THE DESIGNER'S ROLE- OUR EXPERT: DEL MAR DESIGNS
Thinking of remodeling your bathroom or kitchen? An interior designer should be part of the process from the very beginning to make certain that the new and improved space is both beautiful and functional.
We frequently work with remodelers as well as with individual homeowners, and are proud of our expertise in everything from finishes to floorplans.
We have the creativity to help you imagine an ideal room, and the practical knowledge to help your remodeler achieve the look you’re hoping for, on time and within budget. We can do everything from hand drawing small details to providing floorplan options.
After all, a successful project is a team effort, and we work collaboratively with each client and other members of the remodeling team on a step-by-step basis.
In this particular article, let’s focus specifically on bathrooms. There are so many details to consider: finishes, flooring, cabinetry, lighting, hardware and even the placement of plumbing fixtures. While many people think of designers as being adept at “making things pretty,” it’s important to remember that we also specialize in space planning and enhancing functionality.
That’s one reason universal design has become so important to so many of our clients. By remodeling your bathroom using the principles of universal design, you can make certain that the space remains easily accessible even as you grow older and potentially face mobility challenges.
By the way, universal design doesn’t have to look institutional or unattractive. Manufacturers now offer “aging in place” products that are as aesthetically pleasing as you could want.
In fact, coming up with creative solutions to design challenges is what we do every day, in every assignment. And we recognize that in the bathroom, as in every room, details make the difference between an okay room and something truly special.
Plus, as designers, we’re on top of the latest trends and most leading-edge technologies. Many products aren’t offered in retail outlets and are available only to the trade, so we’ll be able to expose you to options that you had no idea even existed.
Beautiful bathrooms enhance your home’s resale value, but more importantly, they also provide precious, relaxing and peaceful “me” time that we’re all seeking.
That’s why we’re seeing amazing specialty showers with multiple showerheads and body sprays as well as artistically styled freestanding tubs with all kinds of options for jets, lighting and even aromatherapy. After all, few things are more relaxing than soaking in a hot tub after a stressful day.
Furniture-style vertical and tower cabinets are also popular because they offer much needed storage and allow you to eliminate bathroom clutter. Unique tile, stone, glass and slate add interest while design features on the shower walls or the floor — maybe both — are good places to be creative.
I can’t stress enough the importance of having several levels of great bathroom lighting. And I like to have my clients consider innovative electronics. How do you like the idea of watching a TV hidden in the mirror or mounted into your pier cabinets? And I love recommending unexpected features, such as fireplaces, and pampering extras, such as towel warmers.
In summary, the designer is a crucial member of the remodeling team, whether it’s your whole house or a single room, like a bathroom. It’s our goal to turn your hopes and dreams into a safe, comfortable and wonderful environment that’s all about you and your family.
Paula Lewis, owner of Del Mar Designs, is a licensed Interior Designer and an Allied Member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). Her projects have been featured in Florida Design, Water’s Edge, Jacksonville Design, ASID Icon and Florida Homebuyer Jacksonville. Her work has won first-place awards from ASID and the Remodelers Council of the Northeast Florida Builder’s Association.