Decades ago, bathrooms were built into homes with necessity, rather than luxury, in mind. Homeowners and family came and went, staying long enough to wash up and use the facilities - consideration for space was left to other parts of the house. Nobody considered the bathroom as an equivalent to a retreat.

These days, that mindset has changed. As bath and shower fixtures become more sophisticated and people look for ways to find relaxation economically, the bathroom has transformed from a closet with a toilet to a place for privacy and stress relief. Roomy garden tubs with jet sprays are desired, and shower heads with pulsing massage options provide maximum opportunity for boosting your mood. Now you can choose a style and color scheme for your bathroom to suit your personality and desires, and slip into your built-in retreat whenever you wish.

For a complete renovation, however, you may require the assistance of a plumber, especially if the jobs calls for reworking pipes and reinstalling a commode or shower. While some cosmetic changes may be applied on your own, it's best to contact a reputable plumbing contractor for an advanced overhaul. You don't want to risk damage to your new bathroom before you're able to enjoy it if the piping is done incorrectly.

Take note of what you're looking for in a new bathroom - ceramic tile, spa-style tub, modern fixtures, then consult with professionals to glean cost. You may find you can afford to beautify a place where you wish to feel relaxed and beautiful.

Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Virginia Beach commercial plumbing .