Here’s Your Ultimate Guide to the Do’s and Don’ts of a Bathroom Remodel

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Successful bathroom remodels take a little planning and forethought. Image: Juxtaposed Interiors

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Undertaking a bathroom remodel is both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. For many homeowners, it’s a status symbol and one of the first times they can bring a substantial personal touch to their home. However, it’s a sizable investment, one big enough to make most people think twice before diving in unprepared.

If you’re ready to remodel your bathroom, but need some help figuring out how to do it right, we’re here to help. Use the tips in this post as a guide for pulling off a successful remodel and you’ll have all the tools you need to bring your vision to life.

Search out design inspiration to help you get started. Image: Designing First Impressions

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DO: Find design inspiration first

Every great home remodeling project — but especially those that come with a hefty price tag — must start with a plan. Before you start on the physical aspects of the project, like tearing up flooring or putting in a rain forest shower, have a firm idea of what you want your final product to look like.

To do this, use websites such as Freshome to find design ideas. (If you’re really unsure of how to define your personal style, our Defining A Style Series is a good place to start.) Remember you don’t have to strictly adhere to one particular type of design. Feel free to pick and choose elements from different styles until you land on a look you love.

Remember to keep your budget in mind. Image: Nina Farmer Interiors

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DON’T: Forget to consider your budget

Once you have your inspiration in mind, it’s incredibly important to be realistic about your budget. Consider how much money you have to spend, as well as how much your ideal project would cost. Though it may not be the most pleasant task to undertake, looking at your finances will help you get a sense of which aspects of a renovation are most feasible for you.

That said, there are a few things you can do to help keep your project affordable. Get quotes from a variety of contractors before deciding who to hire, consider doing some of the work yourself to save on labor costs, and look for wholesale stores in your community that will let you buy the materials at a discount.

Keep your most expensive items neutral. Image: John Kraemer & Sons

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DO: Keep high-end items neutral

Since bathroom remodels are such a huge expense, one of our favorite tips is to keep your high-end purchases as neutral as possible. In particular, we’re talking about things like tile flooring or shower design. Allowing these features to be more of a blank canvas will make it easier to alter your design as trends change and ensure that they have a broader appeal if you ever sell your home.

Keep in mind that including these neutral elements doesn’t mean your bathroom will be boring. Infuse your personality into the space through accessories, which are easier to change over time. Think about using a few visually striking elements like bold paint colors, mirrors, hand towels and floor coverings.

Be sure to include some creative storage solutions. Image: Capital Closets

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DON’T: Go without storage

If there’s one feature of a bathroom remodel that doesn’t get much attention, yet is still appreciated, it’s storage. Whether you want to store extra toiletries or a few sets of guest towels, having them on hand whenever they’re needed is an incredible benefit.

If you have the room, consider bumping out a wall to include an extra storage closet and built-in shelving. Even if moving walls is outside your budget, find an organization unit that fits in with your aesthetic. Doing so will give your space a polished quality that’s well worth the added effort and expense.

Make the shower your showpiece. Image: Roost Interiors

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DO: Splurge on the shower

Just like any other room in your home, the bathroom needs to have a focal point, or a design element that’s meant to draw the eye. According to research by MarketWatch, luxurious showers are one of the most popular features among home buyers, so it may be a good feature to highlight. Think of it this way, you’ll get to enjoy multiple shower heads and heated floors now, with the added benefit of knowing your investment will probably pay off down the road.

Interestingly, the same research found that soaking tubs have fallen out of favor. Many feel they aren’t used often enough and take a lot of effort to clean. Consider skipping this expense, if your main goal is to eventually sell. That said, it’s also important to take personal preference into account.

If possible, include an impressive vanity. Image: Mark Williams Design Associates

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DON’T: Skimp on the vanity

The bathroom vanity is another feature where you can make a big statement. Options that feature double sinks, large mirrors and plenty of storage are on-trend. If possible, opt for one with a luxe top in a material such as granite or marble to add even more visual interest to the space.

Keep in mind that you can always change up the look of your existing vanity, if needed. Giving it a new coat of paint is a relatively simple DIY project that will change the room’s look. You could also switch out the drawer pulls or even buy a new topper from a home improvement store to freshen up the bathroom’s aesthetic.

Follow these do’s and don’ts for a successful bathroom remodel. Image: Peterssen/Keller Architecture

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Completing a bathroom remodel can be an exciting yet daunting experience. On the one hand, there are few things more satisfying than knowing you’ve put your own personal stamp on your home. On the other, these projects can get so pricey that taking the first step can be intimidating. If you’re looking for a guide for how to make your remodel a success, look no further. These are the tips you need to transform your bathroom into an oasis.

Have you ever completed a bathroom remodel? What tips can you share from your experience? Let us know in the comments.

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