As the owner and lead designer at Notion Design, Natalia has helped countless clients transform their main bathrooms into beautiful, functional spaces that elevate their daily routines. Whether you’re aiming for a serene spa-like retreat or a sleek, modern aesthetic, the key to a successful redesign lies in careful planning and attention to detail. Here are her top tips to guide you through the process of redesigning your dream main bathroom.
Redesigning Your Dream Main Bathroom: Expert Tips from Natalia at Notion Design
Start with a Clear Vision
Before diving into materials, fixtures, and colors, it’s crucial to have a clear vision of how you want your new bathroom to look and feel. Are you leaning towards a classic, timeless look with neutral tones, or do you want to incorporate bold colors and modern textures? Look for inspiration in magazines, Pinterest, and design blogs to create a mood board. This will help you refine your style and communicate your preferences clearly to your contractor or designer.
Maximize Space and Layout Efficiency
One of the most important aspects of a bathroom redesign is optimizing the layout for functionality. Take into account the room’s existing plumbing to avoid costly changes unless absolutely necessary. Small bathrooms can feel significantly larger with clever storage solutions and compact fixtures. For larger spaces, consider separating the shower and bathtub for a more luxurious feel.
Pro tip: Think about how you move through your bathroom daily—where do you need easy access to toiletries, towels, or cleaning supplies? This will inform how to arrange your cabinets, shelves, and storage units.
Choose Quality Materials
The bathroom is one of the most high-traffic areas in the home, so investing in durable, high-quality materials is essential. Opt for porcelain tiles for flooring and walls, as they are water-resistant and easy to maintain. Natural stone like marble, travertine or granite adds elegance but may require more upkeep, so think about how much time you’re willing to invest in maintenance.
For countertops, quartz and quartzite are popular choices for their durability and resistance to moisture. Wood accents, like vanities or shelving, can add warmth but should be treated to withstand humidity.
Lighting is Key
Lighting can make or break the ambiance of your bathroom. A combination of task, ambient, and accent lighting will create a well-balanced, functional, and aesthetically pleasing space. Install vanity lights around your mirrors for even, shadow-free illumination when applying makeup or shaving.
Consider adding dimmable lights to create a soft, relaxing atmosphere for those long soaks in the tub. Also, don’t forget natural light! If privacy allows, larger windows or skylights can bring in natural warmth and brighten the space.
Think About Storage
Storage is often an afterthought in bathroom design, but it’s crucial for maintaining a clutter-free environment. Built-in cabinets, recessed shelving, and vanity drawers with dividers can help keep your space organized. Floating vanities can provide extra floor space and make smaller bathrooms feel more open.
Consider custom cabinetry to maximize storage potential while keeping everything easily accessible. Open shelving offers both functionality and an opportunity to display decorative items, like plants or candles, for a touch of personality.
Select the Right Fixtures
The choice of fixtures can dramatically change the look of your bathroom. Matte black or brushed gold faucets and hardware are trending, but timeless chrome or stainless steel options will never go out of style. Wall-mounted faucets can free up counter space and add a contemporary flair.
When choosing a toilet or showerhead, opt for water-efficient models to conserve water and reduce your utility bills. Walk-in showers with frameless glass enclosures create a seamless, modern look, while a freestanding bathtub can serve as a luxurious focal point if space allows.
Add a Personal Touch
Your bathroom should reflect your personality and lifestyle, so don’t be afraid to infuse it with character. Incorporate decorative tiles as a statement piece or create a feature wall. Add greenery to bring in a natural element—plants like ferns, orchids, or aloe thrive in humid environments.
Soft, plush towels, stylish soap dispensers, and curated artwork can elevate your space and make it feel uniquely yours. Layer textures with rugs, shower curtains, or linen blinds for warmth and coziness.
Plan for the Future
When redesigning your main bathroom, it’s wise to think long-term. If you plan to stay in your home for years to come, consider adding aging-in-place features such as a walk-in shower with a built-in bench or grab bars. This way, your bathroom will remain functional as your needs change over time.
Final Thoughts
Redesigning your dream bathroom is an exciting project, but it requires thoughtful planning to balance beauty with practicality. Notion Design’s advice is to always prioritize what will make the space most enjoyable and functional for you. Take the time to choose high-quality materials, focus on storage and layout, and add those personalized touches to make it a space you’ll love for years to come.
If you’re ready to start transforming your bathroom, contact us at Notion Design. Let’s bring your vision to life!
Story and Photography Courtesy of Notion Design
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