Industry Insights

Bathroom Remodel: 8 Essential Changes Guaranteed to Improve Functionality, Storage, and Comfort -

Written by Oliver Pennington | Jan 10, 2020 9:30:51 AM

Renovating your bathroom is the way to go whether you want to make adjustments to suit your changing needs or increase your property’s value.

Prospective buyers are extra keen when it comes to bathrooms, and this greatly influences their final decision to sign the dotted line.

However, if you’re remodelling mainly for personal reasons, this is the perfect time to make long-lasting improvements that you will love for years to come.

Keep in mind that you should work with renovation professionals to ensure a smooth process as you bring your vision to life.

Focus on the changes highlighted below when remodelling your bathroom. They will offer you improved comfort, style, storage and functionality.

#1: Colour Palette

In the planning phase, spend some time developing a new colour scheme.

Deciding on a colour scheme is crucial, as it will help you pick out elements that complement each other. From the get-go, you’ll have a clearer vision and know which design elements you want to keep and which to get rid of.

Don’t choose a palette based on current trends, as these change rapidly. Go for colours that reflect your unique personality and evoke pleasant feelings. Bright shades can make your bathroom seem more inviting, while muted tones can give your bathroom a relaxed atmosphere (perfect for bath time!).

Research shows that colour influences how we perceive size, so an expert can help you choose a palette that enhances your bathroom’s size without expanding it by an inch.

#2: Recessed Medicine Cabinet

A recessed medicine cabinet could be just the way to improve storage in your bathroom. Hang it above the vanity, aligned to one side, for an easily accessible space that gives your bathroom a modern look.

It needs to be correctly installed, in a way that’s not intrusive or potentially dangerous.

The cabinet will save you space by storing all your bathroom essentials.

#3: Hidden-Tank Toilet

Also called hidden cistern toilets, hidden-tank toilets are a marvel in both how they look and work.

This type of toilet smartly conceals the toilet tank within the wall, out of sight. This is ideal for saving invaluable space in smaller bathrooms, on top of looking neat.

While hidden-tank toilets can work with nearly every bathroom style, the best complement spaces that feature contemporary, modern and minimalist design.

Opt for a low-flow model if you want to use less water with every flush. Think of it as an investment that will reduce your water bill and offer you higher returns by increasing the value of your home.

The only potential downside is that routine maintenance may prove to be a challenge. You won’t have easy access to the cistern should the inner components need attention. For this reason, you should consult an expert early on.

If you don’t mind a slightly industrial feel in your bathroom, you can include a tankless toilet that uses a pressure valve.

#4: Textured Tile Floor

During the remodelling process, you’ll have several decisions to make about flooring. At the heart of this is safety; the main concern will be preventing slippage around the shower area.

Choose friction-proof tiles to cover the entire bathroom floor space. Here are some materials to consider:

Ceramic: durable, easy to clean, resistant to mould, high visual appeal. To avoid accidents, many companies now produce non-slip ceramic tiles by incorporating a matt finish with extra grouting.

  • Porcelain: clean look, mimics the texture of natural stone.
  • Vinyl: distinctive, inexpensive, non-slip, durable. Give your bathroom an edge and show off your creativity.
  • Glass: unconventional, wide variety of patterns, gives your bathroom that “wow” factor. Tempered glass renders these tiles unbreakable, and multiple joints prevent slipping.

#5: 5cm Plumbing Drain Pipes

Though small in size, these pipes are a valuable modification that’s bound to significantly improve the functionality of your bathroom.

Typical bathroom drain plumbing is usually made of PVC plastic, with a 3cm diameter.

Such a small drain pipe is likely to clog, especially if several people frequently use the same shower, bath or toilet

By installing 5cm diameter drain pipes, you will notice the improved quality of drainage in your bathroom without incurring a higher cost than that of typical 3cm pipes.

#6: Bathtub

Bathtubs add character to the bathroom. If you have enough space, consider adding one during your remodel.

While you may not regularly take baths, remember that having a tub offers choice for your guests as well as buyers or tenants who could take up residence in your home should you put it on the market.

Real estate professionals recommend bathtubs as they have the potential to increase the value of a property. This is especially true for families that have children.

If you prefer to take baths over showering, then upgrade your bathtub to a modern style. You could, for instance, replace your old bathtub with a standalone, or even a hybrid bath that features the type of jets you’d find in a jacuzzi.

If baths aren’t for you, or you simply don’t need one, then you can forego a tub for a larger shower area.

Ultimately, it all comes down to your needs and what suits you best, so always go with what works for you.

#7: Shower Window

A shower window will solve a problem found in many bathrooms – lack of proper ventilation. Unlike a fan, a shower window allows natural ventilation.

Adding one or increasing the size of the existing one will also bring in more light and ensure that your bathroom isn’t gloomy or dull.

Your bathroom designer will help you make an informed choice on this.

#8: Lighting Improvements

Generally, bathrooms have little access to natural light, and expanding your bathroom windows is one way to fix this.

When it comes to bathrooms, natural light is better. You should get a dimmer for the main lights for better ambience.

Recessed lighting fixtures are perfect when you’re getting ready in the mirror.

Remember, any changes to do with your bathroom lighting should be handled by someone with the right qualifications.

Let the Experts Remodel Your Bathroom

Remodelling your bathroom is a rewarding experience. Throughout the process, you should entrust skilled and qualified people with bringing your vision to life. Get in touch with an expert for your dream bathroom remodel.