In this second edition of a series of special articles for WanderEater by Scavolini Toronto’s team of designers, you will learn how to plan for and execute a bathroom renovation project – including the must-haves and must-not-forgets, to achieve a spa-like bathroom experience that will help start and end your day refreshed and ready.
A bathroom is arguably the most important space in our home. It’s where we start and end the day and can set the tone for how we feel, perform, and view the rest of our day. Organized and uncluttered bathrooms are not only aesthetically pleasing, but can put you in a better mood, help you feel more relaxed and composed, and elevate your living experience in general. They’re also a reflection of good hygiene, proper grooming and a clear mind.
Bathrooms also provide a momentary space of solitude and can be our go-to place to unwind after a stressful day with a warm bath or a hot shower. They are where we get inspired, develop some of our greatest ideas, and we simply cannot live without them…therefore investing in upgrading your ensuite is a serious and important decision.
Like other spaces in our home, bathrooms have character and style. Whether you choose to create a dim and moody space, or something bright and light, you have control over the ambience, aesthetics and mood of the space.
Before venturing out and remodelling your bathroom, here are some important tips to ensure a smooth transformation with everything accounted for.
Step 1: Find your inspiration
Before you decide how extensively to renovate, you need to know what your end goal is, i.e. are you simply looking to give your existing space a facelift, or are you looking to redo the space in its entirety? Is this part of an entire home renovation project? Do you have plans to sell your home or are planning to live there for the foreseeable future? These are all important questions to ask yourself to help you define your budget and set realistic goals.
Your first place to start is to find and collect images that inspire you and align with what you hope to achieve for your future bathroom. Next, create a mood board of all the different bathroom elements and features you like to help you visualize the transformation and guide your project, or if you’re working with one, share it with your interior designer so they can better understand your overall vision.
At this point, you should consider the cost of a renovation and its required accessories and installations, then set a comfortable budget range for your project. Bathrooms are tricky because of all the mechanical work involved, and therefore getting professional input is key.
For a total bathroom renovation, your budget should include new countertops, a vanity, faucets, tiling and flooring, mirrors, and lighting. Depending on your budget, you may want to add heated flooring or a heated towel rack. In addition, consider the cost of labour for mechanical, electrical, plumbing and painting services.
Once the conceptual elements of the design program are in place a preliminary budget estimate can be developed together with your interior designer. A professional design team, like those available at Scavolini Toronto, can help with sourcing all of this information and can help you select accessories and features in your bathroom.
Step 2: Plan your renovation
Good planning is essential in every aspect of the remodelling process, whether it is to ensure you are working within a set budget and have the correct measurements, materials and components selected, or to find a product range and layout that works and meets your needs. Planning also includes sourcing all needed materials, such as paints and accessories, a standing tub or shower, a bidet or new cabinet hardware; and choosing from an array of countertops, sinks, faucets, lights, and finishes that meet your desired aesthetic and needs.
As you look to design the space, think of unique features you would like to include in your design. For example, are you looking to include built-in LED lighting in your vanity? Or if you are sharing a bathroom, then you may want to consider a double-sink and separate storage components. Do you want to include a television or speakers? And, what about smart or contactless technology features? Does your ensuite include a walk-in closet, and how does the movement between the two spaces flow? Is there a window in your bathroom? How can you make the space feel truly yours?
Step 3: Choose your contractor and learn about the perks of working with an interior designer
Designers are there to support and guide you through this process. A designer can help you to review your plans, priorities, and overall style to ensure it’s cohesive.
When meeting with a designer, consider sharing photos of your space, measurements, and plans — anything that can help them determine the type and scope of work you have in mind. Bring your mood board or inspirational photos of design and concepts that appeal to you. The more they can learn about you, how you use your home, and how you like to live in your space, the better informed and suited to your lifestyle the design concepts will be!
Meanwhile, a contractor will help you determine the scope of work needed to install your bathroom and help you to achieve the layout that works best. They will also help you identify additional costs such as electrical and plumbing elements, which could include removal of walls or building new walls, replacement of flooring, tiling, painting, and HVAC changes.
A good thing to note is that Scavolini Toronto’s design team provides installation and mechanical drawings to plan renovation with your contractor. These plans help the contractor estimate a timeline for the completion of the project. At this time, you should also apply for permits if required for your renovation.
Step 4: Prepare for the installation
Once the planning part is over, it’s time to consider ways to declutter, pack up or move any non-essential items away from your renovation area. Be sure you’re available to be onsite to meet with your general contractor.
Step 5: Complete a final meticulous check
Now that your new bathroom is installed, it’s time to conduct a thorough check and to ensure all features are functioning properly. Check the smart features, turn up the heat, run the water, and ensure all elements are installed properly.
Make your space your own by adding accessories, fresh towels, some plants and an aromatic diffuser. Now, it’s time to dim the lights, light up the candles, and unwind with a warm tub filled with some eucalyptus-coated Epsom salts and a tall glass of your favourite beverage in hand.
