7 Bathroom Remodeling Tips Designers Want You To Know

The period before embarking on a bathroom remodel is a critical time. You must carefully evaluate non-negotiable features for the space, whether that’s clever storage setups, luxury elements, or a certain color scheme. There are so many decisions that have to be made before the transformation begins that it can be overwhelming and easy to overlook certain areas or forget key components.

To help alleviate some of the stress of planning a remodel, we asked Southern designers to share tips that they wish everyone kept top of mind before tackling a main or powder bath remodel to ensure success. And they certainly delivered.

Hidden Storage Is Key

Think beyond basic cabinets and shelves, and be sure to flex your creative muscles in order to determine the best hidden storage solutions for your space ahead of time. “Not all bathrooms are large, and sometimes working with the existing bathroom footprint can feel really challenging,” says Francesca Herro Saour, founder of Francesca Herro Interiors in Houston, Texas. She recommends installing a mirror that doubles as a medicine cabinet or a closed vanity to stash toiletries and suggests implementing a hidden in-wall pop-out spot near the sink, too. “Opting for a closed vanity over a pedestal sink can really make a difference,” she adds. 

Don’t Forget To Consider Little Luxuries

Before your reno, “truly think through potential luxury bathroom additions, as they can transform the space,” comments Amy Studebaker, founder of Amy Studebaker Design in St. Louis, Missouri. After all, she says, your bathroom will get plenty of use, so why not think about including features such as heated floors, a steam shower, or a heated towel bar? High-end countertops, a soaking tub, and glass partitions can turn an everyday space into a spa-like experience.

Remember To Not Make The Toilet A Focal Point

There’s nothing glamorous about toilets, so keep them as concealed as possible. “We always make sure that the toilet isn’t front and center and the first thing you notice when you walk into the bathroom,” says Suzanne Barrow, the founder of Barrow Interiors in Isle of Palms, South Carolina. “We like to hide it behind the bathroom vanity cabinets in between the vanity and the shower.” 

Instead, let architectural details, artwork, a decorative mirror, statement lighting, or a pretty backsplash be the focus. Details like paint color or a fun chandelier help personalize the space. Toilets are necessary but don’t add any style.

Pay Careful Attention To The Walls

Barrow is a proponent of tiling bathroom walls, particularly in spaces designed for kids. “You don’t have to worry about water, and you can pick a fun tile that makes a statement,” she says. The designer also notes that if you opt for shiplap or wood material on the bathroom walls, this means you do not need to also incorporate a backsplash. 

Other options include wallpaper, just make sure to choose a type that is waterproof or water resistant, and beadboard, which can help protect walls from moisture and add style.

Don’t Be Afraid To Go Bold

If you’re remodeling a powder room, now is the time to have a bit of fun, designers say. “I love taking risks in powder rooms,” shares Rashida Banks, the founder of Rashida Banks Home & Lifestyle in Washington, D.C. “It’s a small room in comparison to other spaces but can be a mighty pleasant surprise to your guests.” Specifically, Banks appreciates powder rooms with a moody look and enjoys incorporating dark bronze grays and reddish plums into the mix. “Both of those types of colors pair really well with natural materials like wood or stone,” she adds. Barrow agrees, noting, “This a room where you can really push the creative boundaries.”

It’s also a good spot to use bold wallpaper patterns for a dramatic effect. Wallpaper can make a big impact on the smaller space, and it’s not likely to overpower the room. Mix it with colors you may be too hesitant to use in other spaces of your home.

Consider The Layout

Before you make final decisions about an updated look, consider your bathroom’s layout. Would changing any features make the space easier to use? Is there a door that opens one way but would work better if it opened another way? Can shelving replace a linen closet door in a bathroom that already has too many doors? Consider glass partitions to define the shower area while letting in more natural light and creating an open feeling. Is there room for a double vanity or a freestanding tub? It’s important to take note of the space while considering the features you want. This way you may be able to incorporate changes without a plumbing overhaul.

Set A Budget

It’s easy to get carried away with so many design options. Before you jump into a redesign, consider what you are willing to spend on the project. You may determine that you have money for a splurge or two, while other materials and finishes need to be more budget friendly. Besides the materials, there are other costs in a bathroom remodel, like permits, installation, and labor, and those can add up.