If you’re planning on remodeling your bathroom, all you really need is a toilet, sink, tub, and/or shower. But we all know the extra details are what make the space special and unique – your OWN. Do you prefer a spa-like oasis to melt away your winter chills in a claw-foot soaker tub? Or would you rather have a sleek, contemporary, glass and chrome shower with multiple jets to blast away the work day?
Besides the essentials, we’ve pulled together a list of the top 11 features that you should add to YOUR bathroom wishlist.
1. Double sinks 
Today’s families are generally busy and getting ready for school/work in the morning can get hectic when you all have to be out the door at the same time. Whether it’s the family bathroom or the master ensuite, having 2 sinks can help keep the bickering to a minimum.
2. Under-mount sinks
Under-mount sinks attach to the underside of the counter top, so there’s no raised rim. They make cleanup so much easier because there’s no lip to trap the grime. One quick wipe and you’re good to go!
3. Single-handle faucet or a built-in soap dispenser.
For all you germaphobes, single-handle faucets make it easier turn on and adjust without having to twist multiple knobs.
If you find you’re continually filling the soap dispenser, consider installing a pump right next to the bathroom faucet. It can pull from an economy-size bottle mounted underneath the counter.
4. Open shower
If you’re tired of seeing soap scum and water spots on your shower glass, maybe it’s time to consider no glass at all! Open showers have clean lines and are easy to enter, even if you have mobility issues. If you have the space for a sizable shower, this is a beautiful and practical way to get around cleaning all that glass.
5. Wall-mounted toilet
These toilets have a tendency to look a bit industrial, but with the right design, they can fit right in. They take up less space and are so much easier to clean around. They also use much less water since they don’t have to fill a tank each time you flush.
6. Separate toilet space
These are really popular in Europe, Australia and Japan, but only recently are we seeing them grow in popularity in North America. They take up a bit more room than a regular setup, but gives you more privacy. This way, your partner can brush their teeth and you won’t have to wait with your legs crossed until he’s out.
7. Heated floors
We all know Nova Scotian winters are long and cold. Having a heated floor can make getting up on chilly mornings a whole lot easier. Radiant-heat floors can be a little pricey, but in a small space like a bathroom, they’re more manageable. They can also save you money in the long run because they’re an energy-efficient way to heat your space.
8. Vanities: storage & counter tops
Drawers are important for keeping the bathroom clutter to a minimum. You can store all your daily toiletries out of sight and easily get to them when needed.
It’s also important to think of the counter top. It’s best to use materials that are resistant to scratches, stains, and heat, while still easy to clean and maintain. Granite, marble or quartz are practical and beautiful choices. Again, because such a small amount is needed, it shouldn’t break the bank.
9. Lighting
Natural daylight is always the best lighting, so don’t forget to add windows to your renovation if possible. When the sun goes down, you’ll need to turn the lights on. Overhead fixtures provide ample lighting, but wall sconces will give you softer, more even lighting when looking in the mirror. Let’s face it; we don’t need our under-eye shadows emphasized by having just one overhead light!
10. Ventilation
In the long run, it pays to properly ventilate your bathroom. A good exhaust system is there to pull the moister out quickly. Preventing mold growth and peeling paint is worth spending the extra few dollars on a good vent.
11. Style
Last but not least, your bathroom should reflect your style. It’s tempting to copy a look from a magazine, but it’s your chance to get creative and build your dream space. It’s a great idea to get inspiration and pull colours and materials that you like, but make sure to expand on it and make the space work for YOU.
