A freestanding bathtub can instantly elevate the look and feel of your bathroom, transforming it into a luxurious retreat. With so many styles, materials, and finishes available, choosing the right tub can be exciting yet overwhelming. At The English Contractor, we understand that every detail matters, so here’s a guide to help you select the perfect freestanding bathtub for your bathroom remodel.

Define Your Style: Modern or Classic?

Your bathroom’s overall design is a great starting point. Freestanding tubs come in a range of styles, from sleek and minimalist to elegant and classic:

• Modern: Clean lines, geometric shapes, and subtle curves characterize modern tubs. They suit contemporary spaces and pair well with monochromatic colors and high-end fixtures.

• Traditional: For a timeless look, consider a clawfoot or slipper tub. Clawfoot tubs exude vintage charm, while slipper tubs have a higher back, perfect for a relaxing soak.

• Color and Finish: White is classic, but don’t shy away from color! Matte black, soft grey, or even metallic finishes add a unique touch.

Size and Proportion Matter

The right tub should suit both the size of your bathroom and your soaking needs. Some homeowners prefer a deep-soak tub for an immersive experience, while others prefer a lower profile tub for easy access. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Dimensions: Measure your bathroom space carefully to ensure your tub fits comfortably. In smaller bathrooms, a compact tub maximizes floor space, while larger bathrooms might allow for an extra-long or wide model.

• Proportion: To maintain a sense of balance, consider how the tub’s shape and placement will look alongside other elements in the room.

Prioritize Comfort and Ergonomics

Since a freestanding tub is all about relaxation, shape and comfort are crucial. Here are some common tub shapes and their benefits:

• Slipper Tubs: These tubs have a higher back at one end, providing support for a comfortable recline.

• Double-Ended Tubs: With two gently sloped ends, these tubs are ideal for sharing or lounging comfortably from either side.

• Oval and Round: Softly rounded tubs are great for soaking, while square or rectangular tubs create a more modern, structured look.

Know Your Plumbing Needs

Freestanding tubs make a statement in the bathroom, so your plumbing should be as functional as it is stylish:

• Water Supply: Floor-mounted faucets add drama and flexibility to the tub placement. Wall-mounted or deck-mounted options work best with tubs positioned near a wall.

• Drain and Weight Requirements: Heavier tubs, such as cast iron or stone, might require additional floor support. Consult your contractor to ensure proper installation and reinforcement.

Think About Maintenance and Durability

Some materials are easier to care for than others, and the longevity of your tub will depend largely on your choice of material:

• Acrylic: Lightweight, versatile, and easy to clean, acrylic tubs are popular for a reason. However, they may scratch more easily than other materials.

• Cast Iron: Cast iron tubs are incredibly durable and offer excellent heat retention. They require regular maintenance but are built to last a lifetime.

• Stone and Copper: These luxurious options add texture and character to your bathroom but can require specialized care.

Stay Within Your Budget

The cost of freestanding tubs varies widely based on material, brand, and custom features. Setting a budget can help you balance your vision with your remodel investment. Whether it’s an affordable acrylic tub or a custom copper design, there’s a beautiful option for every price range.

Bring Your Vision to Life with The English Contractor

Installing a freestanding bathtub can transform your bathroom into a spa-like sanctuary, but selecting the right one requires thought and expertise. At The English Contractor, we bring craftsmanship, creativity, and care to every remodel. Contact us today, and let’s make your dream bathroom a reality—complete with the perfect freestanding tub!

Remodeling a bathroom can transform your home, increase its value, and improve your daily living experience. However, it's a significant project that requires careful planning and consideration. Here are some expert tips from The English Contractor to guide you through a successful bathroom remodel.

1. Plan Your Budget

Before you start tearing out tiles and fixtures, establish a clear budget. Consider all expenses, including materials, labor, and unexpected costs. A well-planned budget helps avoid overspending and ensures you get the best value for your investment.

2. Consider the Layout

The layout of your bathroom is crucial for functionality and comfort. Think about the placement of the toilet, shower, bathtub, and sink. You might want to keep the existing layout to save on plumbing costs, but if your current setup isn't working, don't hesitate to make changes.

3. Choose Quality Materials

Bathrooms endure a lot of wear and tear, so investing in high-quality materials is essential. Opt for durable, water-resistant materials for flooring, countertops, and fixtures. Porcelain or ceramic tiles are excellent choices for their durability and low maintenance.

4. Maximize Storage Space

A well-designed bathroom should have ample storage to keep it clutter-free. Consider built-in cabinets, floating shelves, and vanity units with drawers. Vertical storage solutions can make the most of limited space.

5. Focus on Lighting

Good lighting is key to a functional and inviting bathroom. Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a well-lit space. Incorporate dimmable lights for flexibility and consider adding a window or skylight for natural light.

6. Ventilation is Vital

Proper ventilation prevents mold and mildew, ensuring your bathroom remains fresh and clean. Install a high-quality exhaust fan that can handle the room's humidity levels. If possible, place the fan near the shower or tub for maximum efficiency.

7. Don’t Forget the Details

Small details can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your bathroom. Choose fixtures and hardware that complement your design style, and consider adding features like heated floors, a rain showerhead, or a freestanding bathtub for a touch of luxury.

8. Hire a Professional

While DIY projects can be rewarding, a bathroom remodel often requires professional expertise. Hiring a skilled contractor ensures that the job is done right, on time, and within budget. Look for a contractor with a solid reputation, positive reviews, and relevant experience.

9. Think Long-Term

Trends come and go, but a timeless design will stand the test of time. Choose classic colors, fixtures, and layouts that you’ll love for years to come. This approach not only ensures a beautiful bathroom but also adds long-term value to your home.

10. Prepare for the Unexpected

Even with meticulous planning, unexpected issues can arise during a remodel. Build a contingency fund into your budget to cover surprises like hidden water damage or structural problems. Being prepared can help you handle these challenges without derailing your project.

A bathroom remodel is a significant investment that can greatly enhance your home's comfort and value. By following these expert tips from The English Contractor, you can ensure a smooth and successful remodeling process. Whether you're updating a small powder room or transforming a master bath, careful planning, quality materials, and professional help will make your dream bathroom a reality.

For more personalized advice and professional remodeling services, contact The English Contractor today. We're here to help you every step of the way.

So many of you have a love of historic homes—and we’re with you there. We were lucky enough to be called into renovate a Tutor-style home in Avondale. Several areas of the home had already been tastefully updated, adding modern detail while preserving original elements, like rich woodwork and unique window hardware. Charm, however, only goes so far when you have to live in a home every day, and kitchens and bathrooms are two important areas of the home that just work better when they’ve been renovated. The English Contractor team worked with these homeowners, who happen to have a great eye for style and design, to modernize the home’s bathrooms.

We’ll take you through the owner’s suite bathroom, a space that had not been touched since likely the 1930s or 1940s. A home like this though, is a part of history, even through styles have changed and products wear out. You’ll be happy to hear that many of the pieces of this bathroom were salvaged and resold to collectors, so they will happily live on in another bathroom somewhere.

Photo: Ross Van Pelt

The original bathroom had black tile with gold glazing that had worn away over time. One wall was covered in rose gold mirrors, with a convenient slot to dispose of safety razors (which we discovered during our renovation). A mint green Art Deco sink with chrome detail was centered on the wall.

The bathroom was carefully brought down to the studs. The basic layout of the space is the same, but is now brighter and seems bigger, with lots of extra storage. The black floor tiles were replaced with the Daltile Marble Attache in Calcutta Satin. The solo sink was replaced with a long vanity that can now hold two sinks, with a stone top to coordinate with the marble floor and shower tile.

Photo: Ross Van Pelt

Photo: Ross Van Pelt

The commode previously sat behind a full wall, with frosted window. A new half wall gives some privacy and lets more light from the adjacent window into the space. We love the addition of a countertop to this half wall as well.

Yes, that mint green sink had a matching mint green toilet. It was replaced with a new Kohler, with an angular tank that still gives this bathroom a vintage-y feel. The mirror was deleted and the window extended, with a gorgeous, chunky sill.

Both versions of this bathroom had a built-in vanity. We preserved this idea in the new space. The new bathroom has a narrow cabinet, topped with stone, and a light up mirror behind it. The light up mirror keeps the space looking clean and modern, without the need for an additional sconce or light fixture. We love the addition of recessed shelves between the shower and the vanity—what a perfect place to keep towels and extra toiletries at the ready.

This was one of this projects where we loved seeing the “before” as much as the “afters.” It was a fun walk through history was we worked in this home. We’ve included lots of before and afters here, so you can fully appreciate the impact of this renovation.

The Details

Designer: Bluebird Cabinetry and Design

Paint: Benjamin Moore Crushed Ice Satin (Walls); Sherwin Williams White Flat (Ceiling); Sherwin Williams White Semi Gloss (Doors/Trim)

Tile: Daltile Marble Attache in Calcutta Satin

Countertops: Stone Statements

Toilet: Kohler

Sinks & Faucet: Kohler Caxton Undermount and Single Hole Bathroom Sink Faucet

Shower Fixtures: Kohler

Medicine Cabinet: Kohler Swing Door Medicine Cabinet

If you’re ready to transform a dated bathroom, we have just the team to help. We’d love to work with you.

“You may think that spring showers bring May flowers. But in this case, spring showers brought us very happy homeowners.”

Don’t you love those beautiful spring mornings? The ones where you wake up to beautiful sunshine. Flowers are in bloom. The birds are singing. The kind of morning where you just can’t wait to leap out of bed and greet the day? 

 For some lucky homeowners, with a creative vision all their own, that’s every morning, every season of the year.

 The English Contractor was contacted by these Milford homeowners to remodel their bathroom, after we’d successfully worked with them to create an outdoor room, that you can see here. Of course, one of our most frequent requests is to help refresh and renew a bathroom. But this one was special and our task was specific: remodel this bathroom to make it modern and new while paying homage to the legacy of their historic home. 

 If you’ve ever lived in a historic home, you know you are much more than a homeowner. You are a steward of a domicile that was home to many families before you. And, thanks to your caretaking, will likely hold many other families under its roof for decades to come. A house like this has a personality, even a spirit, all its own. Your job is to keep this home a representation of the time period in which it was built, while gently and carefully welcoming the modern era in. 

 We wax poetic, but it’s true. 

 Take a look at these photos and see for yourself. This free-standing soaker tub with elegant claw feet is reminiscent of another era. The original home likely had a bathtub just like this. It makes a statement. It screams personality, acting as a piece of furniture in this perfect nook. The deck mounted faucet with cross hatch handles screams vintage, while at the same time gleaming shiny and new. Both the bathtub and the faucet are from our friends at Signature Hardware.

 We’re so in love with the tile floor from Ann Sacks, a chevron pattern given a new look with an elegant curve from the Benton Mosaic collection. The shades of gray add some interest to the area and are a beautiful, modern juxtaposition against the stately, vintage-look bathtub.   

 But let’s talk about that shower. The subway tile here, with grey grout, adds a nice, neutral backdrop for the rest of the space. Three recessed shelves add plenty of storage. It’s the brass shower fixtures that really makes this space sing. We love it when the most functional item is also beautifully decorative.

And when we say sing, we mean sing like the birds on that cheerful wallpaper. Talk about bringing the outside in. So many of our homeowners have embraced the “everything old is new again” wallpaper trend. We particularly like this one, selected by these clients. It’s so cheerful and happy, a modernized toile that once again takes a vintage space and makes it more current, with a slight nod to the home’s heritage. The stained-glass window is the icing on the cake, letting in plenty of natural light while beautifully reflecting the design of this space, both inside and out.

This sweet pedestal sink is just so perfect for this space, with the brass faucet with cross hatch handles reflecting this mix of new and old, both from Kohler. The white chair rail and detailed paneling lend a crisp and clean feel to the space. And isn’t that just how a new bathroom should feel.

Is your bathroom ready for a transformation? We’d love to tell you more about this project, as well as some of our other recent bathroom remodels that you can preview here and here. Give us a call. We’d love to show off our latest work—and talk about how we can help you.

It is time to refresh your master bathroom? Is your hall bathroom looking a little dated? Does your powder room need a little love? It may be time to talk to The English Contractor about a bathroom remodel.  According to Zillow, a bathroom remodel can add to overall value of a home. Just replacing the fixtures, toilet and upgrading the vanity can result in a $1.71 increase in home value for every $1.00 spent on the project. Even if you have no immediate plans to move, an updated bathroom can improve utility bills with more water-efficient shower heads, faucets and toilets, can add more space for organization and can just make you feel good by incorporating some up-to-date style into your space. Before you start dreaming about a new bathroom, here are some considerations to keep in mind.

What’s Your Motivation?

There are many reasons why a homeowner starts to plan remodeling a bathroom. Are you planning a move? Does the space need to be more functional? Are you hoping to make your space bigger? Are there accessibility issues that must be addressed for those with limited mobility? Or is it just time for a change? These are questions that can help guide your selections and the scope of the project. If you’re planning a quick remodel as part of the process to prepare your home for sale, you might just want to consider quickly switching out more decorative items. Adding square footage to your space might require moving around plumbing, which will require more time and money. Share your overall plans for your lifestyle and the home with us and The English Contractor project management team can help guide you through the process. 

Beer Budget, Champagne Taste?

The English Contractor team always suggests starting with a budget number in mind. Even in a small space, all the choices you need to make can quickly add up. We suggest looking back to your overall goals to help you set your budget and prioritize the space. If improved organization is your goal, you might want to consider spending more to add in a closet or a new spacious vanity. Is the overall aesthetic driving your overhaul? Then maybe your splurge is in the details, like upgraded tile or stylish new hardware. Are you trying to enlarge or move the space? You may need to save budget money for some of the behind-the-scenes work, like moving plumbing. Renovating a bathroom is not an inexpensive proposition, but The English Contractor team will work with you to help you make sure you’re spending your money wisely. 

You’ve Got Style.

No matter your motivation for a bathroom remodel, you need to take your own personal style into account. Bathrooms are no different than any other room in your home and you’ll have lots of different elements to think about that will add to your overall aesthetic. This is a time to start thinking about colors. Do you go for a spa like neutral or a bold pop of color? Are you looking for industrial chic or modern farmhouse? Choices of vanity, shower, tub, tile and even mirrors and towel racks are décor elements as much as they are functional pieces of your bath.

New Additions.

There are lots of trends to take to consider when remodeling a bathroom. Frameless showers doors, hidden drains, exposed shower plumbing, threshold free showers and freestanding are all new trends in bathroom design. Do you want to incorporate any of these concepts into your space? Time to start browsing pictures to see which new trends match your overall aesthetic and plans for the space. 

Form and Function.

Take a look at how you’re currently using the space. Does your bathtub go unused? Maybe it’s time for a bathroom renovation that deletes the tub and includes an oversized shower. Are you feeling crowded in the morning? Maybe it’s time to consider a double vanity? Do you have stuff everywhere? How about included more storage in your newly designed space? Is this a place for kids? Let’s take a look at some indestructible options. Are you constantly tripping over piles of dirty clothes? How about included space for a laundry hamper? Let us know about any current issues with your space and we can help you solve them!

What’s Next?

The English Contractor is here to help you create a space that is both useful and beautiful. We’ll walk you through the entire process, from aesthetic appeal to functionality. A bathroom remodel is a big undertaking and requires a big investment of both time and money. Our expertise will guide you through the process, leaving you with a space that you will love. Do you need inspiration? Visit our Pinterest page to see some of our latest projects. Ready to get the process started? Drop us a line today!

In home building and interior design, bathrooms used to be after thoughts. Necessary, but not showcased. Minimally functional, but not beautiful. But times have changed. Bathrooms have style! Here’s a place to let your design style shine. Essential considerations like layout, lighting, functionality and other aesthetic elements can result in a beautiful space that is both attractive and useful. This year, we’ve been lucky enough to take on several different bathroom remodels, which means we’ve seen a lot of the latest trends that homeowners are embracing in a bathroom remodel. If you’re considering a bathroom remodel this year, you’ll want to read on to see some of these details.

Neutrality

Lots of homeowners are drawn to a neutral palette because of its staying power. The look of a neutral bathroom can totally change with paint, towels or artwork, accessories and décor elements that can easily be swapped to give the space a seasonal or refreshed look.

Catch the subway.

The subway tile trend is here to stay. We love it for its affordability and the stylish impact it can make. The change of grout color totally changes the look. These four bathrooms recently renovated by The English Contractor couldn’t be any more different, yet each makes use of subway tile in a way that makes a big impact in each space.

Natural wood.

We love the look of natural wood in a bathroom. It takes some colder materials, like tile, ceramic, and metal, and makes them seem warmer, sometimes even spa-like. Wood doesn’t have to be rustic. It can still be used in a modern and elegant space. Natural wood also becomes like a pop of color in an all white bathroom, adding texture and visual interest. In each of these bathrooms, the wood became a real focal point, a beautiful and natural element that made each of these spaces come to life.

In the tub.

According to a 2018 Houzz survey, 80% of homeowners planning a bathroom remodel planned to upgrade their tub, with nearly 70% planning a soaking tub. We’ve seen this trend too. A stand-alone tub can make quite a statement. Our clients are loving them for their function and their aesthetic. There are a range of styles and colors for freestanding tubs that are a design element as much as they are a special touch of luxury for a newly renovated bathroom.

Pop of color.

As much as we love the trend of neutral bathrooms, we also enjoy a pop of color. We think you can expect to see more color coming into the bathroom space, with blues and greens staying really popular. This cheerful powder room, featured in the HGTV Urban Oasis 2018, gave new meaning to the term pop of color with yellow painted woodwork and statement wallpaper, yet another trend that homeowners are really loving right now.

Technology for the Throne.

Are you a technology junkie? Bathrooms aren’t technology-free zones any more. Heated floors and heated towel racks are popular options. And technology-enabled shower, like the one pictured here from the HGTV Urban Oasis 2018, have control panels to easily adjust water flow, multiple jets, and temperature for a spa-like experience in your own home.. The possibilities are endless. 

Going Green.

You can follow a trend and save money. Water saving showers are an easy addition to any bathroom remodel and can save you money on your water bill in the long run. Dual-flush toilets are another option. The water flow can be adjusted for each flush to save money and benefit the environment. This hall bathroom features a touchless toilet that flushes with the wave of a hand. A subtle glow lights the way for middle-of-the-night bathroom trips.

Tile Trends.

Of course, there’s more to tile than the subway tile workhorse. We’re seeing lots of shapes, textures, colors that add tons of design appeal to a bathroom. It’s not just color and shape—placement says everything. We love a tile accent and tiled bathroom walls. In this HGTV Urban Oasis 2018 hall bathroom, the tile around the vanity and walls has looks like wallpaper, but it’s really a durable and beautiful tile.

Let’s Get Started.

Do these images have you dreaming of renovating your bathroom? Visit our Pinterest page to explore more of our favorite bathroom renovation projects. Or drop us a line and let’s get started!

This hall bathroom has been totally transformed. Take a look at these pictures and you’ll be sure to agree that neutrals and subtle details can really pack a punch.  Talk about the art of subtlety! 

We love how all of the neutral colors combine to create a relaxing and stunning space. This hallway bathroom contains a free-standing tub, a glass-enclosed stall shower and a one bowl sink with vanity. The shape of the floor tile, texture of the wood vanity and richness of the bronze fixtures really have a big impact.

This vanity, sink bowl, countertop and mirror, all purchased from Signature Hardware, lend a spa-like feel to this space. 

The soaking tub really makes this bathroom special. This tub, which is already something special, is taken to the next level with fixtures from the Trinsic Collection from Delta, all in Venetian Bronze.

Venetian Bronze plumbing fixtures make another appearance in this stall shower. Our partners at GlassWerkes provided the shower glass. 

Although it is so simple, the floor tile really makes a statement. Hamilton Parker provided the Rewind Peltro 8” x 8” hexagon tile in grey.

Two wrongs don’t make a right, but two neutrals really make an impact. We love the contrast of the grey hexagon floor tile with the white ice bright subway tile, both purchased from Hamilton Parker. 

The dark shower floor tile adds more drama to this space. You can find this tile, the Landmark Ceramics Shape Ancient Dark Mosiac, at Hamilton Parker. This smaller hexagon shape perfectly complements the larger floor tile. 

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Interested in learning how we can transform the bathroom in your home? Contact us today to meet with one of our project managers. We’ll walk you through the steps to take your space from drab to dramatic.

We are proud to announce that The English Contractor team is the recipient of several awards of distinction from the Ohio Valley Chapter of the National Association of Remodeling Industry, NARI. NARI is the remodeling industry’s trade association, a not-for-profit group that certifies professional remodeling contractors and sets standards for the remodeling industry, as well as serves as an resource and ally to homeowners in our area, making sure that contractors are meeting the highest of industry standards. An award from NARI shows expertise, problem solving, craftsmanship and innovation in renovating, recognizing contractors who are the best that the region has to offer.

We were named Contractor Of The Year in four different categories and we’re proud to share more about these projects with you.

Entire House

Budget of $250,000-$500,000

This Hyde Park home underwent an amazing transformation this year, both inside and out, with an addition that included a stunning new kitchen, family room, mudroom, and master suit, including bedroom, bathroom and closets, making this home a showstopper on the street. (And we should know. We’re currently working on the neighbor’s home as well!)

Entire House

Budget of $500,001-$750,000

This home in Oakley is one of our proudest achievements to date. We loved working with the HGTV design team to bring this Dutch Colonial Revival back to life.

Residential Bathroom

Budget of $75,001-$100,000

We worked with the homeowner to overhaul this space from dated master bath into a true masterpiece. Although designed in basic black and white, this room is anything but basic. Luxurious and classic, this bathroom is filled with style and storage, with no detail left unturned.

Residential Interior Element

Budget of $30,000 or Over

This staircase is a true melding of craftsmanship and artistry. So beautifully designed, these steps are now a stunning focal point for the home.

Interested in learning more? We approach each and every project with the same critical eye and exacting standards. Give us a call and let's discuss how we can work together in your home.