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Bathtub Niches Add Function and Flair to Freestanding Tub Designs

As primary bathrooms continue to evolve toward a more open, spa-like atmosphere, the classic tub deck is quickly becoming a thing of the past. Many people are now opting for sleek, freestanding bathtubs that deliver an airy, modern aesthetic. But that shift often leaves one question: where do you put your bath essentials?

According to Normandy Designer Becca Ruggiero, bathtub niches are stepping in as both a practical and stylish solution. “Niches aren’t just for showers anymore, they’re incredibly useful around a freestanding bathtub,” Becca explains. “Instead of balancing your bath products on the edge of the tub, or on a tub tray, you can integrate storage directly into the wall for a more integrated look.”

Becca notes that many homeowners are moving away from bulky tub surrounds and decks to create a more open, flowing feel. “Whether you’re a dedicated bath-taker or just an occasional soaker, people are choosing thinner-profile tubs for that minimal aesthetic,” she says. “The only downside is where do you put all your bath salts or glass of wine? That’s where a niche or shelf can make all the difference.”

In some cases, Becca and team get creative with the layout to make space for these features. “When you remove a large tub deck in front of a window, it opens up the opportunity to build out the wall slightly,” she explains. “We’ll sometimes add just a few inches to create a ledge or niche for bath items, or even to highlight a unique tile or wall-mounted faucet.”

Freestanding bathtub with decorative nicheThese niches don’t always have to hold toiletries, either. “In one project, we added a half wall beside the bathtub that doubles as a spot for a TV and a glass of wine,” Becca shares. “It’s about designing the space around how you actually relax.”

For another bathroom, Becca designed a double-sided niche, one serving the freestanding bathtub and another on the opposite side for the shower. “You just have to be mindful about staggering their heights,” she explains. “Because they share a wall, you can’t place them in the same spot, but you can make them visually connect.”

Whether it’s matching the shower niche or introducing a contrasting tile for texture and depth, Becca emphasizes that tub niches blend function with artistry. “I’ll often work with people who love two different tiles,” she adds. “We’ll use one for the shower and one for the tub niche — they don’t have to match perfectly, but they should complement each other for a cohesive, relaxing retreat.”

If you would like to talk more about a primary bathroom remodel or any ideas you have for your home, reach out to Becca to discuss more about your remodeling project. For more design inspiration, you can follow Normandy Remodeling on FacebookInstagramLinkedIn and Pinterest — or sign up for our newsletter!

White freestanding bath tub with tub niche, white subway tile  CENTERPIECE BATHTUB  Freestanding tub with half wall .

Hidden Charging Stations for Clutter Free Kitchens

side of the upper kitchen cabinet opens to reveal a message centerThe kitchen counter has become the default place for recharging devices in many homes, but all that technology can leave your kitchen feeling cluttered and rob you of usable counter space for cooking and baking. Fortunately, there are new ways to keep your devices powered while maintaining a clean, streamlined look in the kitchen, often in ways that can blend seamlessly into your kitchen design. Here are some of our favorite ways to create a hidden charging station in your kitchen.

“There’s been a real shift in how people think about power access in the kitchen,” Normandy Designer Ashley Noethe says. “It’s not just about having access to multiple outlets anymore. It’s about creating hidden and flexible charging spots that fit your lifestyle. From charging drawers and hidden message centers to pop-up outlets and countertop charging pads, there are many clever ways to integrate power solutions into your kitchen.”

The first step to managing technology clutter in the kitchen is to create a designated landing zone. “If your charging needs are modest, say one or two cell phones, you can create a shallow depth message center on the side of your kitchen cabinets that includes a built-in outlet,” notes Ashley. “But if your household has several tablets, laptops and phones to charge, you may choose to include an updated version of the classic kitchen desk into your design, giving you plenty of space for charging all your devices as well as a work station.”

Charging drawers have become another favorite feature, particularly for drop zones within the kitchen or in the kitchen desk. These drawers include built-in electrical outlets and are ideal for organizing devices. “They’re great for families,” Ashley says. “Everyone knows that the tablets and phones go in the drawer, and everything stays charged without cords everywhere. It keeps the space looking like a kitchen, not an office.”

For truly hidden charging, you can opt for an integrated charging pad on your countertop. These invisible charging stations can either be marked or completely concealed. “Sometimes you want to charge untethered, which is perfect for when you’re cooking and following a recipe on your phone,” Ashley says.

Not all charging options need to be hidden to be effective. “Hydraulic pop-up outlets are especially popular in kitchen islands. They’re practical and discreet,” Ashley explains. “You can cut a hole in the countertop and install a flush, trimless pop-up. Some even have a wireless charging pad built into the top.” White countertop with phone charge surface, light green phone near charging circleEven standard outlets make charging your technology easier with integrated USB and USB-C ports.

Whether it’s a pop-up outlet, smart charging drawer or charging pad, the goal remains the same: to keep your kitchen functional, beautiful, and effortlessly connected. If you’re looking to integrate charging solutions into your new kitchen, set up a time to talk to Ashley about creating a space that inspires you. Looking for more design ideas or inspiration? Click through our photo galleries. Prefer a daily dose of design? We share ideas, photography, and projects on FacebookInstagram, and Pinterest. Follow along. To get the latest design ideas and tips, subscribe to our newsletter.

pop up countertop outlet in the kitchen   Desk in the kitchen with built-in television

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