doorknobs), and painting the
vanity a new color. Go with peel-and-stick marble instead of an actual marble revamp for the
countertops. Switching out light fixtures breathes new life into your bathroom and vanity as well.
Shop local thrift stores for good deals.

Bathroom renovations can fit any budget and life stage. Whether you’re ready to splurge on a
copper tub just for you or want to prioritize your safety as you age in place, options are plentiful.