We have some new Barrier Free Showers to Share!

This Barrier Free Shower is a perfect example of a few things. First, there was orignally a giant tub next to a small shower, which were both torn out to create a luxurious Master Bathroom Shower. This is beginning to be the case for most people since that enormous master tub is never used. Second, this shower was created to cater to the needs of the gentleman that owned the home, who happened to be in a wheelchair. He now has more independence due to the zero-threshold entrance, multiple grab bars and conveniently placed shelves.

The valves were placed at the entrance of the shower so it can be turned on without sitting under the showerhead while the water warms up.

There has been one common factor with all the Bathroom Remodeling that we have been doing - Everyone wants a "Spa-Like" Bathroom. While that may mean different things to different people, we have a couple ideas for you to ponder over while you decide what to do with your bathroom.

1. Barrier Free Shower. Not only do Barrier Free Showers provide function with a clean look, but you don't have to have any glass which can save hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. We can run heated floor directly into your shower, and even up your built-in tile shower seat!

Photo Courtesy of Interior Designer Ellen Hinnant with Designing Your Lifestyle

2. Steam Shower. Steam Showers are not what they used to be. In fact, they have come quite a long way. Mr. Steam offers multiple different options for your Steam Shower:

• ChromaSteam System: Mr. Steam has incorporated 7 different colors in their lighting system, which correspond wit the body's 7 Major Chakra Energy Centers. Red for Vitality, Orange for Energy, Yellow for Awakening, Green for Harmony, Celestial Blue,  Mystic Indigo, Violet for Nirvana
• AromaSteam: Incorporate aromatherapy oils into your Steam Shower to care for your body with one of the oldest "medicines." Mr. Steam offers 5 different essential oils to choose from, including Eucalyptus and Lavender.
• Music Therapy: Add flush mounted speakers to your Steam Shower to use sound to engage all senses. Music Therapy is said to Help Manage Stress, Alleviate Pain, Enhance Memory and Promote Physical Rehabilitation.

3. Shower Seat. Adding a shower seat to your shower, whether it be a fold up (like the one shown below) or a built in, allows you to really enjoy your shower experience. When you're tired from a workout or just want to relax with your aromatherapy oils, the option to sit down can be a great plus. 

4. Heated Floor. How many times have you walked out of your shower onto a cold tile floor? Adding a heated floor is less expensive than you may think and is a luxurious addition to your bathroom. You can program your heated floor to only function during certain times of the day, which helps save energy. While they are not made to heat the room, it does assist in maintaining a comfortable temperature in your bathroom.

We had a great turnout at the Southern Ideal Home Show this past weekend! It's obvious everyone is ready to remodel if they have not already began to do so. If you're looking to remodel your kitchen or bath, here are some points to remember:

• You want Quality. While the lower pricing on online stores and DIY centers may catch your eye, the quality is not the same as it is if you were to buy from a reputable distributor
• Functionality is Key. If you don't use your giant whirlpool tub, why keep it? More people are removing the tubs from their Master Bath and creating the spa experience they have always dreamed of. If you stilll like the idea of having a tub, a secondary bath may be the best place for it.
• Do your Research. Your home is your biggest investment, so you want to make sure to do your research before hiring contractors. Don't be afraid to ask local companies, neighbors or friends who they recommend for your remodel.
• Have Fun. Remodeling is probably not something you will do often, so when you decide to go for it make sure to enjoy it and make it your own.

With the way our economy has been lately, it's no wonder people are looking for ways to save money here and there. Remodeling can be a large expense, but "going green" can save you a lot of money in the long run! If you are remodeling your bathroom, consider these products:

Toto "Drake" Commode
Features:
* 1.28 Gallons per Flush which would save THOUSANDS of gallons of water per year!
* G-Max Flushing Technology provides a quiet, forceful flush that you normally only see in commercial applications
* Visit http://www.epa.gov/watersense/ to see if you qualify for the Watersense Rebate!

Hansgrohe Green Showerheads and Handshowers
Features:
* Up to 40% Water Savings by simply changing out your current showerhead or handshower
* Air-Injection Technology used LESS water but INCREASES pressure! You get the best of both worlds

For more information and ideas on how you can "Go Green," Visit our Facebook to see how you can save money too!