Everyone would like to have a beautiful bathroom, but most people settle for what we call the "common look"... White or off-white walls, a white toilet, some type of white sink counter with possibly a little variation in the pattern, a standard mirror, and a standard bath and/or shower, all white. Take this foundation of the "common look", go to a department store, pick a color scheme and purchase matching towels, bathroom rugs, toilet covers, and accessories including a garbage can, soap dish, etc. Voila! The "common look."
As we said, the "common look" is sufficient for most people to be content.
But what about those of you that want more? Want a bathroom that your guests will say, "Wow, that's beautiful... I want to spend all day in there!" or "I love your bathroom design!"?
The first place to start is to think "luxury." Incorporating luxury into your mindset will start the process off in the right direction in creating a special retreat. Think, bubblebath...
Of course, when someone thinks "luxury", immediately they think, "I can't afford it". However, with smart planning and consideration, you can plan a budget to keep the finances in line. In 2008, the average spent on a bathroom remodel for a 9 by 5 foot room was $10,000, while the high-end bathroom project average was $25,000. (Note: Some high-end projects are over $40K). Keeping your budget in mind, you can shop around for fixtures and products that cost less, but are still attractive and in line with the design you have in mind.
You can also save money in planning the remodeling changes. For example, moving a toilet requires moving a waste line that adds costs. Choosing stock items, which some places offer discounts for, can save dollars. Judiciously using tile and translucent glass in areas that are most visible and visually effective can also save you money. Shopping around for different quotes on tiles can result in a wide range of prices for similar glass tile.
Don't forget to allow for labor, which, as a rule of thumb, usually ends up being approximately a third to a half of a project's cost. When it comes to plumbing, be sure to allow a cushion for any surprises that may exist behind your walls and under your floor. For example, any leakage may have rotted wood or materials that have to be replaced. Setting aside 10% of your labor budget will give you a little room for emergencies.
When planning your remodeling project, remember that any changes mid-stream will take extra time and money. Carefully plan out what you want now in order to avoid any changes later once the remodeling starts.
Keeping the above in mind, you will have to do some investigation at the same time you are developing your budget. You need to have a design in mind, a "theme" or look if you will, in order to make sure that your ultimate goals do not exceed your pocketbook. Once you shop around and confirm that the costs of the products you want are in line with the end look of the remodeled bathroom you want, you can be sure that your budget is realistic. If not, then you need to adjust either the budget, or your dream bathroom!
And remember, once you have a budget in hand, don't put it in a drawer and forget about it! Use it to track your actual spending and keep control over the dollars you have to spend while achieving your new, beautiful bathroom. No more "common look" for you!
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