Starting Your Bathroom Makeover
“These upgrades take your bathroom from eyesore to farmhouse chic overnight,” says DIY expert, Joe Stricklett. If you're figuring out how to remodel a bathroom, think about the following:
- What colors and styles do you want to inspire the look of your new bathroom?
- What works and what doesn't design-wise in your existing space?
- What are the measurements of existing features like the vanity?
If you're looking for inspiration, watch the video above to see the transformation from outdated space to finished room. It's full of great bathroom renovation ideas and easy swaps to make in your own home—and will get you excited to plan your own one-day wonder DIY project.
Need more ideas for remodeling a bathroom? Our extensive library will inspire you and then show you how to bring those diy bathroom remodel ideas to life.
How to Demo a Bathroom
Before recruiting a professional or a DIY-savvy friend for this step, know that with the proper tools and safety measures in place, you can knock this out on your own. Demo doesn't mean destroy, more like disassemble. Wear safety glasses while you work and use tools to remove attached surfaces. A mini pry bar works well to remove stuck on surfaces in a tight space.
Move any hanging mirrors, shower doors or other fragile pieces before you demo to prevent any accidental breakage. Remove any hardware, plumbing fixtures or furniture that's being replaced, to clear your workspace of extra clutter—the bathroom is a tight enough space already. Once everything old is removed, it's time to clean any areas you'll be installing new features.
Gather all the tools and safety gear you need before beginning any demolition project. That way you don't have to make multiple trips to get supplies, mid-demo. A few different size screwdrivers, safety goggles, gloves, a drill, pry bar and canvas drop cloths are all helpful to have on hand.
Installing a Bathroom Vanity
The vanity is the centerpiece of the bathroom, so if you really want to make a change, incorporate a chic freestanding model with a luxe countertop. It adds style and storage of your bath. “Choose something with ample storage, a modern marble countertop and versatile black hardware,” says Joe. Determine how much your new vanity weighs before install day. You might need to recruit extra hands, especially for larger models with thick stone countertops.
Remove the vanity drawers for direct access to the plumbing. And if you’re replacing the plumbing on your own, turn off the water before you get started.
Replace a Mirror with a Medicine Cabinet
“Position the base of the medicine cabinet 16 inches above the sink,” says Joe. “That allows someone to reach the top shelf of the cabinet and still use the sink without bumping their head.” To make hanging the medicine cabinet easier, use a piece of painter's tape and place it on the back of the medicine cabinet where the hooks to hang the cabinet are. Cut the tape to the match the length then mark the location of the hooks. Remove the piece of tape and place it on the wall where you want to hang the cabinet. Check to make sure it's level and then use the markings to drill in the screws for your hooks.
Remove the glass door first before install to avoid any accidental breaks or cracks.
Upgrade the Shower Door
It’s easy to underestimate the power of a shower door. After all, if it’s working properly, most people don’t give it much thought. But a quick swap can change the style and overall look and feel of your bathroom. For this project, Joe removed a dated silver frame door and installed a jet-black replacement — and a shower head in the same color. The black hardware matches the new sink faucet, so the shower door and shower head system work to create a cohesive element throughout the room.
Add Finishing Touches—Like Indoor Houseplants
A towel bar offers a slim profile storage option and adds a touch of style too. Find an option that complements the other hardware in the room. For this project, Joe chose a black towel bar from Allen + Roth. If you have the space, install a towel hook and towel ring in the same color and material.
Add texture and warmth to the room by including natural touches like a wooden bath mat. New linens in a pattern or slightly contrasting color also help soften the hard surfaces in a bathroom. Joe picked out a set of striped cotton bath towels in a rich gray. A potted plant or two adds color and natural shapes to the bathroom. A snake plant is easy-to-maintain and thrives even in low light.
