Elegant Apartment in Warsaw, Poland

Saska Apartment has been designed by the Warsaw based firm Soma Architekci. This wonderful two story apartment has been designed to be minimalistic and stylish. Saska Apartment is located in Saska Kępa, a neighbourhood of Warsaw, Poland. Saska Apartment in Warsaw, Poland by Soma Architekci: “The owner of the apartment located in the centre of…


Luxurious Family Home on a Hill Above Los Angeles

Oriole Way was completed by the California based studio McClean Design. This stunning family home is located on a hill above Los Angeles, California, USA. Oriole Way in Los Angeles, details by McClean Design: At the end of Oriole Way overlooking Sunset Strip, this lot was more of a cliff than a site but has…


Bright Apartment in The Hague, Netherlands

This beautifully renovated apartment was completed by The Hague based studio Global Architects. The apartment is located in The Hague, Netherlands. Apartment in The Hague by Global Architects, details by Global Architects: The renovation of the top floor of this Dutch mansion was a challenging one since the goal was to restore the traditional function…


Modern Family House in Portugal

The Quinta Villa was designed by the London and Portugal based studio Staffan Tollgard Design Group. This stylish and contemporary family residence has been constructed with stone, concrete and glass. Glass sliding doors enable a seamless indoor and outdoor living space. The Quinta Villa is located in Portugal.


Breathtaking Holiday Home, Shelley Point, South Africa

Cape Town based studio SAOTA completed Silver Bay in 2010. This stunning contemporary home has been designed for a young family as a holiday home. The house sits perched above the beach and enjoys panoramic ocean views. Silver Bay is located in Shelley Point, West Coast, South Africa.


Bathroom Window Buying Guide

clogged toilet

Image: Astronaut Images/Getty Images

Bathroom window buying guide

Changing your bathroom window can help you maximize available light while maintaining privacy. When choosing a bathroom window, you should consider lighting, privacy, and ventilation. A window with the perfect mix of these features can help you create the bathroom of your dreams.

What is a bathroom window?

A bathroom window protects your home from the elements while offering natural light. You should be able to open at least one window in your bathroom to allow for proper ventilation. Opening the window for 15 minutes after showering can decrease the likelihood of your bathroom developing mold or mildew. A good bathroom window also offers privacy.

How to buy the best bathroom windows

Bathroom windows are available in various types, sizes, and prices. Additionally, consider whether you plan to use a window covering, like curtains, or if you prefer the window itself to provide privacy. This guide includes bathroom window privacy ideas to help you choose the best option for your needs.

Types of bathroom windows

There are many types of bathroom windows available. Below are several common choices for homeowners.

Crank windows

This type of window opens and closes using a hand crank. Crank windows come in two styles: casement and awning. Casement windows open to the outside, like a shutter, which can allow rain and snow to get inside. Awning windows open from the bottom and keep out rain and snow, even when open.

Crank windows can accommodate window treatments, including any of your bathroom window curtain ideas.

Hopper windows

Hopper windows open downward. They provide excellent ventilation but allow rain and snow inside the bathroom. These windows are typically placed higher on the wall, so they do not require window treatments.

Textured glass or glass block windows

Textured glass windows provide privacy without any window treatments. Textured glass is available in various textures and patterns, which each offering a unique level of transparency and light filtration. The more difficult the glass is to see through, the less light it allows inside the bathroom. Homeowners who do not like the appearance of window treatments often choose textured glass windows.

Glass block windows comprise stacked bricks made of opaque glass.

Transom windows

A transom window is a single long, skinny window placed high on the wall, often above the shower. This type of accent window provides ample sunlight, and its location encourages privacy.

These decorative windows do not open and provide no ventilation.

Choose the right size

The ideal size of your bathroom window depends on your budget and how much light you want. For example, a wall of windows would cost more than a small transom window above the shower. You may also want to consider your desired level of privacy and whether you plan to use a bathroom window covering.

Compare bathroom window costs

Any simple bathroom window generally costs less than a window with complicated mechanisms. Transom windows are typically the most affordable, followed by sliding windows and hopper windows. Crank windows are usually the most expensive. However, crank windows let out less air than other options and may reduce heating costs.

Read bathroom window reviews

When shopping for a new bathroom window, reading customer reviews can help you make an informed decision. Visit Freshome.com for advice and insights on installing a new bathroom window.

Installation

The price of installation is one of the most significant costs of a new bathroom window. Installation costs include labor and supplies, as well as necessary changes to the structure of your home. Installation costs are lowest when replacing a window with one of the same size. However, any necessary adjustments to the window frame or the siding of your house increase the installation cost.

bathroom remodel

Image: ImageFlow/Shutterstock

Bathroom window brands

When choosing a bathroom window, consider various brands and manufacturers. Researching options can help you select a window that seals tightly and is energy efficient. To discover the best replacement window brands of 2019, read reviews at Freshome.com.

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30 Modern Bathroom Design Ideas For Private Luxury

Modern bathroom design is centered around a simple, clean, minimalistic look and feel. Think geometric shapes and patterns, clean lines, minimal colors and mid-century furniture. Your bathroom, large or small, can easily become a luxurious, modern sanctuary for function and relaxation. 

Since bathrooms are spaces that we use everyday, designing them to suit our personal style is important. From bright and cheery to sophisticated and elegant, these modern bathroom design ideas transform utilitarian spaces into relaxing and refreshing escapes.

Mid-Century Modern Style

Mid-century modern design is defined as the architectural, furniture, graphic and interior style of the mid-19th century (1933-1965). The mid-century modern look is made up of geometric shapes, natural colors and straight lines. Bathroom fixtures and furniture is great place to start when designing your modern bathroom. 

Create a focal point by placing a modern chair in the corner or even a small sofa. Look for patterns and colors that fit mid-century style. You can also find this style used in modern bathroom faucets, showerheads, mirrors and other bathroom hardware.

“Design is a plan for arranging elements in such a way as best to accomplish a particular purpose.” —Charles Eames

Minimalist Design

Simplicity is a rule of thumb for modern design, so make sure that you are keeping your bathroom open and free of clutter. Use built-in shelving and cabinetry to hide unwanted personal items. Tuck away toiletries and novelty items and focus on a clean space for relaxation. Avoid the temptation to add accessories and clutter. Choose tile and backsplash with geometric shapes to add interest and character without sacrificing minimalistic design.

Simplistic Bathroom Decor Ideas

  • Arrange framed geometric shaped mirrors on the bathroom wall
  • Place small white flower pots on shelves to add an organic feel
  • Hang framed modern prints
  • Add a floor-to-ceiling mirror
  • Showcase concrete and wood elements
  • Skip the “pop of color” and go for white and grey towels

Freestanding Bathtubs

Freestanding tubs are a staple for modern bathroom designs. Balance is key, so keep things symmetrical and sharp by strategically placing your tub in a spot that enhances the feng shui of your bathroom. Traditionally bathtubs are the familiar oval shape, however a rectangular or pedestal tub makes your bathroom look and feel more modern.

modern-tub

Greenery in the Shower

Adding a touch of greenery in your bathroom creates a connection between the indoors and outdoors. Organic design coincides with modern design, meaning that the natural outdoor space should easily mesh with the indoor space you are designing. Bring the outdoors inside by adding a houseplant or two — they look great in the shower, next to the sink, or on a windowsill.

modenr-greenery2

Modern Lighting

Choosing lighting is a crucial part of modern design style especially in the bathroom. Modern design is all about lines and geometric shapes, so keep that in mind when shopping for light fixtures or windows, and considering the placement of lighting.Don’t forget that the quality of the light is just as important as the actual light fixture. Skylights are a fresh and functional design trick for modern bathrooms, because they add more natural light and visual interest to your bathroom.

“The quality of the light around us has a profound effect on our well-being that should not be underestimated.” — Thomas Fuchs

Modern bathrooms, from small to large and in homes or apartments, can easily be achieved by adding the mid-century elements and ideas we’ve shared. Try including some element of them all to create a complete modern feel in your bathroom. 

  • Mid-Century Furniture
  • Simple & Minimalist Design
  • Freestanding Bathtub
  • Greenery
  • Lighting

The post 30 Modern Bathroom Design Ideas For Private Luxury appeared first on Freshome.com.

Home Organizers that Add Color to Your Space

If you love bright color, you’re probably always looking for ways to add shots of bold color into your home. An easy way to add color is to keep it in mind while you’re organizing. After all, who says home organizers have to be boring? Many organizational ideas can be easily modified to add color to any room.

These ideas are also so easy, they’ll typically take only one afternoon to implement. Some ideas are as simple as buying colorful cloth home organizers and bins, and others require some paint. So take a look below to find some easy ways to add color while using home organizers.

Home Organizers Cloth Style

A stacked system would add plenty of color. Image: Michael Kraus / Shutterstock

Colorful Cloth Home Organizers

One of the easiest ways to get some color into your space is to go for simple colorful cloth home organizers. You can use a stacked style, like the organizer in the photo above. These do well hanging in corners. Another idea is to place a bright cloth organizer on a shelf for a splash of color.

These also tend to come in any style or color you can imagine, so there’s sure to be a cloth home organizer that fits in with your tastes. For a more funky and artistic style, try one with a bright pattern. A solid bright color can work well in more traditional spaces.

Home Organizers Colorful Shelving

Bright shelving adds a fun accent. Image: Photographee.eu / Shutterstock

Colorful Shelving Displays

Another idea is to select a colorful shelving option, like in the photo above. You can get this look by using cloth box home organizers, as we touched on above. Also, you could consider panting a shelf directly.

You can see in the photo above how well a colorful shelving option goes with the rest of a funky, artistic space. Simply pair a colorful shelving system with wild accents like throw pillows, picture frames or poufs. Your home organizer can easily fit in with the rest of the room that way.

Colorful home organizers also work great as part of an accent color theme. Consider choosing one accent color for your home organizers and using that throughout the room. For instance, your shelving might be a bright cherry red. And then you can place other elements of cherry red around, like an accent chair or a throw blanket.

Home Organizers Painted Boxes

Create your own organization with a bright display using wooden crates. Image: Africa Studio / Shutterstock

Creative Displays Using Paint

Another option is to get creative with paint and some organizational displays, like in the photo above. You can see how easy it would be to simply paint some wooden boxes. Then you stand them on one end and put colorful decorative accents in them. As the photo shows, you can also combine them with colorfully painted chairs and end tables for an eclectic look.

It’s a fun idea for when you need to organize your decorations in a space. This style also shows that home organizers don’t have to be all cloth boxes and traditional shelving. Feel free to get creative.

Home Organizers Bin System

Plastic bins come in many bold colors. Image: Africa Studio / Shutterstock

Colorful Bins

Another mainstay in home organizers is plastic bins. And this option is easy to find in a colorful style. You can see in the photo above how some exposed colorful bins add a playful feel to this children’s room. The bins do a great job of matching the colorful rugs in the space.

This space goes to show how colorful home organizers were made for children’s spaces, too. Children’s spaces can get pretty messy, with all the toys and art supplies about. So you can easily organize the space and add some bright tones using a colorful bin system.

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What is a Transitional Bathroom and How Can You Get This Look?

The transitional bathroom is the most popular bathroom design style, according to the 2019 Bathroom Design Trends report by the National Kitchen + Bath Association. And according to trend spotter Elle H-Millard, Industry Relations Manager at the NKBA (and also a cast member on season 2 of HGTV’s Design Star), the transitional style is projected to remain the most popular style for the next three years.

But what is a transitional bathroom and how can you get the transitional look?

transitional bathroom

Easily accessible spaces are a trademark of transitional design. Image: Dit26978/Getty Images

A mix of two styles

A transitional bathroom can have several meanings, according to Joan Kaufman, Licensed Interior Designer and President of Interior Planning & Design in Naperville, IL. “Most commonly, transitional refers to the style that is between traditional and contemporary,” she says. “The style would be more clean lines, yet not overly contemporary, with a warm, comfortable feeling that is not too cold or sleek.”

Easily accessible spaces are a trademark of transitional design.

Easily accessible spaces are a trademark of transitional design. Image: deliormanli/Getty Images

Easy access

However, Kaufman says a transitional bathroom can also refer to a design that allows homeowners to age in place. “This means accommodations are made to the bathroom to increase safety and provide supports without being completely ADA.” For example, she says grab bars are added to the shower area and close to the bathtub. She adds that these bathrooms may include handheld spray showerheads “with the valve controls at a lower height. And the tub would have a lower profile to aid entry/exiting.”

In some designs, homeowners remove the tub and replace it with a shower that includes handheld sprays and a bench seat. “Mirrors and other fixtures will be mounted low enough to be viewed from a seated position and/or wheelchair,” Kaufman says. Another popular feature is under-toe kick lighting. “Having toe-kick lighting on a motion sensor is an added benefit,” Kaufman explains.

Showers may hold 2 (or more) people.

Showers may hold two (or more) people. Image courtesy of Case Design and Remodeling Charlotte.

Stylish safety

However, this is not your grandparent’s bathroom. “A transitional bathroom is both attractive and safe and can make your life comfortable, regardless of your age or physical ability,” according to Chelsea Allard, VP of Design at Case Design/Remodeling in Charlotte, NC. For example, she says those grab bars are decorative and can coordinate with your faucet suite. “Not only can they prevent a dangerous fall, but they can also be used as towel bars,” Allard says.

Likewise, those bench seats and handheld showers can also serve a dual purpose. “Benches can act as a foot prop for shaving your legs as well as being a seat if you are unable to stand due to an injury,” Allard explains. And those handheld showers are convenient if you need to bathe while seated, but she says they also make it easier to clean the shower or wash your dog.

“Comfort-height toilets are easier on the knees — but they are also great for tall users. And single handle or touch-activated faucets are great for people with arthritis or for people who just want a more convenient experience,” Allard says. Touch-activated faucets are just one of the 2019 bathroom technology trends being incorporated in transitional design.

Chandeliers add a touch of elegance.

Chandeliers and sconces add a touch of elegance. Images courtesy of Dawn Totty Designs.

Uber stylish

Another reason transitional bathrooms are so popular is the sheer beauty of the design. Bathrooms today are transitioning from a place of basic necessities to a space of luxury, according to Interior Designer Dawn Totty of Dawn Totty Designs in Chattanooga, TN.

“With today’s fast-paced lifestyle, designers and homeowners are implementing luxurious features such as chandeliers, saunas, free-standing tubs, beautifully papered walls and heated floors,” Totty explains. “It’s a spa-like place that they can escape to, but without the inconvenience and expense.”

Wood grain cabinets and floating shelves are natural warmth.

Wood grain cabinets and floating shelves add natural warmth. Image: in4mal/Getty Images

Storage and workspace

H-Millard notes that the cabinets and vanity in transitional bathrooms are quite distinctive. “We’re talking free-standing, built-in or floating styles, with recessed panel facing and plenty of drawers,” she says. This bathroom style commonly uses wood grain, painted wood and mixed materials with decorative hardware.

GRAFF Incanto Rose Gold Faucet.

The GRAFF Incanto Rose Gold Faucet. Image courtesy of GRAFF.

Countertops, sinks and faucets

“In transitional bathrooms, countertops and sinks tend to be quartz, quartzite, granite or marble,” H-Millard says. White porcelain and cast iron are popular for sinks, and undermount sinks are a common staple.

Transitional bathrooms incorporate the latest faucet design trends. “Faucets can be motion, touch-control or manual and are typically nickel, chrome, stainless or rose gold,” H-Millard says. Popular finishes for transitional bathrooms include polished, matte, brushed and satin.

Safety doesn’t have to be boring.

Safety doesn’t have to be boring, as you can see with the Trinsic Bath Collection. Image courtesy of Delta.

Flooring

Popular flooring options in transitional bathrooms include ceramic, porcelain or stone tile, according to H-Millard. Other options include luxury vinyl, ceramic wood or marble.

“Using matte-finish tile flooring is a great way to decrease the likelihood of slipping, without sacrificing style,” Allard adds. Durable flooring is particularly important when designing the perfect kids’ bathroom.

Valspar Fragile Blue.

A bathroom painted in Valspar Fragile Blue. Image courtesy of Valspar.

Colors

Since color choices are important, transitional bathrooms have a light and relaxed feel: whites, grays, beiges, bones, blues – and also silvers. “One good choice for a transitional bathroom is Fragile Blue, which is crisp and clean,” explains Sue Kim, Color Marketing Manager at Valspar. “It is a sophisticated white with a tint of blue, and its freshness creates a luxurious, spa-like environment, creating a room you never want to leave.”

Valspar Gotham Gray.

A bathroom in Valspar Gotham Gray. Image courtesy of Valspar.

Another option is Gotham Gray. “This color adds a dose of drama to your transitional bathroom space and brings carefully-selected fixed features to life with clean elegance,” Kim says. Just make sure you follow the 10 commandments of painting to achieve the desired result.

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