The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Bathroom Fixtures
Choosing the right bathroom fixtures can elevate the look and functionality of your space. Whether you’re remodeling or building from scratch, selecting the best shower and sink fixtures is a crucial part of creating a bathroom that reflects your style while meeting your needs.
From sleek modern designs to classic timeless pieces, the options are endless, and knowing what to look for can help you make the best choice.
Consider Your Bathroom Style
Before diving into choosing bathroom fixtures, consider the overall style of your bathroom. Are you going for a minimalist look with clean lines and understated elegance, or are you aiming for a more traditional or luxurious feel?
The style of your bathroom will significantly influence your fixture choices. Matching your fixtures to the design theme helps create a cohesive look that ties everything together.
For modern bathrooms, opt for fixtures with simple, angular shapes and polished finishes like chrome or matte black.
On the other hand, traditional bathrooms look great with vintage-inspired fixtures, such as those with curved handles and brushed brass or nickel finishes.
Material Matters
The material of your bathroom fixtures will impact their longevity and appearance. Common materials include brass, stainless steel, and zinc, each offering unique benefits:
- Brass: Durable and resistant to corrosion, brass is a popular choice for fixtures. It’s long-lasting and often used in both traditional and modern styles.
- Stainless Steel: Known for its sleek look and resistance to rust, stainless steel is ideal for modern bathrooms. It’s durable and easy to maintain.
- Zinc: This budget-friendly option is often used for lower-end fixtures. While not as durable as brass or steel, it’s still a good choice for less frequently used bathrooms, such as guest bathrooms.
Consider the durability, maintenance, and cost of each material before making your selection. Opt for materials that not only fit your budget but also withstand daily wear and tear.
Types of Fixtures
When choosing bathroom fixtures, it’s important to understand the various types available for showers, sinks, and bathtubs.
Each fixture plays a key role in the functionality and aesthetic of the bathroom.
Shower Fixtures
Shower fixtures include showerheads, valves, and controls. There are several styles of showerheads to consider, including:
- Fixed Showerheads: These are mounted directly to the wall and are a great option for a sleek, low-maintenance shower. They come in various sizes and spray patterns, including rain shower options for a spa-like experience.
- Handheld Showerheads: Perfect for those who want flexibility, handheld showerheads are attached to a hose and can be moved freely. They’re ideal for families, allowing easy cleaning of the shower area or pets.
- Dual Showerheads: For the ultimate in luxury, dual showerheads combine a fixed head with a handheld option, providing versatility and enhanced comfort.
When choosing shower fixtures, consider water pressure and efficiency. Many modern showerheads come with adjustable pressure settings, allowing you to customize your shower experience.
Sink Fixtures
Your sink faucet can set the tone for the bathroom. When selecting sink fixtures, you’ll want to consider the type of sink you have, as well as your personal style. The main types of sink faucets include:
- Single-Hole Faucets: These are simple, space-saving faucets perfect for modern or minimalist bathrooms. They combine the spout and handle into one piece, making them easy to install and use.
- Widespread Faucets: These faucets have separate handles for hot and cold water and are typically more elegant and traditional in design. They require more space but add a touch of sophistication to the bathroom.
- Wall-Mounted Faucets: If you’re looking to save counter space, wall-mounted faucets are a great option. These are often paired with vessel sinks and add a contemporary flair to the bathroom.
Like showerheads, sink faucets come in various finishes, so choose one that complements your other bathroom fixtures.
Focus on Functionality
While appearance is important, functionality should be at the top of your list when choosing bathroom fixtures.
Your bathroom fixtures need to be practical and fit your daily routine. For example, if you have children or seniors in the house, consider fixtures that are easy to operate.
Lever handles are a good option for sinks and showers because they’re simple to use and require minimal effort.
If water efficiency is a concern, look for fixtures with the WaterSense label. These products are designed to use less water without sacrificing performance, helping you save on utility bills and reduce your environmental impact.
Don’t Forget About Installation
Choosing the right bathroom fixtures is only half the battle. Proper installation is key to ensuring they function correctly and last for years.
Some fixtures are easier to install than others, so consider hiring a professional for more complex installations like wall-mounted faucets or custom shower systems.
If you’re planning a full bathroom renovation, it’s a good idea to coordinate with your contractor or plumber during the design phase to ensure your fixture choices will work with your plumbing setup.
Matching Finishes for a Cohesive Look
When selecting your shower and sink fixtures, one of the easiest ways to achieve a cohesive look is by matching the finishes across all fixtures in the bathroom. Whether you prefer chrome, brushed nickel, matte black, or oil-rubbed bronze, consistency in finishes helps create a unified and polished appearance.
Mixing and matching different finishes can work in some design styles, but it can also create a disjointed look if not done carefully.
If you do choose to mix finishes, stick to two complementary tones and repeat them throughout the bathroom.
Budgeting for Your Bathroom Fixtures
Your budget will play a significant role in the types of bathroom fixtures you choose. High-end fixtures made from premium materials and featuring advanced technology will naturally come with a higher price tag. However, there are plenty of mid-range options that offer a great balance of style, quality, and affordability.
Plan your budget carefully and prioritize the fixtures that are most important to you. For example, you may want to splurge on a luxurious rain showerhead while opting for more budget-friendly sink faucets. Be sure to factor in installation costs as well.
Professional Help For Choosing Bathroom Fixtures
Selecting the perfect bathroom fixtures involves balancing style, functionality, and budget. By considering your bathroom’s overall design, the materials and types of fixtures available, and your practical needs, you can create a beautiful and functional space.
At NEST Inc., we specialize in helping homeowners choose the right shower and sink fixtures to bring their dream bathrooms to life. Whether you’re updating an outdated bathroom or designing a new space from scratch, our team guides you every step of the way.
Ready to start your bathroom renovation? Contact NEST Inc. today to explore the best bathroom fixture options for your space. Visit NEST Inc. to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation.
