You’ve been scrolling through Pinterest, haven’t you? Eyeing those elegant, spa-like bathrooms and thinking, “I wish that was mine.” A bathroom isn’t just a functional space; it’s a sanctuary, a retreat, a place where you can wash away the stress of the day. But let’s be honest—your tired, outdated bathroom is far from giving you that spa experience. That’s why you’re here, looking for a roadmap to make your dream bathroom a reality.
Renovating a bathroom is not a small task; it requires planning, budgeting, and a little bit of sweat and tears. But the results? Absolutely worth it. From choosing the perfect tiles to deciding on a sleek new sink, every detail matters. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some tips to master your bathroom renovation. Buckle up; it’s going to be a transformative journey.
How Much Should You Really Spend?
First thing’s first, you need to set a budget. It’s easy to get lost in the sea of design inspirations and end up spending more than you anticipated. That’s why a clear budget helps guide you through your renovation journey. The average bathroom renovation in the UK costs around £6,500, but this figure can vary widely depending on your choices and needs.
But how do you decide on a budget? Start by listing your must-haves and nice-to-haves. A walk-in shower might be non-negotiable for you, but perhaps you could compromise on the type of tiles you use. Also, don’t forget to factor in labour costs.
Choosing the Right Design
Ah, the part you’ve probably been looking forward to the most—choosing your bathroom’s new design. But before you go all out, picking the fanciest fixtures and finishes, hold your horses. It’s important to strike a balance between aesthetics and functionality. You don’t want to end up with a bathroom that looks like it’s straight out of a magazine but is a nightmare to clean or navigate.
Pinterest and Instagram are great for inspiration, but don’t forget to consider your own lifestyle. For example, if you have kids, you might want to opt for a double sink to prevent early morning squabbles. Or if you’re a fan of long, luxurious baths, invest in a tub that’s big enough to stretch out in, not one that just looks good in photos.
Shop Around for Tiles
Tiles set the tone for your bathroom, and boy, are there options galore. Ceramic, porcelain, marble—the list goes on. When selecting tiles, think beyond just the colour or pattern. You need to consider texture, size, and even the grout.
Ceramic tiles are a popular choice because they’re cost-effective and easy to maintain. If you’re going for a more luxurious look, marble tiles add an instant touch of elegance but require more upkeep. Also, remember that floor tiles should be slip-resistant. You don’t want to take a tumble while reaching for the shampoo, do you?
Ensure The Plumbing is Done Right
It’s easy to get caught up in how things look and forget about what goes on behind the scenes. Your bathroom’s plumbing is like its backbone—out of sight but essential. If you’re doing a complete overhaul, this is the perfect time to replace any outdated plumbing. While it might add to your initial costs, updated plumbing can save you money in the long run by preventing leaks or water damage.
Professional bathroom fitters can be invaluable here. They can advise you on what needs replacing and what can be retained, helping you make informed decisions. Depending on where you live, you might consider hiring local bathroom fitters to help with the renovation. For example, if you’re in St Albans, 3Flo offers a range of services tailored to fit your bathroom to perfection. Trust me, hiring a professional can save you a lot of headache down the line.
The Importance of Good Lighting
When it comes to bathrooms, good lighting is often an afterthought, but it shouldn’t be. Imagine trying to shave or apply makeup in a dimly lit space; it’s a recipe for disaster. The trick is to have a mix of different light sources to suit various tasks and moods. For example, you might want bright, clear lights around the mirror for grooming tasks and softer, ambient lighting for when you’re soaking in the tub.
Don’t just settle for the standard overhead light; explore options like wall sconces, LED strip lights, or even a small chandelier if you’re feeling fancy. The key is to plan your lighting around the tasks you’ll be doing in the bathroom. If possible, go for fixtures that allow you to adjust the brightness to suit different needs.
Storage Solutions
Storage might not be the most exciting part of a bathroom renovation, but it’s crucial. You need a place for your towels, toiletries, cleaning supplies, and the list goes on. Built-in cabinets are a great solution, but they’re not the only option. Floating shelves, ladder racks, or even a vintage cabinet can add both storage and style to your bathroom.
Before finalising your storage solutions, take stock of what you actually need to store in the bathroom. This will help you determine the type and amount of storage you need. For instance, if you have a lot of small toiletries, you might benefit from a mirrored cabinet with shelves of different heights.
The Final Touches
You’re almost there, just a few finishing touches left. This is where you add those small details that make your bathroom truly yours. Think about elements like towel hooks, soap dispensers, or even a fresh coat of paint on the door. It’s these little things that add personality to your bathroom and make it feel complete.
And don’t forget about ventilation. The last thing you want is a gorgeous bathroom plagued by mould. Ensure you have an efficient exhaust fan or even a window that can be opened to let out the steam.
