How to plan and do a bathroom renovation

The first and most crucial step in any bathroom renovation project is to clearly define your vision and needs. Whether you're envisioning a minor facelift or a complete transformation, take the time to list the changes you desire.

It may be a minor update or perhaps a complete overhaul, so be specific about your bathroom goals. You can get some style inspiration from home renovation shows, online articles and videos, in stores or venues that you visit, or even a friend or family member’s home. 

Next, consider both the functional and aesthetic aspects of your bathroom. If you plan to reposition fixtures such as the shower, bath, or toilet, be aware that this may require plumbing and building adjustments, potentially impacting the overall cost.

If you’re renovating a smaller bathroom, there may be certain space considerations, while a bigger bathroom can mean more costs.  This is where some DIY design hacks could be utilised to make it look stylish on a budget. 

Carefully detail and price every aspect, including materials, labour, and potential hidden costs.

One of the most critical aspects of any bathroom renovation project is establishing a realistic budget. It's essential to be thorough with your evaluation to avoid financial surprises as the project progresses.

In addition to the budget for fixtures, tiling, joinery, plumbing and electricals, allow a buffer for any expected costs that may arise during the bathroom renovation. By planning for unforeseen circumstances, you'll be better equipped to handle any challenges that may come your way.

With your vision in mind, it's time to create a clear plan for your bathroom renovation.

Begin by researching the prices of essential amenities like basins, tiles, vanities, and tapware. Also consider extra amenities, and whether they fit within your budget and match your vision, like a heated towel rack or floor heating. This will give you a realistic understanding of the budget required for your bathroom renovation.

Once your plan is in place, it's time to reach out to qualified tradespeople for quotes.

Consider the scope of your bathroom renovation to determine the level of professional help needed. For minor updates, a skilled plumber and painter may suffice, but a complete overhaul might involve builders, plumbers, water proofers, electricians, tilers, and painters.

Finding a tradie and getting quotes will help you estimate costs accurately and avoid unforeseen expenses.

Request comprehensive quotes that cover all aspects of the renovation project, ensuring there are no hidden costs. Be transparent about your budget during this stage, as it will help tradespeople tailor their quotes to fit your financial parameters.

Ensure that the quotes cover all aspects of the renovation to prevent surprises later in the project. When evaluating quotes, don't just focus on the bottom line – also consider the reputation, experience, and reliability of these trade professionals.

The next phase of your renovation journey is the exciting task of choosing your bathroom amenities. This step involves considering both the aesthetics and functionality of essential fixtures like showerheads, bathtubs, and toilet suites.

With so many bathroom amenities available in the market, it's essential to evaluate your options before deciding.

Consider factors such as the brand reputation, customer reviews, and the warranty offered by the manufacturer. Take the time to research and compare various products to ensure you select the most suitable amenities for your bathroom renovation project.

You may be wanting to update décor that dates your home, or perhaps you’re making cosmetic changes or repairs to get your home ready for sale. Either way, you want to ensure your purchases are functional, within your budget, and work cohesively in your bathroom space.

Showers

While it's important to choose amenities that align with your personal preferences, it's equally crucial to consider their functionality.

Opt for products that offer a balance between style and practicality. For example, a water-saving shower head with a good flow rate can help save money on your energy bill.

You’ll be able to choose from a range of styles, including fixed, adjustable, or overhead rain showers. Shower door options include frameless, sliding, or walk-in doors, each offering unique benefits for maintenance and space utilisation.

Bathtubs

Choosing the right bathtub is crucial for both style and practicality. Explore options like freestanding, island, or recessed baths.

Ensure the selected bathtub complements your bathroom's style, size, and layout. For compact rooms, a shower-bath combination might be a more practical solution to maximise space.

Toilet suites

While selecting a toilet may not be the most glamorous part of the process, it's undeniably essential. Consider your bathroom's style, plumbing layout, and available space when choosing between back-to-wall, wall-faced, and wall-hung toilets, or even a Japanese bidet.

Each option has its own aesthetic and space optimisation benefits. Don't forget to check the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) rating to potentially reduce water bills.

Once your renovation is complete, look to add in tasteful styling elements to make it your own.

Consider adding in some purifying indoor plants, fragrances, window coverings and coloured towels to create a homely and calm space. 

If you’re making a significant investment in your renovation, it’s important to check your home insurance policy for appropriate levels of cover.

For added peace of mind, consider emergency home assist for 24/7 response to unexpected events like broken taps, blocked toilets, internal leaks or a burst pipe in your bathroom.