Best bathroom remodel — Chicago, IL

Before a bathroom remodel contractor visits your Chicago home, it's helpful to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve. Gather inspiration images from magazines or online to communicate your desired style and aesthetic. Make a list of any functional issues you want to address, such as insufficient storage or poor lighting. Having a general budget range in mind can also help the contractor tailor their recommendations. Knowing the approximate age and construction type of your home can provide valuable context for the assessment. This preparation ensures a more productive initial consultation.

For Chicago homes, porcelain and ceramic tiles are excellent choices for bathrooms due to their durability, water resistance, and ease of maintenance, which are important given our climate. For shower areas, consider tiles with a low porosity and a high Coefficient of Friction (COF) rating for slip resistance, especially on floors. Larger format tiles can make smaller bathrooms feel more expansive, while classic subway tiles remain a popular choice for walls. The grout used should also be considered; epoxy or high-performance cementitious grouts offer superior resistance to moisture and staining. Proper installation and waterproofing are paramount.

Near Chicago, you'll find a wide variety of bathroom vanities, from readily available stock options at home improvement stores to custom-built pieces. Common styles include traditional vanities with detailed moldings, transitional designs that blend classic and modern elements, and sleek contemporary vanities with clean lines. Materials range from solid wood to engineered wood products, often topped with countertops of quartz, granite, marble, or solid surface. Consider the size of your bathroom, the amount of storage you need, and the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve when making your selection.

For bathroom flooring in Chicago, durable and water-resistant materials are key. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are highly recommended due to their ability to withstand moisture and heavy foot traffic, and they come in numerous styles mimicking wood, stone, or concrete. Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) or Vinyl Plank (LVP) are also excellent alternatives, offering good water resistance and a more forgiving feel underfoot. Properly installed and sealed, these options provide longevity and are relatively easy to maintain in our climate. Considering slip resistance is also important for safety.

A wood bathroom vanity can add warmth, character, and a touch of natural beauty to your bathroom design. Solid wood vanities, in particular, are known for their durability and longevity, often developing a rich patina over time. Wood vanities offer ample storage with drawers and cabinets, helping to keep the space organized. However, it's crucial to ensure proper sealing and ventilation in the bathroom to protect the wood from excessive moisture, which can lead to warping or damage over time.

For Chicago homes, bathroom rug sets should prioritize absorbency, quick drying, and safety. Materials like cotton or microfiber are excellent for their softness and ability to soak up moisture effectively. Look for rugs with a non-slip backing to prevent them from shifting on bathroom floors, which is especially important in a climate with potential for tracked-in moisture. Machine-washable options are ideal for easy maintenance. Consider the size and shape that best fits your bathroom layout, ensuring it provides comfort and security underfoot without being a tripping hazard.

Popular bathroom art styles often lean towards calming, spa-like themes or abstract pieces that complement the room's design. Botanical prints, seascapes, or watercolor art depicting natural elements can create a serene atmosphere. Abstract art with clean lines and a neutral or complementary color palette can add a modern touch. Framed photography or minimalist graphic prints are also common choices. Consider the scale of the artwork in relation to the wall space and the overall aesthetic of the bathroom; pieces that are moisture-resistant or protected by glass are advisable for this environment.