Beautiful Bathroom Renovations with Glass

When it comes to maximizing your home renovation, it’s no secret that one of the best places to put your budget to work is the bathroom. And if you’re really looking for the biggest return on your investment, it’s a good idea to choose a show-stopping, classic material like glass.

From mirrors and shower doors to recycled glass countertops and glass backsplashes and accent tiles, the possibilities are practically endless for the ways you can update your bathroom spaces. And because glass is such a tasteful option any way you look at it, you can be sure you’re selecting something that speaks to your personality without polarizing potential purchasers down the road.

Here are some beautiful bathroom glass additions you can include with just about any budget:

Maximize Mirrors

No matter the size of your bathroom, a simple optical illusion can be created through the clever sizing and placement of your vanity mirror.

If you have a double vanity, consider replacing two smaller mirrors with a large, custom-cut, custom-framed mirror. By swapping out two minis for one mega, you can pack more of a punch and reflect your room’s lighting, which will enlarge your entire space without moving a single wall.

Rethink your Sinks

Image source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/orphanjones/503998699/

When you’re ready to swap out your bathroom vanity top, consider the gorgeous green benefits of a recycled glass countertop.

Comprised of a cement base filled with broken bits of glass and mirrors that would otherwise clog up a landfill, these smooth countertops lend a sophisticated depth of color and unique twist to going green in the bathroom.

Round out the eco-friendly efforts by installing low flow shower heads and faucets which will not only save water but also keep more of your hard-earned budget in your back pocket!

All about the Accents

Image source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/dad_and_clint/8688168072/

You can really pack a punch by adding a simple glass detail with an accent tile band installed in your shower or around the perimeter of the entire room.

White subway tiles with a mix of gray and silver mosaic tiles pairs perfectly with a satin nickel showerhead to create a clean and modern feel in this updated shower.

Tip: To make ceilings appear higher, install a single band of mosaic glass tiles as an accent just below the shower head. By pairing the mosaic tile with a simple subway tile in a neutral color, you can effectively draw the eye upward and make the shower look taller.

Unique Shower Shapes

Image source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/nancyhugo/434602725/

One of the great things about a glass shower enclosure is the fact that you can order it to custom fit your space. This means whether you have a square, triangle or octagon to frame in, glass can get it done!
By installing glass with an etched detail like the one above, you have a built-in accent "tile" that effectively frames your entire frameless shower.

Tip: Frameless shower doors are a great way to create a seamless appearance in your bathroom. When you don’t have bulky and flimsy metal hardware in the way, all you see is glass that looks elegant and sophisticated – an upscale touch for any updated space.

Plus, by installing a curbless shower, you take your renovation to the next level by keeping your entire bathroom on the same level. It not only aids in the ease of entry, but it also makes clean-up a cinch.

Cleaning & Care Tips

And speaking of clean-up, here are a couple of tidbits to keep in mind about your new glass:

• If you install the glass tiles yourself, be sure to use unsanded grout so that you don’t risk scratching your gleaming new investment.
• When cleaning your new glass doors, use non-abrasive sponges and avoid using bristle brushes as they can scratch the glass. Instead, use soft materials like microfiber cloths, cotton towels and repurposed old t-shirts and sheets that you have cut into strip rags.

What kinds of glass additions are you planning for your next bathroom remodel?

Shahab Shokouhi is a glass design expert at Dulles Glass and Mirror, an innovative manufacturer of glass table tops, glass shelves, and all other glass and mirror products.