Transform Your Bathroom into an At-home Spa Experience

(BPT)—Today’s bathrooms are evolving into relaxing rooms with many benefits of a spa. Whether remodeling an existing bathroom or building a new one, nature-themed trends add comfort and style. Bathrooms are one of the three most remodeled rooms, along with kitchens and master bedrooms, according to Remodeling Magazine’s annual remodeling Cost vs. Value Report for 2013. Bathroom design trends take cues from nature—from environmentally friendly products and earth tones to installing bigger windows to add more natural light. Incorporate natural design elements: Earth tones, nature-inspired patterns, wood and stone materials, sustainable products and energy-efficient fixtures are staples of today’s top trends. “Adding comfort and efficiency to your bathroom can be as easy as replacing existing products with Energy Star-qualified options,” says Kathy Krafka Harkema, Pella Windows and Doors spokesperson. “Today, you can have it all when it comes to incorporating new windows that are more energy-efficient than cold, old single-pane or clear glass options.” Energy-efficient showerheads, motion-sensing faucets, water-conserving toilets, ambient lighting and high-performing replacement windows, like Pella 350 Series vinyl windows with double or triple-pane insulating glass, will help make your bathroom more comfortable and help save energy year-round. When it comes to bathroom design, go natural with a mosaic tile backsplash behind the sink or install a tile, stone or brick wall in the shower. Materials like ceramic tiles, wood cabinets, bamboo mats, stone countertops and natural fibers like cotton or sisal rugs help create a calming atmosphere. Brighten up with color: Bold, bright colors can be overpowering in a small bathroom, but color accents of poppy red, nectarine orange or turquoise blue can breathe new energy and life into a drab bathroom. Accent with a splash of emerald green, the 2013 Pantone color of the year, or other bold colors in tiles, towels, bath mats, artwork or accessories. Add personal spa features: Luxurious spa qualities, like open shelving and built-in storage for easy access to towels, toiletries and candles, can be essentials in bathroom remodeling projects. Other favorites include walk-in showers with rain showerheads, relaxing whirlpool or claw-footed bathtubs, towel warmers and even fireplaces. Lighting is one of the keys to creating the spa experience. The right windows can dramatically transform an ordinary bathroom into an extraordinary experience. “Windows add essential natural light to bathrooms, to help frame a beautiful view,” Krafka Harkema says. “Consider specially shaped windows or groupings of casement, awning, transom or double-hung windows to add more architectural interest.” Another popular trend is installing patio doors and balconies in master baths. If you want natural light but crave privacy, choose Pella Designer Series wood windows and patio doors with clean, convenient between-the-glass shades or blinds for instant privacy without the fuss of installing separate curtain rods and hardware. Now’s the time to design your dream bathroom. Visit www.pella.com/news to learn how to connect with a Pella representative to discuss your replacement project plans.