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Friday, February 16, 2024 • B3
THE GARDEN ISLAND
5 tips to create a spa-inspired shower cessories may add to your renovation’s bottom line, it can actually save you money in the long run since cheaper fixtures tend to be more prone to breaking or wearing out.
BRANDPOINT Today’s homeowner wants their bathroom to be a sanctuary for relaxation and self-care, so it’s no wonder that the bathroom redo has become one of the most popular renovation projects. A recent survey from Houzz showed that one in five homeowners (22 percent) enlarge the primary or en suite bathroom during a renovation. And with the extra space, more than three in five homeowners (61 percent) increase the size of their shower. Transforming your bathroom into a spa-inspired retreat will not only impact your overall well-being and comfort but can also boost the value of your home. The design team at Wilsonart, an industry leader in engineered surfaces, offers these five tips to consider when expanding and enhancing your shower space:
penses that are sure to pop up along the way. And don’t underestimate the power of DIY when it comes to cost-efficiency. If Set a realistic budget you are handy with tools and willing to learn, there Enlarging the size of your shower space is an in- may be certain aspects of a bathroom renovation vestment. Prior to getting started, set a realistic bud- that you can tackle yourget that includes not only self. Taking on tasks like the construction costs but painting or even assemalso the cost of materials bling fixtures can signifisuch as the shower surcantly reduce labor expenses. round surface, fixtures, floor tiles and other design elements. It’s also smart to Choose the right materials have a contingency fund Selecting the right mateready for unforeseen ex-
Long-term mortgage rate hits highest level in 10 weeks ASSOCIATED PRESS LOS ANGELES — The average long-term U.S. mortgage rate rose this week to its highest level in 10 weeks, a setback for prospective homebuyers ahead of the spring homebuying season. The average rate on a 30-year mortgage rose to 6.77 percent from 6.64 percent last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday. A year ago, the rate averaged 6.32 percent. Borrowing costs on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages, popular with homeowners refinancing their home loans, also rose this week, pushing the average rate to 6.12 percent from 5.90 percent last week. A year ago it averaged 5.51 percent, Freddie Mac said. The increase in rates echoes moves in the 10-year Treasury yield, which lenders use as a guide to pricing loans. Stronger-than-expected reports on inflation, the job market and the overall economy have stoked worries among bond investors that the Federal Reserve will wait longer before it begins cutting interest rates. Hopes for such cuts amid signs that inflation has declined from its peak two summers ago has been a major reason the 10-year Treasury yield has mostly pulled back since October, when it climbed to its highest level since 2007. Investors’ expectations for future inflation, global demand for U.S. Treasurys and what the Fed does with interest rates can influence rates on home loans. “The economy has been performing well so far this year and rates may stay higher for longer, potentially slowing the spring homebuying season,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac economist. So far this year, mortgage applications to buy a home are down in more than half of all states compared to a year earlier, noted Khater. When mortgage rates rise, they can add hundreds of dollars a month in costs for borrowers, limiting how much they can afford in a market already out of reach for many Americans.
Maximize natural light Incorporating natural light into the bathroom can help enhance the room’s overall aesthetic and make the space feel larger. Consider adding a window or a skylight strategically placed to maintain privacy, while allowing natural light to enter the room. This extra light can enhance your mood while also saving money on electricity bills. Incorporate smart storage solutions
COURTESY OF BRANDPOINT
rials is key for both functionality and style. For shower surrounds, select a surface with style that will stand the test of time and fit your lifestyle needs. An on-trend option like the Wetwall Waterproof Wall Panel System makes it easy to transform bathrooms and create spa-worthy retreats that deliver high-end designs without disruptive demolitions. Ideal for shower walls, bath surrounds, accent walls and cladding, the easy-to-clean, grout-free system features tongue-and-groove panels
that can be installed in as little as 2.5 hours and do not require special tools. The system is simple to maintain and features a patented, waterproof core that offers antimicrobial protection that inhibits the growth of stain- and odor-causing mold and mildew. Inspired by the beauty of nature, the two latest designs to join the collection, Tuscany Marble and Darlington Cherry, can add a high-impact, bold statement to any bathroom, without breaking your budget.
Invest in quality fixtures and features Give your new shower space the quality fixtures and features it deserves. Adding simple luxuries like a rainfall shower head or built-in shower seat will help turn any bathroom into a sanctuary. Today’s on-trend fixture finishes include matte black, aged bronze and brass, all of which are sure to add a touch of elegance while perfectly complementing your surface selections. While investing in high-quality bathroom ac-
Having an organized shower can help streamline your morning routine while maintaining the visual appeal of the bathroom. Incorporating built-in storage niches helps create an elevated design aesthetic and optimizes convenience. The Wilsonart Bath and Shower Accessories Niche collection is compatible with the Wetwall system and features sleek and functional recessed shelving for holding shampoo, soap and other shower accessories. Not only do these built-in bathroom storage ideas maximize square footage, but they also make a strong design statement.