Living Smart: Which shower door is right for your bathroom? | Lifestyles

Read article : Living Smart: Which shower door is right for your bathroom? | Lifestyles

Installing a new shower? Unless you’re getting a walk-in shower or a bathtub/shower insert — which sometimes only requires a shower curtain — you’ll need to select a type of shower door.

Here’s some information to help you choose.

Sliding shower doors

Sliding shower doors, also referred to as bypass doors, take up the least bathroom space of any type of shower door because they never expand inside or outside the shower. They typically consist of two to three panels that slide past each other on tracks along the top and bottom of the door.

Because sliding shower doors come with at least two panels, they’re best used in wide shower openings measuring at least 60 inches. Framed sliding shower doors at a quarter-inch glass thickness, uninstalled, typically cost $175 to $500.

Round shower doors

Round shower doors, unlike most other types, open inward. They are ideal for corner showers. The curved glass gives you more elbow room, and the lack of a corner gives your bathroom more open floor space. They’re also easier to clean because you don’t have to dig into the corners.

Framed round shower enclosures, uninstalled, typically cost $500 to $1,000.

Neo-angle shower doors

Neo-angle shower doors are best suited for corner showers. They are designed to keep the door in the open space of the bathroom instead of forcing the door next to a wall. These shower doors typically have three panels: the door, and an angled panel on each side.

Framed neo-angle shower doors with a quarter-inch glass thickness typically cost between $325 and $900 before installation.

Pivot shower doors

Pivot shower doors are the traditional swinging hinged doors. They typically open outward from one side and are only installed in standalone shower stalls.

They’re ideal for showers under 60 inches that are too small for sliding doors.

For wider openings, like those that are 48 inches, you can choose a double-hinged mount, which allows the door to pivot both inward and outward.

Framed pivot shower doors with a quarter-inch glass thickness cost $140 to $500 before installation.

Bifold shower doors

A bifold shower door combines the sliding function of bypass shower doors with the movement of pivot doors. A bifold door has two panels attached by a hinge. When the user pulls the handle, the two panels fold inward toward each other.

If you’re buying a framed bifold shower door of a quarter-inch glass thickness, expect to pay $325 to $700 before installation.

Frameless shower doors

Frameless shower doors aren’t their own exclusive category: Instead, you can get framed or frameless versions of several different types of shower doors, like pivot or bypass.

Frameless shower doors are more aesthetically pleasing than framed shower doors. The clear, clean glass allows you to see through to the shower walls, so they’re ideal for showers with tile work.

Frameless shower doors are made from thicker glass than other shower doors — three-eights to one-half inch thickness as opposed to one-quarter inch thickness — so they tend to cost at least twice the amount of a framed shower door. Frameless shower doors start around $700 to $1,200, uninstalled, and the price goes up from there.

45 Modern Bathroom Interior Design Ideas

Read article : 45 Modern Bathroom Interior Design Ideas

Welcome to our gallery showcasing an extensive collection of modern bathroom interior ideas.

The wide range of styles and materials featured here grant us a glimpse of the possibilities available when designing a modern bathroom.

They show us that convenience and function does not have to be sacrificed for style and comfort.

In fact, the best of these designs manage to inextricably link function and form in a manner than enhances both sides of the coin.

Within this collection, you’ll see certain materials making an appearance in dozens of fresh guises.

Beige tiling can seem like an overly common element until you realize the extreme variation that creative design can produce.

Stained wood cabinetry and wall paneling can evoke everything from traditional styling to the height of modern aesthetics.

Glass is perhaps the most innovative and varied material employed by these wide ranging bathrooms.

From curved glass shower enclosures to uniquely cut window panes to completely glass pedestal tubs, this material is never left wanting for fresh ideas.

Keep your eyes out for the truly novel designs, incorporating skylights, hidden water closets, striking tile patterns, and futuristic vanity constructs.

You’ll see ceiling-mounted, swivel mirrors, wall-cut shelving enclosures, faucets in a galaxy of shapes and mountings, innovative bathroom storage options and more.

These are but a few of the interesting stylistic twists incorporated into the beautiful bathrooms we’ve gathered for your pleasure and inspiration.

Deep black tiles and stained wood cabinetry on the lower half of this bathroom contrast with the bright white wall tiles and ceiling on top. Lengthy mirror stands over dual vanity, with large soaking tub at far end, beneath a pair of windows." alt="Deep black tiles and stained wood cabinetry on the lower half of this bathroom contrast with the bright white wall tiles and ceiling on top. Lengthy mirror stands over dual vanity, with large soaking tub at far end, beneath a pair of windows." width="1000" height="667" src="src" />

Deep black tiles and stained wood cabinetry on the lower half of this bathroom contrast with the bright white wall tiles and ceiling on top. Lengthy mirror stands over dual vanity, with large soaking tub at far end, beneath a pair of windows.

Warm natural wood cabinetry and large mirror frame livens up this beige tile bathroom, with two rectangular vessel sinks on the vanity, next to a large wall-wide glass shower enclosure." alt="Warm natural wood cabinetry and large mirror frame livens up this beige tile bathroom, with two rectangular vessel sinks on the vanity, next to a large wall-wide glass shower enclosure." width="850" height="565" src="src" />

Warm natural wood cabinetry and large mirror frame livens up this beige tile bathroom, with two rectangular vessel sinks on the vanity, next to a large wall-wide glass shower enclosure.

Muted tones inform this ultra-minimalist bathroom. Striking, all-glass free standing tub stands before a wall-size window, while floating white vanity hangs below a sliding mirror cabinet." alt="Muted tones inform this ultra-minimalist bathroom. Striking, all-glass free standing tub stands before a wall-size window, while floating white vanity hangs below a sliding mirror cabinet." width="1000" height="750" src="src" />

Muted tones inform this ultra-minimalist bathroom. Striking, all-glass free standing tub stands before a wall-size window, while floating white vanity hangs below a sliding mirror cabinet.

Natural wood floating cabinetry hangs over tile flooring in this large, vaulted ceiling bathroom. White countertops pair with walls and ceiling, while immense glass framed shower holds the entire far wall." alt="Natural wood floating cabinetry hangs over tile flooring in this large, vaulted ceiling bathroom. White countertops pair with walls and ceiling, while immense glass framed shower holds the entire far wall." width="1000" height="667" src="src" />

Natural wood floating cabinetry hangs over tile flooring in this large, vaulted ceiling bathroom. White countertops pair with walls and ceiling, while immense glass framed shower holds the entire far wall.

natural wood tones throughout this lengthy bathroom. Dual vanity with marble backsplash over floating cabinetry places mirrors between lengths of window, while all glass shower takes up end of the room." alt="Sparkling mixture of bright marble and natural wood tones throughout this lengthy bathroom. Dual vanity with marble backsplash over floating cabinetry places mirrors between lengths of window, while all glass shower takes up end of the room." width="1024" height="681" src="src" />

Sparkling mixture of bright marble and natural wood tones throughout this lengthy bathroom. Dual vanity with marble backsplash over floating cabinetry places mirrors between lengths of window, while all glass shower takes up end of the room. Source: Zillow Digs^TM

modern bathroom features space age-look rounded white cabinetry with immense vessel sink, with rich wood paneling paired with beige tiling throughout. Pedestal tub is paired with all-glass shower enclosure." alt="Ultra-modern bathroom features space age-look rounded white cabinetry with immense vessel sink, with rich wood paneling paired with beige tiling throughout. Pedestal tub is paired with all-glass shower enclosure." width="1000" height="667" src="src" />

Ultra-modern bathroom features space age-look rounded white cabinetry with immense vessel sink, with rich wood paneling paired with beige tiling throughout. Pedestal tub is paired with all-glass shower enclosure.

cozy bathroom makes innovative and extensive use of small tiling throughout, with beige toned application surrounding the natural wood trim tub enclosure, while a curved red tile wall surrounds the shower space." alt="This cozy bathroom makes innovative and extensive use of small tiling throughout, with beige toned application surrounding the natural wood trim tub enclosure, while a curved red tile wall surrounds the shower space." width="1000" height="667" src="src" />

This cozy bathroom makes innovative and extensive use of small tiling throughout, with beige toned application surrounding the natural wood trim tub enclosure, while a curved red tile wall surrounds the shower space.

modern bathroom replete with traditional materials in novel configurations: dark tile flooring and backsplash pair with glossy white panels throughout, while dark hardwood door features glass slats, and curved glass shower commands attention in the corner." alt="Another ultra-modern bathroom replete with traditional materials in novel configurations: dark tile flooring and backsplash pair with glossy white panels throughout, while dark hardwood door features glass slats, and curved glass shower commands attention in the corner." width="1000" height="667" src="src" />

Another ultra-modern bathroom replete with traditional materials in novel configurations: dark tile flooring and backsplash pair with glossy white panels throughout, while dark hardwood door features glass slats, and curved glass shower commands attention in the corner.

large open bathroom design features a free-standing vanity at center, with pivoting circular mirrors hung from the ceiling. Hardwood flooring anchors the light toned design, while patterned beige tile decorates the large glass shower enclosure." alt="Lavish, large open bathroom design features a free-standing vanity at center, with pivoting circular mirrors hung from the ceiling. Hardwood flooring anchors the light toned design, while patterned beige tile decorates the large glass shower enclosure." width="1024" height="768" src="src" />

Lavish, large open bathroom design features a free-standing vanity at center, with pivoting circular mirrors hung from the ceiling. Hardwood flooring anchors the light toned design, while patterned beige tile decorates the large glass shower enclosure. Source: Zillow Digs^TM

concrete walls features a raised natural wood platform with lengthy jacuzzi tub, while central double vanity holds white vessel sinks next to a pair of floor to ceiling windows." alt="Modern bathroom wrapped in concrete walls features a raised natural wood platform with lengthy jacuzzi tub, while central double vanity holds white vessel sinks next to a pair of floor to ceiling windows." width="1000" height="657" src="src" />

Modern bathroom wrapped in concrete walls features a raised natural wood platform with lengthy jacuzzi tub, while central double vanity holds white vessel sinks next to a pair of floor to ceiling windows.

luxurious bathroom wraps rich wood paneling around a marble floor, with grand circular soaking tub at center. Embedded floor lighting highlights the tub, while gas fireplace is flanked by four full vanity stations." alt="Ultra-luxurious bathroom wraps rich wood paneling around a marble floor, with grand circular soaking tub at center. Embedded floor lighting highlights the tub, while gas fireplace is flanked by four full vanity stations." width="800" height="600" src="src" />

Ultra-luxurious bathroom wraps rich wood paneling around a marble floor, with grand circular soaking tub at center. Embedded floor lighting highlights the tub, while gas fireplace is flanked by four full vanity stations. Source: Zillow Digs^TM

large soaking tub in this bathroom. Mosaic tile wall defines the space, while salmon toned ceiling adds splash of color." alt="Black floor tile contrasts with white countertop and large soaking tub in this bathroom. Mosaic tile wall defines the space, while salmon toned ceiling adds splash of color." width="1000" height="751" src="src" />

Black floor tile contrasts with white countertop and large soaking tub in this bathroom. Mosaic tile wall defines the space, while salmon toned ceiling adds splash of color.

features light hardwood dual vanity cabinetry across from a large jacuzzi tub, with glass panels enclosing both shower and water closet functions." alt="Perfect bathroom for two features light hardwood dual vanity cabinetry across from a large jacuzzi tub, with glass panels enclosing both shower and water closet functions." width="1000" height="667" src="src" />

Perfect bathroom for two features light hardwood dual vanity cabinetry across from a large jacuzzi tub, with glass panels enclosing both shower and water closet functions.

Seaside bathroom features full height sliding glass patio access, with wall-mounted waterfall faucet above large soaking tub standing across a marble tile floor from immense dual vanity, wrapped in glossy white cabinetry." alt="Seaside bathroom features full height sliding glass patio access, with wall-mounted waterfall faucet above large soaking tub standing across a marble tile floor from immense dual vanity, wrapped in glossy white cabinetry." width="1024" height="683" src="src" />

Seaside bathroom features full height sliding glass patio access, with wall-mounted waterfall faucet above large soaking tub standing across a marble tile floor from immense dual vanity, wrapped in glossy white cabinetry. Source: Zillow Digs^TM

ultra modern design bathroom features an array of unique elements, including rainbow-tiled jacuzzi tub surround, curved glass shower enclosure, and floating white semicircular vanity. Raised bath space is defined by curved tile ledge, while intricate gold-hardware and glass shelving hangs on walls." alt="Striking, ultra modern design bathroom features an array of unique elements, including rainbow-tiled jacuzzi tub surround, curved glass shower enclosure, and floating white semicircular vanity. Raised bath space is defined by curved tile ledge, while intricate gold-hardware and glass shelving hangs on walls." width="1000" height="737" src="src" />

Striking, ultra modern design bathroom features an array of unique elements, including rainbow-tiled jacuzzi tub surround, curved glass shower enclosure, and floating white semicircular vanity. Raised bath space is defined by curved tile ledge, while intricate gold-hardware and glass shelving hangs on walls.

White water closet wall features built-in shelving with more rainbow tile, next to a blue smoked glass door framed in black." alt="Here's a second angle on the prior bathroom. White water closet wall features built-in shelving with more rainbow tile, next to a blue smoked glass door framed in black." width="1000" height="479" src="src" />

Here’s a second angle on the prior bathroom. White water closet wall features built-in shelving with more rainbow tile, next to a blue smoked glass door framed in black.

Stone tile bathroom cuts a long, narrow path in this home. Floating dark wood and white panel vanity with dual vessel sinks stands below ceiling-level horizontal windows, while soaking tub fills the end of the space below a white drying rack." alt="Stone tile bathroom cuts a long, narrow path in this home. Floating dark wood and white panel vanity with dual vessel sinks stands below ceiling-level horizontal windows, while soaking tub fills the end of the space below a white drying rack." width="1000" height="703" src="src" />

Stone tile bathroom cuts a long, narrow path in this home. Floating dark wood and white panel vanity with dual vessel sinks stands below ceiling-level horizontal windows, while soaking tub fills the end of the space below a white drying rack.

Lush white wood panel walls and vanity sandwich granite countertops and rectangular vessel sinks, hanging over a floor comprised of dark stained hardwood and beige tile in the bath area. Pedestal tub sits below large windows, next to glass panel shower." alt="Lush white wood panel walls and vanity sandwich granite countertops and rectangular vessel sinks, hanging over a floor comprised of dark stained hardwood and beige tile in the bath area. Pedestal tub sits below large windows, next to glass panel shower." width="1000" height="666" src="src" />

Lush white wood panel walls and vanity sandwich granite countertops and rectangular vessel sinks, hanging over a floor comprised of dark stained hardwood and beige tile in the bath area. Pedestal tub sits below large windows, next to glass panel shower.

Massive bedroom suite opens into this modern bathroom featuring dark wood cabinetry and vanity with lower makeup space. Large pedestal tub stands before an array of full height windows with mountain views." alt="Massive bedroom suite opens into this modern bathroom featuring dark wood cabinetry and vanity with lower makeup space. Large pedestal tub stands before an array of full height windows with mountain views." width="1024" height="680" src="src" />

Massive bedroom suite opens into this modern bathroom featuring dark wood cabinetry and vanity with lower makeup space. Large pedestal tub stands before an array of full height windows with mountain views. Source: Zillow Digs^TM

beige tile bathroom features a luxurious layout, pairing a window seat bathtub with glass frame shower, dual marble topped vanities, and private water closet space." alt="Vaulted ceiling, beige tile bathroom features a luxurious layout, pairing a window seat bathtub with glass frame shower, dual marble topped vanities, and private water closet space." width="1000" height="667" src="src" />

Vaulted ceiling, beige tile bathroom features a luxurious layout, pairing a window seat bathtub with glass frame shower, dual marble topped vanities, and private water closet space.

Rich beige soaked bathroom squeezes immense detail in a cozy space. Dark wood surrounds a lengthy tub and comprises the vanity cabinetry, while glass shower stands in corner beside sliding panel to bedroom suite." alt="Rich beige soaked bathroom squeezes immense detail in a cozy space. Dark wood surrounds a lengthy tub and comprises the vanity cabinetry, while glass shower stands in corner beside sliding panel to bedroom suite." width="1000" height="750" src="src" />

Rich beige soaked bathroom squeezes immense detail in a cozy space. Dark wood surrounds a lengthy tub and comprises the vanity cabinetry, while glass shower stands in corner beside sliding panel to bedroom suite.

private water closet space around a corner at the far end, next to a marbled detail wall glowing at center." alt="Taking the opposite view of the prior room, we see the private water closet space around a corner at the far end, next to a marbled detail wall glowing at center." width="1000" height="750" src="src" />

Taking the opposite view of the prior room, we see the private water closet space around a corner at the far end, next to a marbled detail wall glowing at center.

vaulted ceiling holds an intricate array of textures and materials. Large glass shower enclosure holds a pedestal tub, while carved and painted wood vanity holds pedestal sink at left. Mirroed tile coats the central wall and ceiling surfaces, while rich wood stairs and raised platform stand at far end." alt="Ultra-modern bathroom under vaulted ceiling holds an intricate array of textures and materials. Large glass shower enclosure holds a pedestal tub, while carved and painted wood vanity holds pedestal sink at left. Mirroed tile coats the central wall and ceiling surfaces, while rich wood stairs and raised platform stand at far end." width="940" height="705" src="src" />

Ultra-modern bathroom under vaulted ceiling holds an intricate array of textures and materials. Large glass shower enclosure holds a pedestal tub, while carved and painted wood vanity holds pedestal sink at left. Mirroed tile coats the central wall and ceiling surfaces, while rich wood stairs and raised platform stand at far end. Source: Zillow Digs^TM

rich dark wood flooring. Dual vanity stands beneath full height mirror, while glass shower enclosure abuts a large jacuzzi tub beneath smoked glass window." alt="Marble wrapped bathroom stands muted blue cabinetry over rich dark wood flooring. Dual vanity stands beneath full height mirror, while glass shower enclosure abuts a large jacuzzi tub beneath smoked glass window." width="1000" height="667" src="src" />

Marble wrapped bathroom stands muted blue cabinetry over rich dark wood flooring. Dual vanity stands beneath full height mirror, while glass shower enclosure abuts a large jacuzzi tub beneath smoked glass window.

luxurious bathroom spreads marble tiling beneath a white vaulted ceiling. Full height mirrors on two walls add visual space, while natural wood cabinetry adds a traditional touch." alt="Immense, luxurious bathroom spreads marble tiling beneath a white vaulted ceiling. Full height mirrors on two walls add visual space, while natural wood cabinetry adds a traditional touch." width="1000" height="667" src="src" />

Immense, luxurious bathroom spreads marble tiling beneath a white vaulted ceiling. Full height mirrors on two walls add visual space, while natural wood cabinetry adds a traditional touch.

Modern white bathroom features an immense all-glass shower next to white pedestal tub, with natural light spilling through the nearly all-glass external wall, with views of a private patio space." alt="Modern white bathroom features an immense all-glass shower next to white pedestal tub, with natural light spilling through the nearly all-glass external wall, with views of a private patio space." width="960" height="640" src="src" />

Modern white bathroom features an immense all-glass shower next to white pedestal tub, with natural light spilling through the nearly all-glass external wall, with views of a private patio space. Source: Zillow Digs^TM

dark stained wood cabinetry. Large mirror hangs on central marble shower enclosure with smoked glass doors." alt="Sprawling marble floor bathroom features full separate vanity and makeup stations, all in dark stained wood cabinetry. Large mirror hangs on central marble shower enclosure with smoked glass doors." width="1000" height="667" src="src" />

Sprawling marble floor bathroom features full separate vanity and makeup stations, all in dark stained wood cabinetry. Large mirror hangs on central marble shower enclosure with smoked glass doors.

Dark brown tiles and matching wood cabinetry and bath enclosure pair with massive dual sink vanity surface in this beige bathroom. Wall tiles are interlaced with metal strips for detail, while large glass wall shower stands in corner." alt="Dark brown tiles and matching wood cabinetry and bath enclosure pair with massive dual sink vanity surface in this beige bathroom. Wall tiles are interlaced with metal strips for detail, while large glass wall shower stands in corner." width="1000" height="667" src="src" />

Dark brown tiles and matching wood cabinetry and bath enclosure pair with massive dual sink vanity surface in this beige bathroom. Wall tiles are interlaced with metal strips for detail, while large glass wall shower stands in corner.

Warm beige tones permeate this cozy bathroom, with massive glass enclosed shower at center. Lengthy soaking tub beneath window is wrapped in dark wood paneling, matching the vanity cabinetry." alt="Warm beige tones permeate this cozy bathroom, with massive glass enclosed shower at center. Lengthy soaking tub beneath window is wrapped in dark wood paneling, matching the vanity cabinetry." width="1000" height="667" src="src" />

Warm beige tones permeate this cozy bathroom, with massive glass enclosed shower at center. Lengthy soaking tub beneath window is wrapped in dark wood paneling, matching the vanity cabinetry.

large free standing soaking tub wrapped in tile. Natural wood panels cut through white tile flooring for unique look." alt="Angled ceiling with a pair of skylights hangs over large free standing soaking tub wrapped in tile. Natural wood panels cut through white tile flooring for unique look." width="1000" height="667" src="src" />

Angled ceiling with a pair of skylights hangs over large free standing soaking tub wrapped in tile. Natural wood panels cut through white tile flooring for unique look.

Cozy bathroom features rich textured walls, with dark copper tile backsplash and all-glass shower enclosure." alt="Cozy bathroom features rich textured walls, with dark copper tile backsplash and all-glass shower enclosure." width="847" height="567" src="src" />

Cozy bathroom features rich textured walls, with dark copper tile backsplash and all-glass shower enclosure.

Master bedroom suite opens from two angles toward this lush bathroom featuring rich wood trim over tile flooring. Large central glass wrapped shower holds brick tile walls and small wood bench." alt="Master bedroom suite opens from two angles toward this lush bathroom featuring rich wood trim over tile flooring. Large central glass wrapped shower holds brick tile walls and small wood bench." width="850" height="565" src="src" />

Master bedroom suite opens from two angles toward this lush bathroom featuring rich wood trim over tile flooring. Large central glass wrapped shower holds brick tile walls and small wood bench.

Warm beige marble flooring and walls wrap this bathroom, featuring floating dark wood vanity across from white pedestal tub, with glass shower stall in corner. Built-in wall coves are internally lit, with patterned tile backing." alt="Warm beige marble flooring and walls wrap this bathroom, featuring floating dark wood vanity across from white pedestal tub, with glass shower stall in corner. Built-in wall coves are internally lit, with patterned tile backing." width="858" height="559" src="src" />

Warm beige marble flooring and walls wrap this bathroom, featuring floating dark wood vanity across from white pedestal tub, with glass shower stall in corner. Built-in wall coves are internally lit, with patterned tile backing.  See 32 more pictures of incredible bathrooms by many top designers.

Bright beige tones warm this open bathroom, surrounding a large oval pedestal tub and central all-glass shower. Small television is built into wall while chrome drying rack stands opposite." alt="Bright beige tones warm this open bathroom, surrounding a large oval pedestal tub and central all-glass shower. Small television is built into wall while chrome drying rack stands opposite." width="1000" height="675" src="src" />

Bright beige tones warm this open bathroom, surrounding a large oval pedestal tub and central all-glass shower. Small television is built into wall while chrome drying rack stands opposite.

tropical themed bathroom holds a large ring-style chandelier over oblong pedestal tub, with open design shower in foreground surrounded by greenery." alt="This bright, tropical themed bathroom holds a large ring-style chandelier over oblong pedestal tub, with open design shower in foreground surrounded by greenery." width="512" height="768" src="src" />

This bright, tropical themed bathroom holds a large ring-style chandelier over oblong pedestal tub, with open design shower in foreground surrounded by greenery. Source: Zillow Digs^TM

patio connection features rich array of materials, from marble flooring, wall, and bath surround, to dark wood cabinetry below a glass topped, stone-filled vanity countertop. Vessel sinks stand under wall-mounted faucets, while gas fireplace hangs above bathtub at left." alt="Bathroom with a patio connection features rich array of materials, from marble flooring, wall, and bath surround, to dark wood cabinetry below a glass topped, stone-filled vanity countertop. Vessel sinks stand under wall-mounted faucets, while gas fireplace hangs above bathtub at left." width="1000" height="691" src="src" />

Bathroom with a patio connection features rich array of materials, from marble flooring, wall, and bath surround, to dark wood cabinetry below a glass topped, stone-filled vanity countertop. Vessel sinks stand under wall-mounted faucets, while gas fireplace hangs above bathtub at left.

open design bathroom features a unique garden spa space, with vegetation surrounding a tub beneath lattice wood shelter, allowing sunlight and fresh air throughout." alt="Light, open design bathroom features a unique garden spa space, with vegetation surrounding a tub beneath lattice wood shelter, allowing sunlight and fresh air throughout." width="849" height="565" src="src" />

Light, open design bathroom features a unique garden spa space, with vegetation surrounding a tub beneath lattice wood shelter, allowing sunlight and fresh air throughout.

Modern bathroom features a bold mixture of bright natural wood - from flooring tiles to floating vanity cabinets - and dark brown tile on all walls. Pedestal tub stands beneath a window at the end, while sliding door conceals water closet space." alt="Modern bathroom features a bold mixture of bright natural wood - from flooring tiles to floating vanity cabinets - and dark brown tile on all walls. Pedestal tub stands beneath a window at the end, while sliding door conceals water closet space." width="1000" height="680" src="src" />

Modern bathroom features a bold mixture of bright natural wood – from flooring tiles to floating vanity cabinets – and dark brown tile on all walls. Pedestal tub stands beneath a window at the end, while sliding door conceals water closet space.

airy bathroom design features rich hardwood flooring, dark wood dual vanity, and white lengthy tub and glass shower enclosure. Full height windows allow for sunlight throughout." alt="Bright, airy bathroom design features rich hardwood flooring, dark wood dual vanity, and white lengthy tub and glass shower enclosure. Full height windows allow for sunlight throughout." width="550" height="734" src="src" />

Bright, airy bathroom design features rich hardwood flooring, dark wood dual vanity, and white lengthy tub and glass shower enclosure. Full height windows allow for sunlight throughout. Source: Zillow Digs^TM

open bathroom holds a pair of discrete vanities in wood framed wall cutouts, while white pedestal tub stands before a massive wall-size window with ocean views." alt="Tropical styled, open bathroom holds a pair of discrete vanities in wood framed wall cutouts, while white pedestal tub stands before a massive wall-size window with ocean views." width="851" height="564" src="src" />

Tropical styled, open bathroom holds a pair of discrete vanities in wood framed wall cutouts, while white pedestal tub stands before a massive wall-size window with ocean views.

natural wood wall accent holding large mirror over a floating sink vanity. Pedestal tub at right stands on metal frame over wood plank base, before a detailed micro-tile wall." alt="Unique styling informs this modern bathroom, with natural wood wall accent holding large mirror over a floating sink vanity. Pedestal tub at right stands on metal frame over wood plank base, before a detailed micro-tile wall." width="849" height="565" src="src" />

Unique styling informs this modern bathroom, with natural wood wall accent holding large mirror over a floating sink vanity. Pedestal tub at right stands on metal frame over wood plank base, before a detailed micro-tile wall.

Modern minimalist design permeates this natural wood bathroom, with matching floor and wall panels and floating dual vanity. Immense jacuzzi tub stands at right, while wall mounted shelving and drying racks stand across." alt="Modern minimalist design permeates this natural wood bathroom, with matching floor and wall panels and floating dual vanity. Immense jacuzzi tub stands at right, while wall mounted shelving and drying racks stand across." width="874" height="549" src="src" />

Modern minimalist design permeates this natural wood bathroom, with matching floor and wall panels and floating dual vanity. Immense jacuzzi tub stands at right, while wall mounted shelving and drying racks stand across.

open design bedroom bathroom suite holds a striking mixture of blue and beige marble, wrapped in curved shapes dividing the spaces. Large tub is wrapped in blue marble as well, while floating natural wood cabinetry holds dual vanities in front of a large bay window." alt="This open design bedroom bathroom suite holds a striking mixture of blue and beige marble, wrapped in curved shapes dividing the spaces. Large tub is wrapped in blue marble as well, while floating natural wood cabinetry holds dual vanities in front of a large bay window." width="900" height="675" src="src" />

This open design bedroom bathroom suite holds a striking mixture of blue and beige marble, wrapped in curved shapes dividing the spaces. Large tub is wrapped in blue marble as well, while floating natural wood cabinetry holds dual vanities in front of a large bay window. Source: Zillow Digs^TM

design upper walls, while floating wood cabinetry is topped by brown marble beneath a large vanity window. Glass shower and bathtub enclosures complete the look." alt="Rich textures abound in this modern bathroom: beige tile on lower walls and floor paired with white chevron-design upper walls, while floating wood cabinetry is topped by brown marble beneath a large vanity window. Glass shower and bathtub enclosures complete the look." width="1000" height="750" src="src" />

Rich textures abound in this modern bathroom: beige tile on lower walls and floor paired with white chevron-design upper walls, while floating wood cabinetry is topped by brown marble beneath a large vanity window. Glass shower and bathtub enclosures complete the look.

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(c) 2015

Bathroom Door Frustration and Solution (Turn Bi-Fold Doors Into French Doors)

Read article : Bathroom Door Frustration and Solution (Turn Bi-Fold Doors Into French Doors)

This bathroom is such a good example of how one project is dependent upon another.  Immediately after I finished the floor, I wanted so badly to jump right in and start adding the wainscoting to the walls.  It would be relatively quick, easy, and would give me some immediate gratification.  But I can’t do that just yet, because I first need to install the vanity and the countertop and see exactly how high those will be after installation.  Since I’m adding a decorative tile trim on the wainscoting that will also act as the backsplash for the vanity, I need the precise height, and I can’t get that without the vanity and countertop being constructed and installed.  But I can’t install those until I know exactly how much room the wainscoting trim will stick out on the door wall since the left side of the vanity will be sitting right up against it, so that has to be installed first.  But I can’t install that until I trim out the door, so really I need to install door trim before doing anything else.

But UGH…that door.  I’ve been dragging my feet on trimming out that door.

Ever since I installed the new door in the bathroom, I’ve been dissatisfied with it.  It’s a 32-inch door (which is the narrowest I can use for Matt), and if you’ll remember, I moved it over about ten inches from its original position so that I could have room for a wider vanity that goes all the way to the side wall (i.e., the door wall).

I thought that I would be satisfied with a standard door because that’s what was there before.  When the door is open, it covers the linen storage area behind it, just as it did before, and that configuration never bothered me with the old bathroom.  But with the door moved over enough to accommodate a vanity, the door no longer opens up a full 90 degrees.  At most, it opens maybe 85 degrees.  Maybe 80 degrees.  It just really bothers me, and it makes the room feel smaller.

Plus, the previous linen closet was strictly utilitarian.  There was nothing pretty about it, so it didn’t bother me at all that it was covered up when the door was open.  But I plan on making the new linen storage area actually part of the design of the room.  In other words, I’m hoping it’ll turn out not only providing useful storage, but also being pretty.  So I don’t really want it covered by the door.

But as much as it’s been bothering me, I just couldn’t think of another solution.  If it’s installed like it is now, it covers the linen storage area.  Obviously I can’t install it so that it swings into the bathroom the other way or it’ll cover the vanity.  If I install it so that it swings out into the hallway, and it opens to the right (while standing in the hallway looking towards the bathroom), there’s not enough space for it to open all the way against the wall, and that would drive me crazy.  This isn’t exactly drawn perfectly to scale, so you’ll just have to take my word for it. 

If it opens to the left, the door will cover part of the area that will eventually be a hallway (currently the master bedroom closet).

And obviously, if there’s no room on the outside of either of these walls for the door, then there’s no room inside the walls for pocket doors, at least not if I want the pocket doors to open all the way.  And yes.  Yes, I do want the door to open all the way.

So I’ve been thinking that I was just stuck with it the way it is.  Then yesterday, it dawned on me that I could buy a 32-inch bi-fold door, remove the hinges connecting the two halves of the door, and install them like French doors opening into the hallway!  That way the linen storage area won’t be covered, and each small door will have plenty of clearance in the hallway so that they can open flat against the wall, and not cover over anything they shouldn’t.

(Obviously I’m using the term “French door” loosely here, since by definition, French doors have glass in them, and I’ve already ruled that out.  My doors will be solid, and I’m simply referring to configuration of two doors used together in one doorway.)

Then I did what I always do when I have an idea, but I’m not quite sure if it will look right.  I headed to Houzz to see what I could find.  This one is my favorite.

Traditional Bedroom by Dallas Home Builders Rosewood Custom Builders

Now they probably didn’t use actual bi-fold doors turned into French doors like I plan to do, but I think the final result will be very similar. Here are a few more examples of skinny French doors.

Eclectic Bathroom

Transitional Bedroom by Dallas Media & Bloggers Angela Flournoy

Contemporary Bathroom by North Hollywood General Contractors Globus Builder

Now there is one obvious difference between my bathroom and the ones in the pics above.  Those are all master bathrooms connected to a master bedroom, and mine will be a guest bathroom off of a hallway.  But I think it’ll still work, and I think it’s the best option.  It’ll definitely be a little unconventional, but it’s just one of those quirky things that comes with the territory when you’re trying to take a 1948 house and make it work for today.  But I really do think it’ll look great when it’s finished!

After seeing those pictures, and seeing how good those doors look, I decided to do some searching to see if others had taken bifold doors and turned them into French style doors.  And yes, of course, there are several.  Danielle at 2 Little Superheroes turned her bi-fold pantry door into French style doors.

And Tricia at Simplicity In The South turned her laundry room bi-fold doors into French style doors.

I came across several more examples, but those were my favorites.  So I’m gonna go for it!  Of course, since they’ll be opening out into the hallway, that means that I need to actually finish the wall (i.e., remove old drywall, remove shiplap, and install new drywall) at least on that one hallway wall before I can install the new doors.  I got to work on it yesterday, and got all of the drywall removed, as well as a good portion of the shiplap.  Hopefully I can get new drywall up today, and get started on those doors.  I’m actually very excited about this plan!  It’s definitely unconventional for a guest bathroom, but I think it’ll look great!