How to Design Your Own Bathroom Makeovers

Create the ideal bath makeover if your budget will permit.

When it's time for bathroom makeovers, changing wall color and a few amenities can freshen any bathroom. If your fixtures need upgrades, try to use the old bathroom footprint. If the budget is generous, design your own makeover in a way that will increase your home's value, even if the whole layout must be changed. Decide how much time and effort you are willing to invest, and plan accordingly. One way to develop a plan is to create an ideal design and then make compromises to fit the budget and time you can allow.

Things You'll Need

• Sketch pad
• Notebook
• Graph paper
• Building permits

Instructions

1. Make a list of improvements you want. Decide if a new shower is important, for example. Figure out if a ready-made shower or a built-on-site tiled shower will make your list. Decide if tile flooring, a new vanity cabinet or new storage space is important to you. Use graph paper to make a few quick sketches of your plan.

2. Figure on remodeling the vanity sink wall as the focal point. Add a custom mirror, wall sconces or bright paint to make this wall stand out. Plan to include a large vanity with storage, if you have room. Include double sinks as well, if space allows. Plan other fixtures in relation to the vanity space.

3. Include amenities you desire. Select a whirlpool tub, if you have room. Substitute a regular bathtub with jets, if space is limited. Visit home improvement showrooms to look at faucets, foot faucets and shower heads, so you can get a feel for what's new. Include some of these amenities to increase the market appeal of your home.

4. Make final sketches for a floor layout and room details. Look at exterior walls of your home to make sure that a shower will not cover a window, for example. Sketch each wall facade in detail to create a balanced look for every item, including shelving, lighting and towel bars. Never begin work until the bath has been defined on graph paper.

5. To help define a budget, create a detailed list of major fixtures and plumbing accessories you will need. Figure in the cost of hiring a plumber and an electrician as well. Talk with these professionals at your home before applying for a building permit. Invite them to discuss any building codes or other information you need before obtaining a permit.

References

• Consumer Reports: Bathroom Makeovers: Relaxing Retreats for Less
• Great Home Decorating: Bathroom Design Ideas for Creating Beautiful Bathrooms!
• Homewyse: Bathroom Makeover -- Project Overview

Resources

• Bathroom Guru Review: Bathroom Makeover: Tips and Ideas
• My Home Ideas: Budget Bathroom Makeover