Bathrooms are one of the most popular remodeling projects. Typically one of the smallest but frequently used spaces in a home, bathrooms should both function well and reflect your personal style.
Whether you are completely renovating your spacious master bath or refreshing a guest powder room, our free, handy guide will walk you through the remodeling process from start to finish.
Step-By-Step Guide to Designing Your Dream Bathroom
Step 1: Assess Your Existing Space and Lifestyle
Take a good look at your current bathroom (materials and layout) and ask yourself some questions.
What kind of bathroom is it?
Bathrooms are categorized into different types based on their size and function. (Click bath names to browse example photos.)
Master Bath A master bath is intended as a private, relaxing space adjoining the master bedroom and may feature a number of luxurious amenities: double vanities with sinks and mirror, semiprivate toilet, sauna or steam shower, soaking or whirlpool tub, storage for linens, etc.
Full Bathroom A full bath often accommodates the entire family and features a sink, toilet, and a bathtub/shower.
Three-Quarter Bathroom A three-quarter bathroom is usually small and includes a toilet, sink, and shower, but never a full bathtub.
Powder Room A powder room (aka half bath) is a small bath, typically for guests, that has a toilet and sink but no bathtub or shower.
Jack and Jill Bathroom A Jack and Jill bath is shared between two bedrooms, with doors entering from each room.
What do you like/dislike about the existing bathroom?
What is working/not working based on the way you use the space?
Step 2: Think About Future Needs
Beyond easy to change decor items (paint, shower curtain, bath mats, towels, and other accessories) the layout and materials of a bathroom should last for many years. The bathroom design should grow with you and adapt to your needs as you grow older. Consider these design features:
Ample entryway clearance
Curbless shower
Grab bars
Slip-resistant floor
Hand-held shower
Shower seat
Tall toilets
Wall-mounted sinks
Step 3: Find Inspiration
Inspiration can be found everywhere. Browse Houzz, website portfolios, magazines, showrooms, home shows, even your friends’ and family's homes to find layouts and products that excite you.
Gather this information on an electronic device or make a vision board. Your favorite images will help the pros offer suggestions for real life solutions that will fit your needs and budget.
A quick word of caution: Reality home improvement shows are fun to watch and a great source of inspiration, but be careful not to buy into the magic of television. Watch reality remodeling shows for fun, not facts.
Ultimately, you decide by the scope of your project and the products you select. Be sure to set aside an amount for unexpected costs; you never know what may be behind walls or under floors.
A professional design-build firm will keep your priorities in the forefront and get the most value for your budget.
Step 5: Choose the Best Materials
Choose materials that are easy to maintain, can handle daily wear and tear, reflect your personal style, and are within your budget.
Get a firsthand look at various materials by visiting showrooms and talking with experts. When comparison shopping, be sure to compare the same products, not just similar ones. The same models may vary in price by finish.
Lastly, be certain before you order. Changing your mind after materials are ordered, or worse installed, is a costly mistake that will bust your budget.
Here are some of the elements that go into a new bathroom design. (Click to read more about the features.)
If you want to make the most of your budget and available space, meet with a design-build firm. A professional designer will ask important questions to get a better understanding of your needs and share their expertise.
It’s true that remodeling takes time and money, but it doesn’t need to be a struggle. Hire someone you can trust to manage the project and keep you focused on the end goal. A professional will treat your project as if it is their own and work hard to make you happy.
In conclusion, when it comes to getting your dream bath, making and sticking with a plan will save you time, money, and stress. Follow our guide's steps so you can stay focused on your goals and reap the benefits of your beautiful new bathroom. You can do this and we’re here to help!
Visit: 3146 Fulling Mill Road, Middletown, PA 17057
Money-Saving Promotions
We want to help you kick-start your home improvement project! Our showroom has new kitchen and bath displays to showcase new ideas and products. And we have great new promotions for your dream kitchen and bath!
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The workers are quick and efficient. They got the work done earlier than expected and did a good job cleaning up the work site afterwards. I am quite pleased with the end result.
Kay
I was so pleased from start to finish! Love my updated kitchen. All the people associated with my kitchen renovation were great and so professional! Thank you!!
Linda
We at Harrisburg Kitchen & Bath are monitoring the COVID-19 situation closely and we are taking the necessary steps to protect the health and well-being of our employees, our current customers, and the community at large.
Industry Experience:My father has run his own construction company since 1992, and because of this I have been involved in the remodeling industry nearly my whole life. I’ve been with HKB since 2018.
Favorite Part of Your Job: I truly love helping people – whether by keeping things organized behind the scenes, ensuring we have everything we need for each project, or assisting with creative problem-solving. It brings me so much joy to be part of such a great team who are passionate about improving people’s lives by reimagining their living spaces!!
Fun Fact About You: I’m a self-published author, a self-taught artist, and a gigantic Star Wars nerd.
KATE EVANS
Industry Experience: Starting in 2008, I have been in the construction and remodeling industry in multiple capacities: project coordination, management, design, and sales. I have been with HKB since 2020.
Favorite Part of Your Job: I greatly enjoy getting to know our customers and being a part of their kitchen and bath transformations. It’s an honor to be a trusted partner and see the impact that our team's hard work has on someone’s home.
Fun Fact About You: I’ve tap danced nearly my whole life and have been awarded national recognition. I’ve also recently added dance instructor to my tap experience by teaching and choreographing locally for the last two years.
TIM HOOVER
Industry Experience: I have been in the business as a designer and sales person since 1986, and I have been with HKB since 2020.
Favorite Part of Your Job: To be challenged to create something the homeowner never expected and absolutely loves!
Fun Fact About You: Enjoys golfing, playing poker, and cigars!
DAVE RADER
Industry Experience: Since entering the kitchen & bath industry in 1988, I have worked in all aspects of the industry including manufacturing, design/sales, representing independent manufacturers, and owning a retail kitchen & bath showroom. I have been working with or employed by Harrisburg Kitchen & Bath since 2020.
Favorite Part of Your Job: Helping customers make their dream spaces come to life! Especially enjoy working with older homes from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Fun Fact About You: I enjoy traveling to other parts of the world. Most recently visited Australia in 2019. I have been to all continents except Antarctica! Next on my bucket list.