SPECIAL SECTION HOME IMPROVEMENT
of specialized showerheads, you can have everything from
the sprinkle of a gentle rain to an invigorating massage to
bring your body back to center. And a nice relaxing bath in a
soaker tub can make the world go away for a while.
Does all of this sound like a fantasy? Maybe not.
According to designer Mary Laipple, Director of the
Kitchen and Bath Design Studio at 84 Lumber, you may
be able to make updates to your bath for less than you
might expect.
“If a homeowner is just updating and not moving
plumbing, heating ducts and electricity, the makeover can
start at around $10,000,” says Laipple. And the choices for
today’s bath are incredibly enticing. She notes that many
homeowners are opting for larger showers that will not only
get you clean, but can also bathe you in LED lighting that
changes colors to suit your mood. You can also enjoy your
favorite music in the shower to either calm you down after a
stressful day, or pep you up for the daily routine.
Vanities and bath cabinetry have also arrived in the 21st
century. Vanities are no longer empty-shell cabinets that
open to a cavernous interior with little customization.
Current options for drawers and cabinets include
specialized areas for storing your blow dryer neatly away
and stackable storage options for makeup. And while you’re
standing in front of that vanity applying your makeup, you
can watch TV in the mirror! New technology allows your
favorite TV program to be projected onto the mirror, so
you can keep up with the latest baseball scores or check the
weather before going out.
Slate and marble tile are always elegant options for
bathrooms, but one of the latest trends in baths are
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