Vanity & Faucet Pairings for 3 Classic Interior Styles

 

In today’s world, there are hundreds (if not thousands!) of combinations of vanities and faucets available, with vanity options alone ranging from floating to pedestal to double or single sink. So, how can you be confident in the best vanity and faucet pairing for your bathroom’s specific style?

When it comes to bathroom design, ensuring everything is cohesive and paired well together is the key to creating that coveted spa-like feel. From the decorative accessories you choose to the fixtures that make the space shine, spending a little extra time thinking about the way that the elements match (or at least complement one another) is essential.

In this brief guide, we reveal the perfect vanity and faucet pairings for 3 classic bathroom styles so you can rest assured that both elements will look great together.

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1. For traditional bathrooms

For traditional-style interiors, which often combine elegance and functionality, the best vanity and faucet pairing will speak to a timeless design that evokes symmetry and comfort. 

Since traditional design often incorporates a classic look with wood furnishings, a vanity with clean lines and a beautiful wood finish like this Antique Coffee Traditional Bathroom Vanity is a great option. Then, you can pair the vanity with a traditional faucet like the Fresca Fiora in Brushed Nickel which has a curved, yet clean-lined quality with classic single handle functionality and softened matte nickel finish. 

In combination, these two options will perfectly feed into a traditional bathroom, as they underscore the simplicity of this elegant style while harkening back to classic design principles. 

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2. For modern bathrooms

On the other end of the spectrum is the modern or contemporary style, which is defined by sleek minimalism, geometric shapes, and zero clutter. In this type of bathroom, it’s typical to find features that are architecturally unique and eye-catching, such as free-standing vanities that appear to be floating on the wall. 

For instance, a vanity like this Mezzo Teak Modern Bathroom Vanity is a stunning choice, as its one-of-a-kind style will appear more like a work of statuary art than a functioning amenity. 

This vanity would be perfectly complemented by a faucet like this Fresca Versa. When paired together, the two elements will evoke a contemporary, geometric feel, as both are square in shape and look luxuriously high end – exactly what you want for a modern space.

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3. For rustic bathrooms

For rustic interiors, it’s best to stick with elements that are natural, aged, organic, and maybe even a little distressed. No matter how close you live to the actual countryside, the key to rustic spaces is to combine indoor and outdoor staples so that they achieve a cozy, lived-in look. 

Starting with a vanity like Fairmont Designs Napa 30” vanity invites a comfortable yet distinguished look that will define your rustic design. 

Then, you can opt for a faucet like Graff’s Lauren double handle faucet. The curvaceous detailing and choice of finish from chrome to gold underscores that classic and elemental style. 

Now that you’ve got your vanity and faucet combination sorted, what about the bathroom toilet? Here are our top picks for the best toilets available in the industry.

Find the Perfect Toilet

Tips for a Handicap Accessible Bathroom

People with disabilities should be able to use every space in their house comfortably and freely without facing challenges. If a member of your household has special requirements related to mobility or uses a wheelchair, it’s key that you make adjustments to the rooms in your home to accommodate their access and ease of use.

Currently, the latest U.S. census data estimates that 10 percent of Americans have a physical disability or mobility impairment, with over 3 million people using wheelchairs full-time at home. For these individuals and for the elderly wanting to age in place, the bathroom can be one of the most dangerous rooms in the house, as it is the most common site of slips and falls. 

To ensure that your home bathroom embraces universal design – meaning it is accessible to people of all ages, sizes, and capabilities – there are a number of features you can integrate that will make the space functional and safe. 

Here we provide a guide to making your bathroom accessible, including tips for fixtures and accessories that will create a usable space for anyone with physical limitations.

Ideal bathroom dimensions 

First and foremost, the bathroom needs to be spacious enough for a person in a wheelchair to easily move around. The American Disabilities Act (ADA) recommends bathroom dimensions of at least 60-inches by 56-inches deep plus clearance space for bathroom fixtures. 

For wheelchairs to make a 180-degree turn within the space, a diameter of 60-inches is needed. The main doorway will also need to be at least 32-inches wide, and it is best if the door opens outwards into the adjacent room to create even more space within the bathroom.

Lighting for handicap accessibility

Good lighting in the bathroom is always important for safety, especially for those middle-of-the-night trips to the toilet. For those with limited mobility, all light switches need to be within reach and able to be turned on and off from wheelchair height. 

The ADA recommends a set of standards for hanging lights in the bathroom as well as the distance that fixtures or sconces should extend from the walls for optimal safety. Some of the best lighting options for people with disabilities include large rocker light switches or switches with motion sensors. There are also several smart lighting options available that can be controlled by voice or remote.

Accessible sinks, toilets, showers, and bathtubs

Of course, there’s no point in focusing on the layout of the bathroom without considering whether a wheelchair user can actually access the sink, toilet, shower, or tub. Here’s what you should focus on when it comes to each of these features: 

Sinks

The maximum sink height in a handicap-accessible bathroom is 34-inches high. It’s best to choose a wall-mounted sink or vanity model that can offer plenty of clearance for a wheelchair user’s knees and feet. Other considerations include touchless faucets and an extra sturdy vanity, which can be used for maneuvering and for steadying oneself.

Toilets

The ADA recommends toilets are between 17-19 inches high from the finished floor. Ideally, the toilet height will be level with the individual’s wheelchair height, so that they can easily transfer from one to the other. 

Wall-mounted toilets are probably best, as they can be positioned to a custom height and leave plenty of room for turning a wheelchair. It’s also key to ensure that accessories like the toilet paper holder, sanitary items, or other medical equipment are within reach.

Showers and bathtubs

When it comes to the shower or bathtub, the most important element is to create access without the user needing to step over any threshold. Curbless showers (or roll-in shower stalls) make entry super easy for people with wheelchairs. Many barrier-free shower kits fit into standard 60-inch bathtub openings for easy conversion and have built-in benches. 

Walk-in tubs are also ideal, many of which have a door that opens flush with the floor and ADA-compliant benches. Showers and tubs that are handicap accessible will also often include handheld shower heads, grab bars, and therapeutic water jets.

By incorporating these considerations into your home bathroom, you can make sure that the space is handicap accessible and comfortable for all. Learn more about inclusive and universal design in our recent blog.

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5 Hacks for a Lack of Bathroom Counter Space

Your bathrooms is home to scores of products that can leave a disorganized and unsightly mess on the countertops. Oftentimes, bathroom counter space is precious and limited, meaning it can therefore become cluttered quite quickly. 

Here are 5 clever hacks that will get the stuff off your counter and give you more bathroom counter space.

1. Arrange toiletries on a pretty tray

The space between the two sinks of your double vanity is an overlooked space for bathroom storage. Use a nice looking tray to organize items like cotton swabs, hairbrushes, make-up, and other smaller items. A tray creates boundaries, so things that wouldn’t otherwise have a dedicated home can be contained.

Choose a tray that matches your fixtures and finishes. Finding one that’s easy to clean and moisture-proof is also a smart idea.

2. Install wall-mounted holders

To free up space around your sink, opt for toothbrush holders and soap dispensers that attach to the wall. This will instantly give you back free space on your vanity counters while looking chic and stylish. A simple canister to hold hair-styling tools can contain a variety of things easily.

A wall-mounted holder for your water glass ensures it's handy but not in the way.

3. Hang a medicine cabinet or wall shelf

Another way free up your counters is to hang a medicine cabinet or shelf.  Medicine cabinets can be particularly innovative, as some models come with dimmable LED lighting, handy electrical outlet hookups, and defogging technology. 

A medicine cabinet is great for storing items that don't fit in drawers. Bottles of moisturizer, spare rolls of toilet paper, and extra washcloths all fit nicely in medicine cabinets or a mounted shelf.

4. Add a vertical layer to your vanity

A creative solution for messy counters is to create an all-new layer for bahtroom storage. Just like over-the-toilet storage, a shelf over your vanity can add storage without cluttering up your countertop.

Adding a shelf above your vanity is something you can easily do yourself. Use salvaged wood or get a simple shelf from your home improvement store. 

5. Integrate a new linen tower 

Add a freestanding linen tower to help you better organize your bathroom counter space. Linen towers come in a variety of shapes, styles, and heights to fit in hard-to-place bathroom corners. They can add visual interest, as well as allow you to keep all your linens in one place. 

Ready to free up more counter space and declutter your bathroom vanity? Shop for other storage solutions to help make your bathroom more organized and tidy here.

Everything You Need to Know About Hydrotherapy at Home

Water is an essential part of our everyday life – not only for drinking and bathing, but also for its healing powers and ability to strengthen the body and mind. Dating back to the times of the ancient Greeks, water has also been used for hydrotherapy or “water cure.” A branch of alternative medicine, hydrotherapy involves the use of water for pain relief and treatment. There are numerous types of hydrotherapy treatments, which are often carried out in warm water pools and led by licensed physical therapists. Some of the most common types of hydrotherapy include:

Aquatic exercise

This involves water aerobics, lap swimming, and group exercise classes in large pools;

Aquatic physical therapy

This type of therapy is conducted by a licensed physical therapist and incorporates a specialized program for each individual;

Immersion therapy

This involves being immersed in baths of extreme temperatures, including contrast water therapy (a series of brief immersions in hot and cold temperatures) for optimal muscle relaxation;

However, in addition to these, there is also at-home hydrotherapy which can be done in the comfort of your very own bathroom – so long as you have the right bathtub! In this article, we’ll walk through the various benefits and types of home hydrotherapy that you can enjoy in one of Decor Planet’s high-end, therapeutic whirlpool tubs. But first, let’s learn which conditions can benefit the most from hydrotherapy treatments.

What conditions can hydrotherapy treat?

It goes without saying that we can all benefit from a little extra rest and relaxation in water. But there are also specific symptoms and conditions that can be helped by hydrotherapy, including the following:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
• Fibromyalgia
• Cancer pain
• Hemorrhoids
• Parkinson’s disease
• Neuropathy
• Cerebral palsy
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)

Beyond these medical conditions, individuals that are experiencing other symptoms such as lower back pain, menstrual cramps, depression and anxiety, swelling, headaches, and joint or muscle discomfort can also benefit from at-home aquatic therapy.

What are the main advantages of hydrotherapy?

Even if you don’t suffer from any of the symptoms or conditions mentioned above, engaging in hydrotherapy at home can have amazing benefits for people of all ages. Some of these undeniable advantages include: Reduces tension - If you’re feeling stressed or stiff, soothing your aching muscles with hot water can increase blood flow to strained areas of the body. Alternatively, cold water will slow down circulation, which can be beneficial for easing inflammation. Relieves anxiety and stress - Hydrotherapy has been shown to affect hormone levels, causing a release of endorphins and increased serotonin production. These hormones can help to reduce stress, as they are known to boost happiness and contentment. Helps to detoxify the body - Increasing your blood flow sparks the body’s white blood cells to collect and destroy unwelcome materials from the body more quickly. Hydrotherapy can thus help your body to flush unwanted toxins from muscle tissue.

Types of at-home hydrotherapy to try

If you’re intrigued by the thought of doing hydrotherapy from the comfort of your home, Decor Planet’s range of therapeutic whirlpool tubs can make it possible. From aromatherapy to water-based massages, many of our tubs include one-of-a-kind technological innovations that will allow you to engage in the following types of at-home aquatic therapy:

Aromatherapy

Some of our tubs feature a unique technology called Aromacloud, which is an essential oil diffuser integrated into the bath deck that can diffuse a delicate mist of water and essential oils. During aromatherapy, essential oils can enter the bather’s respiratory system and reach the circulatory and lymphatic systems, where they interact with cells to promote healing.

Chromatherapy

A scientifically-proven technique, chromatherapy is not merely a decorative element, but has a direct effect on one’s physical and psychological condition. As a powerful way to achieve balance and harmony, the color vibrations can calm, energize, or focus your thoughts. See chromatherapy tubs.

Tonic therapy

Decor Planet’s tonic massage tubs combine water and warm air to immerse you in comforting bubbles. Three pre-programmed cycles allow you to adjust the intensity of the bubbles, and each produces a sensation to relax your entire body. Ready to shop for the at-home hydrotherapy tub of your dreams? Check out Decor Planet’s full range of therapeutic bathtubs, which offer all of the aesthetic qualities and comforting features you desire.

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3 Common Plumbing Problems & How to Fix Plumbing Problems

Plumbing problems are never fun. You don’t realize just how much you rely on functioning plumbing for day-to-day living.

Fortunately, some common plumbing problems can be fixed on your own. For bigger problems, you should seek out advice from a plumber. He or she will make sure the issue is corrected properly and not just MacGyvered with whatever spare parts or putty you can find.

From bathtub leaks to dripping pipes beneath the sink, it can be difficult to diagnose plumbing problems or even to articulate what’s going wrong. Thus, being aware of the most common plumbing problems and solutions will help you know when to tackle the issue yourself and when to call the plumber!

1. Leaky faucets and pipes

Leaky faucets and pipes are easy to spot since water will be physically dripping from them, even when they are turned off. While dripping faucets are more of a nuisance than an emergency, leaking pipes can cause major damage to your bathroom if you don’t address the problem immediately.

What causes this problem? 

A dripping faucet usually occurs when the washer that forms the seal inside of the tap is damaged or worn down over time. When this erosion occurs, the washer will no longer seal the tap tightly enough, which causes dripping water to slip through. Usually occurring at the joint, a dripping pipe is also caused by damage – most likely from deterioration, shifting, or high water pressure. 

How to fix the issue

Replacing the faucet’s washer that’s responsible for the leak is an easy DIY project; just make sure you get the right replacement from your local hardware store. For leaky pipes, you may need to simply replace a U-joint with a new pipe, but if you’re not sure, this project is better left to the pros.

When to call a plumber

To avoid a big mess, calling a plumber in both scenarios is probably your best bet, particularly if you have no plumbing experience of your own. They will have specialty tools on hand to replace washers and pipe joints, and they’ll also (hopefully!) save you from dealing with any clean-up. 

2. Low water pressure

A typical problem in old homes, low water pressure can come on quickly or slowly worsen over time, depending on the underlying cause. Leaving this pesky issue alone won’t lead to any major damages, but it does make rinsing things and showering difficult and more time-consuming, so it’s definitely worth resolving.

What causes this problem?

One possible cause is buildup of sediment or minerals in your faucet aerators, showerhead, or pipes, which can restrict the water flow. If the whole home is experiencing low pressure, it could indicate a much bigger issue with the pressure-reducing valve, well pump, filtration system, or water service line.

How to fix the issue

If it’s only occurring in a single fixture, you can try clearing debris from the aerator, soaking the aerator in vinegar overnight to loosen up the buildup, or cleaning or replacing the cartridge. If your entire home has low water pressure, you’ll likely need to replace your pressure-reducing valve or fix a leak in your water service line, which calls for a professional.

When to call a plumber

You’ll want to call a plumber if you realize the issue isn’t just limited to one faucet or showerhead, as the problem will require a series of repairs to fully resolve.

3. Clogged drains and toilets

Last but not least, clogged drains and toilets are another extremely common plumbing problem that are impossible to ignore – as they usually result in overflowing water and a huge mess! 

What causes the problem?

This issue is most often caused by something blocking the drain either partially or completely. Instead of being able to flush your toilet normally or watch as water drains freely down your sink, the water will back up and overflow. In sinks and showers, hair is usually the culprit. In toilets, clogs are usually the result of something other than dissolvable waste being flushed, which causes blockage in the pipes. 

How to fix the issue

Thankfully, clogged drains and toilets are the easiest plumbing issue to solve on your own. With the help of a trusty plunger, move it up and down to create suction over the drain. If this doesn’t help, chemical drain cleaners or plumbing snakes can also help to dislodge blockages.  

When to call a plumber

If you run into repeated clogging in the same drain, the issue may be more complicated than a simple plunging job and require help from a plumber. A plumber may need to replace your pipes, which could be damaged for a variety of reasons and therefore more prone to clogging.

These are just a few of the most common plumbing problems that you’ll run into over time, but unfortunately there are many more – like leaky bathtubs! Here’s what to do if you notice staining or drippage around your tub.

Find Out Why Your Bathtub Is Leaking

Is Your Bathtub Leaking? Here are 3 Potential Reasons Why

More than any other room in the house, the bathroom is home to many pipes, drains, and plumbing fixtures. The simple fact that so many appliances, including the sink, shower, toilet, and bathtub, rely on plumbing to work properly means it’s inevitable that you’ll experience a leak in the bathroom from time to time.  

Bathtub leaks can be especially pesky, as they don’t always manifest where you’d expect them to – like in the basin of the tub or along the faucet. Have you noticed that there are water stains on your ceilings and walls? Or, worse still, is your drywall bubbling up from extra exposure to moisture?  

If you’re questioning a leak at all, address the issue immediately. Otherwise, the leak can lead to serious health concerns, such as mold and mildew exposure, chemical hazards, and even electrocution. It can also cause water damage and spike your monthly water bill by as much as 10%. Finally, ignoring a leak can end up ruining your drywall entirely, resulting in costly structural damage and rot. 

Knowing how to recognize the signs of leaking as well as what can cause your bathtub to leak are both critical to the health and safety of your home, so let’s dive in! 

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Early signs of a leaky bathtub 

To protect your home, it’s key to know what to look out for when diagnosing a leaky bathtub. The earlier you catch a leak, the easier it will be to fix. Here are several early signs that your bathtub is indeed leaking:  

• Water is pooling along the tub basin 
• The paint is peeling or flaking on the walls 
• The tile or vinyl flooring is damaged or curling 
• Mold or mildew has built up on the walls or ceiling 
• The walls or ceiling are showing water stains 

Remember: water will always take the path of least resistance, so you should also check in any adjacent rooms beyond the bathroom for water accumulation. As soon as you notice any of these signs, the next step is to determine the cause.  

    Shop stone freestanding tubs.

What can cause a bathtub to leak? 

If your bathtub leaks only when you are using it or immediately after, this may just be an intermittent leak, which you can usually fix yourself. However, it’s crucial that you identify the true cause of the leak before you make any decisions to tamper with the tub. Call in a professional plumber to ensure you address the issue sufficiently. 

Here are 3 of the most common reasons why bathtubs leak:  

The faucet’s rubber washers are worn down

You may not think that a leaky faucet is that big of a deal; after all, the tub basin will catch any dripping water and send it down the drain. In reality, a leaky faucet is actually a huge problem that can lead to hefty water bills, unsightly stains, and even corrosion. 

Luckily, this is one of the easiest leaks to fix, as it’s usually a result of the rubber washers inside of your faucet. Over the years, rubber washers can dry out, leaving them unable to perform their function. All you need to do is take apart the faucet and replace the rubber washers with new ones, which you can find at your local hardware store. If your tub is still leaking, you may need to replace the whole faucet entirely, which is a job for a qualified plumber. 

There are grout and waterproofing issues

Your tub or shower likely gets a lot of use, which means that the grout and caulk surrounding the tiles can shrink or become reduced over time. When this happens, so will leaks. 

To troubleshoot potential waterproofing issues, you’ll want to make sure that grout or caulk is fully covering the perimeter of the tub, especially where it connects to the floors and walls. If there are noticeable gaps or crevices, you may want to regrout your tiles if the leaking persists to create a stronger moisture barrier. 

The bathtub’s drain is malfunctioning

If water is seeping out below your bathtub (which will often manifest on the ceiling of the downstairs room that’s directly beneath your bathroom), this is a telltale sign that the drain isn’t working. Most often, a leaky drain is caused by a problem with the surrounding seal. 

After disassembling the drain, you can likely fix this on your own by applying plumber’s putty to the surrounding area. While there are many instructional videos online, it may be smartest to call a plumber for help to make sure the drain is repaired correctly! 

 Now that you’ve addressed the main cause of your leaky bathtub, you may be looking for additional ways to update your bathroom and make it your dream retreat. Here are several stress-free DIY ideas for remodeling your bathroom.

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4 Genius Bathroom Organization Hacks

Bathrooms are one of those high-traffic spaces (like closets and pantries) that just never seem to have enough storage. Oftentimes, bathrooms are the smallest room in the house, making it especially challenging to maximize its limited footprint in a way that allows for tidiness and organization.  

Between getting ready for work in the morning to unwinding in the evening in your nightly bath, your bathroom has many different functions that all align with helping you feel and look your best. Wouldn’t it make sense, then, to make this space feel and look its best, too?  

By keeping your bathroom organized, even the smallest space can feel luxurious, enticing you to spend more time primping and pampering yourself. Say goodbye to the mess of toiletries that’s littering your vanity and the towels strewn about the floor. Here are our top bathroom organization hacks that are useful for spaces of all shapes and sizes. 

Make the most of your walls with hanging accessory sets

Rather than relying solely on cabinets and closets for storage, why not capitalize on the extra space offered by your bathroom walls? You can hang a series of organizational features from your walls that will free up space on your vanity and give certain items a dedicated home.  

For example, this modern accessory set includes five useful features, such as a robe hook, soap dish, toilet paper holder, towel bar, and towel ring, which can all be mounted on your walls. This way, all of these classic bathroom items will have their own space and won’t infringe on other areas that you’d like to keep clean.  

Add a freestanding bathroom shelf for extra storage

If the storage areas you do have in your bathroom feel overcrowded and slightly chaotic, a great solution is to add a new item of furniture that’s purely for organizing. Freestanding bathroom shelves are not only practical and functional, but they are quaint and can usually fit perfectly in tight areas (like next to the toilet or near the shower). 

With many different designs available, freestanding shelves can also be finished in various colors and styles, meaning they will work well in virtually any bathroom. Now, you’ll have a dedicated shelf for all your toiletries and personal care items, making it essential to the overall organization of your space.

 

Rethink your sink and go for a modern model

Another bathroom organization hack is to take another look at the features that are currently crowding your space – like the sink or vanity. Perhaps the present model is inordinately bigger than it needs to be. In this case, choosing a modern, wall-hung model will free up space on the floor and give the space new means for storage. 

Choosing a model like this modern bathroom vanity will look fresh, provide cabinet storage, and allow for baskets or additional shelving to be placed beneath the vanity for further organization. You could also choose a model like this traditional vanity, which has a narrow build that makes it ideal for a smaller bathroom while still offering dedicated under-the-sink storage.  

Give your mirror more purpose with a medicine cabinet

A final idea for better bathroom organization is to install a medicine cabinet in place of your mirror. Since every bathroom has a mirror, it only makes sense to give it a dual purpose! 

By integrating a classic medicine cabinet, you’ll create more convenient storage for things like your electric shaver, toothbrush, medications, and other smaller toiletries. Some high-end medicine cabinets even include innovations like defogging technology, dimmable LED task lights, and USB/electrical ports.  

In addition to adding these organizational hacks, you may be thinking about other trends to incorporate into your bathroom to take it from drab to fab. Here are some of the leading bathroom design trends.

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Top 2024 Bathroom Trends for 3 Modern Interior Styles

Looking for ways to keep your bathroom up to date with the latest design trends? If your bathroom follows a modern style – whether that’s modern farmhouse, modern minimalist, or mid-century modern, to name a few – you may be wondering what new trends would work best with these palettes. 

Since it’s our passion to share the latest in-demand features and decor in modern home design, we’ve put together a helpful guide to modern bathroom trends for 2024. This way, as you consider updating or fully remodeling your bathroom in the next year, you can choose trends that will perfectly align with and complement the style you’ve already established. 

Here are 3 interior trends for 3 different modern bathroom styles, including modern farmhouse, modern minimalist, and mid-century modern designs. 

Interior Trends for a Modern Farmhouse Bathroom 

Taking cues from a humble country getaway with contemporary touches, the modern farmhouse style is all about rustic charm. In 2024, here are several interior updates that you can easily incorporate to take your modern farmhouse bathroom to the next level:  

Use reclaimed wood

Adding reclaimed wood in any area of the bathroom will create a moody, natural-looking ambiance in your bathroom, and it’s surprisingly easy to achieve! Whether you create an entire reclaimed wood accent wall, or you simply refinish your vanity with a reclaimed wood countertop, this type of feature will look great when paired with homier elements, like textiles in shades of white or cream. 

Invest in a rustic vanity

Your vanity can truly set the tone for the entire space, and integrating a rustic vanity is a great way to foreground that modern farmhouse vibe. Choosing a vanity like this one, which includes a sliding barn door and open shelving for visible storage, offers fun storage solutions while still maintaining a modern, elegant look. 

Add black accents

A final trend that will be seen in many modern farmhouse bathroom designs is adding black accents on elements like vanity hardware, lighting fixtures, sink faucets, and towel holders. Choosing flat black cabinet pulls, especially when you have white vanities or cabinetry, will create a crisp and modern graphic touch with plenty of contrast. 

Include Vintage Accents

Add vintage or antique décor pieces to evoke a sense of history and nostalgia. Look for vintage signs, old-fashioned light fixtures, and flea market finds that fit the farmhouse aesthetic.

A classic clawfoot bathtub, whether it's cast iron, acrylic, or copper, is a perfect centerpiece for a farmhouse bathroom. Look for vintage or vintage-style clawfoot tubs to create an authentic, timeless feel.

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Design Ideas for a Modern Minimalist Bathroom  

With sleek fixtures and pared-down decor, the modern minimalist style maximizes beauty and efficiency with simple color palettes and a streamlined aesthetic. Next year, the following Scandinavian-inspired modern bathroom trends will look fantastic in any minimalist space:  

Opt for a floating vanity

One of the undeniable features of a modern minimalist bathroom is a stunning, one-of-a-kind vanity that makes a statement. Opting for a floating vanity like this blue wall-hung modern bathroom cabinet is not only incredibly unique, but feeds into the minimalist trend of clean lines and modern illusion. 

Install simple lighting

If your modern bathroom is filled with mirrors, it’s especially important to choose lighting that will maintain and complement a minimalist vibe. One of the coolest lighting trends for a modern minimalist space in 2024 are incandescent wall sconces, which cast soft, ambient light through its canning jar style. With these sconces framing your mirror(s), your lighting will embrace a vintage yet still Scandinavian style. 

Create an open-style shower

An easy way to eliminate clutter is to remodel your shower so that there is no need for shower curtains, a tub, or other enclosure. Creating an open-style shower with a frameless sliding door is ideal for a modern minimalist bathroom. For the most minimal shower, you can construct a wet room where there is no door or enclosure whatsoever, but this is only recommended in larger spaces with adequate heating and air circulation. 

Spring for high-quality

Minimalism doesn't have to mean that you skimped on the budget. When the focus of you design is simplicity, adding luxurious materials can really amp up you design. Choose high-quality materials like natural stone, glass, and stainless steel for a polished and luxurious look.

Hide your storage

Every bathroom needs storage. But you might find that lacking in a minimalist bathroom. To maintain a clutter-free appearance, integrate hidden storage solutions, such as recessed shelves or medicine cabinets. Work a large walk-in closet into the design so you have access to everything you need without adding clutter to the bathroom space. 

Interior Tips for Mid-Century Modern Bathrooms 

Finally, if your bathroom is mid-century modern, there are several trends arriving in 2024 that will work well with the muted tones, graphic shapes, and combination of natural and man-made materials that define this style.  

Create geometrically-patterned walls

Geometric shapes or tiles lining the walls of your bathroom is a great way to create a layer of visual intrigue that complements a mid-century modern feel. Whether you create an accent wall of tile in only your shower, or you decide to tile all four walls of the space, rectangular tiles are one choice that will elevate any modern design technique.  

Add a warm wooden vanity

Warm brown wood is one of the most common features in any mid-century modern home, so why not opt for a warm wooden vanity as the focal point of your bathroom in 2024? Contrasting well with white flooring or appliances, this type of vanity will underscore the natural element that is a notable staple of this design technique.  

Install wood-framed rectangular mirrors

Another way you can incorporate natural materials into your mid-century modern bathroom is to give your mirrors a wooden facelift. Either by adding wood frames to your existing mirrors, or by installing new mirrors that have wooden surrounds, you can create a natural aesthetic that is also graphic and square by integrating rectangular mirrors. 

Accent with brass or gold

Gold-toned metals were all the rage in the mid century and no mid-century modern bathroom is complete without it. Add a touch of luxury and sophistication with brass or gold hardware and fixtures on the faucets, towel racks, and cabinet handles. 

Keep it warm

In addition to natural woods, stick to a warm and earthy color palette. Add a splash of bold accent color and you're in business. Popular colors from this era include mustard yellow, avocado green, teal, and various shades of brown.

Include a shapely bathtub

Choose a freestanding bathtub in a unique shape, like an egg or oval, to make it a focal point of the bathroom. These organic type shapes are a classic mid-century modern move your bathroom can't be without.

Looking for other affordable options as you set out on updating your bathroom? Here are some of our top tips for creating a luxurious-looking bathroom for cheap. 

Cheap Updates for the Bathroom

 

 

Simple Steps to Prep Your Home for Holiday Guests

When you were at the peak of enjoying easy-breezy summertime in June, it seemed like a fabulous idea to offer your house for Thanksgiving dinner, the company holiday party, and the family gathering on New Year’s Day. Now that the clock is ticking and all of those fall and winter holidays are fast approaching, you may be kicking yourself for saying that you’d host, wondering where to even begin.  

The good news is this: getting your house ready for guests doesn’t have to be a gigantic, stress-laden ordeal that keeps you up at night. In fact, prepping for guests can even be fun! You’ll get to make a series of simple updates that will transform your home into an inviting and cozy haven for your guests – updates that will last long after they leave.  

By starting now and tackling the task early, you can ensure that your home or apartment will be holiday ready so all of your guests feel heartily welcomed. Here are our simple steps to prep for holiday guests:  

Start with a quick-and-easy sweep of any clutter 

The very first step in getting your house ready for guests is to declutter the rooms where they will be spending time. Spaces like the foyer, kitchen, dining room, and living room should be your main targets, as well as any guest bedrooms or rooms where they might be staying overnight. 

Remove anything that’s unnecessary from coffee tables, countertops, and ottomans. You can round up any clutter into storage bags or bins, and place them in your garage, shed, or basement until after the holidays so that your home is clean and tidy. 

Stock the guest room and make sure it’s updated 

If your guests plan to spend a night or two at your house, you’ll want to give extra care and attention to their sleeping quarters. Start by stocking their guest bedroom with things like extra towels and blankets, which can be placed on the end of the bed, as well as toiletries they might have forgotten to pack like lotions, toothpaste, or hair ties. You could even place a small basket with some holiday snacks or treats in their room.  

Finally, evaluate the overall look and layout of your guest bedroom. Could it use a new rug? Does the bedding feel outdated and worn? Is the lighting in need of an update? Making small updates like adding a new freestanding lamp to the bedside table will give the space more charm. 

Freshen up the bathroom so that it’s spotless 

There is nothing worse than a dirty bathroom, so now it’s time to focus on making sure yours is squeaky clean for your guests. In addition to sanitizing the toilet, sinks, and tub or shower, you should go the extra mile to achieve a spotless space by doing things like dusting the light fixtures, buffing the mirrors, and vacuuming the floorboards.  

You can also make it easy for your guests to find hygiene supplies they may need (like soap, tissues, or towels) by incorporating a new linen tower.  

Complete any ongoing DIY projects you’ve been intending to do 

Last but not least, this period of preparation is the perfect opportunity to finally tackle any DIY task you’ve been meaning to complete. For example, if your kitchen has been plagued with a leaky faucet, now is the time to replace it with a state-of-the-art kitchen faucet that will freely flow without a hitch.  

If you’re like most homeowners, there’s probably a sprawling list of projects that you just haven’t had the free afternoon to address – like hanging framed photos or repainting a scratched wall. Use your guests’ arrival date as the definitive deadline for these low-priority DIY projects, and get them done once and for all! 

Want more guest prep tips? Check out this supply list to restock your medicine cabinet.

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