bathroom update ideas

7 years ago

last modified: 7 years ago

I'm beginning to plan some updates on my 90s bathroom. I like the current layout well enough--there's not a ton of space, so I don't think much else will work. I'm wondering how big of an undertaking this will be. My current plan is as follows:

-re-tile floors, shower (you can see the reflection in the mirror), and tub deck

-replace glass shower surround

-replace drop in tub

-replace toilet

-replace vanity top/sink (hoping to find a remnant)--DIY

-paint vanity and order custom doors and drawer fronts--DIY

It sounds simple enough listed out like this. Will I need more than a plumber and tile guy? Is this a larger job than I'm thinking? Anyone have other suggestions?

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Comments (4)

PRO
Sina Sadeddin Architectural Design
7 years ago
last modified: 7 years ago
What you're describing is essentially a gut job. By not changing the layout you'll save some money, especially since moving plumbing is expensive. But a full remodel is never "simple".

You may want to hire a contractor to manage the subs, such as tiler and plumber. If not be prepared to take on the scheduling, material selection, design etc. You may also need an electrician depending on your plans. For the vanity, it might be more time and cost effective to buy a prefab piece instead of trying to paint that outdated one and get a new top.

Based on your ideas, if space is an issue have you thought about taking out the tub. If it's not often used, and if you have another one in the home, expanding the shower and adding more storage could be nice.
midwesterndesign thanked Sina Sadeddin Architectural Design
midwesterndesign
Original Author
7 years ago
There is a linen closet to the immediate right in this photo, and another vanity beside the one pictured (there's a door separating the two), so I wouldn't say we're short on storage per se. I do enjoy having a large tub for baths, so wouldn't want to lose it all together. I've thought about trying to somehow combine the two in a sort of "wet room," but don't think it will work in this space.

Is there any disadvantage to making updates in stages? I'm starting to get quotes now and if it all ends up being more than I want to spend, I can imagine just updating the vanity to start. The rest is neutral enough that it's not terribly offensive. I just can't stand those laminate doors and drawers!!
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PRO
Sina Sadeddin Architectural Design
7 years ago
Fair enough on the bath, just thought I'd ask. Wet rooms are horrible IMO. They take up a lot of space and cleaning is a pain. For your layout as well I don't think it would work.

As for making upgrades in stages, IMO it's a BAD idea. The only time it really works is if you create a completely cohesive plan as if you would be doing it all at once. Otherwise it comes out very piece meal and choppy. You may also have trouble hiring people to do small jobs. Also you may run into issues if you do stuff like the vanity now, because what happens when the flooring has to come out?
calidesign
7 years ago
You've described gutting everything except the vanity, but you're saying the vanity fronts are what bothers you the most! Honestly, I would gut it all and start over with a good contractor. That way you can get exactly the vanity you want. You could also get a stand alone tub rather than the tub deck and all the tile around it if you prefer.