A remodel is the perfect chance to create your dream bathroom while addressing features that weren’t working. From poor layout and ancient fixtures to low-grade materials and insufficient lighting, all these issues can be reimagined with a fresh look.
With thoughtful design and quality finishes, you can transform an outdated bathroom into your personal oasis.
Explore our 11 ideas for your bathroom remodel that match your personality and transform how you use the space.
Luxury Bathroom Renovation Ideas
Always consider the visual hierarchy of a bathroom before starting a remodel. Each element should have a clear purpose and contribute to an overall sense of calm, rather than overwhelming the space with excess.
Here are more modern bathroom remodel ideas to guide your project.
Bathroom Mistakes You Should Fix During a Remodel
If elements in your bathroom aren't working, now is the time to change them. Start by addressing these common mistakes.
1. Awkward Faucet Placement
A faucet that doesn’t extend far enough into the sink makes handwashing uncomfortable, often causing water to spill.
This frustrating scenario typically occurs when a faucet is selected to complement the aesthetics, not functional elements. Consider these factors before selecting this hardware:
- The reach of the spout
- The angle of water flow
- The faucet hole placement on the sink
These three factors must work together for smooth use.
Ideal Water Flow Position
For a comfortable and effortless experience with your sink:
- Water should land just in front of, or directly over, the drain
- The faucet should extend at least a quarter to halfway into the sink basin
- For vessel sinks, ensure the spout height comfortably clears the bowl
This practical positioning ensures smooth handwashing while keeping water exactly where it belongs, inside the sink.
For bathtub faucets:
- Mount the faucet 3-6 inches above the rim, with controls positioned at least 33 inches from the floor to avoid splashing
- On high-back slipper tubs, install the faucet at the lower end for easy access
- For double-ended bathtubs, place the faucet centrally near the wall to leave both ends open
2. Impractical Bathroom Layout
Several common design oversights can hinder the creation of a truly functional layout.
Toilet Placement
A toilet should never be the focal point of your bathroom. Position it discreetly, away from direct sightlines. Instead, let striking features such as a vanity, sculptural bathtub or a beautiful mirror draw attention.
Window Considerations
Strategic window placement enhances natural light while protecting privacy. Position windows to provide natural light in key areas, such as the vanity, while maintaining discretion around the toilet and shower areas. Consider frosted or textured glass for privacy without sacrificing light.
Electric Outlet Placement
In a thoughtfully designed bathroom, every element should feel intentional, including your power sources.
- Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets, which automatically cut power when electrical faults are detected
- Follow National Electrical Code (NEC) guidelines, which mandate GFCI outlets in moisture-exposed areas
- Position outlets at least 6 feet from major water sources
- Mount outlets 15-24 inches above the floor to lower water exposure while maintaining convenient access
- Place outlets near sinks, above countertops, or discreetly near toilets for electric bidets or modern hygiene devices
- One bathroom remodel trend is to include extra outlets to future-proof the space for future tech
Collision Zones
Smart door placement during the design phase helps prevent avoidable collisions and improves everyday flow.
When a shower door opens into the path of the main bathroom door, it creates an unnecessary collision point. In compact spaces, it's essential to evaluate how each door integrates with the surrounding layout.
Consider these questions:
- Do doors open into the same area or obstruct essential pathways?
- Is there sufficient clearance to prevent interference during daily use?
These alternative solutions can dramatically improve flow:
- Sliding shower doors eliminate the need for swing clearance entirely
- Pocket doors preserve valuable space while reducing obstruction risks
Full Bathroom Remodel Ideas
In real estate terminology, a full bathroom features a bathtub, a shower, a sink, and a toilet, making it the most versatile space in your home. This comprehensive setup also offers the greatest opportunity for transformation. Whether you're aiming to enhance functionality or increase resale value, a full bathroom remodel can deliver impressive results.
3. Replace the Fixtures
The bathtub is often the focal point of a full bathroom, which includes a tub, shower, sink and toilet. Upgrade it to enhance style and comfort.
Freestanding Tubs
Freestanding tubs instantly add luxury that doubles as a gorgeous centrepiece. These elegant fixtures come in various materials like cast iron and stone resin. Consider a clawfoot tub for vintage charm, or select a sleek modern model with clean lines.
Walk-In Showers
If your household rarely uses the bathtub, replace it with a spacious walk-in shower.
Walk-in showers can be tailored with multiple shower heads, built-in benches, and glamorous finishes like resin stone and marble or large-format tiles. Glass enclosures preserve an open, airy feel, while additions like rainfall shower heads, body jets and non-slip shower pans can transform your routine into a safe, spa-like escape.
4. Add Double Vanity
In busy households, the main bathroom often serves multiple people. Including a double vanity in your bathroom renovation design eliminates morning bottlenecks. This vital piece of furniture provides two users with their own dedicated space for toiletries and daily routines.
5. Heated Floors
Underfloor heating is more than a luxury; it also helps keep the bathroom dry, reduces humidity and prevents mould growth.
Electric radiant floor heating operates silently, preserving a tranquil ambience and requiring little maintenance. Remember to plan during the initial renovation for seamless integration.
Small Bathroom Remodel Ideas
When working with a compact bathroom, every square inch is precious. The art of small bathroom design lies in creating an environment for function and visual appeal.
6. Mirrors
Mirrors serve a vital function in the bathroom, beyond their practical necessity—they can make the space appear larger and significantly brighten it. Treat them as design elements rather than afterthoughts when working out your remodel budget.
7. Built-in Storage
A full renovation provides the perfect chance to add built-in storage, such as a shower niche under the tiles or a recessed medicine cabinet. These integrated solutions maintain clean lines while providing crucial storage without sacrificing floor space.
Half Bathroom Remodel Ideas
A half bath, or powder room, is often one of the few private spaces guests will use. Traditionally, this space features a toilet and a sink, and frequently includes a vanity and mirror. Use this opportunity to create an area that is comforting and memorable for visitors.
8. Impress with Wallpaper
Ditch the standard paint job in favour of glamorously printed wallpaper that sets the tone for whimsy or sophistication. Be sure to use proper primer and sealant to protect against humidity and moisture.
9. Install Open Shelving
Since powder rooms are typically not used for general-use toiletries, open floating shelves provide a stunning display space. Decorate these shelves with curated reading material, accessories and premium guest toiletries that enhance the room's aesthetic.
10. Floating Sink Pedestal
A floating sink pedestal frees up valuable floor space, making the room feel more open and modern than a cupboard vanity. This bathroom remodel design idea facilitates a more visually appealing flow while providing easier access for cleaning underneath.
11. Use Unexpected Finishing Touches
Kate Winslet famously displays her 2009 Academy Award in her bathroom. A meaningful personal artifact in an unexpected place can add gravitas and conversation-starting intrigue to your powder room, making it truly memorable for guests.
For more bathroom ideas and inspiration, read our blog for insights on bathware, including master bathroom remodel ideas and shower-to-tub conversions.
FAQs About Bathroom Remodels
Read our answers to frequently asked questions about bathroom design to get a better idea of your project.
What is a realistic budget for a bathroom remodel?
A realistic budget for a basic bathroom remodel ranges from $100 to $500 per square foot, according to HomeGuide. This can go up to $250 – $500 for a full remodel.
Top tip: Don’t get caught off guard, some companies charge extra to remove and dispose of old materials. Before the work begins, ask your contractor if this service is included or if it comes with additional costs.
Hansel Stone: Luxury Bathware for Timeless Remodels
Hansel Stone provides premium resin stone bathware for luxury bathrooms in the US and Canada. Our European design fixtures are manufactured from our proprietary material, which is durable and has excellent insulating properties.
Our collection includes stone bathtubs, anti-slip shower pans, floating countertops and stone vessel sinks.
One of the best bathroom remodel ideas is to work with trusted suppliers. Find the perfect bathware from our extensive collection of styles.