Planning a New Bathroom

new bathroom

A new bathroom can add significant value to your home and increase your enjoyment of it, but there are many details to consider. A well-planned project will avoid surprises down the road and ensure that the space works well for you and your family.

The best place to start is by creating a checklist of desired features. This should include a list of desired materials, finishes and accessories for the room. If you are unsure about any of these items, consult a design professional to help narrow down choices and create a plan that will work for your space.

Next, decide on a budget for the project. This is important to keep the project on track and prevent overspending. The National Kitchen and Bath Association recommends that the total cost of a bathroom remodel should not exceed 10 percent of your home’s value.

Getting financing for a home improvement can be a challenge, but the payoff can be worth the extra effort. Depending on your financial situation, you can use a home equity loan, refinance your mortgage, borrow against your retirement savings or life insurance policy or take out a personal loan.

Before you rip out your existing tile or drywall, it’s important to investigate plumbing issues and make sure they are in good working order. Often, these problems are easy to miss, and fixing them can increase the overall cost of your bathroom renovation project. For instance, if you install a new tub and discover that it drains poorly or leaks at the base, you may need to resize your water lines—which can add hundreds, if not thousands, to your remodeling costs.

If you plan to install a freestanding tub, consider the height of the faucets and the shower head. You’ll want to be able to comfortably reach the sink, tub and shower controls without straining. Similarly, you should plan to have plenty of storage to keep your new bathroom organized and clutter-free.

While trends come and go, some styles are timeless. Shiplap walls, for example, add an authentic touch to a bathroom and are especially appealing in smaller spaces. The exposed rafters in this bath by Michelle Berwick Design are both beautiful and functional, making the room feel spacious.

Natural stone is a beautiful material for baths and showers, and it’s also durable and easy to clean. New manufacturing techniques are enabling designers to incorporate the look of stone into modern showers and tubs with seamless surfaces.

Lighting is another critical element in the bath, and a well-placed fixture can transform the appearance of the entire room. A recessed light over the vanity is a simple way to update a bathroom, while a pendant over the bathtub can be a dramatic focal point. When designing your lighting, consider how you’ll use the space so you can choose the right fixtures to complement your style.

How Much Does Retiling a Bathroom Cost?

Retiling your bathroom is an excellent way to improve the look of your space. It’s also a great way to increase your home’s value. It can be a costly project, but one that is worth the investment. In this article, we will take a look at what retiling entails and how much it costs.

There are many factors that can influence the cost of retiling your bathroom, from the materials to the size of your space. The most important factor is the material of your tiles. Different materials have different prices, so it’s important to decide which tiles are right for you and your budget before starting the project. Ceramic tiles are the cheapest option and come in a wide variety of styles. They’re durable, easy to clean and available in a range of colors. Other tile options include slate and travertine. These natural stone tiles are long-lasting, but they’re more expensive than other options.

Depending on your taste, you may want to use mosaic tiles in your bathroom. These are eye-catching and can make your bathroom stand out from the rest. They’re also available in a variety of shapes and sizes. They’re also easy to install and can add a touch of elegance to your space.

The cost of retiling your bathroom will depend on the type of tiles you choose, how big your space is and how much labor is involved. You’ll need to purchase the tiles, grout and other tiling supplies, and you’ll also need to pay for the installation services. It’s important to get an accurate estimate from a contractor before beginning the project. You can do this by requesting quotes from several companies.

While tiling a bathroom sounds like a simple task, it can be difficult and time-consuming. You’ll need to make sure the walls are properly prepared, and there’s enough room for the new tiles. If you try to do it yourself, you could end up spending more money in the long run, and you might not have a finished product that you’re happy with. In addition, you’ll likely spend more time without access to your bathroom than if you hired a professional to do the work.

The cheapest type of tiles to install are vinyl and ceramic, which typically cost between $1 and $45 per square foot. Natural stone tiles, such as marble, are more expensive. You’ll also need to buy extra tiles to account for any possible wastage during the installation process.

Tile installation can be complicated, so it’s best to hire a professional for the job. A skilled tiler can finish the project faster and more efficiently than you would be able to. Additionally, a professional can help you avoid costly mistakes that you might not notice until after the work is completed. For example, a poorly installed tile floor can lead to moisture damage, mold, rot or cracked tiles.

Bathroom Makeovers You’ll Love

bathrooms makeovers

Bathrooms are heavy trafficked spaces that can take a beating. They can also be a great place to add some color, texture and pattern to your space. From simple paint and hardware updates to more extensive vanity, shower and flooring changes, you can make any bathroom a place where you want to spend some time. And, as we’ll see below, many of these projects require very little in terms of financial investment to completely transform a room.

Whether you’re a coastal grandma, modern maven or subtle minimalist, we’ve got over a dozen different ways to freshen up your bathroom and give it the kind of facelift that will impress all who enter. Whether you’re just getting ready for work or enjoying some downtime, your bathroom should be a relaxing oasis that provides an escape from the world outside.

With a few small tweaks, you can transform your bathroom into a place that makes you smile every time you step in the shower. From new sconces and a bright white vanity to a fresh coat of paint or patterned wallpaper, the possibilities are endless.

This outdated bathroom was suffering from dated floor tile, an old vanity and a dingy tub. Designer Ashley DeLapp added a patterned wallpaper, a more modern vanity and bright green cabinets to transform this bathroom into one that the whole family will love.

While this bathroom was functional, it wasn’t a room that anyone wanted to spend time in. The dingy color and old tile made this bath feel dark and enclosed. To brighten up the space, interior design Jessica Risko Smith repainted the walls and swapped out the light fixtures. She also updated the floor tiles and added a soaking tub to transform the bath into a place that is bright, clean and inviting.

The outdated vanity in this bathroom was taking up too much visual space and lacked storage space. To fix the problem, designer Emily Kates Design replaced the vanity with a double model that has ample storage space and updated the mirror and faucets.

Even the most well-maintained bathrooms can benefit from some renovations. Adding grab bars, tub cut-outs or anti-slip flooring can help keep the members of your household safe and prevent injuries. And, if your family is growing, a walk-in shower can make it easier for everyone to get in and out of the tub.

It’s easy to overlook the smaller details in a bathroom, but a darker frame for your mirror or a little extra decor on the shelves can make all the difference. This bathroom by Erin Gates Design is a perfect example of how a few minor upgrades can have a big impact.

An updated showerhead and low-flow toilet can reduce your water consumption and save you money on your utility bills. Plus, it’ll be good for the environment too!

7 Ideas for an Ensuite Renovation You’ll Want to Stay in Forever

ensuite renovation

Ensuite renovation is a popular project for homeowners. Whether you’re planning to update an existing ensuite, or renovating for the first time in your home, there are many ways to upgrade this space and make it a place you love to spend time. In this article, we share 7 ideas for a modern ensuite that you’ll want to stay in forever.

What Is an Ensuite?

An ensuite is a bathroom directly attached to a bedroom. It’s often a selling point of new homes and is increasingly popular in renovating bathrooms as well. Unlike a standard bathroom which can be accessed from a hallway, an ensuite has its own door and provides privacy.

While an ensuite is usually a master suite, it can also be the secondary bathroom in a home or part of a Jack and Jill style bathroom that connects two bedrooms. Regardless of the size, an ensuite is a private little bathroom that adds convenience to any room and makes getting ready for the day a much easier task.

There are a lot of ensuite bathroom ideas to consider but it’s important to balance functionality with what features you love and would like to have. It’s also important to think about your budget and the overall style of your house when designing your bathroom renovation.

Luckily, there are plenty of ensuite remodel ideas to choose from that will fit within your budget and reflect your style. From adding natural light to the space, to implementing storage solutions, there’s something for everyone when it comes to upgrading this important bathroom space.

To achieve the look of a spa-like ensuite, opt for light blue tiles around your shower and tub area. This colour is relaxing on the eyes and creates a sense of calm for your bathroom oasis.

Another way to incorporate luxury into your ensuite is by installing a heated floor. This is a great way to make sure your feet are nice and warm when you step out of the shower or bath, especially on those cold winter mornings.

If your ensuite doesn’t have a window, consider adding one to brighten up the space and make it feel more spacious. Alternatively, you can use lighting to create the illusion of a window, such as by adding recessed ceiling lights or tape lights on vanity tops.

Having an ensuite is a real pleasure and it’s even more of a dream when you have the perfect design to suit your style. If you’re thinking about updating your ensuite, get in touch with our team of experts and we can help you create a bathroom renovation to remember. We offer a free design consultation service and have access to a range of finance options to suit all types of budgets. Get in touch to book a free, no obligation, site visit today.

Planning and Budgeting for a Complete Bathroom Renovation

complete bathroom renovation

Complete bathroom renovation is a major project, which requires planning, design, contractors, materials, fixtures and more. A bathroom remodeling expert will help you determine what to keep and what to replace, while adding luxury features that will increase home value. The cost to remodel a bathroom will vary depending on its size, scope and complexity.

It’s important to make a list of everything that needs to be done to your bathroom and determine how much you’re willing to spend on it. It’s also helpful to consider what features can wait until a future date, and which ones are essential. For example, a full bathroom is often used by multiple people, including children, who might not care as much for the vessel sink and granite countertops as you do. Choosing a less expensive countertop or tile might save you money and still be as visually appealing.

When doing a complete bathroom remodel, it’s common for homeowners to find unexpected costs, especially when rerouting plumbing lines, rewiring electrical or changing the layout of the room. Hiring a professional will reduce the chance that these problems will occur and save you from potentially expensive repairs in the future.

To ensure that your renovation stays on budget, it’s important to have a solid plan for your project and stick to it. The plan should include what materials, fixtures and services you need, as well as a rough timeline for each step. A professional will be able to provide you with a timeline that takes into account the time it will take for materials to arrive, the installation of new fixtures and the completion of other labor-intensive tasks.

Creating a timeline will also give you an idea of how long it will take to complete the entire project. This can help you determine whether you have enough time to finish the renovation in one phase or if you need to do it in stages. It’s also a good idea to budget extra time for unexpected problems or delays.

Once the drywall has been installed and any plumbing repairs have been completed, it’s time to install the new tub or shower and vanity. Before the plumber begins work on these installations, the bathroom floor should be prepped and primed. This will help protect the subfloor from moisture and help the paint adhere to it better. Adding a vapor barrier and cement board to damp areas, such as underneath the bathtub or shower stall, is also a good idea.

Painting your bathroom can be a messy process, but it’s important to do so before installing any fixtures or flooring. This will prevent splatter from damaging your newly-installed items and will allow you to touch up paint quickly should the need arise.

When it comes to finishing your bathroom, the trim is what gives it a custom look. It can be painted, stained or covered with beadboard for a rustic feel. Decorative storage containers, window treatments and pictures on the wall can also add to its overall aesthetic.

Tips For a Successful Small Bathroom Reno

If you scream each time your blow-dryer clatters to the floor or have to perform contortions to get in and out of the tub or shower, it’s probably time for a small bathroom reno. The key to a successful update is understanding what makes your bathroom dated and drab so you can plan for the areas that need improvement in terms of both function and style.

For example, you may have old flooring that is chipping and needs replacement or you might have a dingy tile countertop that looks like it has seen better days. It might also be a good idea to replace a worn out toilet or dated light fixture. You might be able to do some or all of these renovations without incurring a lot of additional costs and, as an added bonus, a fresh look will make your home more marketable.

Depending on the extent of the remodel and the materials you select, the cost of your project will vary. If you’re hiring someone to do the work, check the contractor’s credentials and get at least three project estimates. You should expect plumbing and electrical work to be the most costly parts of any remodel, so be sure to leave a cushion in your budget for these expenses.

Keep in mind that any rerouting of your existing plumbing will add to the overall cost of your project. If you need to move the location of a sink or tub, for instance, this will change your floor plan and require new framing and plumbing.

The size of your space will also impact the cost of your renovation. A small bathroom typically has less wall space to cover than a larger room, so you’ll need to spend more money on paint and other surface finishes to fill the room.

Inexpensive, store-bought accessories can also have a big impact on the appearance of your bathroom. These homeowners personalized their bathroom by gluing grosgrain ribbon to the back of an inexpensive Roman shade window treatment. They also embroidered their own shower curtain to add a custom touch to their newly remodeled bath.

A bright color scheme is another easy way to make your small bathroom feel larger. White is a classic choice, but other hues can be equally effective. Popular shades include soft gray, seafoam green and butter yellow. Sears Home Services experts can help you find colors that will complement your other bathroom fixtures and décor.

Another tip to consider is adding a mirror that is the same width as your new window, allowing it to seamlessly blend into the frame. This trick can open up a room and make it feel more expansive, as well as reflect more natural light for a lighter, brighter aesthetic.

If you’re looking to finance your small bathroom reno, there are many options available to you. These can include a home equity loan, FHA or home improvement loans, credit cards and personal savings. The best option for you depends on how much equity you have in your home, the amount you want to borrow and how easy it would be to qualify for a specific type of financing.

What is the average cost of a bathroom and kitchen renovation in Australia?

Bathroom Renovation

Bathroom renovation can cost from $10,000 to $30,000 on average depending on the bathrooms’ size, quality of material being used, labour costs, fittings etc. 

Depending on the size, bathrooms can be categorized as:

Bathroom size                                                  Avg Cost

2m2 to 4m2 $8,000 to $15,000

6 m2 $12,000 to $20,000

8 m2 $20,000 to $25,000

Above 8 m2 $25,000+

The sizes quoted above are most often generalized as budget cost (2 m2 to 4 m2), standard cost (6 m2) and premium cost (8 m2+) bathrooms.

Basic Renovation

For a basic renovation, we might not use such high-quality material as it would increase the cost. Instead, we will go towards low-cost aesthetics. The plumbing would cost something around $2,000 and tiling (basic) around $1,500, limiting us to use fittings of around $3,000 to $4,000. Not to forget the labour cost maybe something around $2,500.  

Standard Renovation

For a standard renovation, the material’s quality will increase, increasing fittings and the tiling costs (tiles will be nice). Plumbing would cost a thousand something more, and similarly, labour costs will be around $3,000.

Premium Renovation

For a premium renovation, the premium facilities will cost $25,000+ facilitating with lovely painted walls, waterproofing, high-quality shiny tiles, skylights, new windows etc.

We have not included in the discussion the price of the old bathroom’s demolition, which can cost up to $45 to 50 per square meter for tile removal.

Kitchen Renovation

A kitchen renovation can be an expensive project, and it depends on how big the job is, which will increase its cost. According to a survey, a significant percentage of kitchen renovations involve enlarging the kitchen and changing the design to a new one. This restructuring of the kitchen can be costly and cost around $15,000 to $25,000 for a smaller sized kitchen, including the appliance’s cost. However, only remodelling like paint and a bit of change in marbles or the outlook may cost less comparatively. 

Kitchen renovation costs may vary depending on the purpose of the upgrade. If the objective is to modify the basic functionality, it can be done at a very low-cost budget, whereas if the goal is to remodel the kitchen to a dream one, then there is no limit.

Appliances

Appliances prices are often neglected while taking an estimate of the remodelling, and then it adds a lot of stress in the end because of being costly. It is estimated that almost 40% of the kitchen renovation expenses are kitchen appliances.

Managing costs

If a mid-range budget holder homeowner can compromise on a few things when thinking about remodelling his kitchen, it can look perfectly well in as low as $15,000. A floor polish instead of new flooring, a marble colour instead of the change, the paint on the wall and the windows instead of replacement can save a lot of the renovator’s cost. The appliances can be chosen wisely, so the budget is not exceeded.

All in all, the renovation of both the bathroom and the kitchen requires better planning and first-hand knowledge of the size and the material cost. And these factors solely act as the significant contributors in the varying of the prices. Getting quotes from different companies is also very important, Kitchen Renovations Wollongong is known as one of the best in kitchen renovations.

Things should not do in kitchen remodelling

If you plan to remodel your kitchen or have done it before, you must know the processes you have to go through before handing the hammer over to the labour to tear it down. It includes proper layout designing, colour theme-matching and contrasting, and perfect positions for every essential and appliance.

Before starting over your kitchen remodel, there are some Don’ts that will save your money and provide you with the aesthetically pleasing look you are craving for.

Please don’t make it crowded.

Kitchen remodel has the capacity of lifting your home worth the most, but during remodelling, you shouldn’t make it crowded; it requires a proper family discussion on how to make it spacy and what not to keep.

Often, it’s a place for children to do homework late at night and the main space for the family for socializing and entertaining.

Don’t use fragile material.

A piece of good advice from Newcastle Kitchen Renovations, no matter how attractive or aesthetically pleasing the material appears, you should not compromise. Chopping of meat, cutting vegetables, and careless use of utensils mostly takes place in the kitchen, and it requires the material to be healthy and durable to keep up for years.

Overestimating the storage capacity

The most common and hurting mistake often made during a kitchen remodel overlooking the storage space. We usually skip the small add-ons that might have been useful in increasing the area, such as ignoring additional cabinets or counter-spacing shelves. These details increase kitchen storage and workflow efficiency.

Compromising your cabinets

While making space for the windows and making the kitchen airy is quite good, don’t overlook the cabinets. You will regret it later. Where will you place your extra plates, spoons, utensils, pots, cool dishes? It all demands storage, so designing your kitchen makes it airy but not at the expense of cabinets.

Forgetting appliances prices

Appliances alone can take your budget to heights if not correctly considered—homeowners, when remodelling, neglect the appliances budget and cost them heavily. 

One more thing is not to buy cheaper appliances to keep them within the budget. I mean, it is good to buy more affordable items but not at the expense of quality. Homeowners often overlook quality over price, and they regret it later.

Overlooking the workflow

When planning a kitchen remodel, remember the busiest areas; the refrigerator, the sink and the sink. These three things are often referred to as the kitchen triangle because they should be kept with some space in between. Otherwise, it will be impossible for more than one person to work or cook.

Don’t place your trash can too far away from the sink.

The sink is the space where, after all the cooking, the trash separates and goes to the bin. Mostly people like cleaning the kitchen and throwing the trash hand in hand, and it can be a bit exhausting if your dustbin is a bit far. So, always keep it close to your sink.

Is a kitchen renovation worth it?

Irrespective of the size, the kitchen is the hub of the home. It is the centre of the family’s daily activities- where all the unforgettable memories are made with your loved ones. It is where the family enjoys making scrumptious meals promoting healthy interactions to fuel the mind and soul.

Why renovate?

Renovating a kitchen is always special, but why you want a renovation depends on you. Also, the cost lies in the purpose. But whatever the reason may be, a good renovation can easily lift the price of your home. 

According to a 2017 Houzz study, 43% of the participants wanted to renovate their kitchen because they could not stand an old kitchen. 40% just wanted to renovate because they recently got the money and wanted to lift their home.

Over the years, people have come up with different renovation ideas, but the kitchen’s renovation has always been a hot take. According to the remodelling magazine, a minor kitchen renovation can return up to 80% of the total investment to lift a home’s value. In contrast, a significant kitchen renovation can return up to 65% of the total investment. 

Simple renovation cost

A simple kitchen renovation can cost up to $ 20,000 to $ 25,000 on an average, which can include a new coat of paint on the walls, a new flooring, or maybe getting the old one polished, updating the front of the cabinets and getting them polished, replacing the major appliances. It is not a bad investment as it will raise the home’s value by a factor of around 80%. This option is the most suitable if you plan to stay in the house for longer and not plan to sell it.

Planning for a major renovation

If you are soon planning to move out and want to increase the house’s value, then the major renovation is ideal. A significant renovation, on average, can cost around $ 60,000+, and there is no limit to investing. A considerable renovation can cover new flooring. An updated layout or restructuring of the whole kitchen, a fresh coat of the paint, changing the theme, and an odd piece before you can now have matching colours, new flooring, new faucets, sink, and the whole update cabinets. The restructuring may include increasing the storage capacity, making space for the family sitting and taking care of the kitchen triangle, the sink, the stove, and the refrigerator. New appliances can lift the kitchen’s look and can be the game-changer in the whole renovation process.

Having a pleasing space

We have broadly analysed how the kitchen minor or significant renovation can raise the value of the house. But the factor of joy or satisfaction that comes with the renovation cannot be ignored. Having a kitchen that you love can impact your daily life very positively. According to a survey held in 2017 of the renovators, 33% said they had a healthier lifestyle after the remodelling. Around 50% expressed that they had more family time after their kitchen remodelling, whereas 41% described their increase in cooking at home.

Any factor cannot be neglected, and whether it’s for selling purpose or for the homeowner’s happiness, a kitchen renovation is worth it!

 …

Do bathroom renovations increase home value?

It’s often inquired by the homeowners if remodelling of the bathroom adds value to the home. It can be answered briefly by analysing all the different aspects. 

Every time a homeowner decides to renovate his house, the primary reasons are increasing the space and the home value and thus renovating considering it a long-term investment.

Higher costs

A bathroom renovation is one of the most popular home improvements. The average value of both standard and upscale renovation is rising. And for a homeowner planning to remodel his bathroom, it is huge news. Every inch of the bathroom requires more renovation time and cost than any other room in the house because of the electrical wiring, marbles, moisture, wall paint, waterproofing, efficient ventilation system etc.

Increase in home value

Bathroom remodelling is a more labour-intensive process as it involves restructuring the bathroom, breaking down the old tiles, plumbing installation. Around 60% of the total cost of bathroom renovations is spent on labour costs and the rest on the tiling, fittings etc. 

On average, homeowners spend around $15,000 to $20,000 in a standard bathroom and their home value increases by a factor of about 60-70%. A premium bathroom renovation costs $25,000+, and it increases the home value by 60%. 

Bathroom remodelling expense Increase in home value

$10,000 to $15,000. $6,000 to $9,000

$15,000 to $20,000 $9,000 to $12,000

$25,000+ $15,000+

These prices give a complete overview of an average return we get in the form of an increase in home value by 60%, and it’s just the average estimate. It varies from places to places and the quality of the renovation. In a mid-ranged town, the percentage can be around 65%, and in an upscale area, the value can be increased by 70-75%.

Apart from all the percentage increase in our home value we observe after having a remodelling of the bathroom, there is greater satisfaction in seeing the aesthetically pleasing space. According to an estimate by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) 2019 Remodelling Impact Report, the homeowner’s satisfaction after a bathroom remodelling has a score of 9.6 out of 10 on an average.

Good planning to save cost

Bathroom renovation has no limit, so it is often a question of what minimum we should do to increase our home’s maximum value. New plumbing fittings can easily lift your bathroom with proper selection of colour that matches the bathroom’s overall. It can be tricky whether to spend more on this or not, but it can be done at much lesser prices and quickly lift the space with good planning. 

One more thing that adds to the beauty aesthetic is the wall paint and the tile polishing. Replacing tiles can be costly, so a simple tile polish will save the cost by a high margin and make it look pleasing. Another light but effective upgrade is off, and sunshine better lighting can single-handedly pull off the bathroom’s look. It would be best if you thought about where to add them for the best results.…