Bathroom Remodels:
Design Ideas, Average Costs and Mistakes to Avoid

6 common mistakes to avoid in bathroom remodelling

• Unrealistic Budget

• Inadequate Preparation

• Poor Quality Materials

• Ignoring Water Resistance

• Ignoring Adequate Lighting 

• Ignoring Proper Ventilation Needs 

Unrealistic Budget

Yes, you should get multiple quotes. 

If someone comes along and makes you feel like they are going to grant all your wishes for a fraction of what the usual going rate of a bathroom remodel would cost (more on this further on), take this as a warning sign. Not choosing a reputable contractor can come with costly repairs up the road. Sometimes it  could mean a poorly installed slope or bad plumbing angle impacting the drainage of the water, but worse when contractors or trades are able to give you a hefty cut on the cost of the job does this mean that they will be doing a hack job on the electricity, rendering your insurance policy void if it causes a fire? Will their business be around to honour follow up on possible workmanship errors or material defects? 

Go into the idea of a bathroom remodel knowing that bathrooms are one of the most expensive remodels to do in the house. Now that the cat is out of the bag let us work though for you, why in fact, it is a sound expense and how your investment in bathroom upgrades to your properties will give you a proper ROI (return on your investment).

If you have just purchased a property where you will have to redo a bathroom here are some good calculations to keep in mind, for both the value upkeep of your home and the functional and esthetic enjoyment. 

• First, most bathroom taps, hardware, cabinetry if bought from reputable suppliers and installed properly (more on this further on) will generally last around 20-30 years. 
• The second calculation to seriously consider is that bathrooms play a huge role in the resale value of your home. A modern, clean and updated bathroom can seal the deal for homebuyers. Why? It sets the tone for the rest of the house, much like the kitchen. If a potential buyer walks into a visit and is impressed by the bathroom design and aesthetics, they can skip over the calculation of how much it will cost for them to renovate. They will subtract the headache and hassle they will avoid to renovate it themselves.  On average, you can expect to get about 60-70 % return on the cost of updating your bathroom in the sale of your home. Some estate agents will even say that having updated bathrooms can increase the value of your home as well as lessen the chance of buyers offering lower than asking price. 
• The third important calculation to consider is the savings you stand to make when you choose new water saving technologies and energy-efficient lighting . 

Low-flow toilets and showerheads have revolutionised how we use water. These fixtures are designed to use significantly less water without sacrificing performance.

Low-Flow Toilets: These toilets use about 4.5 litres per flush compared to older models that can use up to 13 litres. Over time, this change can significantly lower your water bills.

Low-Flow Showerheads: They use 20%–60% less water, while still providing the same invigorating shower experience.

Lighting plays a massive role in your bathroom’s vibe (more on this later) and alongside offering style, switching to energy-efficient lighting can have tangible benefits. Traditional bulbs are energy beasts. They consume a lot of electricity and need frequent replacing. 

Lower Energy Bills: LEDs use at least 75% less energy than incandescent lighting. That’s like trading in a gas-guzzler for a hybrid car.

• Extended Life Span: Nobody enjoys climbing a ladder with a lightbulb and it’s not a weekly chore. LEDs last 25 times longer, keeping your bathroom bright for years.
• Enhanced Ambience: These bulbs offer a range of colour temperatures, from a soft yellow to a bright white. This allows you to create the perfect ambiance, whether you’re winding down with a bath or getting ready for the day.

Inadequate Preparation

If you feel overwhelmed by the personalization of your bathroom choices, we always encourage clients to take a browse through pinterest and come back to us with what stood out. The key to a successful remodel is that it tailors to the users. You should feel you can bounce ideas off your contractor or designer and that you can disagree with some of their suggestions and choices if they don’t aesthetically fit right with you. 

Some aspects to pay particular attention to in planning your bathroom remodel are as follows:

Proper Layouts: A well-designed bathroom isn’t just pretty; it’s practical. A poor layout can turn daily routines into a hassle. What size counter top will you need once you factor in all the elements that take up its space? Ask yourself who this bathroom is going to serve and will multiple people be using it at the same time? What size of sink will you need so that multiple individuals might be able to brush their teeth at the same time.

Adequate Storage: Have a good idea of what needs to permanently live in the space, hair appliances, makeup and products, linens etc. Make sure that you account for an appropriate amount of drawers, shelves and other storage so that you don’t end up having to shove things in other rooms or make adjustments when hosting guests. Think about the many uses and users throughout an entire year this bathroom might incur. Pro tip: When accounting for drawer space, at the same time account for hidden power outlets so that your hair appliances can simply live in respective drawers during use, this keeps your sink and counter free from clutter. 

Compatibility in design choices: Fixtures and fittings need to fit your space and work together. Without design, you risk buying items that clash or don’t fit your bathroom’s dimensions. It’s simpler to swap tiles in a design mockup than redo them after installation. A thorough design phase saves costly fixes down the road. Pro Tip: You will want your bathroom design to seamlessly flow into the overall design theme of your home. This is separate to adding your personal touch. You will not want your bathroom to feel like a separate room to your home.

As daunting as it may feel, planning ensures you won’t stumble halfway through and regret your decisions and is an important element to creating a realistic budget. The best designs are those that seamlessly integrate both form and function in a way that feels natural. Take the time to map out your vision.

Poor Quality Materials

When it comes to bathroom remodels, the materials you choose are crucial. Opting for cheap, low-quality materials might save you money upfront, but it often leads to headaches down the line. Poor quality can affect both the durability and aesthetics of your bathroom, turning what should be a peaceful retreat into a costly inconvenience.

Inexpensive Fixtures and Fittings:

Using inexpensive fixtures and fittings might seem like a great way to cut costs during your remodel. However, these budget-friendly choices can often be more of a burden than a bargain. Sure, they may look fine at installation, but how long will they last?

• Short Lifespan: Cheap taps, showerheads, and pipes tend to wear out much faster. This means more frequent replacements, which eventually undermine any initial savings.

• Constant Repairs: If fixtures are prone to leaks or breaks, you’ll spend more time and money on repairs, adding frustration to the mix.

• Lack of Style: Over time, cheap materials can show wear and lose their appearance, degrading the overall look of your bathroom.

Opting for high-quality materials from reputable plumbing and hardware brands, although initially more expensive, often proves to be the most cost-effective solution in the long run.

Ignoring Water Resistance

Bathrooms are naturally damp environments, and not using water-resistant materials can set the stage for disaster. No one wants to deal with mould or water damage, but there are real risks when proper precautions are ignored.

• Mould Growth: If surfaces like walls, flooring, or cabinetry aren’t adequately protected, they become perfect breeding grounds for mould and mildew.
• Structural Damage: Water seeping into walls or floors not only causes stains but also leads to warping and decay, damaging the structural integrity of the room.
• Health Risks: Mould isn’t just unsightly—it’s a health hazard. It can cause allergies and worsen respiratory issues.

So, when you’re choosing materials, think about longevity and safety. Select tiles, paints, and sealants specifically designed to withstand moisture. Investing in these up front will protect your home and your health, ensuring your bathroom remains a beautiful haven for years to come.

Ignoring Adequate Lighting Needs 

Many people overlook the importance of appropriate lighting in bathrooms. Lighting elements are crucial for maintaining both the functionality and comfort of the space. Skipping this aspect during a remodel can greatly impact the room’s overall appeal.

Choosing Inappropriate Lighting

Lighting in a bathroom isn’t just about seeing yourself in the mirror. It’s also about creating a welcoming atmosphere and ensuring safety. Think about how annoying it is to try and put on makeup or shave with poor lighting. Good lighting sets the mood and makes daily routines easier.

Choosing the right lighting fixtures can entirely transform how a bathroom feels and functions. Consider these points when choosing your lighting:

• Brightness: Adequate brightness is essential. Aim for sufficient light to illuminate your face clearly.
• Colour Temperature: Opt for warm or cool whites to match the desired ambience.
• Layering: Use a mix of overhead lights, vanity lighting, and accent lights for balance.

Ignoring Proper Ventilation Needs

Ventilation isn’t just a matter of comfort; it’s essential for preventing issues like mould and odours. A bathroom without proper ventilation can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mildew, leading to health problems and a cascade of costly repairs.

Failing to Address Ventilation Issues

Without effective airflow, excess moisture accumulates, warping wooden fixtures and peeling paint. Imagine a steamy jungle where everything feels damp—that’s your bathroom without proper ventilation.

Consider your bathroom’s ventilation as a key investment to its longevity and comfort. Here’s what you need to ensure a healthy bathroom environment:

• Install Exhaust Fans: Choose a fan with adequate power for your space and use it during and after showers.
• Check Vent Placement: Vents should lead outdoors to effectively expel moist air.
• Regular Maintenance: Keep vents clean to ensure they function efficiently.

Average costs to expect for Bathroom Remodels

• Basic

• Mid- Range

• Luxury

Here we will provide an average estimation of expenses associated with bathroom renovations, from basic to high-end. By a bathroom remodel, we mean a complete overhaul where the existing space is reimagined and rebuilt. A reliable contractor will guide you on whether your project requires updates to plumbing, waterproofing, electrical work, and ventilation, including these in the full scope work proposal.

• Basic Renovation: expect to spend anywhere from 10,000 and 15,000 CHF. This usually involves updating tiles and minor plumbing tasks, like replacing a radiator. The shower or bath will be upgraded to standard, durable options but will stay in their current position. Expect chrome tapware and standard-sized vanities.
• Mid-Range Renovation, costing between 20,000 and 40,000 CHF, may involve moving walls and altering the layout. This could include upgrading vanities with custom sizes to optimise space and storage, enhancing mirror and lighting choices, converting a shower box into a walk-in Italian shower, adding custom niches for products, and improving the tile design and materials. Prioritising essential features and desired additions will help manage these costs.
• Luxury Renovation, expect to pay between 40,000 and 100,000 CHF. This is the type of renovation where clients really want to go all out and create a space that has all the amenities and luxurious feel of a high end bathroom. These are also renovations where multiple uses of this space are created such as stand alone makeup areas and sauna and or steam room additions for example. Top of the line fixtures and lighting, with their contributing ambience designed into the overall scheme. Custom cabinetry is crafted from exotic woods or similar premium material with bespoke features, for an abundance of discreet storage that favours ease and effortlessness to organisation. Tiles, baths, and sinks use noble materials like stone, quartz, and marble.

Modern Design Inspiration Take-Aways

• Italian shower design

• Statement Stone

• Ultra Large Tile Size

• Multiple Lighting Features

• Black, Bronze and Other Brushed Metal Fixtures

• Touch Dial Commands

Walk in Italian Shower

Italian shower designs: shower is at the same level as the bathroom’s floor, which gives it a modern and elegant feel. 

What we love about this design is that it really creates a seamless flow for floor to ceiling tile choices. It simplifies floor cleaning. For smaller spaces this is an excellent choice to enlarge your shower capacity as you can opt for a simple glass shower screen and do away with the box shower. The spaciousness then allows for custom built in seating that can be tiled in unison.

When budget allows we like to further customise shower spaces with built in niches. This additional storage removes bottles left on the floor or on protruding shelving (those eye sores that hang from the shower heads). Integrated storage further enhances clean lines and elegance