Are you thinking about remodeling your entire bathroom?  Maybe it’s only the shower that needs a tune-up!  Whether you are remodeling the entire bathroom or just looking to update the bathing facilities, here are some shower remodeling ideas to inspire you.

Shower Remodeling By the Numbers

It doesn’t matter if you are going for the Roman shower look or if you prefer glass and tile surrounds, there are certain numbers to keep in mind.

Shower Head Height.  The ideal height for a shower head is 77″ to 81″.  If you have family members that are exceptionally tall or exceptionally short, you might want to put the head on an adjustable bar that allows you to move the fixture up and down.  Not only does this allow customization for each family member, but it may be a game changer if you put your house on the market for sale.

Shower Seats. Shower seats are an increasingly popular feature in modern showers.  They are great for family members with mobility issues and are appreciated by anyone that performs grooming tasks like shaving or deep conditioning.  Shower seats are a great benefit, but there they require careful consideration when designing to make sure they are safe and functional.  The seat of a shower seat should be 15″ deep to allow for comfortable seating for a variety of leg-lengths.  The height of the seat should also be designed for safety and comfort.  17″ to 19″ is about the right height.

Shower Stall Size.  There is no hard and fast rule as to the maximum size of your shower stall.  But you do need a stall that is at least 36″ by 36″ for comfort and safety.  Most codes allow for 30″ square, but that is a little tight for comfort.  For comparison purposes, a tub is usually 60″ long.  So, if you want to replace a tub with a shower, it can be 34″ wide (slightly smaller) and 60″ long (considerably longer) and utilize the same real estate as a tub.  A longer shower gives you more leg room if you are installing a shower seat.  Keep in mind that the door needs  a clear swing space that is at least the width of the door.

Shower Hardware

You might not thing the hardware you pick for a shower remodeling job is important; but it is.  In any bathroom, the hardware is like the perfect jewelry, handbag, or hat that perfectly accessorizes the outfit.

There are two design schools of thought when it comes to bathroom hardware.  One approach is that all hardware must match in finish and style for a unified look.  Other designers like the appeal of mixing and matching hardware finishes and styles to provide contrast.

 

It is not necessary for the shower head to match the sink faucet, but the metals and styles should coordinate.  If you like the mix and match approach, hardware can be one place to add a pop of color to a room that is otherwise monochromatic.

 

Steam Showers

Steam showers are hot…literally.  Steam showers are trendy now but they have their roots in ancient Rome.  A bathroom remodel is the best time to incorporate a steam shower into your design.

Steam bathing is incredibly eco-friendly.  A 20 minute steam shower uses only 2 gallons of water! Just compare that to how much water even a the stingiest water saving shower head uses.

Since a steam shower requires room for the generator, the best time to convert a conventional shower to a steam shower is during a remodel.  Modern steam showers heat up quickly and can also be plumbed to deliver cold water to the same shower stall; combining the best of both shower worlds.

Get Inspired by the Shower Remodel Experts

Need more inspiration?  Call on the shower remodel experts at Inspired Remodels.  They’ve been helping Orange County homeowners convert remodeling dreams to reality for years.

 

Inspired Remodels is a full service, design/build genera contractor.  This means they work with you every step of the way.  From the initial consultation, through design, and then demo and renovation you will work with one firm.  No worry about hassling with  subcontractors for different trades.  Your project manager will take care of anything.  We understand that any remodeling to your home is stressful and we take care to minimize the stress.

 

 

 

Check out our portfolio of bathroom and shower remodeling jobs to get  some ideas or just give us a call at (949) 716-1938.  Use our on-line contact form and someone will get back with you right away. No matter how you contact us, you will be happy you did every time you step into your new shower.