How to Design and Remodel Your Dream Bathroom

At Cameron Construction, we know that a well-designed bathroom can transform your daily routine and add value to your home.

Bathroom design and remodel projects offer endless possibilities to create a space that’s both functional and beautiful. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxurious spa-like retreat or a practical family bathroom, careful planning is key.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to design and remodel your dream bathroom, from assessing your needs to hiring the right professionals.

What Your Bathroom Needs

Evaluate Your Current Layout

The first step in planning a bathroom remodel is to scrutinise your current space. Spend time in your bathroom and note what works and what doesn’t. Ask yourself: Is the layout efficient? Do you bump into things when moving around? Is there enough counter space? These observations will guide your remodel decisions.

A common issue in many older bathrooms is poor use of space. For example, large, rarely-used tubs often take up valuable floor area. Consider if a walk-in shower might better suit your needs.

Identify Areas for Improvement

Create a list of your bathroom’s pain points. Be specific in your descriptions. Instead of writing “needs more storage,” note “need space for towels and toiletries.” Common issues include:

• Lack of storage
• Poor lighting
• Outdated fixtures
• Inadequate ventilation

Don’t overlook ventilation. A properly ventilated bathroom prevents mould growth and extends the life of your renovation. If your current fan doesn’t perform well, add an upgrade to your list.

Set a Realistic Budget

Budget setting is a crucial part of the planning process. Bathroom renovation costs range from $8000 to over $35000. However, this figure can vary widely based on the scope of work and materials chosen.

Break down your budget into categories:

• Labour
• Materials
• Fixtures
• Contingency fund (about 20% of your total budget)

A contingency fund is particularly important for older homes, where plumbing or electrical problems might surface during the renovation.

While it’s tempting to cut corners to save money, quality materials and professional installation pay off in the long run.

Choose the Right Professionals

Selecting the right team for your bathroom remodel is critical. Look for experienced bathroom renovation specialists with a track record of successful projects. Research potential contractors thoroughly and check their credentials, references, and past work.

Understanding the roles of different professionals in your project is also important:

• Designers help create a cohesive and functional layout
• Plumbers handle water supply and drainage systems
• Electricians ensure safe and efficient electrical installations

At Cameron Construction, our team of experts covers all these bases, providing a seamless renovation experience from start to finish.

With a clear understanding of your needs, a realistic budget, and the right team in place, you’re ready to move on to the exciting part: designing your dream bathroom. In the next section, we’ll explore the key elements of bathroom design that will transform your space into a functional and beautiful oasis.

Crafting Your Perfect Bathroom Space

Selecting Fixtures That Fit

The right fixtures transform a bathroom from ordinary to extraordinary. For toilets, water-efficient models can save more than $110 per year in water costs, and $2,200 over the lifetime of the toilets. Wall-hung toilets offer easier cleaning and a sleek look.

Your daily routine should dictate sink choice. Double vanities excel in shared bathrooms, while pedestal sinks suit powder rooms. Porcelain provides durability and easy cleaning, whereas natural stone adds luxury (but requires more maintenance).

The shower versus tub debate comes down to personal preference. Trends show a shift towards large, walk-in showers. A freestanding tub can serve as a stunning focal point in spacious bathrooms. For limited spaces, a shower-tub combo with a glass door creates an illusion of more room.

Flooring That Lasts

Bathroom flooring must withstand moisture while complementing your design. Porcelain tiles top the list due to their durability and style variety. Heated floors increase home value and provide comfort during colder months.

Natural stone like marble offers beauty but demands sealing and regular maintenance. Wood-look porcelain tiles present an alternative, combining wood’s warmth with tile’s durability.

Lighting and Ventilation Essentials

Proper lighting transforms bathrooms. Layer your lighting with ambient, task, and accent lights. LED lights use at least 75% less energy, and last up to 25 times longer, than incandescent lighting. A dimmer switch adds versatility.

Natural light brightens spaces and makes them feel larger. If possible, add a window or skylight.

Ventilation prevents mould and mildew. The Home Ventilating Institute recommends a fan that changes air 8 times per hour. For a standard 8×10 foot bathroom, this translates to a 100 CFM fan. Choose a quiet model (under 1.0 sones).

Smart Storage Solutions

Smart storage maximises every inch of space. Wall-mounted cabinets keep floors clear, creating an illusion of more space. Medicine cabinets with hidden electrical outlets inside charge electric toothbrushes and razors conveniently.

In smaller bathrooms, think vertically. Tall, narrow cabinets provide ample storage without consuming much floor space. Utilize often-overlooked areas like the space above the toilet or inside the shower for additional storage.

In-wall niches in shower areas look sleek and keep bathing essentials within reach. Full remodels allow for recessed shelving between wall studs, adding extra storage without sacrificing floor space.

With these elements in place, your bathroom design takes shape. The next step involves bringing your vision to life through professional execution. Let’s explore how to hire the right professionals for your bathroom remodel.

Who You Should Hire for Your Bathroom Remodel

The Importance of Experienced Specialists

Bathroom renovation specialists possess invaluable knowledge about plumbing, electrical work, and structural considerations specific to bathrooms. Their expertise helps prevent costly mistakes and ensures your new bathroom meets all relevant building codes and standards.

Americans spent an estimated $603 billion in 2024 on remodeling their homes. Among NARI members, 42% found a greater demand for contracting in bathroom remodels.

How to Vet Potential Contractors

Start your search by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or neighbours who have recently completed bathroom renovations. Online review platforms like Houzz or Google Reviews can provide insights into a contractor’s reputation and work quality.

After you shortlist potential contractors, request detailed quotes and ask to see examples of their previous bathroom remodel projects. Pay attention to the quality of finishes, attention to detail, and overall design aesthetic in these examples.

Don’t hesitate to ask for references from past clients. Speaking with previous customers can give you valuable insights into the contractor’s communication style, reliability, and ability to stick to timelines and budgets.

Understanding the Remodel Team

A successful bathroom remodel often involves multiple professionals working together. Understanding their roles can help you communicate your vision more effectively:

Tile Setters

Tile setters play a key role in achieving the desired look of your bathroom. Their expertise ensures that tiles are laid correctly, preventing issues like lippage or improper waterproofing.

The cheapest quote isn’t always the best choice. Try to find professionals who understand your vision, communicate clearly, and have a proven track record of quality work. Your dream bathroom deserves nothing less than the best team to bring it to life.

Final Thoughts

Bathroom design and remodel projects transform your daily routine and increase your home’s value. We explored essential steps to create a functional and stylish space, from assessing your current layout to selecting the right fixtures and materials. Professional guidance ensures your vision comes to life seamlessly, navigating potential challenges and adhering to building codes.

A well-executed bathroom renovation offers long-lasting benefits beyond immediate aesthetic improvements. It can reduce energy costs through efficient fixtures and create a personal sanctuary for relaxation. The expertise of experienced specialists helps prevent costly mistakes and delivers high-quality results that stand the test of time.

Cameron Construction combines quality craftsmanship, innovative design, and a customer-focused approach to exceed your expectations. Our team of experts dedicates itself to bringing your dream bathroom to life. We invite you to partner with us and create a space that enhances your home and your life for years to come.