Homeowners create ultimate spas in homes

After a long, hard day, homeowners are seeking a luxurious space in which to relax and unwind. According to the National Association of Home Builders Remodelors Council, more and more homeowners are creating that escape in their very own homes.

"Today, we are seeing consumers spend more money to produce the ultimate spa experience right in their own bathrooms," said Remodelors Council Chairman Douglas Sutton Sr., in a July 29 NAHB news release.

"The bathroom is an excellent place to invest money on a remodel, because your return can be as high as 90 percent."

To help consumers make the most of their bathroom remodeling experience, the Remodelors Council created a list of the hottest bathroom trends:

The standard bathtub-shower combination is out. Today's popular master bath showers incorporate cascading rain-fall shower heads and massaging streams. And, homeowners prefer new showers and tubs with frameless edges that produce a "clean" bathroom look. Gone are the typical oversized soaking tubs, now swapped out for tubs featuring whirlpool jets and waterfall faucets.

Furnishings for reading and relaxing, such as chaise lounges, chairs and even recliners, are making their way into the bathroom, as well as nontraditional furniture like armoires for linen storage and vintage pieces typically used as vanities or decorative accents such as towel racks.

Homeowners are using tile in an array of materials and colors in creative ways to help complete the "feel" of their bathrooms. By mixing glass and porcelain tile in various colors, consumers can design their own bathroom floor or shower.

His-and-her spaces are becoming essential. More homeowners want separate sinks, showers and storage space to complete their bathroom sanctuary.

The NAHB Remodelors Council represents the 14,000 remodeling industry members of the National Association of Home Builders. Founded in 1982, the Council provides information, education and designation programs to improve the business and construction expertise of its members and to enhance the professional image of the industry.