Mastering Bathroom Renovations: Your Ultimate 13-Step Guide
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Luxurious bathroom remodel, featuring a stunning freestanding jetted tub.
Your bathroom renovation project is incredibly important. And it’s because your bathroom is more than just a functional space; it’s a sanctuary where you begin and end your day. So, why not transform it into your own sanctuary of relaxation and style?
Whether planning a minor update or a major overhaul, this comprehensive guide to successful bathroom renovations will provide you with all the insights and inspiration you need for your project.
Discover the 2023 bathroom trends envisioned by designers; this covers colors, materials, well-being elements, technological innovations, and more. Let’s dive in!
Renovate Your Bathroom According to Industry Trends
Per Builder Online's expert analysis, the most prominent trends surrounding kitchen and bathroom renovations in 2023 focus on elevating home improvement toward unparalleled levels of opulence. Let’s explore the pivotal highlights:
Before Bathroom Remodel: Outdated Shower, Tile, and Aging Vanities
Space Optimization
This year’s top priority is making the most of your bathroom space. This means ditching traditional bathtubs in favor of expanding your shower area and even considering breaking down walls to create more room in your primary bathroom. In this primary bathroom, we removed walls and started completely from ground zero.
Discover our revamped space: double shower and custom walk-in closet
2. Closet Integration
Merging closets and dressing areas with the bathroom is a trend gaining traction all over. This design approach adds convenience and style to your daily routine.
The above picture shows that the shower and closet are just an arm’s length away. There’s also a concealed pull-out laundry basket just two feet away from the shower. Say goodbye to rushing to the laundry room or dealing with laundry piles on the floor.
In addition, we removed the shower to the right and put it in the closet. The double shower is in the center of the primary bathroom and closet.
We added a walk-through shower. It was like nothing I had ever seen before, and I thought it would add more flare and functionality to the space. On the other side of the double shower is another entry that leads to the double vanity sinks and toilet room.
3. Sustainability Matters
Embrace eco-conscious choices in your renovations with features like 100% LED lighting, electric radiant flooring, and EPA WaterSense faucets, showerheads, and toilets. These small actions can make a big difference in your budget and the luxuriousness of the space.
During my visit to the Builders Show in Las Vegas last winter, one of the most bustling trade show exhibits featured a unique setup and exceptional WaterSense faucets.
4. Style Preferences
The style you choose for your bathroom is incredibly important, as it sets the feel of the space. If you’re at a loss as to what colors to incorporate into the space, check out my Interior Design Color Trends blog here. You could really spice things up with bold accents on vertical surfaces, vanities, and artwork.
5. Elevate Your Renovation Game with Cutting-Edge Technology.
Imagine stepping into a bathroom that pampers you with heated floors, precise temperature and moisture controls, intuitive voice and app commands, smart toilets and bidets, and ingenious smart mirrors. Wouldn’t that be amazing?
Among the tech wonders gaining popularity, heated floors take the lead, providing a cozy warmth that redefines comfort. With thermostat smart control for flooring and showers, you’ll experience a personalized spa-like oasis.
The future also brings humidity and venting detectors that adapt to your activity, ensuring the perfect environment.
Note: As I delve deeper into these technological marvels, stay tuned for updates to revolutionize your luxury renovation experience!
One of the most enticing upgrades we’re eager to explore is the addition of heated floors to one of our luxurious bathroom remodels. Picture this: as you step into your spa-like haven, the warmth radiating from the floor envelops you in a cocoon of comfort and relaxation. In moments of tranquility, I would find myself sitting in the shower, seeking solace and connection through prayer. And just outside the shower, Jordan (my husband) often visits with me, creating an intimate space for unhurried conversations. These cherished moments of togetherness make a bathroom renovation truly special.
6. Perfecting the Details
Pay attention to the finer points of your renovation project. Opt for light-colored quartz and quartzite countertops, ceramic and porcelain tiles with underfloor flooring heating, and large-format tiles and slabs to reduce grout lines and make maintenance a breeze.
7. Shower Luxuries
Two-person showers with open entrances are the shower of choice, closely followed by swinging shower doors, wet rooms, or sliding shower doors. Choose the option that best suits your personal taste.
8. Bathtub Elegance
According to Builder Online, freestanding and soaking tubs are the leading choices for adding a touch of luxury to primary bathrooms. But that’s not all they’re good for. They are also painless to install and can be placed literally anywhere in the bathroom that plumbing allows (not just against a wall).
Stunning Remodel Freestanding Tub with Fireplace Above - Luxury Bathroom Transformation
9. Design and Layout
Your bathroom’s design and layout are essential to creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. Consider hiring a professional designer or using 3D design tools to visualize the final result. According to Houzz, in 2022, 48% of homeowners hired general contractors, 23% hired bathroom remodelers, and 13% hired designers.
Consider your needs and preferences, especially how you and anyone else who’ll be sharing the space will utilize it. Identify the specific areas you’ll use and design the space to accommodate your daily routines.
Personally, I’ve always been disappointed with the trend of excluding bathtubs from new home constructions. While I may not take a bath every day, a bathtub is a small luxury I love to indulge in now and again. I find it valuable to use it at least once a week to unwind and alleviate the stress accumulated throughout the week. The prospect of experiencing this stress relief 52 times a year is well worth it, particularly in today’s challenging times.
10. Fixture Trends
You can stay up-to-date with the latest bathroom fixture trends to give your space a modern touch. In 2023, matte black faucets and fixtures are all the rage, as they add a touch of sophistication to any bathroom. Smart toilets and bidets are also gaining popularity for their convenience and water-saving features.
Elevate your bathroom: Luxury faucet meets freestanding jetted tub.
Surprisingly, not many people are talking about it, but the allure of gold and brass is making a triumphant return, and it’s more breathtaking than ever. Lately, I’ve been incorporating gold accents into my latest designs. Stay tuned for a sneak peek of my latest project!
11. Energy Efficiency
Sustainability is a growing concern for many homeowners. Consider energy-efficient fixtures and appliances to reduce water and energy consumption in your bathroom. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), installing WaterSense-labeled fixtures can save a family of four up to 16,000 gallons of water and $160 per year.
12. Flooring and Materials
Choose durable and water-resistant flooring and materials to ensure your bathroom stands the test of time. Flooring trends for 2023 remain much the same as in previous years, with a higher emphasis on aesthetics and low-maintenance materials. Vinyl is becoming increasingly popular as it is an aesthetically attractive material with low maintenance requirements, high water resistance, and an easy DIY process.
Luxury remodeled bathroom suite with Airbusque Lantern shower tile, life-proof flooring, and walk-in closet.
Geometric and floral designs are overtaking patterned tile, but these three are still incredibly popular.
I will take a different stance here and express my dislike for floor tiles in our home. Tiles can be quite a hassle. They’re not the easiest to install, tend to accumulate dirt quickly, and are prone to chipping and cracking. And let’s not even get started on the grout – what a headache! I’m fed up with the color changing, because of dirt and grime, along with the constant cracking, chipping, and maintenance.
We opt for Lifeproof flooring in our households due to its exceptional durability and waterproof characteristics. To be clear, I have no affiliation with Lifeproof; I’m expressing my honest opinion. While there may be more expensive choices, it upholds high-quality standards.
Transformed by Wrecked and Refined: Luxury Remodeled Toilet Room and Laundry with Lifeproof Flooring
When it comes to home design, it’s crucial to keep in mind that style trends evolve roughly every decade. When it’s time for a floor update in around ten years due to wear and tear, it will likely coincide with the need for a design refresh.
If your initial purchase is relatively inexpensive, the cost of this future update will be manageable. This approach allows you to master bathroom remodels while safeguarding your property’s long-term value.
Within the context of my design decisions, my goal is to create a bathroom that exudes luxury, a touch of rustic charm, and a clean aesthetic. While many guests won’t discern whether I spent $2.50 or $50.00 per square foot, my husband certainly pays attention to the budget details!
Explore how you can master the art of a bathroom remodel by striking a perfect balance between these elements while keeping your budget in check.
13. Lighting
Proper lighting can transform the ambiance of your bathroom. Incorporate a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting for a well-balanced and inviting space. According to the American Lighting Association (ALA), 40% of homeowners prioritize adequate lighting when renovating their bathrooms.
Stunning Luxury Remodel: Freestanding Jetted Tub, Fireplace, Vanities, and Walk-In Closet
Seeing a beautiful light fixture in a bathroom might not be the norm, which is precisely why I enjoy putting them there.
If you’ve read my blog before, you may be aware that I firmly believe lighting acts as the jewelry of any space, regardless of where it’s placed. Lighting is a home’s best friend. It’s the stylish accessory of the home.
Stunning Luxury Remodel: Freestanding Jetted Tub, Fireplace, Vanities and Shower
Setting Your Budget
As per the latest findings from the esteemed home improvement authority, Angi, the national average expense for a bathroom renovation in 2023 is around $11,365. Breaking it down translates to costs ranging from $70 to $250 per square foot. This means that your renovation budget could fall from $6,622 to $16,744.
But here’s the real kicker: from our experience, these numbers need to be higher.
The costs can quickly spiral upwards, leaving you awestruck. Remember 2020?
However, according to insights shared by Architectural Digest, it’s essential to understand that the numbers can vary greatly depending on the scope of your project.
For instance, the average cost for a full bath covering 50 square feet might require an investment of $30,000 to $40,000. If you want to transform a primary bath that spans 100 square feet, be prepared for a higher budget, ranging from $60,000 to $80,000. These figures highlight the importance of carefully assessing your renovation needs and setting a budget aligning with your project goals.
Note: Fast forward to today, and you should brace yourself for a financial adventure or breakdown. With inflation and labor shortages joining the renovation scene, the price tag for a bathroom remodel can soar to astonishing heights.
Conclusion
A successful bathroom renovation involves careful planning, a well-defined budget, and an eye for design. Following the tips and trends outlined in this guide, you can transform your bathroom into a blissful retreat that adds value to your home.
Whether you’re looking to sell or enjoy your revamped space to the fullest, a well-executed bathroom renovation will bring you joy and satisfaction for years to come. Happy renovating!
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