All posts by : seaneubanks

If you thought the open-concept kitchen trend was fading, think again. But the way we design open kitchens is evolving — blending openness with smart zoning, privacy, and style. In fact, if you’re considering a kitchen remodeling project in Austin, Texas, understanding these shifts can help you create a kitchen that’s both functional and beautiful in 2025.

Ready to rethink your kitchen renovation layout ideas? Let’s dive in.

Why is the Open-Concept Kitchen Still Popular — But Changing?

Open kitchens remain a homeowner favorite, especially post-pandemic. Yet, today’s families want more flexibility — spaces that can adapt to work, play, and socializing. Designers now use partial walls, pocket doors, and zones within the open concept to create balance without sacrificing light or flow.

• Key point: Incorporate zoning to separate cooking, dining, and lounging while maintaining openness.

Did you know? 68% of homeowners in 2023 preferred kitchens that offered multi-use spaces — combining cooking with work or study zones.

What is a Broken-Plan Kitchen — And Why Should You Consider It?

The broken-plan kitchen breaks up large open spaces with subtle dividers that keep areas visually connected but functionally distinct. Think half walls, islands with seating, or glass partitions. This design reduces noise, contains mess, and still feels airy.

• Key point: Use broken-plan layouts to control kitchen activity without closing off the space.

Fun fact: The broken-plan kitchen trend grew by 25% in remodeling projects from 2023 to 2024.

How Do Hybrid Kitchen Designs Balance Storage & Style?

Gone are the days of fully open shelving or closed cabinets alone. Hybrid kitchen designs mix open shelves, glass fronts, and closed cabinetry to optimize storage and display. This approach helps keep your kitchen organized while showcasing your favorite pieces.

• Key point: Hybrid storage solutions create a flexible, personalized kitchen aesthetic.

Tip: Incorporate hidden pull-out pantries or cabinets to maintain a clean look while maximizing storage.

Can You Have It All? The Rise of Pocket Doors and Partial Walls

If you crave openness but need occasional privacy or sound control, pocket doors and partial walls are your best friends. These elements allow you to ‘close off’ kitchen zones when needed, perfect for multitasking households or those who entertain frequently. So, if you are opting for kitchen renovation Austin TX – this is a great option.

• Key point: Install pocket doors to switch between open and closed layouts without sacrificing style.

How Does This Affect Your Kitchen Renovation Austin TX Project?

When planning your kitchen remodel in Austin Texas, keeping up with these evolving trends means you’re investing in a space that adapts to your lifestyle. Whether it’s zoning for work-from-home setups or a broken plan to manage noise and clutter, you can customize your layout for maximum comfort and function.

• Key point: Collaborate with professionals who understand hybrid open/closed concepts to tailor your kitchen layout.

Half Price Baths is here with its range of services to customize all your demands—from consultation and design to material sourcing and professional installation. Our expertise ensures your kitchen remodeling in Austin, Texas project hits every mark for style, practicality, and resale value.

What’s Next for Your Kitchen?

The open kitchen isn’t disappearing — it’s evolving with hybrid and broken-plan layouts that give you control and charm. Are you ready to redefine your space with the latest kitchen layout trends 2025? Reach out to expert remodelers who can guide you through these innovative ideas and bring your dream kitchen to life.

Let’s transform your kitchen with smart, stylish design choices that fit your lifestyle perfectly. Contact us today for a personalized consultation!

When did mid-century modern become a kitchen must-have?

From the 1940s through the 1960s, mid-century modern (MCM) design redefined interiors with its clean lines and natural materials. Today, homeowners crave that nostalgic yet sophisticated feel — and kitchen remodeling with custom cabinets is the perfect way to bring this timeless style into your home.

What Defines Mid-Century Modern Kitchen Cabinets?

At its core, MCM design celebrates simplicity and functionality. Think flat-front cabinets that showcase natural wood grains—especially walnut and teak veneers. Add brass or geometric hardware, and you’ve captured that retro vibe with a refined twist. But why settle for vintage materials alone?

• Custom cabinets allow you to recreate the classic look using modern, durable materials.
• Soft-close drawers and doors combine convenience with style, upgrading your kitchen without compromising authenticity.
• The flat fronts and minimal ornamentation keep the space airy and sleek, perfect for today’s open-plan homes.

Can Custom Cabinets Balance Vintage Charm with Modern Convenience?

Absolutely. The key lies in thoughtful design and expert craftsmanship. For instance, Half Price Baths is there with its range of services to customize all your demands—from consultation and material sourcing to professional installation. We ensure your custom kitchen design remodel perfectly matches your vision while adding today’s comforts.

Surprising Fact #1: Did You Know?

According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s 2023 report, over 40% of homeowners investing in kitchen remodels seek to incorporate mid-century modern elements—especially custom cabinetry—to boost both aesthetics and resale value.

How Do Walnut and Teak Veneers Enhance Your Kitchen’s Style?

These natural woods are beloved for their warm tones and rich grain patterns, which bring life and texture to your cabinetry. Plus, their durability means your kitchen stays beautiful for years. But here’s something to consider—would you go for the classic brass knobs or opt for bold geometric handles that make a statement?

A Customer’s Voice: Why Go Custom?

“We wanted our kitchen to feel like a true mid-century masterpiece. The team guided us through every step, from choosing teak veneers to selecting hardware that fits perfectly. The custom cabinets aren’t just beautiful—they function flawlessly. Our kitchen is now the heart of our home.” — Sarah J., Dallas, TX

What’s the Unexpected Challenge in Retro Kitchen Remodels?

Here’s where many homeowners hit a snag: blending vintage aesthetics with modern standards. You want to keep the charm but need efficient storage and durable finishes. Luckily, custom kitchen remodel contractors solve this puzzle by tailoring cabinets that respect MCM design principles while meeting today’s demands.

Surprising Fact #2: The Soft-Close Upgrade

Soft-close hinges and drawers might seem like a small detail, but they completely change your kitchen experience. Imagine a quiet, smooth closing that protects your cabinets’ pristine surfaces. This upgrade, paired with authentic mid-century materials, creates a perfect balance of retro style and modern luxury.

Why Should You Consider Custom Cabinets for Your Kitchen Remodel?

• They ensure every inch of your kitchen is functional and beautiful.
• You control the materials, finishes, and hardware for a personalized look.
• A professional remodel enhances your home’s value and daily enjoyment.

What’s Next for Your Mid-Century Kitchen Remodel?

Ready to turn your kitchen dreams into reality? Whether you’re a new homeowner, a retiree wanting a stylish upgrade, or an investor aiming for top resale value, custom cabinets tailored to mid-century modern style are your game-changer. But the question remains—how do you choose the right expert to bring your vision to life?

Here’s the Cliffhanger…

Imagine stepping into a kitchen that feels both retro and completely fresh. Could custom cabinetry be the secret ingredient you didn’t know you needed? And what innovative materials will redefine mid-century modern kitchens in the next decade?

Last Note

There’s always hope when you blend classic design with contemporary solutions. With expert guidance and custom craftsmanship, your mid-century modern kitchen can become a stunning space that reflects your style and functions flawlessly.

So why wait? Dive into your kitchen remodeling with custom cabinets today and watch how retro meets refined in your home.

If you want a smooth, stylish kitchen remodel that honors the past but embraces the present, talk to Half Price Baths—experts in custom kitchen remodel contractor services who ensure every detail fits your unique needs.

Looking to elevate your space with a luxury bathroom remodeling that perfectly balances warmth and minimalism? Japandi bathrooms offer just that—an artful fusion of Japanese tranquility and Scandinavian simplicity.

This style focuses on clean lines, natural materials, and spa-like serenity, making it a top pick for homeowners and investors seeking high-end bathroom renovations. Curious how this style can transform your bathroom into a peaceful retreat? Let’s explore.

What Makes Japandi Bathrooms Stand Out?

At first glance, Japanese and Scandinavian designs may seem worlds apart—yet both embrace simplicity and natural beauty. Japandi style bridges these by combining the rich textures and earthy tones of Japan with the airy, functional minimalism of Scandinavia. The result? Bathrooms that feel inviting, warm, and uncluttered, with every element thoughtfully chosen to promote calm.

Why Choose Japandi for Your Bathroom Remodel?

Warm Minimalism: Japandi spaces avoid cold sterility by incorporating soft lighting, vertical wood slats, and plaster walls that breathe warmth.

Luxury Comfort: Think Japanese soaking tubs—a deep, inviting focal point perfect for relaxation—paired with minimalist vanities and limestone floors.

Effortless Storage: Hidden or streamlined storage solutions keep your space clutter-free, reinforcing the serene vibe.

Soft Ambient Lighting: Lighting here isn’t just functional; it’s mood-enhancing, creating a gentle glow to soothe your senses after a long day.

It is these little facets that make this luxury bathroom remodeling especially of the Japandi style – such a curious and beautiful mix of opulence and reality.

Japandi vs. Traditional Bathroom Styles: A Quick Comparison

Myth Busters: Japandi Bathroom Edition

  Myth 1: Japandi Bathrooms are Cold and Uninviting

False! Japandi thrives on warmth—through wood textures, plaster walls, and soft ambient lighting—creating spaces that feel both cozy and open.

  Myth 2: Minimalism Means Minimal Comfort

Not true. Japandi style balances simplicity with luxury. The Japanese soaking tub, for example, is the epitome of comfort and indulgence without clutter.

What’s Trending in Japandi Bathrooms?

According to a 2023 survey by the National Kitchen & Bath Association, 43% of homeowners prefer minimalist designs that incorporate natural materials and spa-like features—a clear win for Japandi bathrooms. If you want your next luxury bathroom remodeling to be on-trend, this fusion is an excellent choice.

How to Get Started with Your Japandi Bathroom Remodel?

Begin with consultation from a reliable team like Half Price Baths, known as the best bath remodel company for our personalized approach—from design guidance and material sourcing to professional installation. We help you merge these styles effortlessly, ensuring every detail, from vertical wood slats to soft plaster walls, aligns with your vision.

Ready for Your Peaceful Spa-Like Bathroom?

Transforming your bathroom into a Japandi-inspired sanctuary means embracing simplicity without sacrificing luxury. Whether you’re a new homeowner, retiree, or investor aiming for value, this style offers a perfect blend of calm and sophistication. If you want your space to feel more like a retreat, ask your remodeling experts about adding Japanese soaking tubs and minimalist vanities—key staples that bring Japandi elegance to life.

Let Japandi Luxury Be Your New Standard

When you choose Japandi bathroom design, you choose a lifestyle—a peaceful, purposeful space that balances aesthetics with comfort. Trust professionals like Half Price Baths to handle your high end bathroom renovations with precision, turning your dreams into reality.

Half Price Baths – Customizing Luxury Bathroom Remodeling, One Japandi Space at a Time!

If you want a bathroom remodel that’s both modern and timeless, simple yet luxurious, Japandi is your go-to style. Ready to start your journey toward a serene, spa-like bathroom? Reach out today!

Why do most people get it wrong with disability shower design?

You know the intention is right—but the execution? Often way off.
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make when remodeling for accessibility is assuming a curbless shower is enough. While it’s a start, true wheelchair accessibility demands far more than removing a step. Without factoring in turning radius, bench stability, and adjustable shower arms, you’re not creating comfort—you’re creating frustration.

Let’s walk through what actually makes walk-in showers for the elderly truly functional—and beautiful.

What Should a Wheelchair-Accessible Shower Include?

When planning a roll-in walk-in shower, you need a mix of design sensibility and strict ADA compliance. Here’s what to look for:

These are not just guidelines—they’re must-haves.

Surprising Insight #1: Style and Accessibility Can Coexist

There’s a belief that accessible design equals clinical and dull. Not true.
Modern universal design bathrooms now blend aesthetics with full functionality. From large-format anti-slip tiles to teak fold-down benches and sleek linear drains, a curbless shower for disability can be visually striking—and Instagram-worthy.

Designing with Space: Why Layout Matters More Than You Think

A wheelchair-accessible shower must accommodate turning and maneuvering. The ideal clear floor space? At least 60 inches in diameter. That’s enough for a full 360-degree wheelchair turn.

Many remodelers overlook this during planning, placing beautiful elements too close together. The result? A gorgeous but impractical space. That’s why working with a local walk in shower installer who understands both code and comfort is key.

Surprising Insight #2: The Bench Isn’t Optional

You might be tempted to skip the bench, thinking it’s unnecessary if the user is in a wheelchair. But it’s a game-changer. Whether for transferring, resting, or support during assisted bathing, the bench makes the shower experience safer and more independent.

And for aging users who aren’t yet in a wheelchair but face mobility issues, it can mean the difference between a dangerous shower—and a relaxing one.

Fresh Stats Speak Volumes

According to a 2024 report by the National Institute on Aging, nearly 90% of adults over 65 prefer to age in place. And among them, 73% say a barrier-free bathroom is a critical factor.
 That’s a massive segment of homeowners actively looking to remodel—and do it right.

Design Tip: Don’t Ignore the Shower Controls

Install controls at wheelchair height—between 38 to 48 inches from the floor. Plus, choose lever-style handles for easy grip. Combine that with a handheld shower head on a slide bar, and you’ve got a fully adaptable system.

This is where walk in shower base installation plays a critical role. Sloped right, placed right, and surfaced right—it’s what keeps water inside and hazards out.

Need Help Designing It Right?

You don’t have to guess your way through design codes and fixture choices. That’s exactly where Half Price Baths steps in—with expert consultations, tailored designs, material sourcing, and professional installations built around your needs.

Whether you’re future-proofing your home or renovating for a loved one, their team custom-builds solutions that combine compliance, comfort, and style.

Let’s Imagine This: A Real Solution in Action

Picture this: a wide-entry, no-threshold walk-in shower for the elderly, with soft LED lighting, a teak folding bench, sleek grab bars, and a rain-style shower head that adjusts at a touch. The user rolls in effortlessly. No strain, no stress. Just a beautiful space made for them.

This isn’t luxury. It’s thoughtful design. And it’s possible—today.

Final Word

If you’re ready to remodel with intention—not just aesthetics—designing for disability is where comfort and care meet. And the best part? Done right, these features don’t just serve a need—they elevate your entire home.

Ready to reimagine what a truly accessible bathroom can be? Your design journey starts with asking the right questions—and partnering with the right pros.

What if your morning routine could be faster, smarter, and more stylish—without sacrificing comfort or cleanliness?

If you’re constantly on the go, juggling work calls with early meetings, the last thing you need is to waste time waiting for a tub to fill. That’s where installing a walk in shower transforms your day-to-day life—offering both time efficiency and sleek design in one smart upgrade. Whether you’re a homeowner, investor, or renovating for resale, this is the change your bathroom needs.

Save Time Without Cutting Corners

In a fast-paced lifestyle, every minute counts. Walk-in showers eliminate the need for long, drawn-out prep—no filling tubs, no awkward climbing in and out. You simply step in, start the water, and get on with your day. It’s convenience meets function, wrapped in minimalist style.

Fact Check: According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), over 63% of homeowners prefer showers over bathtubs in their primary bathrooms, citing time-saving and accessibility as the top reasons. 

Minimalist Design, Maximum Efficiency

Walk-in showers are more than just practical—they’re a design statement. Think frameless glass panels, sleek fixtures, and customizable tile work. Their open-plan structure makes bathrooms look larger, more modern, and easier to maintain. Cleaning takes minutes, not hours.

• Quick-dry surfaces
• Fewer water spots
• No bulky shower curtains or outdated doors

Your bathroom goes from cluttered to clean-lined—without losing its charm.

Myth Buster #1: “Walk-In Showers Are Only for Seniors”

False. While they offer excellent accessibility for older adults, today’s walk-in showers are tailored for style-conscious professionals and families alike. With customizable layouts, trendy finishes, and smart features like body jets and rainfall heads, they’re as modern as they are functional.

No More Waiting—Just Walk In

Forget warming up bath water or checking if your tub is too full. With a walk-in shower, you’re always one step away from refreshment. Whether it’s a quick rinse after the gym or a relaxing end to your workday, you’re in control of your time—and your experience.

Thinking, “How do you install a walk in shower?” We hear that a lot. It’s simpler than you think—with the right guidance.

That’s where Half Price Baths steps in—offering everything from expert consultations to material sourcing and tailored professional installation. Your walk-in shower can be functional and fabulous.

Myth Buster #2: “They’re Hard to Install in Older Homes”

Wrong again. Modern remodeling techniques and modular designs allow walk-in showers to be installed even in tight or unconventional layouts. Curious about how to install walk in shower setups in smaller bathrooms? Our team can help redesign your space for seamless integration.

Why Are Professionals Making the Switch?

Busy professionals—especially remote workers, business travelers, and entrepreneurs—are increasingly choosing walk-in showers for their ease of use and modern appeal.

Here’s why:

• Faster prep times in the morning

• Reduced cleaning and maintenance

• Elevated resale value with a modernized bathroom
• Smarter use of space—great for condos, apartments, and small homes

With less time spent managing clutter and more time focusing on what matters, installing a walk in shower becomes more than a remodel—it’s a lifestyle upgrade.

Custom Solutions for Every Lifestyle

Whether you’re renovating for resale or finally turning your bathroom into a personal sanctuary, a walk-in shower is a smart, value-adding investment.

At Half Price Baths, we walk you through every step—from planning and design to selecting durable, stylish materials and ensuring a flawless installation. You’ll never feel lost or over-budget. You’ll feel in control—because your bathroom should work for you, not the other way around.

Here’s Your Takeaway

You don’t need more time. You need better design.
 A walk-in shower gives you speed, style, and space—without compromise.

So, if you’re asking yourself, “Is it worth installing a walk in shower?”—our answer is simple: Absolutely. And we’re here to make it happen, beautifully and efficiently.

You deserve a space that reflects your lifestyle—clean, modern, and always ready when you are.