The evolution of the bathroom is something to marvel at. For many years, bathrooms were small and lacked any sense of elegance; they only had space for a tub/shower combination as well as some type of toilet facilities. But now we have opened up our minds beyond these limitations!
Many homeowners often imagine that a small bathroom—about 50 square feet or less–will be much quicker and easier than larger bathrooms, but this may not always be true! Small bathrooms may have a few more challenges than their larger counterparts, but with careful planning and execution, your newly remodeled bathroom can now be a beautiful, stylish place that helps you relax and unwind after a long day.
How To Remodel A Small Bathroom?
When planning your small bathroom renovation, it is important to keep in mind that less is often more. A tiny bathroom can easily become overloaded with too many elements, which can make the space feel cluttered and cramped. So be selective about what you really need and want in your small bathroom, and only include those features.
For a small bathroom remodel, keep the following things in mind.
- First, maximize the space you have. If your small bathroom feels cramped and cluttered, consider removing some of the unnecessary items to free up some extra space.
- Second, choose fixtures and materials that are proportionate to the size of the room. A large Jacuzzi tub might look out of place in a small bathroom, for example.
Finally, don’t forget the details! Even small bathrooms can benefit from thoughtful touches like attractive towel racks, new hardware, or nice pieces of artwork.
Plan your bathroom renovation project
Keep it simple.
When it comes to small bathroom design, less is often more. Over-the-top designs or too many colors can make a small space feel even smaller. Stick to a basic color palette and simple design elements for the best results.
Utilize every inch of space.
Small bathrooms often don’t have a lot of extra room, so it’s important to make the most of the space you do have. Use wall-mounted shelving or cabinets to free up floor space, and consider installing floating bathroom vanity to create the illusion of more room.
Go for light and airy.
Another way to make a small bathroom feel larger is to let in more light. Install additional lighting fixtures or add a skylight to let natural light flood into the bathroom. If possible, avoid dark colors and opt for lighter hues that will reflect light and make a small room feel larger.
Choose fixtures wisely.
When selecting new fixtures, be sure to choose items that are appropriately sized for the space. Too large of a sink or tub can make the room feel cramped, so stick to smaller-scale pieces that will fit comfortably in the newly remodeled bathroom.
Use a Pocket Door
If you have the space, a pocket door can be a great way to gain more space in a small bathroom. Pocket doors slide into the wall, so they don’t require any additional clearance area as a traditional swinging entry door would. This can be a great option if you have a particularly small bathroom.
Keep it organized.
One of the challenges of small bathrooms is that they can easily become cluttered. Be sure to keep things organized with ample storage space for all of your bathroom essentials. Hooks, baskets, and drawer organizers can all be used to maximize small bathroom space and keep things tidy.
Add Some Storage
One of the best ways to make a small bathroom feel more spacious is to add some extra storage. Wall-mounted shelving or cabinets can help to clear up floor space, and a floating vanity can create the illusion of more room. If you’re short on storage, consider adding a small closet or using an empty nook for additional shelves.
Use a long mirror and clear glass
Another way to make a small bathroom feel more spacious is to use a long mirror and clear glass shower door. The mirror will reflect light and make the bathroom feel larger, and the clear shower door will also help to open up the room.
Small Bathroom remodel key steps
Whether you’re planning a small bathroom makeover or a complete gut job, there are certain key steps you’ll need to take to ensure the project goes smoothly. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you start planning your bathroom remodel.
Set a budget.
Before you begin any remodel project, it’s important to set a budget. This will help you determine what kind of changes you can realistically make, and it will also help to keep costs under control. When setting your budget, be sure to factor in the cost of materials, labor, and any other associated expenses.
Choose your design style.
One of the first things you’ll need to do is decide on a design style for your bathroom. This will help you determine what kind of changes you need to make, and it will also guide your choices for fixtures, colors, and materials.
Hire a contractor.
If you’re planning any major changes or structural modifications, getting professional help is important. A good local contractor can help to ensure that your project is completed on time and on budget, and they can also offer valuable insights and advice along the way.
Get the necessary permits.
Depending on the scope of your project, you may need to obtain certain permits before beginning work. Be sure to check with your local building department to find out what permits are required for your specific project.
Prepare for the worst.
Bathroom remodeling projects can sometimes be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to prepare for the worst. Be sure to have a backup plan in place in case of unforeseen delays or problems. And, if possible, try to avoid making any major changes during the peak summer or winter months when demand (and prices) are at their highest.
- By following these key steps, you can help ensure that your bathroom remodeling project goes smoothly from start to finish.
Bathroom renovation process
Once you’ve finalized your plans and gathered all the necessary materials, you can begin working on your bathroom renovation. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect during the remodeling process.
- Demolition. The first step in any renovation is demolition, which is when you remove all of the existing fixtures and finishes from the bathroom. This includes things like the toilet, sink, tub, shower, drywall, bathroom tiles, and anything else that will need to be replaced.
- Plumbing and electrical work. Once the demo is complete, you’ll need to take care of any necessary plumbing and electrical work. This may include moving or adding new plumbing pipes, installing new electrical outlets, or running new electrical wiring.
- Framing and drywall. The next step is to frame out the space and install new drywall. This will create the basic structure of your new bathroom, and it will also provide a blank canvas for you to work with when it comes time to add finishes.
- Flooring. The next step is to install your new flooring. This may include floor tile, vinyl, laminate, or something else entirely. Be sure to choose a material that can withstand high levels of humidity, as bathrooms are typically one of the moistest areas in the home.
- Fixtures and finishes. Once the flooring is in place, you can begin adding fixtures and finishes like toilet, new vanity, countertops, light fixtures, and mirrors. Be sure to take your time and choose each element carefully, as this will be what brings your bathroom design together.
- Decor and accessories. The final step is to add any final touches like decor and accessories. This is your opportunity to really make the space your own, so have fun with it! Choose items that reflect your personal style and taste.
how much does it cost to remodel a small bathroom?
The cost of remodeling a small bathroom can vary depending on a number of factors, including the scope of the project, the type of materials you’re using, and the price of labor. In general, you can expect to spend anywhere from $7,000 to $15,000 on a small bathroom remodel. However, if you’re planning any major changes or structural modifications, the cost could be significantly higher.
Bathroom Renovation Cost Breakdown:
- Demolition: $800 – $1,700
- Plumbing and electrical work: $1,000 – $6,000
- Framing and drywall: $1,200 – $3,000
- Flooring: $600 – $4,500
- Cabinets: $500 – $10,000
- Countertops: $1,200 – $6,000
- Light fixtures: $100 – $2,000
- Mirrors: $100 – $1,000
- Fixtures and finishes: $1,000 – $4,000
- Decor and accessories: $900 – $1,600
Looking To Remodel A Bathroom?
How to save on small bathroom remodel?
When it comes to remodeling a small bathroom, there are a few things you can do to keep costs down. For example, you might choose to reuse some of the existing fixtures or finishes, like the tub or toilet. Try to avoid making any major changes or structural modifications, as this can be one of the most expensive parts of the project. Opt for more affordable materials like laminate or vinyl instead of tile or stone. If possible, try to do some of the work yourself to save on labor costs.
Tips for remodeling a small bathroom on a budget:
- Avoid making any major changes or structural modifications.
- Use more affordable materials like laminate or vinyl instead of tile or stone.
- Do some of the work yourself to save on labor costs.
- Shop around for the best deals on materials and fixtures.
- Compare prices from different contractors before hiring anyone.
- Get multiple quotes before settling on a final price.
- Have a clear idea of what you want before starting the project.
- Be willing to compromise on some things in order to stay within your budget.
- Be prepared for unexpected costs and delays.
When it comes to remodeling a small bathroom, there are a few things you can do to keep costs down. For example, you might choose to reuse some of the existing fixtures or finishes, like the tub or toilet. You can also opt for more affordable materials, like laminate countertops instead of granite. And, if you’re able to do some of the work yourself, you can save even more money.
Bathroom remodeling tips
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind as you plan and execute your bathroom renovation:
- Don’t skimp on materials. When it comes to bathroom renovations, it’s important to use high-quality materials that can stand up to moisture and wear and tear.
- Don’t try to do everything at once. Renovating a bathroom can be a big undertaking, so it’s best to take it one step at a time. Start with the basics like flooring and fixtures, then move on to more cosmetic items like paint and decor.
- Hire a professional contractor. Unless you have experience with home renovations, it’s best to leave the work to the professionals. A good contractor will be able to handle all aspects of the project, from demolition to finishing touches.
- Be prepared for unexpected costs and delays. No matter how well you plan, there’s always a chance that something will go wrong during a renovation. Make sure you have a contingency fund set aside in case of unforeseen expenses or delays.
- Have realistic expectations. Don’t expect your bathroom to be perfect – chances are, there will be some minor imperfections. Just focus on the overall look and feel of your bathroom and remember that it can always be updated later down the road.
- Enjoy the process. Although it can be stressful at times, renovating your bathroom can also be a fun and rewarding experience. So take your time, make sure you’re happy with the results, and enjoy your new space!
These are just a few tips to help you plan and execute your small bathroom remodel. With careful planning and execution, your small bathroom can now be a beautiful, stylish place that helps you relax and unwind after a long day.
The bottom line
Renovating a small bathroom doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With careful planning and execution, you can create a beautiful, functional space that you’ll enjoy for years to come. Just remember to avoid making any major changes or structural modifications, use more affordable materials whenever possible, and do some of the work yourself to save on labor costs. By following these tips, you can successfully remodel your small bathroom without breaking the bank.
Small Bathroom Remodel FAQ
What are some common mistakes people make when remodeling a small bathroom?
Common mistakes people make when remodeling a small bathroom include making structural changes, using the wrong materials, not planning ahead, and not having realistic expectations.
What are some tips for staying within a budget when remodeling a small bathroom?
Some tips for staying within a budget when remodeling a small bathroom include avoiding major changes or modifications, choosing more affordable materials, doing some of the work yourself, and shopping around for the best deals.
How long does it typically take to remodel a small bathroom?
The length of time it takes to remodel a small bathroom depends on the scope of the project. Simple renovations can be done in a weekend, while more extensive projects may take several weeks or even months to complete.
