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How to Choose the Best Countertop For Your Bathroom or Kitchen Remodel

How to Choose the Best Countertop For Your Bathroom or Kitchen Remodel

by | Bathroom Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling | 0 comments

quartz-stone-countertop-calcutta-belleza - Choosing the Best CountertopSelecting the best countertop is an essential part of any kitchen or bathroom remodel. But in order to choose the right style or material, it’s important to know what’s available. Beyond that, you’ll want to make sure that the countertop that resonates most with you also fits with your overall bathroom or kitchen remodel design.

 

Today, we’re going to walk you through what defines the best countertop for your home renovation project. Then, we’ll take a closer look at what countertop materials are available and some of the pros and cons of each. Once you know what the best countertop means and what it should be made out of, we’ll show you where to get it so you end up with a quality countertop that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

 

What makes the best countertop?

You might be surprised at the many different countertop materials that are on the market today. From marble and granite to quartz, concrete, and more, how will you ever choose which one is best for YOU?

 

Well, the best place to start is to look at what you need as well as the appearance you like. The best countertop for your bathroom or kitchen remodel will be one that simultaneously meets your wants and needs. To find out what that looks like, you can ask yourself the following questions:

 

  • Will you be using the countertop for meal preparation?
  • How long do you expect or want this countertop to last?
  • What is the overall design style of your kitchen or bathroom?
  • Do you prefer a completely smooth surface?
  • Is ease of cleaning important to you?
  • Would a countertop stain or crack be bothersome?
  • Are you okay with doing yearly maintenance on your countertop?
  • How much of your remodeling budget can be used for countertops?

 

Your answers to these questions can help you choose the best countertop for your specific needs and style preferences. For example, if you’re planning to sell your home in the next couple of years, you’ll want a countertop that looks nice and is budget-friendly but you may not be as concerned about longevity. On the other hand, if this is your forever home, you may be willing to spend more for the countertop that looks luxurious, is durable, and is easy to clean.

 

Best countertop materials for your bathroom or kitchen remodel

Once you’ve answered the questions above, it’s time to look at what countertop materials are available as well as the benefits and disadvantages of each. Below, we’ve listed some of the most common countertop types. We’ve also included some of their pros and cons so you can choose the best countertop for your situation.

 

Marble Countertops

Marble countertops in kitchen remodel

Pros:

  • Marble countertops look luxurious and are ideal for contemporary or upscale designs.
  • Multiple colors and patterns are available so creating a unique design is easy.
  • The surface is smooth, a favorite for home chefs who love to bake.

 

Cons:

  • Marble is softer than some stones and can scratch easily.
  • Marble is porous so be sure to clean up spills quickly to prevent permanent staining.

 

Quartz Countertops

quartz-countertop-undermount-single-sink-

Pros:

  • Quartz is very durable, made to last, and doesn’t scratch or chip easily.
  • Since quartz is non-porous, it’s easy to clean and doesn’t need to be re-sealed.
  • Create an elegant, sleek design with options for customization.

 

Cons:

  • With all of its positive qualities, quartz comes at a higher price than some countertop materials and may not be as budget-friendly.
  • While quartz can mimic the look of stone, it’s not quite as good as the real thing in terms of appearance.
  • Quartz may not be suitable for an outdoor kitchen as it’s prone to discoloration when continuously exposed to direct sunlight.

 

Granite Countertops

Red-kitchen

Pros:

  • Get the natural look of stone with durability included.
  • Granite countertops can have a variety of edges including half or full bullnose, square, beveled, or even S-shaped.
  • This countertop material is heat-resistant so hot dishes can be placed directly on it without requiring a hot mat.

 

Cons:

  • Granite is so hard it can dull your kitchen knives if you cut directly on it – use a cutting board instead.
  • For kitchen or bathroom remodels on a small budget, granite may not be the best choice as it’s more expensive than some other countertop materials.
  • Although granite doesn’t damage easily, it can be expensive or difficult to repair if it does become damaged.

 

Concrete Countertops

concrete-kitchen-countertop-material

Pros:

  • Concrete can offer a unique, bold look to your kitchen or bathroom design and can be tinted to match cabinets, flooring, or other design elements.
  • This material is very durable, made to last, and is resistant to chipping and scratching.
  • Concrete is heat resistant so can be utilized in both bathrooms and kitchens where heated elements (hair dryers, curling irons, hot pans, etc.) are used.

 

Cons:

  • Concrete can crack as it settles but the good news is that cracks are relatively easy to repair.
  • A concrete countertop requires some maintenance, including re-sealing the surface every few years.

 

Butcher Block Countertops

Butcher-block-kitchen-countertop

Pros:

  • This can be the best countertop option if you like the natural wood look.
  • A butcher block countertop is perfect for food prep as it allows for cutting directly on the surface.
  • Your countertop can be made to match the wood of your cabinets or can be used as a contrasting element.

 

Cons:

  • Sealed butcher block countertops cannot be used for food prep without a cutting board.
  • The wood is porous so it can stain easily.
  • Unsealed butcher block surfaces require maintenance – specifically, oiling twice per year.

 

Stainless Steel Countertops

kitchen remodeling

Pros:

  • This countertop material is easy to clean and disinfect, making it the perfect choice for commercial kitchens.
  • For industrial styled kitchens, a stainless steel countertop fits in perfectly and also matches well with stainless steel appliances.
  • The material is non-porous and very durable.

 

Cons:

  • Stainless steel easily shows water stains and fingerprints so it may not be the best countertop material if you have hard water or small children.
  • This material also dents and scratches easily.

 

While this list of countertop materials certainly isn’t exhaustive, it does give you an idea of the many choices available to you as you begin to plan your kitchen remodel or bathroom renovation. Ultimately, the best countertop will be one that looks great AND functions well with your specific needs!

 

Get the best bathroom or kitchen design in Orange County

It’s important to remember that while knowing how to select the best countertop is important, the entire process can be made easier by first choosing the best remodeling company to do the job. That’s because a professional design team knows how to incorporate different countertop materials with different remodeling styles. They also have their eyes on the market and know what’s readily available and what may be difficult to get due to supply chain challenges.

 

At Sea Pointe Design & Remodel, we’ve been helping Orange County homeowners get the best kitchen and bathroom designs for almost four decades. So, if you’re looking for an Orange County home remodeling company to meet your remodeling needs, let us know! We’ve completed remodeling projects in Irvine, Huntington Beach, Lake Forest, Laguna Beach, Mission Viejo, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, and more.

 

For remodeling ideas and design inspiration, feel free to browse through our online portfolio of completed kitchen and bath projects. Or, register for one of our upcoming remodeling webinars where you can get helpful remodeling tips from the pros.

 

Then, when you’re ready to start planning your own remodel, simply give us a call at (949) 861-3400 or fill out the form below to schedule your complimentary design consultation.

Let's Discuss Your Next Project!

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How to Choose the Best Countertop For Your Bathroom or Kitchen Remodel was last modified: December 18th, 2025 by Smart Marketing
5 Smart Bathroom Trends For Tech Lovers to Consider

5 Smart Bathroom Trends For Tech Lovers to Consider

by | Bathroom Remodeling | 0 comments

double-vanity-primary-bathroom-remodel-newport-beach - smart bathroom trends

If you’re one of those technology gurus who absolutely loves to have the latest tech gadgets, a smart bathroom could top your home improvement to-do list in the near future.

 

At Sea Pointe Design & Remodel, we’ve always been conscious of helping our Orange County clients utilize smart bathroom design to get the most out of their space. But here, we use the term ‘smart bathroom’ to describe using technology inside this all-important room in order to get and do even more.

 

For many people, smart technology has become commonplace in their vehicles with automated parking systems, integration with various apps, and more. And, with popular Alexa smart home devices, many homeowners have begun to enjoy at least a small degree of automation inside their house. Now, let’s take it one step further and see what smart bathroom trends are happening in an Orange County home near you.

 

Smart Bathroom Technology to Level Up Your Bathroom Design

While technology continues to evolve and more options become available, we’re going to focus on 5 devices that could change how you use your bathroom forever!

 

1. Digital Voice Assistants

Yes, homeowners have been talking to Alexa for a while now, being able to turn on the lights or change a room’s temperature simply by speaking. Now, we’re seeing an increase in voice-activated features in the bathroom as well.

 

Voice-activated light switches in the bathroom are perfect for busy people. But they’re also becoming an important part of smart bathroom design that enables homeowners to age in place. With the right devices installed, anyone, including individuals with impaired mobility, can now turn on the lights, turn up the heat, or even fill up the tub with a simple voice command.

 

2. Smart Bathroom Toilet Technology

 

small-toilet-area - smart bathroom trends

Have you ever walked into a bathroom where someone had forgotten to flush the toilet? If so, you probably haven’t appreciated the resulting assault on your senses. But with a smart toilet, you don’t have to worry. Automatic flushing is one of the many benefits currently touted by smart toilets. In addition, some offer seat temperature control, self-cleaning, personalized washing and drying settings, and more! Of course, you’ll have to weigh the benefits of all these luxurious features against the fact that your family member who already spends too much time in the bathroom may now spend even more time on the throne!

 

3. Magic Mirrors

“Magic mirror on the wall, who is the fairest one of all?” So goes the famous quote from Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. But with today’s smart bathroom technology, YOU can ask the same question right at home!

 

With a smart mirror installed in your bathroom, you can watch how-to videos on YouTube to master that new hairdo or match your favorite celebrity’s makeup. Or, you can use voice commands to send an email, order a meal, take a selfie and more, all while getting ready for the day. Not ready for that much out of your mirror? No problem! There are other models that have lesser capabilities such as playing music or providing USB charging ports.

 

4. TVs For Your At-Home Spa

From a child, you were taught that electricity and water don’t mix. Technology like your favorite television doesn’t mix with water either, or at least it didn’t before. With advances in smart bathroom devices, however, you can now enjoy your favorite TV show while soaking in the tub. Smart TVs can be voice activated so you don’t even have to lift a finger, although some models do have touch screens that can be safely operated with wet fingers.

 

5. Smart Bathroom Scales

Unfortunately, technology hasn’t quite advanced to the point where the bathroom scale will lose weight or gain muscle for you. A smart scale can connect to your other smart devices, however, making it easy to sync your weight and body measurements with other things like your exercise and diet history on your smart watch. Some newer models even have the ability to store your data in a PDF format for easy tracking or sharing with a medical professional.

 

Smart Bathroom Design and Technology From the Orange County Bathroom Experts

Blue-shining-glass-backsplash-tile-design-in-Rancho-Santa-Margarita-master-bathroom-remodel - smart bathroom trends

While all of these smart bathroom devices are cool and useful, they do cost more than their not-so-techy counterparts. When you work with a professional bathroom designer, however, they can help you decide how and when devices such as these can fit into your remodeling budget. At Sea Pointe Design & Remodel, our design experts also ensure that you get the best bathroom design – one that will meet your family’s needs now AND in the future so you end up with a space that’s both beautiful and functional.

 

To get design ideas and inspiration for your own bathroom remodel, check out our online portfolio of completed projects. Or, register for one of our upcoming remodeling webinars to get helpful tips from our Orange County remodeling pros.

 

Then, when you’re ready to start planning your bathroom renovation or other home remodeling project, simply give us a call at (949) 861-3400 or fill out the form below to schedule your complimentary design consultation.

5 Smart Bathroom Trends For Tech Lovers to Consider was last modified: December 18th, 2025 by Smart Marketing
7 Bathroom Design Mistakes You Don’t Want to Make

7 Bathroom Design Mistakes You Don’t Want to Make

by | Bathroom Remodeling | 0 comments

bathroom design mistakes to avoid Planning a bathroom remodel can be exciting but if not done right, bathroom design mistakes can foil your efforts and send your hard-earned money down the drain. Instead of ending up with a space that functions well and looks stunning, you could be left with a bathroom that doesn’t fully meet your needs or look the way you envisioned.

 

If all that sounds like something to avoid, you’re in the right place! Today, we’re going to walk you through some of the most common bathroom design blunders we’ve seen during our years of home remodeling in Orange County. Once you know what not to do, you’ll be better equipped to plan a bathroom remodel that you’ll be happy with both now and later.

 

Beware of These Bathroom Design Mistakes

 

#1: Forgetting About Bathroom Design Altogether

 

House floorplan - bathroom design mistakes to avoid

 

Remember the old saying, “if you’re failing to plan, you’re planning to fail”? These words are applicable to every home renovation project but especially bathroom remodels. One of the most common bathroom design mistakes people make is thinking they don’t need a bathroom design at all, especially if they’re simply renovating existing space.

 

A complete bathroom design is absolutely essential for renovations that include structural changes or relocating plumbing or electrical features. But a thorough design is also important for more minor renovations. It’s often cheaper to take the time for proper planning and design before the project begins vs. getting started without a plan only to find out you should have had one.

 

#2: Not Including Natural Light

No one enjoys using a dark bathroom and it’s always more pleasant when the room has adequate ventilation or access to fresh air, too. You can accomplish both of these things simply by having a window in your bathroom. The room will be bright and cheerful since it’s bathed in natural light. And, a window that opens offers additional ventilation besides just having a high quality fan.

 

#3: Installing a Curbed Walk-in Shower

 

Guest-bathroom-remodel-in-Orange-County - bathroom design mistakes to avoid

 

Another common bathroom design mistake homeowners make is installing a walk-in shower with curbed access. While curbed showers have had their hey-day, modern bathroom design trends are steering more toward curbless entries. This can make the entire room feel more spacious and modern. It also pairs well with the growing trend of building with aging in place in mind – using universal design elements to allow you to live at home longer, even if you experience mobility challenges.

 

#4: Prioritizing Beauty Over Function

There’s no question about it … bathroom design has certainly come a long way in the last few decades. From stylish shower tiles to stunning backsplashes, unique flooring, and luxurious fixtures, there are so many ways to make your bathroom look and feel beautiful. But it’s important to remember that first and foremost, bathrooms should be about function. Once this room has been properly designed to maximize use of the space in a way that makes sense for those who will use it daily, then you can focus on aesthetics.

 

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with a stylish bathroom. In fact, we firmly believe that since you’re going to spend several hours per day in this room, it should be a space where you enjoy spending time. Just remember that a successful bathroom design is not all about beauty.

 

#5: Not Choosing the Ideal Location

You’ve probably heard the phrase ‘location, location, location’ a few times in your life. Typically, it’s used to remind business owners that the physical location of their storefront makes a significant impact on their overall business success. In terms of bathroom design, however, this mantra also fits. In order to maximize function, this all-important room must be in the right location.

 

Of course, that location also depends on the type of bathroom you’re installing or remodeling. For example, a master bathroom obviously needs to be part of the master suite and easily accessed from the master bedroom. A bathroom that’s shared by multiple people should be centrally located for easy access – between bedrooms on the second floor, for instance, instead of at the end of the upstairs hallway. And, a small bathroom that’s used for freshening up might ideally be located near an outside entrance. This allows guests to use it upon arrival or household members can access it easily when working or playing outside.

 

#6: Not Paying Close Attention to Bathroom Layout

 

Open Layout in Master Bathroom Remodel

 

Speaking of location, the layout of elements within the bathroom are just as important as the location of the room itself. One of the most common bathroom design mistakes people make is putting the toilet in direct line of sight from the doorway. For additional privacy and simply a better look when passing by the open room, consider a separate toilet room inside the bathroom or a toilet hidden by a half wall.

 

Other bathroom features such as the shower, makeup counter, vanities, or closets should all be arranged to promote smooth traffic flow and maximize use of the space.

 

#7: Going Big Instead of Better

Many people think they need a large bathroom, especially if they’re trying to create a spa-like bathroom at home. While there’s nothing wrong with a spacious bathroom, a larger size doesn’t always equate to being better. What’s most important is that the space flows and functions nicely while also fitting in with the overall home design and homeowners’ preferences. There are plenty of ways to make small bathrooms look bigger or feel more spacious so don’t worry if your bathroom isn’t the biggest.

 

How Do You Avoid Making Bathroom Design Mistakes? Hire a Professional Orange County Bathroom Designer!

Sea Pointe Design & Remodel has been helping Orange County residents avoid bathroom design mistakes for almost 40 years by providing professional home design and remodeling services. But preventing bathroom design blunders isn’t our only area of expertise. We also specialize in whole home remodels, kitchen renovations, room additions and more. Whether you live in Irvine, Huntington Beach, Lake Forest, San Clemente, Tustin, Corona del Mar, or any of the other Orange County cities we serve, we have you covered!

 

For bathroom design ideas and inspiration, browse through our online portfolio of completed bathroom renovations. Or, for helpful remodeling tips and information from the home renovation pros, register for one of our upcoming remodeling webinars.

 

Then, when you’re ready to start planning your own bathroom remodel or other home renovation project, simply give us a call at (949) 861-3400 or fill out the form below for your complimentary design consultation.

Let's Discuss Your Next Project!

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  • We guarantee 100% privacy for all information!

 

7 Bathroom Design Mistakes You Don’t Want to Make was last modified: December 11th, 2025 by Smart Marketing
6 Big Picture Bathroom Remodeling Trends This Year

6 Big Picture Bathroom Remodeling Trends This Year

by | Bathroom Remodeling | 0 comments

Bathroom Remodeling TrendsWhen remodeling your bathroom, it’s easy to get caught up in the minute details that will create a beautiful space. But taking a broader approach and looking at big picture bathroom remodeling trends can help you know where to focus your home renovation dollars.

 

While we’ve certainly seen some common trends among our own Orange County bathroom remodeling projects, let’s take a look at big picture bathroom remodeling trends across the entire country. Houzz, one of America’s most well-known home remodeling resources, recently released the results of a bathroom design trends study they did this year. Below, we’ll summarize some of their most important findings.

 

Big Picture Bathroom Remodeling Trends Happening Now

 

1. Bathroom System Upgrades

While today’s homeowners certainly have a desire for beautiful bathrooms, they haven’t forgotten about function. Houzz’s study revealed that 62% of bathroom remodels included system upgrades. This accounts for things like installing a home water softener, radiant flooring, or a moisture-sensing ventilation fan. While these features may not add much to the bathroom in terms of style, they can affect function and overall comfort.

 

2. Bathroom Layout Changes

With there being a popular trend to create a spa-like bathroom at home, it should come as no surprise that homeowners are very interested in how the room is laid out. Big picture bathroom remodeling trends include floor plans that allow ample space for freestanding tubs, makeup counters, dual vanities, and more. In addition, shower size matters … a lot. In fact, just over half of the bathroom remodels in Houzz’s study included increasing the size of the shower.

 

3. Customized Vanities

 

Customized Vanity Bathroom Remodeling Trends

 

You don’t have to be vain to appreciate a good vanity! There are a lot of everyday tasks that happen in a bathroom and many of them happen right at the sink. For master bathroom renovations, dual vanities are becoming more popular to give enough space for multiple people using the bathroom at the same time.

 

In addition, custom vanity features like soft close doors and drawers made their way into over half of the bathroom remodels in Houzz’s study. And at least 30% of homeowners opted for built-in electrical outlets, a great option for those who want to keep their bathroom backsplashes outlet-free.

 

4. Overall Style Transition In Bathroom Remodeling Trends

Bathroom design styles change over the years and so do personal preferences. According to Houzz, almost 90% of homeowners choose to make style updates when remodeling their bathroom. If you’re planning to sell your home in the near future, it’s a good idea to pay attention to big picture bathroom remodeling trends such as the top style so your new bathroom will be attractive to potential buyers. Houzz’s study says that the transitional style currently makes the top of the list.

 

On the other hand, if you’re planning to stay in your current home for a while, choose the style that makes YOU happy! In our 3+ decades of remodeling in Orange County, we’ve encountered a wide variety of bathroom design styles … an industrial farmhouse remodel in Placentia, a seaside-inspired bathroom remodel in Aliso Viejo, and a modern rustic master bath in San Juan Capistrano, just to name a few.

 

5. A Professional Remodeling Company Can Bring Bathroom Remodeling Trends To Life

If you’ve ever tried to do it yourself, you may have realized that bathroom remodeling is not usually a DIY job! However, some homeowners still try to save a few dollars by doing things on their own. What often ends up happening, though, is that the mistakes they make end up costing more money to fix in the long run.

 

According to Houzz’s study, it looks like American homeowners are waking up to the fact that they just aren’t cut out for doing their own bathroom renovations. The majority, or 85%, now hire a professional remodeling company to complete the task. This is great news and a smart decision. When you work with an expert design-build team, you’ll not only get a bathroom that’s designed well but you’ll get one that’s constructed with quality materials that are made to last.

 

6. Shower Upgrades

 

Shower Upgrades Bathroom Remodeling Trends

 

Last on the list of big picture bathroom remodeling trends is upgrading the shower. For some, that means increasing the size like we previously mentioned. For others, that means adding stunning tile work, built-in shampoo niches, or glass walls and doors. Another popular trend is designing the shower with the thought of aging in place. A curbless entry and built-in shower bench can increase accessibility and make everyday bathing easier for individuals with mobility challenges.

 

Going Beyond Big Picture Bathroom Remodeling Trends With an Expert Orange County Bathroom Designer

Now that you know the big picture when it comes to current bathroom designs, it’s time to tackle the details of your own bathroom renovation. That’s where Sea Pointe Design & Remodel can help! We’ve worked with homeowners throughout Orange County for over 35 years and would love to become your preferred professional remodeling company. Whether you live in Irvine, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Dana Point, Lake Forest, San Clemente, or any of the other Orange County cities we serve, we’re excited to make your ideal bathroom become a reality.

 

For ideas and inspiration, feel free to browse through our online portfolio of completed bathroom remodels. Or, register for one of our upcoming remodeling webinars to get remodeling tips from the pros.

 

Then, when you’re ready to get started with your bathroom renovation project, simply give us a call at (949) 861-3400 or fill out the form below to schedule your complimentary design consultation.

Let's Discuss Your Next Project!

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  • We guarantee 100% privacy for all information!

 

6 Big Picture Bathroom Remodeling Trends This Year was last modified: December 18th, 2025 by Smart Marketing
5 Things to Consider When Remodeling Your Bathroom

5 Things to Consider When Remodeling Your Bathroom

by | Bathroom Remodeling | 0 comments

Bathroom Remodeling

Home remodeling trends come and go but when remodeling your bathroom, there’s one thing for certain … functionality is a primary concern. That’s because most of us spend a significant amount of time in the bathroom each day. In fact, there have actually been studies to determine exactly how much time.

 

Survey results say that the average adult will spend 416 days of their life in the bathroom. Now, this specific statistic comes from a survey of 2,000 British adults, but studies of their American counterparts have come up with similar numbers.

 

So, it’s safe to say that functional features are a must inside this important room. But that’s not to say your bathroom can’t be beautiful, too. Today, we’re going to take a look at key factors to consider when remodeling your bathroom so you end up with a space in which you truly love to spend time. After all, if you’re going to spend over a year of your life there, you might as well enjoy it!

 

Important Features to Consider When Remodeling Your Bathroom

 

1. Powerful Plumbing

You probably didn’t think that this would top the list of things to remember when remodeling your bathroom but remember, we’re talking about function here. While many people think plumbing is plumbing, there are some important factors to consider.

 

First, if you live in a colder climate, you’ll want to make sure plumbing isn’t installed on exterior walls. If it is, it will be at a greater risk for freezing during the winter.

 

Second, here’s a tip that everyone can consider, regardless of whether you live in Irvine, Corona del Mar, Coto de Caza, Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Ladera Ranch, Newport Beach, or some other place outside of Orange County, CA. If your bathroom framing makes it possible, upgrade your drains to 2” diameter piping (the standard is typically 1.5”). Why? Simply because bathroom drains are known for becoming blocked by hair and debris. Save yourself the hassle of clogged plumbing and in most cases, it won’t cost much extra for the upgrade in plumbing size.

 

2. Layered Lighting

 

Primary-bathroom-remodel-in-Laguna-Hills - spa-like bathroom - bring color into your bathroom

 

Now here’s a case where style and function can certainly go together. In terms of functionality, it’s important to consider all the different tasks that are typically done in this room. When remodeling your bathroom, you can include lighting that meets the needs of each of those tasks.

 

For example, if you’re designing a spa-like bathroom at home, you’ll want soft, calming lights near your freestanding tub in order to create that spa-like atmosphere. For makeup and shaving areas, back-lit mirrors can make it bright enough to see up close but also bathe your face in an attractive light. And, homeowners who frequently use the bathroom during the night, or are planning ahead to age in place, will find that automatic lights or under-the-cabinet lighting can make seeing at night even easier.

 

These are just a few of the different types of lights you might consider when remodeling your bathroom. No matter what type of lighting you need, there are a variety of styles on the market today so it’s easy to combine function and flair.

 

3. Storage Cabinets

Whether it’s a linen closet, vanity, or medicine cabinet, having the right type and amount of storage in your bathroom is a critical functional feature. Proper storage keeps necessary bathroom accessories available when they’re needed but out of sight when they’re not.

 

Most bathrooms can accommodate standard cabinet sizes. If your bathroom has unique spaces or size constraints, however, custom cabinetry may be required.

 

In addition to function, bathroom cabinets can be an important piece of the room’s overall style. For example, natural colored cabinets with beautiful quartz countertops can help create a serene, calming feel for your at-home spa. Or, they can add a rustic feel like this bathroom remodel in San Juan Capistrano.

 

Remodeling Your Bathroom

 

4. Shower Essentials: Windows, Sills, and Built-Ins

Here’s another opportunity where you can be mindful of function but still think about style when remodeling your bathroom. If the location of your bathroom allows it, consider having a window installed in the shower. It can have frosted glass for privacy but still allow the room to be bathed in natural light. A window that can be opened is also a nice feature for getting fresh air into the space. When you work with a professional bathroom designer, they will ensure that the window is watertight and that the sill is properly sloped into the shower to allow for adequate water drainage.

 

Now, think about the shower itself. A popular bathroom remodeling trend that’s both stylish and functional is installing built-in shampoo niches and benches. Wall niches are the perfect place for an accent tile design while simultaneously providing a convenient storage space for bathing essentials. They eliminate the need for a shower caddy which can often look tacky or less than luxurious. A built-in bench can be handy, too, especially for people with mobility challenges.

 

5. Shower vs. Tub

 

white-crackle-brick-stack-porcelain-floor-tile - remodeling your bathroom

While many modern bathrooms are large enough to accommodate a shower and a tub, some are only big enough for one. Then, the question arises which one to install. A freestanding tub can be a relaxing place to soak away the cares of the day, but how often do you anticipate using it? Would a shower that’s used on a daily basis serve you better?

 

It’s also important to consider how long you plan to stay in your current home. If this is your ‘forever home’, remodeling your bathroom with universal design for aging in place could be an important factor to consider. You’ll want a curbless walk-in shower and ideally have a built-in shower bench. On the other hand, if you anticipate selling your home in the near future, consider what makes the most sense for your current needs but what would also be most attractive to potential buyers.

 

Remodeling Your Bathroom With the Best Orange County Remodeling Company

At Sea Pointe Design & Remodel, we’ve helped homeowners all over Orange County create functional and stylish bathrooms for almost four decades. From a farmhouse bathroom remodel in Placentia and a wet room remodel in Irvine to a spacious spa-like getaway in North Tustin or a coastal bathroom remodel in Huntington Beach, we’re proud to be a remodeling company that Orange County residents trust and respect.

 

Browse through our online portfolio of completed bathroom remodels to get ideas and inspiration for your own bathroom renovation. Or, register for one of our upcoming remodeling webinars to learn helpful remodeling tips from the pros.

 

Then, when you’re ready to get started on YOUR home renovation project, simply give us a call at (949) 861-3400 or fill out the form below to schedule your complimentary design consultation.

Let's Discuss Your Next Project!

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

  • We guarantee 100% privacy for all information!

 

5 Things to Consider When Remodeling Your Bathroom was last modified: December 18th, 2025 by Smart Marketing