HomeownersTurning BathroomsInto Spa-Like Retreats (NAPSA)—Going from functional to fantastic, from simple to soothing, America’s bathrooms are getting a makeover—taking on spa-like ambience that relaxes and renews. “Creating your own personal spa bathroom is a project that can be as simple or as lavish as your budget and renovation expertise allows,” said Tripp Parker of Transolid, Inc., a leading manufacturer of bath vanity tops. It’s easier than you think to turn your bathroom into a spa. Just adapt someof the following design trends to your needs: * Paint—Select a soothing color palette of blues, greens and neutrals that will help create the feel of a calmingoasis. * Materials—Use natural, earthy materials for the surface areas in your bathroom. Transolid Natural Selections Vanity Tops, available at bath and kitchen showrooms, offer colors that combine the beauty of natural marble and woodgrains with the performance of solid surface. You can even compile a list of your renovation ideas and design your spa bathroom with interactive design tools online at www.transolid.com. * Lighting—Good lighting is essential, since the bathroom is where makeup is applied and shaving jobs are scrutinized. Recessed lighting is a great way to illuminate a bathroom, and sconces beside a vanity mirror add to the room’s style. A dimmer switch lets you ease your way into the morning or create a relaxing atmosphere for a long soak in the tub. * Clean, not cluttered—Make limi Thenatural stone look, as found in Transolid bath vanity tops, adds a spa elementto the bathroom. the most of your cabinet and drawer storage by cleaning out old toiletries to make room for the essential items. Adorn your bath vanity top with candles and let the relaxation begin. * Shower the people—Make your shower into a luxurious waterfall with a wide shower head. The Antique Bell shower head from Danze provides a substantial downpour and can be installed using most any standard shower arm. Available in chrome and brushed nickel finishes, the Antique Bell shower head features an impressive 10-inch head and 140 flex jets for a thoroughly relaxing shower experience. * Details, details—Don’t forget to include the sort of detailing in your bathroom that you’ve designed for the rest of your house, including window fashions, pictures and even a stereo system or speakersin theceiling. So go ahead and create the spa bathroom you’ve always dreamed of having. Before long, the bathroom may become your favorite room in the house.
