A modern bathroom remodel can completely transform your home, not just in terms of looks but also its functionality, but it can also be costly if you don’t plan your bathroom design carefully. One of the most crucial aspects of any remodel is knowing how to use your budget wisely – in other words, where you should invest more money, and where you can afford to cut back without it affecting the overall look and feel of the bathroom.
Before diving into specific expenses, establish a realistic total budget that includes a 20% contingency fund for unexpected issues. Start by researching average costs in your area and getting multiple quotes to understand the scope of your project.
Remember that installation typically accounts for 35-50% of your total budget, while materials make up the remainder. Having a clear budget from the start will help you make informed decisions about where to splurge and where to save.
It’s never advisable to skimp on plumbing and electrical work, as these form the foundation of your bathroom’s functionality and safety. Investing in quality plumbing work prevents costly water damage and ensures reliable performance for decades, which includes properly sized pipes, quality shut-off valves, and adequate water pressure.
Similarly, electrical work has to meet current codes and include proper ventilation wiring and adequate lighting circuits. While these improvements might not be as exciting as the visible fixtures, they’re essential for a safe, functional bathroom that will serve you well for years to come.
Taps are a feature of your bathroom you’ll see and use every day, so it’s an area you don’t want to save on because cheaper taps will wear poorly and will impact the overall look of the room. In fact, investing here can make a huge difference to how luxurious and elegant your bathroom feels. Look for ceramic discs over rubber washers, and anti-limescale technology which will keep your taps functioning for longer.
If you love to soak in the tub, a composite bathtub is a great investment. Cast stone retains water temperatures better, so you’ll save on the cost of heating extra water to top up your bath, and the surface resists wear and tear much better so any scratches and marks can be buffed out with ease. A stand-out bath is a key feature, whether you choose a minimalist style or a claw-foot tub for a traditional bathroom, so it’s a good area to allocate a significant chunk of your budget if you know you’ll use it regularly.
Shower enclosures are another area where it pays to spend a little more. Shower screens with pre-coated glass will add extra protection that also makes for easier cleaning, and are often made with thicker glass so they’re less likely to crack. In a smaller bathroom where there’s no space for a tub, or a space where you want the shower to be a focal point, an impactful screen can make a huge difference.
You can achieve significant savings on vanities without sacrificing style or functionality. You might be able to refinish an existing vanity instead of replacing it, or if you want a completely fresh look, aim for quality pieces over custom cabinetry.
You can also save by choosing a vanity without a countertop and purchasing the counter separately, which often costs less than buying a complete unit. For storage, floating shelves and medicine cabinets are a great choice over more expensive built-in solutions while still giving you ample storage.
While you shouldn’t compromise on waterproofing, you can save substantially on tile selection. Large-format tiles require fewer grout lines and can make small bathrooms appear larger while often costing less to install than intricate patterns. Consider ceramic or porcelain tiles that mimic expensive materials like natural stone or hardwood, and use them as an accent in a bold colour to minimise the cost without compromising on the impact.
The same can be said of flooring – modern bathrooms can create a luxury look for less by using realistic dupes of marble or quartz that are a fraction of the cost but still make a huge difference to how your bathroom looks.
Lighting offers excellent opportunities for savings without sacrificing style. Instead of expensive designer fixtures, look for similar styles at home improvement stores or online retailers. When it comes to accessories like towel bars, mirrors, and shower caddies, these items are easy to upgrade later if your budget allows, so starting with functional basics makes financial sense.
A successful bathroom remodel should balance your immediate needs with long-term value, ensuring you get the most from every pound spent. Invest wisely in the infrastructure and daily-use items so you can make smart savings on aesthetic elements to create a beautiful, functional bathroom that serves you well for years to come.
To book an appointment with one of our expert designers, contact Village Bathrooms today.
