Remodeling your bathroom is a great way to add value to your home. However, there are important things to keep in mind.

A bathroom renovation includes everything from painting to laying tile. It also involves a series of tasks that need to be done in a certain order.

Small changes like changing a light bulb or repainting won’t be too expensive but larger projects like removing a bathtub may cost more.

Layout

When it comes to designing your dream bathroom layout, the possibilities are endless. You can use our free bathroom planner to plan your space to scale. Using paper or our tool allows you to play around with different layout options before ordering your products and making the final decision.

If you’re working with a large space, consider adding a freestanding tub. This beautiful accent will create a focal point and adds a touch of luxury to your bath. Leigh Lincoln of Pure Salt Interiors designed this expansive master suite with a tub, shower, and two separate vanities. This layout works well if you’re looking to create a spa-like environment that has plenty of counter space for grooming and beauty.

One way to increase your comfort in a bathroom is by tucking the toilet away from view. This helps prevent you from stepping on the seat while you’re trying to open the door or having someone else enter your bathroom. This is something that Mid City Design often incorporates in their projects, as it can really make a difference in the feel of the room.

Storage

From clutter-crunching baskets to space-saving cabinet organizers, smart storage ideas make it easier to keep your bathroom clean and organized. These savvy bathroom hacks can be applied in a range of layouts, from full baths to powder rooms and guest bedrooms.

Hang wire baskets from a ladder on the wall to store toiletries and linens, as this bathroom by Jennifer Lifford does. Aim for different sizes so you can stow lightweight towels on the bottom and heavier items, such as hair tools and body products, on top. You can also stow a stack of folded hand towels directly on the rungs for an easy grab when getting out the door.

If you don’t have the room for a built-in shelving unit, consider a shallow cabinet like this one over a commode. It offers a decorative touch and lets you stash items you use daily without taking up valuable floor space. Look for models with glass doors that make it easy to see what’s inside. A similar option is a shelf that fits right into the end of a tub. Stuff it with baskets of linens, storage jars and other pretty accessories for a tidy look.

Design

Bathrooms are used every day, so it’s crucial to choose a design that will stand the test of time. A bad design can cause problems such as rotting floors, moldy walls, and poor water circulation, which can be expensive to fix.

Whether you’re redoing a family bath that receives a lot of wear and tear or a spa-like master bath to soak away your cares, determining who will be using the space should be one of the first steps in your remodel. This will help guide your selections for storage, materials, and other features.

The winner of this year’s Geberit Bathroom Design Challenge, Nimtim Architects’ Loo of a Lifetime was applauded by the judges — including AT editor Isabel Allen; Maria Cheung, director and head of interior design at Squire & Partners; J-J Lorraine, co-founder and partner of Morrow + Lorraine; and Lynne Clapham-Carter, specification sales manager for Geberit UK — for its tactility and functional separation that supports multi-generational inclusivity. The prefabricated eco-resin pod also highlights the inner workings, usages, and wastage of a bathroom with pipes that glow when appliances are in use.

Materials

Choosing the right materials is key for a bathroom remodeling. You need durable materials that can stand up to moisture and frequent use. Also, the materials should complement the overall aesthetic of your space.

Luckily, there are a lot of choices to suit any taste. From classic subway tiles to textured patterns like zellige, there are endless possibilities for flooring, countertops, and backsplashes. Don’t forget the small details, too – opt for metal hardware to strengthen a minimalist design or pick a natural material like wood to emphasize warmth.

A good way to save money on a Toronto bathroom remodel is to work in phases. Start by completing the ceiling first, then walls, and finally floors to avoid damage to your new surfaces. Also, if you’re using existing fixtures, try to refinish or repaint them instead of replacing them. This will reduce your renovation costs significantly. Moreover, it will also increase your home’s resale value. Hence, it’s worth the investment! Ultimately, a well-designed and updated bathroom is a significant boost to your home’s value.

Budget

Remodeling a bathroom is an investment in both money and time. Whether you’re looking for a small facelift or a major makeover, you should plan your budget carefully and choose materials that will last. You may also be able to save money by doing some of the work yourself.

Labor can account for up to 40 percent of a renovation’s cost. Keeping the layout the same, so you don’t have to move the plumbing, and choosing products that require minimal installation labor can cut costs.

Fancy finishes and details can add a lot of character, but they’ll also eat up your budget. If you must splurge, opt for one or two items that deliver the most punch, such as the floor tile, counter and cabinet hardware.

New windows and skylights can make bathrooms look brighter, but they’re a big expense. If your budget can’t accommodate these additions, fool the eye by using mirrors and light-colored paint to bounce light around the room. This can give your bathroom a bigger, more spacious look. Also, try adding recessed shelves between wall studs to free up space under the sink.