Bath Trends . . . Add a Little Serenity to Your Sanctuary

Here's how to use the latest in bathroom design trends to create a spa-like atmosphere in your bath.

Keep your feet warm with radiant heat.  While it may feel luxurious, radiant heat can provide comfort at lower thermostat settings.  So it can actually be a cost saver.  Also consider water-conserving toilets, low-flow showerheads, and tankless water heaters, which can cut energy use in half, as they only heat water as needed.

Bathrooms are expanding in size.  Like kitchens, people are spending more time in bathrooms, and the trend is to add more flourishes normally seen in a family room, including gas fireplaces, furniture, armoires for storage, TVs, and sound systems.  Antique bureaus can be transformed into bathroom cabinetry.  And above-counter sinks are the latest in bathroom design, providing both function and style.

Porcelain and ceramic tile are no longer the obvious choices.  Instead, designers are opting for mosaics, glass, slate, and stacked natural stone paired with travertine. 

White is not the only option for bathrooms,  In fact, in smaller spaces rich dark shades of cranberry, navy and green can make the walls recede.

If a remodel is not in your budget anytime soon, you can still improve the space and making it more Zen-like by installing dimmer switches, putting out fluffy new rugs and towels, and a few scented candles.