20 Bathroom Remodeling Tips
from a pro interior designer
Take the guesswork out of your bathroom remodel—because a beautiful, functional space shouldn’t be a mystery.
Remodeling a bathroom can feel like navigating a maze of tile samples, fixture finishes, and layout decisions. But don’t panic—we’re here to simplify it. As professional interior designers, we’ve seen it all: from cramped powder rooms to full primary bath overhauls. So here are our top 20 insider tips to help you remodel smarter, more stylishly, and with fewer surprises.
1. Start with the end in mind
What do you really need from your bathroom? Storage? A spa-like escape? Define the goal, and let that guide every decision.
2. Measure like a pro
Standard vanities are 32–36” high, toilets need at least 15” clearance from the center to a wall, and showers should be a minimum of 30x30”. These basics save you layout headaches later.
3. Go vertical
Tall linen towers or medicine cabinets can add major storage without taking up floor space. Bonus: they draw the eye upward and make the room feel taller.
4. Use stone remnants
Granite, marble, and quartz remnants from slab yards are perfect for vanity tops or shower thresholds—and often come at a fraction of the price.
5. Swap out the fan for a fan/light combo
A recessed exhaust/light combo saves ceiling space and keeps the room looking clean and streamlined. Look for ones with humidity sensors for extra ease.
6. Light it up right
Layer your lighting: overhead lighting, wall sconces at face height, and dimmable options let you shift the vibe from bright-and-energized to spa-night serenity.
7. Don’t skip the dimmer switch
Trust us—no one wants full spotlight first thing in the morning. Dimmers give you control and help create a mood.
8. Choose large format tile
Large tiles mean fewer grout lines, less cleaning, and a more luxurious feel. Bonus: they make small bathrooms feel bigger.
9. Recessed niches are everything
Built-in niches in the shower or next to the vanity keep products tidy and stylishly out of the way.
10. Go frameless on the shower
A frameless glass shower enclosure opens up the room and shows off that gorgeous tile work.
11. Wall-mount the vanity
Floating vanities feel modern and airy—and make cleaning the floor a breeze.
12. Choose timeless finishes
Matte black, brushed brass, and polished nickel are designer favorites that stand the test of time.
13. Mix metals with intention
Want to combine chrome and brass? Go for it. Just repeat each finish at least twice in the room to keep it cohesive.
14. Splurge on the shower valve
You’ll use it every single day—go for quality. Thermostatic valves maintain temperature perfectly.
15. Opt for a comfort height toilet
At 17–19” high, these are easier on the knees and back.
16. Add heated floors
Especially if you live somewhere chilly, radiant heated floors feel ultra-luxurious and aren’t as expensive as you think.
17. Paint with moisture-resistant formulas
Not all paints are created equal. Ask for a mildew-resistant or bathroom-specific option.
18. Keep it consistent with the rest of the house
Your bathroom shouldn’t feel like it was plucked from another planet. Let it echo your home’s overall vibe.
19. Plan for more storage than you think you need
Towels, toiletries, hair tools—everything needs a home. Drawers with built-in dividers or pull-outs are your best friend.
20. Hire a professional designer
Remodeling is an investment. A designer helps you avoid costly mistakes, elevates your space, and brings in creative solutions you might never think of.
