A bathroom remodel can be exciting! It’s a chance to completely reimagine one of the most used rooms in your home.

But without careful planning, it can quickly feel overwhelming. Plumbing, electrics, lighting, and layout all need to work together, so getting the details right from the start makes all the difference.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the ultimate checklist before a bathroom remodel. Whether you’re updating a compact en-suite or designing a luxurious master bath, this list will help you plan, budget, and design with confidence! 💪

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Step 1: Define Your Goals and Style

Before you start, ask yourself why you’re renovating. Are you updating a tired bathroom, improving functionality, or creating a spa-like escape? Your goals will guide every decision that follows.

Think about how you use the space on a daily basis. Do you need more storage, better lighting, or a larger shower area?

Once you understand your priorities, start gathering inspiration. Pinterest, design magazines, and real project photos are great tools to identify your preferred look, whether that’s modern minimalism, classic elegance, or natural textures.

💡 Designer tip: Create a simple mood board or folder of images that feel cohesive in tone and material. Seeing everything together helps you make consistent choices later.

Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget

Bathrooms can vary hugely in cost depending on size, materials, and level of finish. Setting a clear budget early prevents surprises later.

Break down your costs into categories such as plumbing, electrical work, fixtures, tiles, cabinetry, lighting, and labour. Always allow a contingency of around 10–15% for unexpected expenses because in a remodel, there’s almost always something unexpected!

✅ Quick tip: List your “must-haves” (things you won’t compromise on) and “nice-to-haves.” It’ll help you make clear decisions if costs shift later.

Step 3: Assess the Existing Layout

The layout is the backbone of your bathroom. Before changing it, assess what works and what doesn’t. Moving plumbing can increase costs, so it’s worth knowing whether your layout can be improved without major reconfiguration.

Ask yourself:

• Does the layout feel balanced and easy to move through?
• What do you see when you first open the door?
• Is there enough natural light?
• Are there any awkward corners or wasted spaces?
  
  

💡 Designer tip: In smaller bathrooms, keeping the toilet and shower in the same positions can save significantly on plumbing costs while still allowing for a fresh new design.

Step 4: Check Plumbing, Electrics, and Ventilation

Before the aesthetic design comes the technical side; old pipework, outdated wiring, or poor ventilation can all cause future problems if ignored.

• Check water pressure, pipe condition, and drainage before finalising your design.
• Make sure the electrical plan includes enough power outlets for shavers, toothbrushes, and mirrors.
• Ventilation is just as critical. A good extractor fan prevents condensation and mould, keeping your bathroom fresh and long-lasting.
  
  

💡 Designer tip: If you’re planning underfloor heating, install it alongside any rewiring or pipework changes. It’s much easier (and cheaper) to do it all at once.

Step 5: Choose Fixtures and Fittings Wisely

Fixtures define both the look and function of your bathroom. Prioritise comfort and practicality alongside style.

Invest where it matters:

• Reliable taps, shower valves, and toilets (used daily)
• Wall-hung furniture or slim basins for space saving
• Quality shower screens that won’t fog, squeak, or leak
  
  

Whenever possible, see fixtures in person. Handle the taps, check basin depths, and feel the finishes. The tactile experience often reveals whether something truly feels “high-end.”

Step 6: Plan Lighting Early

Lighting shouldn’t be an afterthought. A well-designed plan layers ambient, task, and accent lighting to balance practicality and atmosphere.

Think in layers:

• Ambient: Ceiling downlights or wall sconces for even coverage
• Task: Focused lighting at mirrors and vanity areas
• Accent: Hidden LEDs, under-vanity glows, or backlit mirrors for warmth
  
  

💡 Designer tip: Always check IP ratings for bathroom zones. Safety first, especially near baths and showers.

Step 7: Select Tiles, Colours, and Materials

Once the practical planning is done, it’s time for the creative part. Tiles and materials set the tone of your bathroom, so take time to choose a palette that feels cohesive and timeless.

Lighter tones make a space feel more open, while darker colours can add intimacy and drama. Texture is equally important — balance matte and gloss finishes to add depth and visual interest.

💡 Designer tip: Order tile samples and test them in your bathroom’s actual light. Natural and artificial lighting can completely change how a colour appears.

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Step 8: Plan for Storage and Functionality

A beautiful bathroom still needs to work every day. Smart storage prevents clutter and keeps the space feeling calm.

Think vertically with mirrored cabinets or tall storage units. Recessed shelving in the shower or above the bath adds space without intruding into the room. Drawers in vanities are far more practical than open shelving for everyday use.

💡 Designer tip: Always design storage early — retrofitting it later can compromise both layout and aesthetics.

Step 9: Confirm Measurements and Order Schedule

Once your design is finalised, double-check all measurements. Ensure your chosen products fit the space, especially in compact bathrooms where every centimetre counts.

Order key items like tiles, fittings, and furniture early to avoid delays during installation. Some products have long lead times, and having them on site when your contractor needs them keeps the project running smoothly.

Pre-order checklist:
☑ Recheck all dimensions before ordering
☑ Confirm delivery times with suppliers
☑ Store items safely until installation
☑ Keep a copy of your final spec sheet

⚠️ Common mistake: Ordering too late. Some fittings have long lead times — plan 4–6 weeks ahead to avoid delays.

Step 10: Choose the Right Professionals

A bathroom remodel involves multiple trades. Plumbing, electrics, tiling, and joinery all work together in a small space. Hiring experienced professionals can make the difference between a smooth project and a stressful one.

Check reviews, portfolios, and references before committing. A good tradesperson will also help flag potential issues before they become costly.

In my experience, good communication between trades is what separates a smooth project from a stressful one.

Step 11: Prepare for the Disruption

Even a small remodel can take a few weeks. Be ready for a little chaos and plan ahead, especially if it’s your only bathroom.

How to make it easier:

• Set up a temporary wash space
• Keep essentials in a portable box
• Protect floors and nearby rooms from dust
• Stay flexible with timelines
  
  

💡 Designer tip: Keep essentials like toiletries, towels, and cleaning products in an easy-to-access box during the renovation. It helps life run more smoothly while the work is underway.

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Final Thoughts

A successful bathroom remodel is all about balance — between design and practicality, style and structure, aspiration and reality. Taking the time to plan each stage carefully means fewer surprises and a finished space that feels intentional and cohesive.

With the right preparation, your remodel won’t just look beautiful; it will work beautifully too.

Good design starts with good planning.

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