About Bathroom Fixtures

Bathroom fixtures (sink, toilet, tub, shower, etc.) are the last items to get installed, but you have to pick them before any work begins. The reason for this is that your plumber has to run the roughing for these bathroom fixtures in the open walls, the placement of the piping will be determined by the fixtures you select. 
 
If any item is "long lead" and might delay the start of the project, you can get a template and a spec sheet from the supplier. This will give the plumber enough information to proceed with his work. Once this happens, don't change your mind - it'll be expensive.
 
To simplify the search for bathroom fixtures and faucets, go to the stores carrying pictures from magazines, illustrating the styles that you prefer. The sales person should then be able to recommend various products that will please you. 

 
To save time, you should also give the sales person an idea about the budget you're working with. There are so many products to choose from, that you won't have to settle. You can have the bathroom you want, for the price you can afford, if you're persistent.
 
Sinks are available in a variety of styles. The most economical (generally speaking) are the drop-in models. Under-mounted sinks will run more money, but have a cleaner look. The most expensive are the vessel sinks (which appear to stand alone on top of the vanity). 
 
If you order a solid surface vanity top, you can have an integral sink (one piece with the top). If you're renovating a small bathroom, a pedestal sink will take up the least space.
 
Toilets come in several colors, but white will be the cheapest. Style is up to your individual taste. That leaves the height and style of the seat - 15" height is standard; 17" for handicapped and elderly (actually, I think everyone over 50 will prefer the higher seat. Style is either round or elongated and is determined by the model of the toilet. Elongated is the hands down favorite of men. I don't think women really care.
 
Tubs/Showers will be separated, combined, or a shower alone. I believe baths are making a comeback - people miss them. If space allows, you might want to include both a shower and a bath in your list of bathroom fixtures. Even if you don't think you will ever take a bath, you'll have options.
 
I hope I don't sound too opinionated, but I don't see sliding shower doors over a bath instead of an old-fashioned shower curtain. The curtain makes it easier to get to the controls, easier to get in and out of the shower, and they're easier to keep clean. Maybe it's the built-in towel bar.
 
You can also opt for steam showers, and shower/sauna combinations. This is some country.
 
Dual shower heads are nice, especially for the elderly. Depending on which bank you own, you might be interested in the full body shower system by Kohler, or possibly the body massage shower heads. The point is, you can take this wherever you like, but there's nothing wrong with the $30, multiple-setting overhead shower. They all work well - it's a matter of style, and the wish list you can afford.
 
Faucets can be the focal point of the room. They can look like works of art, and they can consume the average man's budget all by themselves. There are four types: wide-spread (8") faucets; two-handle center-set (4" spread); single handle center set (4" again); and wall mounted (usually 8" spread). The most expensive by far is the wall mounted because of the extra roughing involved.
 
Bathroom faucets are available in a wide range of finishes and styles. Don't rush this decision. Faucets are an important element in the overall look of the bathroom and will be more prominent if the room is small. Do plenty of shopping around in order to find the best deal. Whenever shopping for bathroom fixtures or faucets, be sure to ask about delivery dates and warranties.
 
Towel Warmers have been around since the 1970s and are growing in popularity. I think they are most sensible where your heat is coming from radiant flooring. I say this because if you have conventional heating from radiators or baseboard heaters, you can hang your towel bar over the heater and get warm towels without spending the extra money.
 
Towel warmers are also used as sock warmers and glove warmers. Pretty versatile, aren't they?
 
There are two types of people: those who want to finish their shower, leave to do something else, and be with other people; and those who want to lock themselves in a comfy cozy retreat and see how long it takes to turn into a prune. Know yourself, and go for it.