Bathroom Sink Styles: 7 Types To Consider

So…you’re finally ready to tackle that bathroom remodel. Picking out a bathroom sink was definitely not at the top of the “remodel list” when we started our bathroom overhaul last year.

Click to learn more about kitchen & Bath Remodeling Through Facebook Messenger!

We had no idea there were so many different styles to choose from or the questions we needed to ask prior to swinging that ole sledgehammer!First, which bathroom were we remodeling? (master en suite, family bathroom, powder room).

Second, Who will be using this bathroom and how much space do we have?Answering these two simple questions can help narrow down your decisions.

There are plenty of options to choose from but…it doesn’t have to give you a headache!Here are some bathroom sink styles to help make your decision a little easier, depending on which bathroom you are remodeling.

Bathroom Sink Options For Small Spaces

Pedestal Bathroom Sink

The pedestal bathroom sink is a classic sink style. Its self-supporting mechanism allows it to be installed in small bathrooms. Space-saving yet chic, the pedestal or legs come in a variety of designs.

Pros: This sink is aesthetically pleasing in a small bathroom, offered in a wide variety of styles & designs. It also conceals your drainage pipe.

Cons: you won’t have any storage space under the sink or any counter space. around for toiletries.

Wall mounted bathroom sinks

Widely popular sink style. Its space-saving function is part of its appeal. Simply mount it on a wall. There’s no need for additional fixtures or a countertop. It also saves floor space.

Pros: A wall-mounted sink doesn’t have any cabinets below it, which saves space and also leaves more visible floor area, making the room feel bigger.

Cons: Just like the pedestal sink, you won’t have any storage space under the sink or countertop space.

Bathroom Sink Options for Larger Spaces: ( good for family or master baths)

Top Mount Bathroom Sink

Probably the most commonly used, a top-mount or drop-in sink is designed to sit on top of, and visible above, the counter.

Pros: These sinks can be found in stock at most home stores ranging from basic to high-end design, available in a variety of colors. This is a great option if you are simply changing the sink on your existing countertop. Easy to install.

Cons: One disadvantage of this sink type is that the rim makes it a little more difficult to keep the countertop clean. There’s also the potential for water damage.

Undermount Sink

The undermount sink is mounted below the countertop creating a smooth, seamless look and maximizing countertop space. With this sink style, it is easy to wipe down contents of your countertop into the basin. This sink is only compatible with solid material countertops. (solid surface or concrete)

Pros: This sink can give your bathroom a clean and contemporary look paired with solid surface countertops.

Cons: Often more expensive than a top-mounted sink and are not compatible with all countertop material, such as laminate or wood. ( raw edges of the particleboard or plywood countertop substrate would be left exposed).

Undermount Bathroom Sink

All-in-one sink and countertop

Many off-the-shelf vanity cabinets that can be purchased from bathroom supply stores offer an all-in-one countertop with a sink that sits on top. With this style, the sink itself is actually molded as part of the countertop. It can be made from various materials, such as porcelain or acrylic.

Pros: Easy to clean and a great option for busy households. There are no ridges or seams, so they can look very streamlined. Usually available in a wide variety of standard sizes.

Cons: designed so the countertop gradually slopes down and inward to create a sink in the middle. This can lead to having less flat counter space than say a top-mount or drop-in sink.

Vessel Sink

If you are looking to make a bold style statement, then the vessel sink is the best choice. Available in porcelain, glass, stone and even copper — this sink sits on top of the countertop. These sinks are stylish and are sure to add some quirk to your bathroom. Some are sold with its own faucet. Maintenance will depend on the sink’s material.

Pros: This sink demands attention and is a great way to make a bold statement in your bathroom.

Cons: Sits higher than other sinks so careful planning of countertop & vanity height must be considered, otherwise it will be uncomfortable to use.

Semi-recessed sink

If your bathroom has limited space, but you would still like some vanity cabinets below your sink for storage, then a semi-recessed option might be a good option.

Pros: Due to the design of this sink, this allows for much shallower cabinets- maybe as much as 12 inches. This could free up some valuable floor space in your bathroom.

Cons: With no countertop around the front of the sink to catch water, splashes or spills could occur. Storage space is also more limited.Now armed with a little more information on your different options available, you can find the bathroom sink that best fits your design & style.If you are still in the beginning stages of planning your bathroom model, this < ;a href="https://builderssurplus.us/bathroom-remodeling-your-complete-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">complete bathroom remodeling guide will help make your remodel…and life easier

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are the leading provider of Bathroom Remodeling, Bathroom Cabinets, Vanity tops and backsplash tile in Louisville, Newport, and Cincinnati. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!

Subscribe here to learn more about bathroom remodeling!

February 6, 2018

Keeping Original Charm in Historic Bathroom Remodel

Today we’ll cover doing a bathroom remodel in an old or historic home. Moving into an old house can be exciting and scary at the same time. Old homes have some unforeseen issues, yes, but they come with so much more that you can’t get in new construction. Things were built differently. They are very sturdy and have so much craftsmanship and detail. Doing a remodel in an old home can pose it’s own set of challenges, and some of those include how to get a “new” space without loosing that old feel that made you decide to move in. Here’s how you can keep your bathroom remodel in line with the era of your home, and still be up to date!

Giving your new bathroom remodel original charm

1. Research the era

First of all, each era has specific characteristics that make it special. Do your research on the particular time period your home was built in. Find out what the styles were and let that guide you!

2. Pennies and hexagons

Hexagon tile and penny tile are two styles that are popular now that were very popular back in the day. They are classic styles that will not be out with the start of a new year and give you that nostalgic feel.

3. Subway Tile

Subway tile is another style that won’t soon fade in popularity. It has remained a tile staple for decades. This classy and clean look can be done on walls or showers, in different colors, different finishes and with different grout colors to take this simple style and punch it up. However simple white subway tile might be, it is still one of our favorite looks.

4. Bead board

Bead board on the walls is a great alternative for wall tile. It’s fairly inexpensive, easy to install and looks great. It also gives your bathroom remodel the old school look you’re going for.

5. Antique style faucets

Nothing adds that antique touch like a decorative faucet. These have gained in popularity recently so they should be fairly easy to find and are truly a sculpture for your bathroom remodel.

6. Pedestal & Vessel Sinks

Pedestal and vessel sink styles have been around since the 1800’s, so you don’t get much more vintage than this. You can find old style sinks, but with the proper drainage functions of new sinks. They add the look you want with the comfort that you need.

7. Clawfoot Tubs

Clawfoot tubs are my hands down favorite addition to any bathroom remodel, not just those in old homes. Clawfoot tubs are super comfortable, extremely beautiful, and can be placed in spaces regular tubs just can’t go. This style has never really lost it’s touch but has made a comeback in recent years. Check out our selection in store and save up to 70%!

8. The right light

The right lighting can make a big difference in your space. Go with styles that, like mentioned in the first point, fit the time period of your space. Maybe a very decorative chandeliers will work perfectly. Maybe it’s an oil rubbed bronze fixture with Edison bulbs. The choices are endless!

9. Brick Tile

Brick tile is another one of my favorite design elements for a bathroom remodel as well as any other space in the home. The exposed brick look always makes me think of the industrial revolution and most older homes had brick behind their walls, so it would be common for some to become exposed over years of wear and tear.

10. Keep it neutral

Older style bathrooms were not vibrant with bright pops of color. They were typically more muted with neutral palettes. Not that you can’t add color in your new bathroom remodel, but don’t go for bold hues. Light blue or green is always a good choice, but you can’t go wrong with white, grey, beige or tan.

I hope you found this helpful for your old home bathroom remodel! Ask any additional questions in the comments below!

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are the leading provider of Bathroom Remodeling, Bathroom Cabinets, Vanity tops and backsplash tile in Louisville, Newport, and Cincinnati. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!
Written By: Allie Bloyd

February 14, 2017

Builder’s Surplus Guide: Top 10 Bathroom Remodel Upgrades for the Modern Home

In today’s fast-paced world, our bathrooms have transcended beyond mere functional spaces to sanctuaries of relaxation and luxury. As homeowners increasingly seek spa-like experiences and advanced features within the comfort of their homes, bathroom remodeling has evolved dramatically. In this blog, we dive deep into the world of premium bathroom upgrades. We’ll shed light on ten of the most recommended enhancements, seamlessly blending functionality with opulence. Whether you’re embarking on a full-scale renovation or simply looking for refined touches to elevate your space, this guide promises to inspire and educate. Prepare to embark on a journey of transformation as we unravel the best in modern bathroom luxury.

Top 10 Bathroom Remodel Upgrades for the Modern Home

1. Motion-Sensor Under Vanity Lighting

Under Vanity Lighting

A staple in luxury bathroom renovations, motion-sensor under vanity lighting infuses both functionality and contemporary elegance. It’s a game-changer for those midnight visits, illuminating your path without the need for blinding overhead lights. A practical and energy-efficient solution, it’s high on the list for modern bathroom upgrades.

2. LED Lighted Mirrors

LED Mirror

As the trend shifts towards sleek bathroom designs, LED lighted mirrors have become a must-have. Offering shadow-free illumination, they ensure flawless makeup applications and precise shaving. Enhancing the aesthetic appeal, these mirrors are pivotal in bathroom makeovers.

3.Radiant Heat Flooring

Radiant Heat

One of the top bathroom remodeling trends today, radiant heat flooring marries comfort with luxury. Say goodbye to cold, unwelcoming tiles in winters. It’s an upgrade that not only boosts the comfort level but significantly elevates property value, making it a favorite in luxury bathroom designs.

4. Multi-Shower Head Showers

Multi Shower Heads

With homeowners seeking spa-like experiences in their bathroom remodels, multi-functional showers are all the rage. Customize your shower experience, from rainfall effects to therapeutic jets, making each bath an indulgence. It’s the epitome of modern bathroom luxury.

5. Thermostatic Shower Valves

Thermostatic Shower Control
Gone are the days of abrupt temperature shifts during your shower. Thermostatic shower valves are specifically designed to maintain your chosen water temperature consistently, regardless of any other water usage in the house. This means no more sudden cold or scalding hot surprises if someone else flushes a toilet or uses a faucet. By regulating the water temperature and ensuring it remains stable, thermostatic valves are not just about luxury, but also about enhancing safety in your bathroom.

6. Feature Tile Wall in the Shower

Feature Tile Wall In Shower

Making waves in bathroom renovation ideas, a feature tile wall transforms your shower area into an artful retreat. With a plethora of tile designs available, this focal point elevates the overall design and provides an artistic touch to modern bathroom remodels.

7. Water Closet

water closet

An upgrade that subtly combines luxury with privacy is the addition of a water closet. Essentially a separate room for the toilet within your bathroom, a water closet offers a distinct space for one of the most personal routines. Not only does this mean enhanced privacy, especially in master bathrooms that might be shared by two, but it also allows for multiple users: one can take a shower while the other uses the toilet. In today’s world, where bathroom space is being maximized, the water closet stands as a testament to thoughtful design, giving an elegant touch while optimizing functionality.

8. Soft-Close Vanity Drawers

Incorporating quality bathroom fittings like soft-close drawers ensures longevity and minimizes wear and tear. It’s a subtle upgrade that speaks volumes about attention to detail, making it a favorite in premium bathroom renovations.

9. The Ultimate Steam Shower

Steam Port

Elevate your daily ritual with the spa-like luxury of a steam shower. More than just a typical shower, a steam shower offers the therapeutic benefits of steam, enveloping you in a warm cloud that soothes muscles, opens up pores, and aids in relaxation. Incorporating a steam generator into your bathroom design means the luxury of a spa is just a button-press away. Steam showers have also been linked to numerous health benefits, from improved circulation and relief from arthritis to enhanced skin health. Furthermore, the humid environment can be beneficial for respiratory conditions, helping to clear nasal passages and ease breathing. Aesthetically, steam showers can be integrated seamlessly into contemporary bathroom designs, offering clear glass enclosures that showcase feature tiles and premium fixtures. This is an upgrade that not only uplifts the physical senses but also serves as a sanctuary for mental well-being, right in the comfort of your home.

10 Glass Shower Walls

glass shower walls

Transform your bathroom into a modern oasis with the installation of sleek glass shower walls. Not only do they impart a contemporary, clean aesthetic, but they also help make the bathroom feel larger by allowing uninterrupted sight lines. The transparency of glass ensures that natural light floods through, brightening up the shower space and showcasing any feature tiles or design elements within. Easy to clean and maintain, these walls also resist mold and mildew, making your bathroom healthier and more appealing.

At Builders Surplus, we’re more than just a store – we’re your trusted partner in turning your dream bathroom into reality. With established presences in Louisville and Florence, Kentucky, and even extending our expertise to Cincinnati, Ohio, we’ve solidified our reputation as the go-to hub for bathroom remodeling essentials. Whether you’re in search of the perfect bathroom vanity, exquisite countertops, or mesmerizing tiles, we’ve got it all. Our commitment extends beyond products; our talented interior designers are always ready to lend their expertise, and our free design consultations and measurement services ensure your vision is realized flawlessly. We pride ourselves on offering products for every budget, from the basics to the premium, ensuring every renovation dream is attainable. And for those seeking an end-to-end solution, our top-notch installation services have got you covered. Dive into the world of Builders Surplus for a comprehensive remodeling experience and let us be a part of your transformation journey. Until our next inspiration session, here’s to creating spaces that resonate with luxury, function, and style. Happy Renovation! T.B.

January 26, 2017

Keys to a Family Friendly Bathroom Remodel

Whether you’re looking to do a bathroom remodel on your family’s only bathroom or your older children will be sharing a bathroom with the younger ones, a family friendly bathroom can seem like a challenge. How do you make everyone happy? You want to make bath time fun for the young kids, but you don’t want to be stepping on rubber duckies every time you get in the shower or bath. The key to a family friendly bathroom remodel is making everyone comfortable using the space, regardless of their size.

Don’t Choose Miniature Bathroom Materials

Just because you have small children doesn’t mean they will stay small. Young kids have a nasty habit of growing up, and when they do, you don’t want to have to replace your vanity, shower head and shelving because you chose mini-materials trying to make it easier on them for a few short years. Remember, nothing lasts forever. Instead of choosing a vanity that fits them, find usable stools or steps that will help them reach the adult sized sink. Pick a shower head that can extend and retract so that it works for people of all sizes. If you ever choose to resell your home, you may be forced to remodel if you choose materials that won’t work for the average joe. All things to think about before remodeling the family bathroom.

Opt for Shower-Bath Tub Combos

Many adults choose to shower over bathing. But, most kids take baths. If you don’t have the space (or budget) for both, opt for a combo. If you want something more elegant than your traditional bath tub, go for a clawfoot or freestanding tub with an over head shower head. It will work for children and adults alike, while adding class and beauty to your space. They are actually much more comfortable to soak in that standard bath tubs as well! I would suggest adding a grab bar around the tub for children, though. It can easily be removed as they get older.

A Nice, Neutral Bathroom Remodel

Many parents make the unfortunate decision of designing their family bathroom around the kids. Bright colored tile and murals on the walls may make them happy for now, but how will it make you feel? Will you feel like you’re in the spa when you’re relaxing in the few moments you take for yourself? Instead, choose to go neutral. That doesn’t mean it has to be boring. That’s what paint (to a point) and accessories are for! Choose to decorate with things that are easy and inexpensive to switch out when you or the kids are tired of them, like trash cans, soap dishes, shower curtains and towels. When they’re out of the rubber ducky phase, you can switch them out for a more mature theme that costs less than $100. The image to the left has definitely done something unique with their paint, but they can repaint whenever they start to feel dizzy. They kept their tile and main pieces neutral to go with any scheme.
[bscolumns class=”one_half”][/bscolumns][bscolumns class=”one_half_last_clear”][/bscolumns][bscolumns class=”clear”][/bscolumns]

Storage Solutions For Your Sanity

We know that kids like toys, and your bathroom product collection has grown now that you have little ones. But that doesn’t mean that you want to constantly look at them. One of the best suggestions for a family friendly bathroom remodel is to build in storage solutions. Instead of floating vanities, opt for those with cabinets. Find a way to add a bathroom pantry cabinet. If you can only use open shelving, find decorative storage boxes to store them in to at least organize and clear up the clutter. The more clear the bathroom, the larger it will feel, and the safer it will be for everyone using it.

Safety First

When doing a bathroom remodel for your family, young or old, safety should be a priority. Don’t put outlets right next to the bath tub. Make sure you’re using the correct, water safe outlets next to your sink. Build in a place to store hair dryers, straighteners, and other electric items that are a safe distance from the faucet. Also, keeping them out of reach of young children is a good idea as well. Choose slip mats for your bath tubs, and rugs for your floor, which is bound to get slippery. When the kids are young, opt for plastic soap dishes and tooth brush holders. In the event that there is an accident, you won’t have broken glass. Those can always be upgraded when the kids are at a safer age.

Secondary Mirror Salvation

This last one may only apply for families with girls, but if it is your only family bathroom, mom would appreciate this as well. If you have the space, I would advise adding an additional mirror either a ledge or vanity area for the women in your life to do their hair or make up without holding up the rest of the family. We know that some women have the tendency to hog the mirror. Let them do their thing while the boys brush, shave, or gel their hair quickly.

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are the leading provider of Ledge Stone, wall tile and backsplash tile in Louisville, Newport, and Cincinnati. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!

Written By: Allie Bloyd

July 28, 2016

Copper Sinks: The Essential Starter Guide

Click to learn more about Kitchen Remodeling Through Facebook Messenger!

Copper Sinks – when you say copper sinks you might think of an old brown and green bowl sitting on a vanity in the old west before there was plumbing; however, copper sinks today are much different than they were way back when, they are a beautiful statement piece to any kitchen design or bathroom remodel. They’re link shiny red-brown chameleons – constantly changing and always stunning to look at and watch change over time. There are many reasons why you might want to add a copper sink to your kitchen design or bathroom remodel; it could be their unique and diverse style or their ability to be antimicrobial. Whatever the reason for your consideration of a copper sink, there is no denying that it will be the talking point of your guests around the dining room table.

Properties of Copper Sinks

Copper sinks are as unique as they come, in both style and function. When seeking copper sinks you should look for sinks that are 99% pure copper, preferably with that remaining 1% being zinc, which will add to it’s strength. Do be warned that when ordering copper sinks from China, India, or the Middle East as lead can be used as a filler because it has similar workability to copper and is inexpensive. Lead is also harmful to humans – so be cautious when ordering outside of the United States.
Copper is an extremely soft metal which means that it can be shaped and hammered into different designs to turn an average bowl into a stunning masterpiece!

Copper Sinks: Mount & Style

Like any other sink, copper sinks also come in a variety of styles and mounts. They can be unadorned or extremely elaborate – it all just depends on what you’re looking for and what you’re willing to spend. Sink mounts refer to how the sink is installed and will look on the countertop, while style generally refers to the finish of the product.

Decorative, Farmhouse

Decorative sinks tend to be more ornate and have intricate designs either hammered or stamped into the metal. They are extremely elegant and with the reactive and changing nature of copper sinks they will always look a little different the next copper sink! Farmhouse, is the kind of mount, and is not unique to copper sinks. Farmhouse mounted sink are also called an apron mount where the front of the sink is exposed or overhangs from the the cabinets below it. Farmhouse is a great look and feel to go for with more country, or traditional style kitchens. Now, just because these two are listed together doesn’t mean that’s how all copper sinks are. You can most certainly get a decorative sink with a different mount or just a plain farmhouse mount with no decoration.

Hammered, Drop In

Hammered sinks are less ornate than more decorative style sinks, however they’re more unique than plain or brushed finish copper sinks. Hammered sinks give a faceted look to a shiny sink that has little patina to it, like you’re washing dishes in an amber bowl. When your sink has a more patina’d look to it, it makes the bowl appear more rustic and handmade – craftsmanship like. Drop In sinks are more common because their weight is what largely keeps them in place on the counter top, and thus are really easy to install.

Brushed, Under Mount

A copper sink – with little else to it will be eye catching, so if you’re wanting something more simple than what else can be seen on here then looking towards a brushed finish is a simple and understated, yet still elegant solution. Under mount sinks are beautiful because the countertop sits directly above them, giving the space a more modern and seamless look.

Hammered Finish Under Mount Sinks

Finished, Vessel

There are different kinds of finishes, the kind that I am referencing here are copper sinks that have something other than a wax or sealant to finish them, such as glass or acrylic. The bonus to this is that the copper will stay in all it’s original, shiny, beautiful, glory – if you can’t stand slight inconsistencies or change in your sink finish then this is the way to go! A vessel mount sink appears to be a simple bowl sitting atop your vanity or countertop. These are decorative of themselves and make great statement pieces without needing any kind of finish! Vessel sinks come in many different shapes and styles. If you want a unique looking sink that goes beyond just copper, vessel sinks are as unique and as out there as you can get!

Pros & Cons of Copper Sinks

Everything in this world has its ups and downs. When it comes to sinks it just depends on what you want, and how much you can spend. If antimicrobial properties are important to you then you’re only bet is copper.

Pros:

They’re beautiful: It’s that simple. Copper sinks are some of the most beautiful and unique! The fact that they’re made from one sheet with no seams also makes them like works of art. They can be hammered and shaped to almost any dimension. Copper sinks do form a patina as they’re exposed to water and air, so if you love the original color you can have it coated to preserve it’s beauty. If you like their reactivity, the ever changing color and patina of copper sinks are just a bonus to their beauty. This goes beyond copper sinks being beautiful, they literally have countless combinations of finish and style. Some look like regular sinks and others look like works of art!
They’re antimicrobial: This unique property of copper sinks makes them favorable for kitchens, while bacteria can live on many sinks surfaces for weeks at a time, bacteria on copper sinks can only last a matter of hours. However, the EPA states that you shouldn’t coat (paint, lacquer, varnish, wax, etc.) your copper sinks if you wish to keep the antimicrobial nature if the metal.
Copper is 100% recyclable: Copper retains 95% of it’s original value when being sold after recycling. In fact, it’s likely that the copper sink that you’re getting is already made from previously recycled copper.
They’re durable: Depending on the gauge (thickness) of copper that your sink comes in will definitely affect its durability, the thicker the copper the less likely to dent it will be. Copper sinks are resistant to corrosion and rust, making it an ideal choice for a sink material.

Cons:

They’re highly reactive: If you want your copper sinks to maintain their color you’ll need to coat them – which will rid of you of the antimicrobial properties of the metal as well. Acidic foods and drinks, abrasive cleaners, and extremely hot or cold cookware can change the color of your sink, darkening it and leaving odd colored spots. Granted, as the patina darkens everything will become more uniform as time progresses. However, unless they’re sealed periodically it is extremely hard to maintain a copper sinks original shine.
They’re expensive: More than just being an expensive choice for a sink, they’re also expensive to repair. Copper is a very soft and malleable metal, so it can be easily dented and warped, meaning that you’ll likely need to repair it more often than other sink materials. Keep in mind that thinner gauge copper sinks will dent more easily than thicker gauge copper sinks.
They need more maintenance: To keep it’s shine and finish in tact for as long as possible you should dry the sink with a soft towel after every use and you should be careful with what products you use to clean it as some more acidic cleaners can discolor your sink. Warm water and gentle soap is usually all it takes.

When all is said and done choosing the right sink for you is up to you, however, we hope, that in considering copper sinks for your next kitchen design or bathroom remodel that we’ve provided you with the necessary information to decide if a copper sink is right for your home and family! They’re stunning and unique pieces with equally unique properties that make them ideal in any kitchen! Now that you know something about copper sinks, if you think that you’re ready to shop around you can view our copper sink selection on our website!

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!
Written By: Kat Flaherty

January 22, 2016

5 Simple Ways To Boost Your Small Bathroom Remodel

If you are familiar with the movie, “Elf” featuring the story of Buddy the Elf, than you know there are certain complications that come with being a regular sized human living in a pint-sized world. If you have ever lived in a home with a meager sized bathroom, you can most likely relate with some of the challenges Buddy the Elf faced. But just because a room is tiny doesn’t mean it can’t be functional. A small bathroom remodel can ensure your space is comfortable and will help to maximize the functionality of your bathroom. Here are some creative solutions that will simplify your small bathroom remodel and help you make the most out of your small space.

USE SPACE FOR STORAGE:

There are several ways to enhance a small bathroom remodel and perpetuate more functional space. The use of wall space that would otherwise be empty is one of the easiest ways to accomplish this. The wall space beside and above the toilet is probably one of the most functional areas to get creative. Installing narrow wall shelves opens up space to store toilet paper, towels, personal care products, books, pictures and decor…the options are endless. Another idea would be to mount freestanding elements, like a vanity or tall shelves. Not only would this create more storage space and maximize the height of the bathroom but it invites an opportunity to decorate a room you wouldn’t otherwise have space for.

REPLACE TRADITIONAL BATHROOM VANITY CABINETS:

When it comes to the bathroom sink, less is more. Replace traditional bathroom vanity cabinets with a pedestal sink set and you will free up more space than you probably realize. Pedestal sinks were specially designed for small spaces because, unlike bathroom vanity cabinets, they don’t take up valuable space at your feet or on one end of the bathroom. Sure, you may lose a little cabinet space, but you increase valuable space…both in look and feel.

LIGHT IT UP:

Get the most out of your small space by layering your bathroom lighting. Maximizing your small bathroom space is just one advantage of using more than one type of light or light source to illuminate your bathroom space. Task lights, ambient lighting, accent and natural lights all have distinct benefits, as well as, varying levels of light. A lot of homeowners don’t take into consideration the impact that effective bathroom lighting can have and they invest that money elsewhere in the home. We recommend choosing your bathroom lighting elements as one of your first steps when planning a small bathroom remodel.

Task lights may be all you need in a small bathroom remodel but it’s not recommended to be your only lighting source. Task lights are usually used for grooming and maintaining personal care. Accent lights are meant to illuminate the bathroom space or highlight a specific piece of decor, such as a tub or mirror. Try employing both direct and indirect lighting to shift the focus to a softer glow that can blur the boundaries of your bathroom while causing your small bathroom space to appear bigger than it’s actual size.

BE DRAMATIC WITH COLOR:

Design trends for small areas tend to be driven through the use of one main color in a variety of shades. Whether white, black or a much brighter color, interior designers have often used color to alter the perception of a room’s size. Consider making a dramatic impression through the use of one dominant color. And who says small bathrooms have to be dull or boring?
Ready to start your bathroom remodel? Click here to schedule a FREE consultation with one of our designers.

ELIMINATE THE BATHTUB:

One of the best ways to open up space in a small bathroom remodel is to eliminate the bathtub and replace it with a standing or walk-in shower. There are many variations you can choose when it comes to designing a shower for your small bathroom. These days you can choose from things like multiple shower heads and bench seating, however, the REAL fun comes in when you start looking at all of the different bathroom tile and backsplash options. Taking bathroom tile all the way up the wall will maximize visual space, not to mention become a focal point if you choose something elaborate.

Those are just five of many different bathroom design ideas but the list doesn’t end there. There are literally a dozen or more suggestions we can make to help you maximize your small bathroom remodel and get the most out of your space. We hope to feature more suggestions in the coming weeks. If you have personally encountered the transformation of a small bathroom remodel, we would love to see any photos you have. Also, if you have any suggestions on ways to maximize space, especially for small bathrooms and kitchens, we would love to hear them. Be sure to drop us a line or comment below. We are all in this together so helping to make the most of our homes and businesses is encouraged. By the way, if you have NOT seen the movie, “Elf” featuring Will Ferrell, please add that to the top of your “Holiday Must Do” list. You won’t regret it!

Builders Surplus is a full service remodeling company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We specialize in interior design, which comes as a free service to our clients. We sell building supplies ranging from unused surplus, to first quality in stock, to high end custom order and everything in between. We also provide measurement and full installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. Happy Remodeling!

Written By: LeighAnne Turner

December 2, 2015

Recent Posts

Most Viewed