Tile Trends for 2017

Tile Trends for 2017

With 2016 coming to an end soon, interior designers have begun looking toward trends for 2017. Like any home improvement product, tile also has trends from year-to-year and some of those that have come to light for 2017 may be surprising. These are some of the tile trends for 2017 that designers are seeing.

Warmer Colors


Over the past few years, cooler colors have prevailed, but it appears that warmer colors will be one of the tile trends for 2017. Many believe that terracotta will be prevalent in the upcoming year, although the look will be much different than when terracotta was the trend in the 1980s. In 2017, they will be popular in natural matte finish used in feature walls, in bathrooms or cladding fireplaces.

Inspired by Jewels

Metallics, raw-cut quartz and opal will add sparkle and interest to tile in 2017. This will replace the light, pastel colors that have been popular in recent years. Instead, an earthy, raw look will become popular, allowing stone to stand out in the rooms where it is used.

Darker Metals


Although copper, brass and rose gold will continue to dominate in 2017, black steel and burnished metals will grow in popularity in the upcoming year. Steel and darkened metals add contrast in décor that adds a dynamic look that is harder to achieve with silver or gold finishes. In addition to darker metals, technology now allows tiles to be created that look like natural stone or wood, and these will become trends in 2017. Brick and marble looks are also growing popular.

Unique Tiles


Many designers predict that subway tile will begin to lose its popularity somewhat in the upcoming year. Instead, patterns, stone and other types of tile seem to be growing in use. New options that are being labeled “finger” or “kit-kat” are also getting some buzz for the new year. In addition, format and plank tiles have provided additional decorating options as some are thin enough they can be used almost anywhere, even in elevators where weight is a factor.

Larger Tiles


Small tiles seem to be waning for home improvement with more people asking for large tiles for their decorating needs. Many of the large tiles requested are patterned, which is also a change from recent years. Larger tiles in rectangular shapes are becoming increasingly popular as well.

Patterned tile as well as tile in unique colors are also trending for 2017. If you are interested in learning more about these tile trends for 2017, contact one of our customer service representatives who can help you get the look you want. You can reach them by phone or online to learn more about trends in tile.

Make Your Bathroom Look Bigger With Mosaic Tile

Make Your Bathroom Look Bigger With Mosaic Tile

If you have a small bathroom, it can be a challenge to make the room look and feel larger. One way to make your bathroom seem bigger is mosaic tile. Mosaic is an artistic term referring to an assemblage of small pieces of stone, glass or other types of material. Most tile of this type is made of tesserae, small, flat pieces of stone or glass in different colors. There are many ways you can use tile to create the allusion of a larger, roomier bathroom.

Accent Walls Don’t Always Have to be Painted

Instead of painting one wall a different color, a trick that often makes small rooms look larger, use mosaic tiles instead. Since most small bathrooms have little wall space, you can create a tile accent wall sometimes for less than it would cost to paint it. Use light colors on the non-accent walls, add larger mirrors and use lighting to enhance the larger feeling even more.

Borders and Backsplashes

Creating a continuous border or backsplash in mosaic tile is another way to make your bathroom look bigger. One way to use tile throughout your bathroom is to use tiles in the backsplash or in a border and use larger, inexpensive tiles for the rest of the surfaces. Fill the area around your sink and mirror with tile to create a bold, bright look in your bathroom that will make the room feel larger.

Place Tiles Vertically on Walls

Thin tiles can be placed vertically on your bathroom wall rather than horizontally. Run the tile from floor to ceiling to give the appearance of a higher ceiling in your small bathroom. Your eyes see height instead of width when they see narrow tiles attached vertically. You can also use vertical tiles around your vanities, sinks and mirrors to provide a unique look that pulls your eyes both horizontally and vertically.

Large Patterns or Mirrored Glass

Choose a mosaic tile with large, bold patterns that will give the appearance of wallpaper at first glance. The large pattern makes a small room look larger because the grout joints are less obvious so you see fewer lines that indicate spacing. Adding mirrored glass tiles can reflect light and magnify the features of your bathroom, making it appear larger. Add white accents and large floor tiles to make the room appear even bigger to the human eye.

Mosaic tiles are a great way to increase the size of a small bathroom, but the tiles can be used almost anywhere to give the appearance of more space. If you are considering a bathroom remodel or want more tips to make your bathroom look bigger, contact one of our experienced customer service representatives today by phone or online to learn what options are available for you.

What Are The Benefits Of A Home Addition?

What Are The Benefits Of A Home Addition?

When you want to transform your home and have the space about which you’ve always dreamed, a home addition may be the right choice for you. Home additions give you much more than a simple remodeling project can, including additional space, more natural light or rental income. There are also additional advantages of home additions.

Gaining additional space with a home addition

Most people want more room in their homes. As Americans, we have many items that require storage, including exercise equipment, bicycles, photo albums and more.When you add a home addition, you will have a lot more room with which you can work. Your addition could be a bathroom, family room, bedroom or a kitchen. Even adding a few feet to your existing kitchen or bathroom can add the space that you need.

Benefits of a home addition for family and friends

Whether you frequently entertain out-of-town guests or have grown children who are wanting to move home, an addition can be used to house them. The Pew Research Center reports that nearly 40 percent of young adults live with their parents. If your lot can handle of extra space, you can add a bedroom to your home. If your existing plumbing allows you to do so, you can also add a guest bathroom, making the new bedroom and bathroom perfect for your adult child or for guests.

Home additions for added value

It is important for you to research carefully and talk to a real estate professional before building an addition to your home if the reason for you doing so is to increase your home’s value. While adding space may add value, it doesn’t always. Other factors, including the area in which your home is located, local market conditions and your lot size will also impact the value of your home.

It can be cheaper to build a home addition than to move

Building on to your house may be cheaper than moving and buying a larger home. It also helps you to avoid the hassles involved with packing, hiring movers and unpacking. Home additions are less expensive and involve fewer hassles.

Benefits of a home addition for added luxury

You can add luxury to your home by adding on to your master bath. With a bathroom addition, you can add an infinity shower, added storage space, an oversized tub and other spa-like features.

Home additions for more natural light

Sunrooms are a good option to add sunlight to both the sunroom and the rooms surrounding it. These are often what homeowners visualize when they think about home additions.

Building a home addition is one way that you can turn your house into your dream home. They are less expensive than moving and may be cheaper than some remodeling projects. With their benefits, home additions are definitely an option for you to consider. To learn more about how we can help you with your home addition, call us today to schedule your appointment or stop by our showroom.

How To Choose The Best Paint For Bathroom Walls

How To Choose The Best Paint For Bathroom Walls

Most visitors will see and/or use the bathroom when they are guests in other people’s homes. If you are like most homeowners, you likely want to showcase your style and impress your guests with a beautiful room. If your home’s bathroom is outdated and small, you may not be certain what you can do with it.

The best paint for bathroom walls can completely transform your bathroom in a day. Paint can freshen up the room’s appearance without your needing to completely remodel everything. There are many different paint options available, so you will want to take care when you are choosing the paint for your bathroom.

Costs Involved With Painting Your Bathroom

Painting your bathroom is one of the least expensive ways to give the room an updated look. How much it will cost will depend on whether you do it yourself or instead hire a painter to do it for you. It will cost a lot less if you paint your bathroom yourself, but it may take longer for you to finish, and it might be difficult to get behind certain areas in your bathroom.

Depending on how large your bathroom is, a professional job could can get expensive. This will also vary depending on how much wall space is visible and the kind of paint you select.

Paint That Is Resistant To Mildew And Mold

The best paint for bathroom walls is one that is mildew- and mold-resistant. Because bathrooms tend to have a much higher amount of moisture than do other rooms, they are also more susceptible to mold and mildew. Choosing a mildew-resistant paint is very important when painting bathrooms.

Before painting, you will also want to prepare the walls by washing them down with a mildew and mold cleaner, especially if you find any areas that have visible growth. You should clean while wearing a mask so that you do not breathe in any spores. Installing a fan in your bathroom can help to prevent mildew from growing.

Bathroom Color Schemes

The next step is for you to find the colors that will work the best in your bathroom. You can start by taking a step back in order to take a look so that you can see what features you would like to emphasize and what you are working with.

Note things that you see, such as a pretty countertop that you would like to stand out or colorful tile you would like to emphasize. You should also consider your own style and how you can use color to express it. Here are some different possibilities.

Bold And Bright

Bathrooms both small and large can make a statement with bright and bold bathroom paints. To make a statement, you can use colors such as deep blues or bright reds. If you prefer, you could add one accent wall to stand out. These bright colors are well complemented by silver, gold and white accents. If your toilets or sinks are old, you might need to update them before choosing a bold and bright color scheme.

Clean And Cheerful

Classic white gives bathrooms a look of timelessness. Freshly painted white walls are easy to accessorize with colorful items while making the room appear clean, airy and light. Black and white styles make bathrooms look contemporary and they are also easy to do. This choice is a classic one as well, helping you if you ever decide to sell your home.

Making An In-Home Retreat

Many people head to the bathroom to relax. If this describes you, you’ll want to choose colors that add a feeling of relaxation. You can do this by choosing colors that are popularly used in spas, including beiges, soft greens and blues. Complementing these colors using natural accessories and wooden cabinets can increase the relaxing feeling.
You can complete the look with candles and luxuriously soft towels.

Happy Paint For Children

If you are painting a child’s bathroom, you can make the room feel happy and joyful by choosing paints that are child-friendly. Bright colors and pastels are both terrific choices because they make the room feel playful and fun. If you are planning to paint the room yourself, you can also have them help so they can feel proud of their accomplishment.

When you are wanting to change the look and feel of your bathroom, painting the walls can quickly help it to look up-to-date.

Contact Flemington Granite today by calling us or completing our contact form, and we will be happy to provide you with beautiful design ideas and materials recommendations that can give you the beautiful bathroom you want.

Planning your bathroom renovation through all of its stages

Planning your bathroom renovation through all of its stages

Even thinking about your bathroom renovation can seem overwhelming. You’ll need to decide on your budget, choose the product types that will work best and decide if you’ll need to make any changes to the room’s layout. After all of that, you’ll then need to choose the contractor you’ll need to complete the job.

In order to help your bathroom renovation to go smoothly, it’s best if you start planning early.

Here is what you should do beginning about six months before the start of your planned renovation up through its completion.

Six months before your renovation

1. Start looking around for inspiration. Good starting places include catalogs and magazines. You can tear out the pages and make a collage or scrapbook with the things you like. It might be smart to include Post-It notes so you can list what you like about each picture. After you have collected a number of photos, examine them to look for what they have in common with each other. This will make choosing your fixtures and tiles a lot easier.

2. Start asking your friends and acquaintances for their recommendations about contractors. It’s not necessary to call contractors this far in advance, but gathering recommendations from your friends, acquaintances, home improvement stores and professional organizations can help you collect a list of names you can call when you are nearing your target date.

3. Start planning the layout of your new bathroom. You’ll want to consider what will work with your bathroom’s current layout and what will not. This is a good time to decide if you will need to make changes to it to accommodate your storage and other needs. If you think you’ll want to move your tub, sink or toilet, you’ll need to determine whether plumbing work will be needed. Of all of the different items you might move, the toilet is normally the priciest, so keep that in mind.

Three months before your renovation

1. Now is the time to finalize your project’s budget. The average person spends around $11,000 when they renovate their bathroom, according to the National Kitchen and Bath Association. After you have determined what you can afford, you should plan to spend around 66 percent of the total on labor. This will let you understand what you will be able to dedicate to your tile, fixtures and any extras you want. If you do not have much wiggle room in your budget, then look for more affordable substitutions you can use in place of pricier ones.

2. Choose your contractor. Now is the time to choose your contractor. You’ll want to ask a few different ones to look at the drawings you have made. Ask them if your plans are possible for your bathroom. Collect estimates and check the contractors’ references thoroughly. After you have chosen your contractor, it will be time for you to sign your contract with them for the job. Ask the contractor to tell you the starting date for the project and to commit to it. He or she should also make a project timeline that informs you when he or she will need different materials. In most cases, a bathroom renovation can be expected to take about six weeks. You should never let any work start before you have a signed contract in place. You’ll also want to determine the payment schedule with your contractor. Normally, people pay one-third of the total up front, another third halfway through the job and the final third when the project is completed. If your home only has one full bathroom, you’ll also want to ask how long your home will have no shower so you can plan ahead.

Two months before your renovation

1. Now it’s time to buy your fixtures and tile. Hand-painted tiles can take as long as 12 weeks to come in while others are able to be filled in two or three days. To be safe, make certain you order your tiles at least eight weeks ahead of time. High-end fixtures can take up to eight weeks to arrive, so purchase them early as well. You’ll want to also check with the manufacturer of any custom-built cabinets to make certain you’ll have them when your contractor will need them. Finally, make certain you order your light fixtures well in advance, too.

One month before your renovation

1. Ready your bathroom for your contractor. You’ll want to clean out your bathroom’s closets and cabinets. You’ll also want to set up an area where you will be able to get ready where the contractors won’t see you.

2. Buy the accessories for your bathroom. You can have fun choosing the items such as the soap dishes, towel bars or hooks and toilet paper holders. If you want to purchase new towels to match a different color scheme, buy those, too.

3. Choose your paint. It’s hard to choose the color you’ll use until the flooring is installed and the tile is already placed.

4. After the project has started, you’ll want to check in often with your contractor. It’s a good idea to ask him or her each day what he or she will do that day. If you have any concerns, that is also a good time to mention them. Always make certain you communicate freely and that he or she knows how to get inside if you’re not home. Make sure to keep your children or pets away from where the contractor is working.

Final days of the renovation

1. Flexibility is key at this point. If it looks as if your project might run over by a few days, don’t let it frustrate you too much.

2. Conduct an inspection of your contractor’s work. If you see anything that needs to be fixed, tell your contractor before he or she completes the job.

3. Celebrate when it’s all over. When the job is finally done, put your toiletries where you want them, hang your towels and sit back and relax.

Top 5 Plumbing Questions You Need To Ask Before Your Bathroom Remodel

When you plan your bathroom renovation, you are likely thinking about such things as updating your flooring, tile, countertops, vanity, shower, tub and more. You may be considering different palettes to use, toilet styles and storage features when you are planning the perfect design for your bathroom.

It is important to also think about the plumbing system you currently have installed so you can determine whether or not you need to update it as well to support your newly installed items. You’ll want to ask an expert the following plumbing questions in order to make your determination.

1. Do you need to update your pipes?

In order to avoid future leaks, it is a good idea to complete your needed pipe updates during your planned bathroom remodel. During a complete bathroom renovation project, you’ll likely be tearing out tile, flooring and fixtures, so it is the ideal time to take a look at your pipes while they are easily accessible. For proper water flow to multiple outlets, your supply pipes should be 3/4 inches. This is especially important if you plan to have multiple shower heads in your new shower.

2. How much hot water will you need for your new fixtures?

Many people want to add whirlpool tubs or freestanding tubs that are separate from their showers. You’ll want to ask your plumbing expert how much hot water will be needed to fill those types of tubs while also still having enough remaining for the rest of your home.

3. Do you know your water pressure needs?

Features such as multiple heads in your shower, oversized showers and body sprays have turned modern showers into in-home spas. When you will be adding such things as rainfall showerheads and massaging sprays, you will want to make certain you have an adequate supply of water to give you the good pressure you want.

To get good water pressure from your showerhead, you’ll need at least 40 pounds of pressure. If you live in the city, the municipal water supply should be sufficient as most are closer to 60 pounds of pressure. If you instead use a well for your home’s water supply, you’ll want to make certain it will reliably supply the pressure you need before you decide to install multiple showerheads and body sprays.

4. Is there a way to save water with your bathroom renovation?

Renovating your bathroom provides you with an excellent opportunity to improve your home’s water consumption. You may want to look for fixtures that help with water efficiency. One example is a toilet that uses less water per flush. This can help you with your monthly budget while also lessening your impact on the environment.

5. Are there heating features to add to your bathroom?

When you want to add heating options to your bathroom, your bathroom remodel is the ideal time to do so. Installing heating under your floors lets you step across warm tiles instead of tiles that are cold. You can also add towel warmers so that you can wrap yourself in the warmth of your towels when you step out of your bath or shower.

6. Do you have enough space for all of the features you want to add?

The modern bathroom design features require that your bathroom space is sufficient. You’ll want to make certain that you know your bathroom’s dimensions, the amount of space each fixture will require and how all of the ones you choose will fit together.

When you seek out the help of professional designers, they can help you answer all of these questions during the process of designing your dream bathroom. To learn more how we can help you figure out the best features for your bathroom, call us to schedule your appointment today.

What’s the Best Type of Flooring for a Bathroom?

One of the first decisions you should make when you are planning to renovate your bathroom is what type of flooring you should choose. No matter the time of the year, a bathroom remodeling project can help to transform your home as one of the most-used rooms in the house.

Choosing the right flooring requires that you plan ahead. While there are multiple available flooring options, some work much better for bathrooms than do others. Here are some tips you should keep in mind when you are trying to decide which flooring to install in your bathroom.

Avoid solid wood flooring or carpet

There are some obvious flooring choices to avoid in your bathroom, among the carpet and solid wood. Bathrooms by their nature have a lot of moisture. Carpet soaks moisture up, leading to potential problems with mold and other issues. Likewise, tongue-and-groove or parquet wood flooring can easily become damaged and warp when they are exposed to moisture and water. Both should thus be avoided.

If you love the look of wood, think instead about engineered wood varieties over laminate flooring. Engineered wood flooring has better water resistance because of its sturdier plywood base. You should still not use this if there is a lot of water exposure, however, but if you really want the look of wood, it’s better than the other options.

One budget-conscious choice is sheet vinyl or vinyl tile flooring. One thing to consider is that vinyl tile squares will have seams through which water will be able to penetrate, potentially causing damage. Sheet vinyl has a minimal number of seams and will be better over the long term if you are thinking about vinyl flooring as your option.

Think about tile

Tile is the classic choice for bathrooms. You can choose from a variety of options, including ceramic and a number of different natural stone materials. If you choose natural stone tiles such as travertine, marble or granite, you’ll want to make certain they are professionally sealed as they are porous. Sealing helps to improve their water resistance.

People who want the feel and look of natural stone but who are budget conscious may want to consider porcelain tile as an option. Porcelain is water-resistant and prevents moisture from penetrating.

Make sure to choose grout lines that are tight

High-moisture areas like bathroom features such as your shower or the area surrounding your tub work best when you use grout lines that are tight. Even sealed grout will eventually start letting moisture seep in, undermining the ability of the mortar to hold to the underlying concrete board. In addition to tight grout lines, choosing a grout that has additives that work to improve the grout’s ability to resist moisture penetration is smart.

People who love the look of wood but who don’t want to risk the potential water damage may also want to find out about designs that provide the look of wood flooring without the issues that come with it. There are certain tile designs that can be used to accomplish this.

It is important for you to make certain you think about both your budget as well as the design, look and functionality of your bathroom flooring. For your own project, you’ll want to speak with professional designers to learn more about the best type of flooring you should consider. Give our professional team a call today to learn more about what will work best for your bathroom.

Get Your Guest Bathroom Ready For Visitors With These 7 Tips!

When you are planning to have visitors staying at your house, you’ll want to provide them with a well-stocked and comfortable bathroom to use during their stay. When you make certain that your bathroom is not only clean but is also well-organized, your guests will feel more welcome in your home.

Most people treat their guest areas as if they are added spaces to store belongings, taking a little time to plan the additional touches that people find inviting. When you will have houseguests, it doesn’t take a lot to prepare for them with the following tips.

1. Clear out unneeded personal items

If you have personal items that you are storing in the bathroom your guests will be using, it is time to remove them before they arrive. Throw out any expired medication as well as other items that you simply don’t use. These sorts of items don’t help you and do not need to stay in your home.

2. Clean thoroughly

Make sure the bathroom is thoroughly cleaned before your guests arrive. Make sure to clean out your shower, sink and toilet as well as the floors. If you have chrome fixtures, dryer sheets work well for polishing them. Finish the room by giving the floor a thorough mopping.

3. Make sure you have adequately supplied your guest bathroom

If you are wondering what type of supplies you need to have available, you need to think no further than what you expect when you are staying in a hotel. Providing extra toilet paper rolls, soap, plenty of clean towels, tissues, conditioner, shampoo and a spare hair dryer are all things you should have available for your guests.

4. Make your medicine cabinet a thoughtful storage space

The medicine cabinet in your guest bathroom should be filled with extras. These might include new toothbrushes, toothpaste, disposable razors, allergy medication, feminine hygiene products and moisturizer. Your guests will be very appreciative of your thoughtfulness.

5. Provide labeled containers

A nice touch for your guests is to store commonly used items such as cotton balls and swabs in labeled containers so that they are both available and easy to find.

6. Leave some space

After you have made sure to stock your bathroom, you should make certain that your guests will also have the space they need for the toiletries they bring. If you leave your countertop clear and clean, they’ll have plenty of room to store their own personal items during their visit.

7. Imagine your space through your guests’ eyes

One good idea is for you to sit in your bathroom and glance about, imagining you are a guest. You’ll want to ask yourself if the space makes you feel comfortable from a guest’s perspective. Make sure that all of the light bulbs are working and that your toilet flushes without any problems. Think about your guests’ privacy needs and whether they will feel as if they have sufficient privacy.

When you take the time needed to stock and clean your bathroom while also anticipating your guests’ needs, your visitors are bound to feel much more comfortable.

How To Turn Your Bathroom Into A Luxury Spa

How To Turn Your Bathroom Into A Luxury Spa

When you’ve had a long work week, heading to a spa can provide your mind and body with an unparalleled feeling of relaxation. When it gets colder outside, however, most people don’t want to go out any more than they have to, instead preferring to stay in where it’s warm. No matter what the weather might be outside, you can create your own personal sanctuary inside of your home by transforming your bathroom into your personal spa. In order to do so, you’ll need to simply add a few extra details to lend the type of atmosphere you find in spas. It is not necessary to have a sauna or a Jacuzzi or even a large bathroom. It’s the small details that can give the room a soothing appeal by incorporating input geared towards your senses.

Appeal to your sense of sight

The first impression you have when you enter a bathroom is its visual appeal. This makes the visual elements key for creating an initial spa-like impression. You’ll notice that many spas take a minimalist approach, allowing the simplicity of the decor to open the room and allow serenity. Here are some ways you can give your own bathroom that comfortable spa-like appeal:

● Choose Earth tones for your color scheme

Most people head out into nature to enjoy the scenery and beauty. You can bring that sense of nature into your bathroom by choosing Earth tones for your room’s color scheme. Muted greens, grays and browns can all lend a natural feel. If your bathroom is small, choose shades that are lighter so it doesn’t feel cramped, such as light beige, pale green or a mist-like gray.

● Install dimmable bathroom lights

Nothing can lend a sense of romance to your bath than installing dimmable lights in wall scones or recessed ceiling lights. This helps you to get a soft glow when you just want to relax. Since this type of installation requires a high degree of electrical knowledge, it is important that you get the help of a professional.

● Add faux wood floor tiles for an added feeling of warmth

Wood provides the natural ambiance of outdoors, but it is not a good material to use in moist areas. Faux wood tile made out of porcelain or ceramic tile has the natural textural appearance of wood with a much better resistance to water.

● Rid your counters of old toiletries and clutter

Cluttered rooms make people feel stressed. Consequently, spas keep their toiletries stashed out of the way and orderly. With small bathrooms, it may be impossible to hide all of your toiletries. You can still toss old, outdated ones as well as those that you do not use. This can help clear out space in your vanity for some of the toiletries cluttering your countertop. For those that you use a lot, try storing them in glass jars. This can make them look like just another piece of your room’s decor.

Appeal to your sense of touch

Hydrotherapeutic facilities at your preferred spas are obviously expensive. You can still add the following amenities to give yourself that sensual feel:

● Trade in your old tub with a soaking tub that is small and deep

There are many tubs available on the market that have a length of five feet or less but are deep enough for you to enjoy a good soak. Consider a Japanese soaking tub. They are a lot deeper than are other smaller tubs and let you submerge your entire body. Many of these also are equipped with built-in seats for added relaxation while you soak.

● Trade in your shower head for a massaging one

If your bathroom is small enough that a soaking tub is not an option, consider trading in your old shower head for one that is massaging. This can give you with that relaxation you want. If you need to do so, get rid of your existing bathtub entirely and upgrade your shower.

● Add towel warmers

There’s nothing quite like stepping out of a warm and relaxing shower or bath and wrapping up with a heated towel. Towel warmers are available and have become very popular in current bathroom renovation trends. These mount to your walls so they don’t take up too much room as well.

Appeal to your sense of smell

One of the first things you probably notice when you head to your favorite spa is the wonderful smells inside. Aromatherapy has been shown to improve people’s moods and overall health. In the morning, you might be able to heighten your senses better with peppermint scents. At night,jasmine and lavender can help relax the cares of the day away. Scents can be added through your personal care products as well as through adding diffusers or scented candles. If you tend to be forgetful, choose oil diffusers over candles as they are safer.

Appeal to your sense of sound

Try to avoid wall-mounted televisions in your bathroom as they do not lend to a feeling of tranquility. Instead, think more about using a waterproof Bluetooth speaker to pipe in your favorite meditative music.

Appeal to your sense of taste

While thinking about taste while bathing may sound odd, consider enjoying a long, relaxing soak while also sipping your favorite wine or champagne. When you use a tub tray, you can do just that. Tub trays are available at most home improvement stores.

It is not difficult to transform your bathroom into your personal at-home spa retreat. By incorporating your senses and paying attention to the small details, you can turn your bathroom into a sanctuary you can enjoy over and over again.

Curbless Walk-In Shower – Pros and Cons

Curbless Walk-In Shower

In many new or renovated homes, you’ll find curbless walk-in showers, which have greatly increased in popularity among designers and homeowners alike. Before you decide to install your own curbless shower, it is important for you to consider the advantages and disadvantages of them. They are not the best choice for everyone, and you know both your family and the space with which you are working better than anyone else.

Pros of a Curbless Walk-In Shower

● Great use of smaller available space

A curbless shower works well in smaller bathrooms. With continual flooring made from natural stone slabs or tile extending across the bathroom and into the shower, the look can appear seamless and make your bathroom appear larger. It goes beyond the appearance, however, as curbless showers take away the need for a shower door or curtain and take up significantly less space than curbed showers or bathtubs.

● Easier cleaning

Another great feature of curbless showers is their ease of cleaning. Instead of having to bend over and scrub an enclosed shower or tub, The curbless type allows you to easily access it. When you also have pull-down handheld showerheads, cleaning may involve even less work, obviating the need for you to bend over repeatedly.

● Easier to get in and out of

One of the best advantages of a curbless walk-in shower is how easy they are for people to get in and out of. This is terrific for people who are older or who have elderly parents living with them. Instead of having to deal with a 4-inch lip around a curbed shower or the edge of a tub, you can simply just walk right in. This makes it less likely that people will trip and fall as well, no matter their ages.

Cons of a Curbless Walk-In Shower

● Little to no privacy

Without a shower door or curtain, you will have less privacy. This can be handled by installing glass blocks or a curtain if privacy is important.

● Water going across the floor

Without a lip around your shower, you’ll have a harder time keeping the water from your shower from going across your bathroom floor. Some people combat this by using a rain shower head because it keeps the water coming down in one spot.

● Feeling colder while you shower

You may feel colder when you shower because of not having a shower door or curtain to trap in heat. Some people solve this problem by combining their curbless showers with heated floors.

If you want to learn more about curbless showers and see some design options that will work for your bathroom remodeling project, call us today or fill in your information in our contact form.

10 Small Bathroom Trends You Can’t Afford To Ignore

10 Small Bathroom Trends You Can't Afford To Ignore

When you are working with a bathroom that has a tiny layout, deciding how to best remodel it may be challenging. By incorporating some smart design strategies, you can still make your small bathroom look beautiful while also improving its function.

At Flemington Granite, our professional designers work with our customers to help them visualize the bathrooms they would like to have. We help them with creating floor plans that can bring the results they want. Here are some ideas that can transform your small bathroom into a beautiful and more usable space.

1. Install mirrors across entire walls

When you add mirrors covering an entire wall, your small bathroom can instantly look as if it is twice its size. This works especially well above your bathroom’s vanity or across the side of a bathroom that is narrow. Because of their reflective properties, they also provide your room with more light from your windows or existing fixtures.

2. Install wall-mounted toilets

Wall-mounted toilets have toilet tanks built into the walls of bathrooms. If your walls have room, installing a wall-mounted toilet can give you additional needed space in which you can move. If wall-mounting a toilet is not possible in your bathroom, adding above-tank shelves can provide you with the added storage to meet your needs.

3. Remove your bathtub

A bathtub takes up double the amount of space than showers do. If you are able to remove the tub in your small bathroom, you’ll add significant space to the room. Showers are also great for guests, adults and elderly people. Adding hand showers can also allow you to easily bathe your pets. If you have small children that require a bathtub for bathing, choosing a tub with a lower profile will open up your bathroom while also making it easier for them to get in and out of the bath.

4. Install frameless glass shower panels

Shower curtains cordon off around a third of a small bathroom. They are also difficult to clean. One idea to take care of both issues is to rid yourself of them. Instead, consider installing frameless glass panels for your tub and shower. This can visually open up your room and reduce the problems of keeping shower curtains clean. Installation is fairly straightforward. You can either hinge glass panels so they swing or you can fix them in place. Hinged panels can be swung inwards when no one is using the shower. You do not want to choose sliding glass panels because of their cleaning difficulty.

5. Installing curbless showers and continual flooring

Curbless showers are among our favorite design ideas for small bathrooms. Getting rid of the curb around the base of the shower can allow you to install flooring that extends directly into your shower for a seamless look. This is a terrific choice when you are using natural stone, tile or concrete for your flooring. Infinity-edge or concealed drains can add to the effect.

6. Installing floating vanities and small sinks

Another great way to save additional floor space and open up your bathroom is installing wall-mounted sinks. When storage is needed, you can choose to install wall-mounted floating vanities to get the storage space that you need. There are thin-edge and narrow washbasin designs available to maximize the space.

7. Adding shelving and cabinets on the walls

Instead of taking up floor space for clunky vanities with storage, try thinking about installing open shelves and cabinets on your bathroom’s walls. You can install recessed cabinets in the walls with mirrored fronts. This can give you the storage you need while also making the room appear larger. Use towel bars or hooks on the back of the bathroom door to add more space.

8. Installing pocket doors

When you install a pocket door on your bathroom, you’ll save the room required for a door that swings into the room. Installing one will require your opening up the wall to make the pocket. While the installation may be tricky, doing so can give you an additional 9 feet of useable space that wasn’t available to you before. It will also allow you much more flexibility when you are trying to decide where to place your bathroom fixtures.

9. Lighten up the walls

Dark walls can make small bathrooms feel even smaller. Using light colors for your wall palette will help by reflecting additional light and making the room feel larger. If you must use dark colors, save them for your floor. Matching shower tiles to wood floors in the bathroom can help by not drawing visual attention to the smallest area of your bathroom.

10. Creating an accent wall

If you really want to add some color in your bathroom, try adding an accent wall for the back of the room. This can include adding color across the entire wall or just a band of it. You can do so with paint or with tile. Keep the remaining walls neutral to increase the visual drama.

It is possible for you to transform your bathroom into a beautiful and more functional space even if it is small. To learn more how the professional design team at Flemington Granite can help, we invite you to call us today to schedule your appointment.

Get Your Money Back With These Bathroom Remodeling Tips

Get Your Money Back With These Bathroom Remodeling Tips

The National Association of Homebuilders reported that Oct. 2015 showed a record 57 for the remodeling market index, or RMI. This marked the sixth quarter consecutively demonstrating a large amount of activity, and the forecasts continue to look good throughout 2016.

Bathroom renovations are one of the most popular renovation types for homeowners. One reason is that these renovations provide one of the best returns when homes are resold, with midrange upgrades retaining 72.5 percent and upscale upgrades retaining 63.6 percent of the value.

If you are considering a bathroom renovation, you will likely enjoy a great return on the investment you make. It is possible to even make your bathroom pay for the investment you make, allowing you to get your money back entirely, by doing the following things.

Adding to Your Home’s Resale Value

If you are thinking about eventually selling, real estate agents report that buyers tend to look at bathrooms to help them make their decisions. This means that if there is stiff competition in the real estate market, you may want to upgrade your bathroom to make it stand out.

Aesthetics and Functionality

The beauty and taste of a bathroom, or its aesthetics, is a huge issue. Potential buyers are often willing to pay much more for features such as granite or marble countertops and updated fixtures, making them important things for you to consider including. You may also want to consider travertine tiles for your flooring or using delicately beautiful mosaics to accentuate the room and add to its beauty.

If your bathroom is laid out in an awkward manner, you might want to consider changing it. A layout scheme that is efficiently combined with accent lighting can help make the room feel larger and airier. Adding things storage space, double vanities, heated flooring and walk-in showers are all features that buyers also love.

Increasing Energy and Water Efficiency

Buyers tend to pay attention to upgrades that help to reduce the consumption of energy and water. These provide you with your own long-term savings as well while you are still remaining in your home. Doing such things as installing low-flow showerheads and faucets can save a family around 17,000 gallons of water annually along with between $60 and $120 on their water and energy bills.

Along with retrofitting your bathroom’s faucets and showerhead, you may also want to install a new water heater that is more efficient. This can help you reduce the heating costs you have for your water by as much as 30 percent for the most energy-efficient models.

Final Bathroom Remodeling Tips

Before you decide on a specific remodeling scheme, make certain you do your research. It is best to go with classic designs, as what buyers think is attractive today can change drastically in time. It is similarly important to know whether your goal is to resell your house or if you instead just want a new bathroom for you and your family to enjoy. Writing down all of your visions and goals and then speaking with a professional designer is a smart approach.

We have a team of designers available at Flemington Granite that can help you plan and transform your bathroom. You can take a look at our bathroom visualizer to get a better idea of how you might turn your bathroom into what you want. Give us a call today or simply fill out our contact form, and we will be happy to help you.

Popular Natural Stone Countertop Finishes

Popular Natural Stone Countertop Finishes

After you have decided to install natural stone countertops, selecting the type of finish you want for them is just as important as the type of stone you’ve chosen.

The different types of finish give different appearances, changing and transforming your room in different ways.

It is important for you to know how each different finish feels and looks as well as how they will complement your decor while changing the appearance of your natural stone.

Polished Finishes

Polished Finishes

When the majority of people think about natural stone countertops made out of marble or granite, they think of a highly polished, shiny, mirror-like surface. A polished finish provides that high-gloss appearance, illuminating the stone’s hue and natural variations.

Antiqued/Brushed Finishes

When you see new natural stone countertops that appear as if they have natural wear on their surfaces, they have an antiqued or brushed finish.

These counters have a textured feel to them but are still just as stain-resistant as polished or honed finishes when you have them professionally sealed.

Flamed Finishes

Using the application of intense heat, we can provide flamed finishes if you’d like. A flamed finish results in a rougher texture, and it is most frequently chosen for outdoor projects.

Flamed finishes provide very strong exterior protection to the natural stone, making them ideal for outdoors because they are better able to withstand weather.

Honed Finishes

Honed Finishes

Honed finishes give the smoothness of polished finishes but are softer and less shiny. This gives them an appearance that is more informal and traditional. The matte appearance of a honed finish isn’t as glossy as a polished one.

Leathered Finishes

A leathered finish provides yet another appearance and feel to your countertops. They combine the feel of a brushed finish with the look of a honed finish. They are smooth in texture.

Whether your chosen stone can be honed or polished will depend on what type it is. Not all are able to be finished in those ways. It is important for you to take your time when selecting your finish. After the finish you have chosen is applied, it can be very expensive to change it later.

To see the different types of natural stones we have for your countertops as well as the different finishes, stop by our showroom today. You can also reach us by calling (908) 782-7773 or completing our contact form, and we’ll be happy to answer your questions and schedule a consultation.

Big Ideas For Small Bathrooms

Big Ideas For Small Bathrooms

A luxurious, small bathroom can be just as valuable and inviting as a larger bathroom. It’s pretty common for homes to feature small bathrooms, so we have come up with many great bathrooms designs that you can easily implement. Smart design elements and high-end materials are sure to make you forget all about any size concerns you may have.

Create a Bathroom Retreat

A small bathroom does not have to be cramped and cluttered. Implementing natural stone, bright tile, and peaceful colors throughout the room will make it feel more relaxing. A bright room is going to feel more open and clean, especially if you use the natural light of a skylight or high window.

Work with Neutrals

It might seem boring to use neutrals in other rooms, but the bathroom is the ideal setting for pastels and lighter shades. This gives the illusion of more space and natural sophistication. Consider bright marble countertops that will match any color touches that you choose for the rest of the room.

Splurge on Luxurious Flooring

Moderate room size provides the opportunity to purchase flooring and backsplash materials. It’s more difficult to afford upgrades in a large bathroom because there are so many square feet to cover. Invest in a backsplash or elegant flooring that you wouldn’t normally consider suitable for your budget.

Add Colors to Storage Features

Too much blank or neutral space is easy to break up with the addition of colorful features. Take advantage of the area above the toilet or a blank wall by adding colorful cabinets for additional storage. Spruce up your vanity or old drawers with fun paint colors or adhesive tape.

Add Natural Light, Mirrors, and Glass

Reflective surfaces partnered with natural light is always a great idea for the bathroom. If there’s no room to add another window, hang a few mirrors to create a similar feature. Also, replace the basic shower curtain with a glass door to make the space appear more open.

Install a Pocket Door

The standard swinging door is taking up unnecessary space that you could be using. A pocket door slides into the wall when not used so it’s completely out of the way. You’ll still have the same level of privacy without all of the waste.

Save Space with a Pedestal Sink

A spacious sink with storage underneath is a bit bulky, especially in a small room. The pedestal sink is a very attractive alternative that takes up very little space. Add simple skirting to hide the ugly hardware and make the entire sink more stylish.

There are a lot of great ideas that will help you achieve greater satisfaction with your bathroom, no matter how small the space. Call to set up a visit so that we can get a look at your space and help you discover the upgrade potential.