Bathroom Design Mistakes A Professional Remodeling Firm Would Prevent

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Common Bathroom Design Mistakes A Pro Remodeler Would Never Do

Bathroom remodeling is an exciting project! It's a pretty great feeling to finally have the freestanding tub you've been dreaming of or that steam shower for after your workouts. However, putting in those upgrades isn't cheap, so you want to make sure that when you decide to take the plunge, your new bathroom design will deliver everything you're expecting and more!

Much of the success of any bathroom design relies on more than beautiful tile and exquisite features. It's all starts with the proper layout. 

Bathroom remodeling is a project of many layers with many moving parts. That's why it's a project best left to the professionals. Here are some common mistakes inexperienced remodelers can make – and how you can avoid them!

Start By Planning and Defining Your Needs

In the best bathroom, designs, form, and function are in perfect harmony. No one wants to bathe, shave, or put on makeup every day in a room that's drab and depressing, or worse, uncomfortable. 

When creating a bathroom design, some common design mistakes can upset the balance of the room's utility and aesthetic appeal. Being aware of these potential pitfalls can help you during the planning stage to design a well-thought-out space that meets your needs and goals.

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Before you begin the design process, first determine what it is that you like and dislike about your existing space. Is it "landlocked" with no window or natural light? Do you like your tub/shower combination? Does the ventilation keep the space moisture-free when showering? Are you more of a tub person, and you want a luxurious soaking tub instead of the tub/shower combo in there currently? 

These are all valid questions to ask and answer before you begin the design process. Define your needs and work with your design-build contractor to develop a master plan.

Common Bathroom Design Mistakes To Avoid

Today, bathrooms, whether they're big or small, powder rooms, or master en suite's should always be well thought out, carefully located, flow well, and should function with multiple users in mind. The days of a single bathroom that's shared among everyone in the house are over. Today, the best bathrooms use space efficiently, serve users functionally, and are aesthetically beautiful. Avoiding these common bathroom design mistakes can make your bathroom one of your favorite rooms in the house!

Mistake #1: No Clear Plan

As touched on in the previous section, before you start, get your thoughts organized! Take some time, think about your space and what you'd like to include. Make a prioritized list of items. It might turn out that the pedestal sink you've been wishing for is less important than having adequate linen storage. Like the saying "measure twice, cut once," a remodeling professional will think about how every element will impact the room and put a plan in place before you layout a floor plan and start construction!

Mistake #2: Choosing the Wrong Materials

Your bathroom needs to look good and stand up to some harsh conditions, including temperature fluctuations, excessive moisture, and everyday use. You might choose wallpaper or tile you love, but if it isn't safe for use in the bathroom, you may find yourself dealing with mold or mildew, or worse, replacing it early. A professional will make sure that every material you choose is safe for bathroom use. And don't skimp on ventilation! It's the key to removing odors and moisture.

Linen storage in a small bathroom

this small condo bathroom has plenty of linen storage thanks to the cabinets placed above the toilet.

Mistake #3: Lack of Storage

Bathroom storage is overlooked more often than you'd think. When you plan, include more than you think you'll need whenever possible. We keep a lot of stuff in the bathroom, and it's more pleasant when stuff doesn't fall out of the cabinet every time you open the door. Nothing kills a design aesthetic faster than a messy bathroom due to a lack of storage. Think about what you need to store – linens, toilet tissue, toothpaste, razor blades, shaving cream, etc. - then decide what type of storage you'll need to keep it organized. 

Mistake #4: Bigger is Better

That giant, luxurious soaking tub might look great in the showroom, but might not be the best choice for your master bathroom. Sometimes bigger isn't better... better is better! The most crucial aspect of your bathroom remodeling is that it has a great design that functions efficiently. Great design is proportional and functional, which brings us to …

Mistake #5: Trying To Fit Too Much in a Small Space

If you can't increase the square footage, maximize the space you have, and keep it proportional! You might love a double vanity and a separate walk-in shower and soaking tub, but if your bathroom is small, and you cram in every feature, you're not going to be happy in the long run. Make sure your floor plan leaves room to move around and offers easy access to all the amenities.

Mistake #6: Bad Lighting Choices

Lighting might not be as exciting as choosing the perfect tile, but many of us overlook this crucial element. From shaving to putting on makeup, proper lighting makes the job easier and more enjoyable. It's common to believe that a single source of light is enough, but in most bathrooms, it isn't. Create a lighting design that incorporates natural light (when available), task, ambient, and overhead lighting.

Bathroom with freestanding tub and walk-in shower

it’s ideal when the toilet is not front and center in the bathroom. it’s not always possible, but give it a try!

Mistake #7: Open The Door, And It's All About the Toilet!

Having the bathroom door open directly onto a view of the toilet isn't stylish or necessary. When designing your bathroom, make sure you use any available space to hide the loo. Tuck it behind the door, place it to the side where it won't be in full view, or better, if you have the room, consider a water closet. 

Whether you're updating your powder room, converting your master en suite for aging in place, or adding a new guest bathroom in the finished basement, creating a modern bathroom design is exciting, and above all, should be a fun experience. 

When designing your bathroom, keep planning, and functionality top of mind, avoid making these common bathroom design mistakes, and you'll be fine. The best solution is to work with a design professional that has experience designing and executing bathroom remodeling projects. 

If you live in the greater Madison, Wisconsin area and are considering a bathroom remodeling project, contact the award-winning design team at Degnan Design-Build-Remodel. Call (608) 846-5963 or click here to schedule an appointment. Whether you're planning a powder room upgrade, a complete gut remodel of your en suite Master bathroom, or adding a new bathroom in the basement; we can help! Contact us today for a free no-obligation consultation to discuss your project. 

This article was updated by Abe Denan on 8/30/22.