The following article is from a series of home design articles, videos and tips about bathroom remodeling …

Sometimes, the only time you can be alone with your self is in the bathtub, so it's important to choose a tub that allows you to soak comfortably. A carefully selected bath design will provide a beautiful escape in your own home. In this article, we'll tell you ways to remodel a bathroom into a private sanctuary.

The first thing to consider when deciding on how to remodel a bathroom should be to get absolutely clear on the purpose of the room. A guest bathroom, a child's bathroom or a master bath will all have different needs and therefore a different style. When considering your bath design, you should also consider your budget. A bathroom for your master suite may be worth a major investment, but a tub for the guest room, or other small bathrooms, should be more modest since they won't be used as much. Bathtubs with luxury components like jet spas can be fairly expensive, so do some research and shop around.

You must also consider the available space and what it will take to install the tub. Check to see if additional carpentry will be required for installation and find out how much the tub will weigh when it's full. A bath tub full of water must be adequately supported, so check your framing. Cast-iron tubs, whirlpools, soaking and sunken tubs often require additional support. A tub sized for more than one person will put additional demands on the home's hot water supply too, so you may also require an upgrade or a second water heater.

Besides the common rectangular shape, tubs also come in corner, oval, circular and freestanding styles. Built-in tubs can be alcove, drop-in or corner style. An alcove tub is standard in many homes and are often tub-shower combinations with waterproof surrounding walls. Drop-in tubs can be sunken into the floor or a tub deck. Drop-in models that are mounted into their own frame or deck will need additional carpentry or framework, which can add to the total cost. Corner model built-ins are installed in the corner, with surrounds on two sides. A free-standing tub has legs or ball-and-claw feet. These tubs often have rolled edges and slipper backs for soaking.

There are a variety of tubs to choose from, so test a bathtub for comfort before making a decision. A soaker tub should hold 15 to 20 inches of water, but it's likely that you'll need additional plumbing fixtures. Most tubs are made of porcelain on steel because of its durability. Fiberglass is a cheaper alternative, but it's not as durable. If you really want a tub that will be a showpiece in your bathroom, as well as a great home addition, then consider going with cast iron, solid surfacing and natural stones. Whether you're looking for functional or fabulous, the right bath design will be the cornerstone of your room.

For more information on home improvements, go here: Home Design Ideas

Tags: home repair, home fix-up, house additions, diy, plumbing