Bathroom renovations are an excellent way to give your space an updated look. The project also provides high resale value, with you recouping around 67.2% of the cost. However, remodeling involves careful planning and preparation. Here are some things to keep in mind before diving into the project.

1. Research Expenses

One of the first things you want to do is determine the cost of the renovation. It costs around $10,945 for an average bathroom remodel. Knowing this information can help you plan your budget and avoid surprise expenses. You want to factor in prices for labor, materials, demolition and permits.

The exact cost will vary based on factors, such as room size and the quality of materials. Also, you can reduce the price if you can do specific tasks, like demolition, yourself. However, it’s best to leave plumbing and electrical work to the professionals.

2. Come up With a Design Plan

Consider storage options when coming up with a design plan. You want to have enough space to hold your essential items, like toiletries and towels. Recessed storage cabinets and combination racks are good options.

Another important design element is paint colors. For a clean and calming look, go for whites or grays. Blue and greens are other soothing tones that bring in a sense of nature. If you want to go bold, red or pinks can brighten up a space.

Factor other design elements into your design plan, like lighting and mirrors. In addition to decorating, consider the placement of your plumbing and electrical systems.

3.  Don’t Make the Toilet the Focal Point

You don’t want the toilet to be the first thing people notice when they enter the space. It’s not the most aesthetically pleasing feature. Many homeowners leave bathroom doors open, so you want something nice to look at. Tiled details, vanities and lighting can all make stunning focal points. Consider adding mosaic tiles to your shower wall or floors.

4. Keep Vintage Finishes

While you want to make your space feel brand new, some items may be harder to replace. For example, older wall tiles have several coats of concrete or wire lath. Removing it is complex and could increase labor costs. The average price for removing tile is $1.50-$4.15 per square foot , so consider keeping the decor and splurging on other items.

Plus, those antique finishes can make your bathroom stand out. Other features, such as clawfoot tubs, vintage lighting and older doors, can be kept. If you have an old-fashioned bureau, you can repurpose it to create a vanity.

5. Figure Out Your Lighting Scheme

Layering your lighting is an effective way to illuminate your space. Use a variety of task, ambient, accent and decorative lighting. Place lights around your vanity to help with everyday grooming, and use vertical fixtures mounted on both sides of the mirror to cast light across your face evenly.

Also, add recessed lighting inside your shower and over the toilet. If you need some more guidance, consult a professional designer.

6. Know Bathroom Dimensions

Understanding standard dimensions will ensure your fixtures fit properly within the room. It also helps you create an efficient design layout. Knowing how much space you need for a toilet or tub is essential, so you also should research the typical sizes of these items. For example, a standard bathtub takes up about 13 square feet of floor space.

When planning your measurements, make sure you get the right height for your sink. Start by measuring your countertop, and then determine how much space your sink will add or take away from its height. If you have an above-counter vessel sink, you’ll want to lower the counter.

7. Place Your Sink in the Corner

Having a corner sink can make the space feel more open. It can also be helpful if multiple people use the room at once or your door swings open wide. Pair your sink with a deck-mounted faucet, which is easy to install. Then add wall-mounted accessories, such as a toothbrush holder, to increase storage space.

8. Consider Your Vanity Options

Your sink provides function and aesthetic appeal, so you want to find one that matches the room. The first step is ensuring it’s the right size. To do this, measure your bathroom and determine the vanity placement beforehand. Along with size, consider height. Base this measurement on the people who will use it most frequently, whether that’s you or your kids.

You also want to make sure it has plenty of storage space and is made with quality materials. Wooden veneers and laminates are good choices — just be sure to seal and lacquer the wood first.

9. Add Some High-End Items

Bathrooms are smaller spaces, so you can splurge on a few high-end finishes. Look into elegant materials for walls, floors and countertops. Marble or granite counters are popular materials to use. Adding a few high-budget fixtures can enhance the look of your space.

Tile flooring and custom cabinets are other elements that can elevate your bathroom.

10. Turn Your Tub Into a Shower

If you prefer to take showers, then your bathtub is taking up valuable space. Turning it into a shower is an affordable way to transform it into a more functional area. Plus, you already have the plumbing set up, and adding a shower increases your storage space. You can also add a few shelves inside to hold your shampoos.

Install a low-flow faucet, which can conserve water and lower your energy bills.

11. Look for Slip-Resistant Flooring

Your bathroom often gets wet, and when the water builds up, it can cause people to slip. Adding small tiles in the shower creates more friction, preventing falls. Ceramic, porcelain, natural stone or cement are all excellent choices. They come in various styles and are easy to maintain.

12. Ask for References for Contractors

Finding the right contractor ensures the renovation runs smoothly. Before starting, ask for references from friends and family. Also, see if you can reach out to previous clients. You can even request pictures from past remodeling projects.

How to Plan Your Bathroom Remodel

Renovating your bathroom can increase its function and value and also turn it into a relaxing retreat. Keep these things in mind for a successful remodel and a place you can be proud of.