Skip to main content

21OAK may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

Remodeling your small bathroom? Where you should start and what to do first

Remodeling is never an easy process, especially if that room happens to be the bathroom. There are a lot of things to consider — fixtures, vanities, showers, tile, paint, countertops — the list can feel overwhelming. But, if you have a good idea on timing, cost, and an overall design, it doesn’t have to be.

Of course, if this small bathroom happens to be the only bathroom you have, that changes things. If that’s the case, getting a contractor who can commit to a timeline of completion is critical. A bathroom is one of those rooms you really can’t do without, so if it is your only space, crashing with a family member or friend for a few days may be a good option.

Start your bathroom remodeling project by jotting down the budget. This is a good first step. Write down a complete list of the work that needs to get done and the material/items you want to use. There are cost calculators online that can help get you started. Doing your homework online to get an idea of the types of materials you want to use (high-end versus budget-friendly) is critical.

One question that may help is who will be using the space? If the answer is young kids, kids coming home from college, or an occasional house guest, you can get away with low-to-mid grade materials. But if it’s the master bathroom or another bathroom that family members use daily, you need to invest in quality materials that will stand up to lots of use.

Homeowners sometimes mistakenly think a small bathroom remodel will be a lot less expensive than a larger space, but it turns out the costs aren’t that far apart. A smaller bathroom remodel usually comes in around 75% of the total cost of a larger one. A small bathroom still has a lot of the same elements as a large bathroom (vanity, flooring, lighting, etc.) and if you’re not doing the work yourself, it still requires the use of a professional.

bathroom plan design
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Next, it’s time for the design and planning. Even with a small space, there are a myriad of considerations and each has its own set of designs and planning involved. Demolition, windows, electrical, insulation, tiling, plumbing, drywall, painting, flooring — the list can get long. The more planning you can do in advance, the better off you will be.

Spend some time researching contractors. Ask friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations on professionals they’ve used in the past who they feel were trustworthy, responsive, and did great work. Get multiple bids to ensure you aren’t overpaying, and use their expertise to help you see the bigger picture.

Researching materials, especially for a small space, can also take time — but it’s a crucial step. Small spaces do better, for instance, with a lighter paint color to keep the room light and open. Using smaller 4×4 tiles instead of 24×12 is also wise. Another trick to make a small bathroom feel larger is to use a floor-to-ceiling mirror or print so your eyes are drawn to the entire space.

Opt for a glass shower door or no door so the room flows and doesn’t appear broken up. If you are installing a shower unit, there are corner options that can give you more room in the actual bathroom for a vanity, toilet, and changing space. If you don’t have a window now or the window is small, consider opening it up to bring in more natural light.

floating bathroom vanity
Image used with permission by copyright holder

If storage is an issue, look at over-the-toilet ladders, medicine cabinets, and vanities with shelving underneath to keep towels, toiletries, and other items you use every day. Take out anything you don’t use every day and find a new home for it — be it in another bathroom, in a hallway cabinet, in a storage bin under your bed, or anywhere else you can easily access things you need. Getting items organized ahead of a major remodel will help when the project is complete and you know you have a home for everything.

Finally, have a plan for what, where, and who will need to change their routine as a result of the bathroom remodel. It may seem like it’s something you can figure out on the fly but, trust us, it’s much less stressful  to have a plan ahead of time so you aren’t scrambling at the last minute.

In addition, check out our guide on how to choose the right bathroom chandelier, it may help you make some creative choices.

Editors' Recommendations

Julie Scagell
Former Digital Trends Contributor
I am a freelance writer based in Minneapolis, MN. My passions include my dogs, talking about my dogs, and taking pictures of…
Everything you need to know about laminate flooring before you install
Pros and cons on laminate flooring
Person laying down laminate flooring in basement

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly floor that will blend nicely with your home design, laminate flooring may be right for you. This easy-to-install and affordable flooring option may not be the most luxurious, but it can be a wonderful choice for the frugal homeowner who wants to spruce up their space.

But what is laminate flooring? How do you install it? Today, we'll cover everything you need to know about laminate flooring so you can ensure you’re prepared to tackle your next interior project.

Read more
Spa bathroom decor: 4 things the experts say you should add to your space
Advice to create a spa-like bathroom space
Rolled towels and plant in bathroom

When it comes to creating a sanctuary within your own home, there's no place quite like the spa bathroom. A well-designed spa bathroom can be your daily retreat from the hustle and bustle of life, offering relaxation and rejuvenation right at your fingertips. If you're looking to transform your bathroom into a spa-like oasis, here are four expert-recommended additions that will elevate your space to the next level.

1. Choose calming colors and natural decor
The first step in achieving a spa-like bathroom is to choose calming colors that promote relaxation and tranquility. Opt for soft, neutral tones such as soothing blues, muted greens, and warm earthy hues. These colors create a serene atmosphere and mimic the soothing ambiance of a spa.

Read more
Smart bathroom design: How to upgrade your space, according to the experts
Bring tech into your space for a new design element
Modern minimalist bathroom with light colors

When it comes to home design, bathroom renovation and upgrades are usually among our top priorities. With the advent of smart technology, though, home design experts say it's time to reconsider how you approach your bathroom design. Smart bathroom design is a growing trend that combines functionality, convenience, and style.

"As smart home technology continues to advance, bathrooms will likely incorporate more high-tech features."

Read more