Do you constantly find yourself unsatisfied with your bathroom, leaving endlessly whining about what irks you? Have you been dreaming about an all-out rejuvenating bathroom renovation? If you’ve been thinking about a bathroom renovation big or small, you’re likely to have questions and concerns about how to keep your remodel functional, affordable and easy on the eye. Will you need a permit for your bathroom renovation? What colors are ‘in’ in this era for bathroom makeovers? What are your tiling options? To start, we recommend asking yourself, “Why exactly do I need a bathroom renovation?”
There are tell-tale signs that bathroom makeovers and bathroom remodeling are in your future. From outdated décor, accumulated damage, and harsh lighting to limited storage, there are a variety of reasons why your en-suite needs a bathroom renovation. Decor Aid’s interior design experts share the seven most obvious signs your bathroom is in need of an update, and we’ve provided some inspiring options from covetable tubs to genius shower stalls.
THE DÉCOR ISN’T YOU + IS OUTDATED
If there’s one sign that your bathroom renovation is well overdue, it’s that the décor and colors look outdated. Maybe your tastes have changed, or maybe trends have changed. Regardless of the reasoning, if the color of your bathroom has become unsightly to you, this should be the first sign that a complete bathroom remodel may be necessary.
When it comes to bathroom makeovers, color is the first important decision and an inspiring starting point. Not only is it the most noticeable element of a room, but it’s also a reflection of your style and taste. Take time to think about your color choice; there’s no benefit in rushing to commit to a color that you may end up disliking. If you are of the indecisive sort, muted tones and neutral grays are all you need for a swift, noticeable upgrade.
The color and type of your bathroom tile also plays a crucial part in determining if a bathroom renovation is in your future. Old-fashioned tiles on the walls are the key driver of most bathroom updates. Unique textures and patterns are consistently on trend, and retro looks are easy to transition to when some of your existing tile is older and heavily featured. If you are looking to switch it out for something more modern, neutral tiles can help you create a timeless bathroom design that can be updated as colors and styles change.
CRAMPED LAYOUT
Unfortunately, most bathrooms weren’t designed with 21st century needs in mind, with older estates having minimal bathroom space. If you’re struggling with the size, layout, or organization of your bathroom, this is another sign that it’s time for some restructuring. Do you find yourself stumbling over the toilet when moving about the room, or squeezing past the sink to get to the shower? These are elements that can be assuaged with the help of a bathroom renovation or remodel.
With a bit of thought, a bathroom can be laid out in a completely different way to fully optimize the available space and give a feeling of greater luxury. There are endless appealing space-saving designs to be found, which will make better use of the space without having to expand the dimensions of the room. You can keep it simple and reposition the organizational pieces, or take it to the next level by updating an older bathroom necessity with a newer model.
Sometimes you’ll need a permit to complete a full bathroom renovation. When are permits necessary? If you aren’t changing the structure of the apartment, chances are you won’t need a permit to go ahead with your bathroom remodel. Most interior work won’t require a permit, but if you’re moving plumbing around, it’s possible you may need to obtain a permit to fulfill the goals of your bathroom renovation.
THERE IS OBVIOUS DAMAGE (LEAKS, SMELL, HUMIDITY, ETC.)
If components are leaking in your bathroom, or you’re met with the overwhelming smell of mildew, it’s necessary that you commit to a bathroom renovation. Those that are looking for a less drastic route may be wondering why they have to go for a full bathroom renovation instead of just a fresh coat of paint, but the truth is, when damage is present, action needs to be taken before it gets worse. Plus, if you find yourself embarrassed to offer your bathroom to guests, then you shouldn’t need to ask whether you should be going ahead with a renovation.
If anything is unsightly or moldy then it shouldn’t be salvaged, it promptly needs replacing. If there is any rusting or lime scale, then it needs sorting. You can modernize fixtures and fittings during your bathroom renovation to solve these problems (and save water too). Ensuring you have proper ventilation in your bathroom can solve trying bathroom odors. Proper renovations include these more technical challenges so that even the less glamorous elements of a bathroom are well taken care of.
POOR LIGHTING
If the lighting is so bright in the morning it blinds you, or so dim in the evening you can barely see your face in the mirror, then questioning the necessity of a bathroom renovation hardly needs asking. Proper lighting is crucial to reinvent the entire ambiance of the room, and many DIY bathroom renovations often forget the importance of lighting in favor of focusing on more decorative elements.
Don’t neglect lighting during your bathroom makeover. The difference a properly lit room makes can be astounding, and although you may come to regret a piece of art or a paint color, you’ll never regret upgrading your lighting. To switch up the lighting depending on need, we suggest adding a dimmer switch so you can choose the level of brightness for your bathroom renovation.
LOW ON STORAGE
If you are lacking the space to store bathroom necessities, this is a focal point that will drive your need for a bathroom remodel. A bathroom renovation can be the key to creating all the storage you need without taking up space with bulky store-bought organizers. When everything is in its proper place, not only does your bathroom look better and feel more luxurious, you’ll also have an easier time navigating what may already be a small or cramped space. There are plenty of bathroom storage solutions that you can integrate into your full bathroom makeover, which can become the star feature of your finished bathroom.
IT SEEMS TINY FOR YOUR NEEDS
How much space do you need to comfortably go through your daily routine? If you notice yourself feeling cramped while putting on your makeup or doing your early morning shave, you might benefit from making your bathroom bigger via a full bathroom renovation. A layout can only be changed so much without intervention by a design professional, and a full bathroom renovation can make your space bigger. As we previously stated, if you’re demolishing or moving walls during your bathroom remodel or extending your home in any way, talk with your designer about needing a permit before proceeding.
WHY A BATHROOM RENOVATION PAYS FOR ITSELF
Bathrooms are an important selling point when putting your space on the market. In many cases, selling your home means you’ll need a bathroom makeover. A bathroom renovation can significantly increase the market value of your home, and can be the make or break factor that can persuade a potential buyer. If your master bathroom is looking a little worn down and in dire need of a bathroom renovation, you might find it harder to sell your home. Put some work into your bathroom and see interest increase, all due to the addition of some new renovations.
