20 Bathroom Remodeling Tips… Before You Begin Your Renovation
I recently shared we’ll be tackling the biggest renovation in our home later this year (if all goes as planned)– which is our primary bath. Walls will be moved, everything will be replaced, and we’re reworking the entire floor plan. Regardless of the scale of your bathroom or the scope of your remodel, bath updates require planning. Click through for 20 bathroom remodeling tips, or lessons I learned after renovating 10+ bathrooms. These are all things you’ll want to know before you begin your renovation! Take it from an interior designer…
If your bathroom requires more than a simple refresh- or replacing your classic white bath towels… these are all tips you’ll want to pin or bookmark. Hopefully they’ll help you hone your design plan, challenge conventional bathroom remodeling ideas, and make for a space that is functional as it is beautiful.
1. Choose Practical Floor Tile
I recommend installing a mosaic tile on the floor… or an option with plenty of grout lines for added traction. Flooring in a bathroom can be a slipping hazard, so be sure to consider traction- especially in a tiled shower. Small mosaics are ideal for a shower floor! Check out this post for an easy tutorial on how to install mosaic floor tile.
2. Layer Your Lighting
Include at least three light sources: an overhead light, accent lighting, and decorative fixtures… all on dimmers! Good lighting in a bathroom is imperative- especially if you don’t have natural light (like my guest bathroom pictured above). Here are my best tips for layering lighting like a designer.
3. The Only Exhaust You Need to Buy
See that recessed light in our shower? It’s actually an exhaust! This fixture is the only one we use in our bathroom renovations. It’s a great way to avoid an unsightly, bulky exhaust fan or cover. I always recommend this bathroom exhaust that doubles as a recessed light. These have worked great for us and streamline the aesthetic.
4. Save Your Money and Buy a Readymade Vanity
I’ll be the first to tell you, a custom vanity isn’t necessary. Readymade options are easy to customize and create padding in the budget. Replace the hardware, give it a fresh coat of paint, add millwork, or swap the faux stone top for your favorite marble (like I did above). Check out this post for more ways to customize a readymade bathroom vanity.
5. Towel Warmers Are the Ultimate Luxury
Install a towel warmer! I’ll never be without one of these again, and will always find a way to work it into the design plan. Whether it’s mounted on the wall, or a freestanding floor model that plugs into the wall, this simple item makes a huge difference.
6. Plan for Cabinet Storage
Don’t skimp on storage or cabinet organization- especially if you’re short on space. From a well-organized linen closet to inserted drawer organizers, make the most of your bathroom storage. I love to use baskets that can be left on the counter.
7. A Bathtub Is Optional
The tub is optional (unless it’s the only bathroom in your house). Otherwise- sometimes a shower is simply the best option. Don’t feel like you have to include a bathtub in your remodel… especially if you have a tiny bathroom.
8. Integrate Shower Storage
Plan for a recessed shower niche or ledge for products. This one is non negotiable for me! Having in-shower storage is essential for body wash, soap, shampoo, conditioner, etc. Check out this post for more on how to plan and design a shower niche.
9. Install the Appropriate Length Shower Curtain
Make sure your shower curtain hovers just above the floor (like a drapery panel). Short shower curtains aren’t a good look! They don’t have to be expensive. I actually made this one: extra long shower curtain DIY.
10. If You Have a Rug, Make Sure It’s Wool
If you’re using a rug in front of the vanity or tub, make sure it’s wool. It’s the best material for a bath, because it’s moisture wicking, reduces odor, and is breathable. If you missed this post, I elaborate… design discussion : wool rugs in the bathroom.
11. Install Tile or Stone Baseboards
One functional design detail I never miss is the opportunity to tile the base perimeter of a bathroom. I always run the waterproof membrane from the floor a few inches up the wall, and install tile baseboards because it looks beautiful while providing a nice waterproof barrier.
12. Plan Outlet Placement Accordingly
Strategically plan your electrical outlets. You may want one in the water closet for a smart toilet or bidet. Perhaps in-vanity outlets would be handy for charging and easy access? Maybe you need to position them lower near your vanity table if you’ll be seated at this area. Plan ahead!
13. Purchase Your Tile All At Once (with Overage)
To avoid discoloration across batches or lots, it’s best to purchase your tile all at once… with 10-15% overage. I’ve seen way too many clients end up short and order more tile, only to have the new tile look completely different in color or veining.
14. Your Old or Pastel Bathtub May Not Need Replaced
Have you heard of reglazing or refinishing a bathtub? With older (or colorful) bathtubs, many believe their only option is to replace the tub. These bathtubs are well made, super heavy, and are often custom sized… meaning they’re expensive and difficult to replace. You can save a ton of money by keeping the tub and having it reglazed. Check it out here: bathtub refinishing process & reglazing a tub white. It’s an option!
15. Choose an Appropriate Bathroom Paint
Did you know there are specific paint formulas for bathrooms or wet rated spaces? You’ll want to order a mold resistant, antimicrobial paint with the appropriate sheen or finish for a bathroom. Check out this post containing my designer guide for choosing the best paint sheen or finish.
16. Consider Acoustics
You’ll definitely want to consider acoustics for your bathroom- primarily for privacy concerns. We always make sure our bathrooms are well insulated, and we install a solid core door instead of hollow core. This makes the bathroom feel more private. See this post on how to order & replace an interior door, if you have issues with this.
17. Avoid Light Colored Grout
Don’t make the mistake of choosing a white or light colored grout- this makes cleaning your tile a nightmare. Check out this post for my recommendations… the best Mapei grout colors (designer tile pairings & advice).
18. Heated Floors Are Worth Every Penny
Believe me when I say, heated flooring is worth it… especially if your bathroom feels cold. It’s not as expensive as you might expect, and is an easy project to tackle yourself. I created a DIY heated floor tile tutorial, here.
19. Never Underestimate Classic Subway Tile
I’m a firm believer subway tile will never go out of style… if you know how to use it. That includes finishing tiles and trim pieces. This is how to make subway tile look classic, not basic. If you’re on a budget and are looking for a timeless option, subway is always a safe bet.
20. Don’t Forget Hooks
Last, but not least… I think a hook is one of the most practical accessories you can install in a bathroom. I love to have adequate hanging space for towels, robes, and clothing. Place one near the shower, on the back of the door, or anywhere that feels convenient.
FAQ
I just shared some favorites here… classic bathroom plumbing fixtures from Wayfair!
We made it! I shared all of the details (and similar options), here: burl bathroom vanity DIY & similar burl parsons tables.
Related
Looking for more designer tips or posts related to renovating or bathroom remodeling? I’m going to link some of my favorites for you below!
- Ways to Upgrade Your Toilet
- The Best Classic White Bath Towels for Any Budget
- Bathroom Refinishing Process & Reglazing a Tub White
- Is Brass Out? How Polished Nickel is replacing The Favorite Metal
- How to Make a Small Bathroom Look Larger
- Honing Our Guest Bathroom Nero Marble Countertops
- How to Select Different Countertop Edge Profiles
- Tips for Making Outlets & Light Switch Plates Look Better
- How to Wash Towels Back to White with Laundry Stripping
- Stocking a Guest Bathroom for Visitors
What would you add to this list? I hope this is helpful if you’re in the planning stages of a bathroom remodel. Let me know if you have any questions in the comment section below- I’m happy to help. We’re in the process of workshopping our own primary bath. It’s always a good idea to spend plenty of time going over your options and hashing out the details.