7 Golden Rules of Bath Remodeling

1. Limit Your Options

The ideal bathroom serves as a refuge -- it's no place for fussiness. Scale down the variables to establish a soothing atmosphere.

Contrast dark woods and finishes with light ones for instant drama. A neutral palette with one strong color will create the same effect.

And if the bath is small, you can repeat simple design details, such as matching floor and wall tiles, to make the space appear larger. "It is important to use the same materials and features throughout to unify the design scheme," says Miami designer Wendy St. Laurent.