The Final "Material Selection" Frontier

To stretch an analogy about as far as I dare, a bathroom remodel is a lot like space exploration.  We've never personally done it before, once we've started, we've realized it's very difficult to turn back and while the end state is only envisioned and we don't have an exact image of what it will look like when we get there, all we can do is simply go in a general direction we trust will get us there.

Changes though, are as inevitable as asteriods.  OK, I'm done.

While our original selections were quite nice, a little education and experience, along with a passionate contractor who had an outstanding granite and tile supplier, showed us we had an opportunity to improve upon those positions.  How we got there:

In working with the granite and tile supplier, we became quite fond of granite and travertine tile.  The granite countertop actually came in a bit less expensive than the Caesar Stone and the travertine was on a par with the ceramic tile.  But there was one very distinctive advantage to the tile.  At 18 inches square, and much larger than the ceramic tile, the travertine reduced grout lines dramatically, not to mention the larger size is very striking.  Thinking of reduced cleaning needs over the many years we expect to enjoy it was immensely appealing.

Speaking of grout, any tile selection includes it.  These samples show both a standard grout compound for the floors as well as an epoxy based material for the shower.  For us, it was a simple choice on two dimensions.  The second from the right on the epoxy card is called Tumbleweed.  It happened to be our favorite and for anyone who knows my nickname, you'll understand my fondness.

Next is the granite.  Color selection is a very personal choice, so there's not much I can preach except that Tumbleweed is the best.  This happens to fit very well with our tastes and the current paint color in the rest of the room.  For us, it fit perfectly.

Another aspect of this project, of which I did not get many photos, is the trim pieces selected for accents.  No, you are not correct in thinking I've been taking these photos with differing light intensities for dramatic effect and creative expression.  The reality is that some are too bright with a flash, some are too dim without it and some are simply done on a cheap Blackberry camera.  C'mon - you're not getting National Geographic.

These trim pieces will make a great contrast to the large, 18 inch tiles, placed at an angle in the shower, in a diamond pattern and add almost a touch of whimsy to a very elegant tile and granite.

 

With the pair of contractors evaluated, asked to adjust, told thanks but no thanks, then finally found number three, and the materials considered, selected, returned, reconsidered, chosen, and ordered, we are ready for blast off!