Do’s and don'ts when renovating your bathroom

Published by: Kevin Sears

12th September 23

Reading Time: 3 mins 57 secs

A bathroom renovation can be both exciting and overwhelming. Every decision feels like a big one, and there are so many do's and don'ts to navigate.

To help you get off to the best possible start, we’ve pulled our big practical tips for success, and the common pitfalls to avoid at all costs. From the importance of planning and working with professionals, to understanding the balance between trend and functionality, we've got you covered.

Let's dive in!

Bathroom renovation do’s

Five tips to help you create a functional, beautiful bathroom that you'll love for years to come.

Plan ahead

Let's start with one of the most essential pieces of advice we can give you: planning.

‘Failing to plan is planning to fail’ absolutely applies to bathroom renovations. And we're not just talking about picking out your favourite basin taps or deciding on a colour scheme. No, we're talking about a comprehensive plan that includes a detailed budget, a realistic timeline, and a well-thought-out bathroom layout.

Good planning will guide you through every decision and keep everything running smoothly. So, before you so much as look at a sample tile, make sure you have a solid plan in place.

Hire professionals

We know it can be tempting to tackle a bathroom renovation on your own, especially if you're handy around the house. But you should definitely be hiring professionals for more complex tasks, like plumbing and electrical work.

Hiring professionals will save you time and could prevent costly mistakes. Plus, professionals know all the local codes and regulations, ensuring your new bathroom is up to standard.

Invest in quality

It's easy to get caught up in price when choosing fixtures and fittings for your bathroom, but don’t let that compromise the level of quality you need.

Higher quality items might cost more upfront, but they'll save you money in the long run simply because they last longer. And it's not just about durability: premium items, like freestanding baths and counter-top basins, can elevate your bathroom design and create a luxurious space you'll love.

And there’s also the small matter of growing your home's resale value.

Know the importance of good lighting

Let's talk about lighting. It's often overlooked, but can make or break your bathroom's functionality and aesthetic.

Ambient lighting, for example, can transform your bathroom into a relaxing retreat that’s perfect to unwind in. And don't forget about natural light by incorporating windows or skylights into your bathroom design.

But remember, privacy is key in a bathroom – consider frosted glass or window treatments to let light in while keeping unwanted attention out.

Create storage space

Storage may not be the most glamorous part of your bathroom design, but it's one of the most important. Because no matter how beautiful your new bathroom is, it won't matter if it's always cluttered.

Creating storage could be anything from including a vanity unit or cabinet, or even built-in shelving in your shower. Think about what items you need to store in your bathroom and plan around that. And don't forget about those smaller storage solutions like toilet roll holders, robe hooks and towel rings – they can add extra storage and keep your bathroom tidy and hygienic.

5 bathroom renovation don'ts

Five bathroom renovation pitfalls to avoid – unless you want to risk your dream space becoming more of a nightmare.

Rush the process

As exciting as it is to see your new bathroom come to life, it's crucial not to rush the process – bathroom renovations require time and patience.

Mistakes made in a hurry can be costly to fix and can even lead to needing another renovation sooner than expected. Give your plumbers, electricians and most importantly yourself, the time needed to do the job correctly.

Rome wasn't built in a day, and a well-built bathroom isn’t either!

Ignore plumbing

If you're doing a significant remodel or your home is older, don't ignore the potential need to update your plumbing.

Plumbing issues can be like a ticking time bomb, causing serious damage when least expected. It’s always far better to handle potential issues during your renovation.

Trust us, your future self will thank you.

Forget about electrical standards

From one potential headache to the next…

They might not sound exciting, but electrical standards are in place for your safety – ignoring them can lead to dangerous situations happening. Not to mention, non-compliance can result in fines or issues when you want to sell your home.

Trend over functionality

We know it's tempting to chase the latest bathroom design trends, but functionality is what has to stand the test of time.

The fact is, no matter how stylish a particular piece of furniture or feature might be, if they don't serve your needs, you'll end up frustrated. Your bathroom needs to be a practical space where you can easily go about your daily routines. So, before you get caught up in the latest bathroom fads, consider how the design will work in your everyday life.

Remember, trends come and go, but a well-functioning bathroom is always in style.

Ignore your home’s overall style

It sounds obvious but it’s ignored far too often – your new bathroom should still feel like it's a part of your home.

Sure, a bathroom can be a space to experiment with new styles or design ideas. But a bathroom design that drastically differs from the rest of your home can end up feeling disjointed. If, for example, you have a rustic, cosy home, a super-modern bathroom might feel out of place.

Your bathroom should be a continuation of your home's style story, not a confusing subplot.