Are you dreaming of a bathroom renovation but unsure where to start? Whether your bathroom is outdated, cramped, or just doesn't match your style, a renovation can help turn it into your own personal sanctuary. If you're in Ireland, the consulting company BuildPro offers expert advice, ensuring you benefit from the best bathroom renovation tips. In this comprehensive guide, we'll provide you with practical steps on how to remodel your bathroom like a pro.

Create a Budget

One of the first and most critical steps in a bathroom renovation is to establish a realistic budget. This step is essential because it outlines what is achievable based on your financial capability. Bathroom renovations can vary significantly in cost depending on the size of the bathroom, the quality of the materials, and the complexity of the work involved.

To create an accurate budget, consider the costs of materials, labour, design, and permits. Remember to include items such as tiles, fixtures (sink, toilet, shower, and bath), lighting, and cabinetry. Labour will also be a significant cost, as you may need a plumber, electrician, tiler, and potentially a builder or designer.

To save money, consider upcycling existing items or shopping around for discounted materials. Also, keep an eye out for hidden fees, such as delivery costs, waste removal, and any unexpected issues that may arise during the renovation.

BuildPro offers budgeting assistance for your renovation project, ensuring that all costs are covered, and you don't encounter unexpected surprises.

Choose the Type of Bathroom

Understanding the different types of bathrooms can help you make informed decisions about your renovation project. Here are the four main types:

• Powder Room: This is a small bathroom typically located on the ground floor. It usually includes a sink and toilet but lacks bathing facilities. Its primary purpose is for guest use.
• Guest Bathroom: A guest bathroom is a full bathroom dedicated to guests. It contains all the essential bathroom fixtures, including a shower or bathtub.
• Master Bathroom: This is an ensuite bathroom attached to the master bedroom. It usually boasts more luxurious features and is designed for private use by homeowners.
• Ensuite Bathroom: An ensuite bathroom is directly connected to a bedroom. While commonly associated with the master bedroom, other bedrooms can also have ensuites.

Each type has pros and cons, so choose one that best aligns with your space and needs. If you're uncertain, a consultation with BuildPro can provide personalised guidance.

Develop a Bathroom Layout

The layout is the backbone of any bathroom renovation. An ideal bathroom layout is functional, maximises space, and aligns with your preferences. A well-planned layout should consider storage, lighting, ventilation, and accessibility.

One popular bathroom layout is the "three-wet-wall" layout, where the toilet, sink, and shower/bath are lined up along one wall. However, this design can be costlier as it requires extensive plumbing work.

On the other hand, the "one-wet-wall" layout, where all the plumbing fixtures align along one wall, is cost-effective but offers less flexibility. The best layout for you depends on your space and needs, so take your time to plan and consult with professionals like BuildPro if necessary.

Decide Whether You Want a Bathtub

Bathtubs add a touch of luxury to your bathroom, providing a perfect spot for relaxation. However, they are not for everyone. Bathtubs consume more water than showers, require more cleaning, and can make a small bathroom feel cramped.

If you decide a bathtub fits your needs, there's a variety to choose from: freestanding tubs for a classic look, alcove tubs for space-saving, or whirlpool tubs for therapeutic purposes. Remember to consider the size of your bathroom, your budget, and the bathtub's material and maintenance when deciding.

Consider Lighting

Lighting plays a pivotal role in a bathroom's functionality and aesthetics. Good lighting improves safety, enhances visibility, and helps set the mood. Consider including task lighting for activities like makeup application or shaving, ambient lighting for general visibility, and accent lighting to highlight design features.

You should explore different fixtures, such as recessed lights, sconces, or vanity lights. Additionally, dimmer switches can be a great addition, giving you control over the brightness to suit different needs and moods.

Don’t Overlook Ventilation

Ventilation is key to maintaining a fresh and mould-free bathroom. It helps control moisture levels, preventing the buildup of mould and mildew and the damage they cause. Ventilation also helps eliminate odours, ensuring your bathroom always smells fresh.

Options for bathroom ventilation include exhaust fans, windows, and vents. Exhaust fans are particularly useful in bathrooms without windows, efficiently drawing out humid air and odours. Regular maintenance of your ventilation system is also crucial to maintaining an efficient and long-lasting system.

Add a Little Luxury

If your budget allows, why not consider adding a dash of luxury to your bathroom? Heated floors can take the edge off cold winter mornings, while towel warmers ensure a warm, cosy towel post-shower. Steam showers offer a spa-like experience, promoting relaxation and various health benefits.

Even smaller details can add a touch of luxury. High-quality materials, a high-end showerhead, or a stylish vanity mirror can make a difference in your bathroom experience. However, balancing your desire for luxury with practicality and budget constraints is crucial.

Choose Durable Bathroom Materials

In a bathroom, durability is key. High levels of moisture and heavy use demand materials that can withstand these conditions. For flooring, consider ceramic or porcelain tiles, natural stone, or concrete. They are water-resistant, robust, and easy to clean.

For your walls, water-resistant paint or tiles are recommended. Countertops must be water, heat, and stain-resistant materials such as quartz, granite, or laminate are often used. When choosing fixtures and accessories, look for rust and corrosion-resistant materials, such as stainless steel or brass.

Use Your Space Wisely

Regardless of your bathroom's size, utilising space efficiently is crucial. Consider installing built-in storage, such as medicine cabinets or under-sink storage, to hide toiletries. Shower niches can store shower products without taking up additional space.

If your bathroom is small, consider space-saving fixtures like corner sinks, wall-mounted toilets, or sliding shower doors. Glass panels instead of shower curtains can make the bathroom appear larger by providing a clear sightline.

Add Plants for Living Colour

Adding plants to your bathroom can significantly enhance its aesthetic appeal. Besides their beauty, plants can also improve air quality and create a calming atmosphere. Opt for low-light, high-humidity, and easy-care plants like ferns, orchids, spider plants, and peace lilies.

Adjust Room Size with Colour

The colour scheme of your bathroom can impact its perceived size. Light colours, such as white, cream, and pastel shades, can make a small bathroom feel larger and brighter. On the other hand, darker colours can make a large bathroom feel cosier and more intimate. You can also use contrasting or complementary colours to add interest and depth to the design.

Bathroom Lighting Matters

In addition to its practical use, lighting can also influence the mood and ambience in your bathroom. Use layers of light, such as ambient, task, and accent lighting, to create a well-lit and inviting space. Dimmer switches can be used to adjust the lighting intensity according to your mood and the time of day.

Add Freestanding Pieces

Freestanding pieces can add character and charm to your bathroom. Consider adding elements such as chairs, baskets, floor mats, and artwork. These pieces can inject your personal style into the design and make the bathroom feel more like a living space.

Be careful not to clutter your bathroom with too many pieces. Select a few key items that complement your design and enhance your bathroom's functionality.

Ready to Renovate Your Bathroom? Contact BuildPro Today!

If you're ready to turn your bathroom renovation dreams into reality, contact BuildPro today. Our team of professionals can guide you through each step of the renovation process, ensuring a stress-free experience and a beautiful end result.

Don't put off your bathroom renovation any longer. With these bathroom renovation tips in hand and the BuildPro team by your side, you can create a bathroom that is functional, stylish, and perfectly suited to your needs. Contact us today to get started!