- Bathroom
Vancouver Bathroom Remodel: Where To Save Vs. Splurge
- By matin@quayconstruction.ca
Vancouver bathroom remodel projects are one of the most exciting home projects to take on. The transformation can completely elevate your daily routine and add significant value to your home. But with budgets ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 or more, it’s easy to lose track of spending if there isn’t a plan in place.
The key to a successful Vancouver bathroom remodel is knowing where to splurge for lasting quality and where to save without sacrificing style. Whether you’re upgrading a master bath or refreshing a guest bathroom, these tips will help make every dollar count.
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Where to Splurge: Investing in Quality Where It Matters
Some parts of a Vancouver bathroom remodel are worth allocating more of the budget. These elements take focus on durability, functionality, and overall visual impact. By focusing your spending here, you ensure that your bathroom not only looks great but stands the test of time.
Plumbing Fixtures
Plumbing fixtures like faucets, showerheads, and toilets are some of the most-used items in a bathroom, so they need to be built to last. Reputable brands like Kohler, Grohe, and Delta have a proven track record and often come with solid warranties, which can be a lifesaver down the road. Investing in durable, high-quality fixtures means fewer issues over time—something your future self will thank you for if repairs are ever needed.
Tile and Installation
Bathrooms are high-moisture environments, making the right paint choice essential. Standard wall paint often struggles to hold up against steam and humidity, leading to peeling or mildew over time. That’s why bathroom-rated options, such as Benjamin Moore Aura Bath & Spa, are worth the investment. These paints are specifically designed to withstand moisture, ensuring the walls stay looking fresh and clean for years to come. While these options come at a higher price point, they offer peace of mind and lasting durability.
Where to Save: Smart Decisions That Don’t Sacrifice Style
Not every element of a Vancouver bathroom remodel needs to come with a premium price tag. By making strategic choices, it’s possible to save money without compromising on the overall design or functionality. Here are a few areas where saving makes sense:
Mirrors
Mirrors are one of the easiest ways to add character and style to a bathroom without overspending. Retailers like Wayfair or Amazon offer a wide range of affordable options that mimic the look of designer pieces. A thoughtfully chosen mirror can serve as a stunning focal point, enhancing the room’s visual appeal while keeping costs under control.
Prefabricated Vanity Cabinets
While custom vanities are beautiful, they can quickly take a large chunk out of the budget. Prefabricated vanities offer an excellent alternative, combining style and affordability. Available in a variety of sizes and finishes, these options can be tailored to fit different layouts and design preferences.
Brands like Teodor Vanities are known for their quality and ability to provide a custom look at a more accessible price point. When selecting a prefabricated vanity, pay close attention to the materials. A vanity with a birch plywood interior will hold up much better over time than one made with melamine, which is prone to chipping and warping.
Accessories
Small details like towel bars, robe hooks, and toilet paper holders are easy areas to save. These don’t need to match the same brand as your plumbing fixtures to achieve a cohesive look. Instead, focus on consistency in finishes—such as matte black or polished chrome—to create a seamless and polished design. This is a simple way to maintain a high-end appearance without the high-end price tag.
Budget-Friendly Upgrades That Make a Big Impact During Your Vancouver Bathroom Remodel
Even small changes can make a significant difference in the look and feel of your bathroom. These budget-friendly upgrades prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to achieve a fresh, modern space:
Update Hardware
Swapping out cabinet knobs and pulls is one of the easiest ways to refresh your bathroom. That or integrate a unique towel holder- something that catches the eye.
Replace Mirrors
A new mirror can completely transform the room by enhancing light, adding depth, and serving as a focal point. This is a high-impact upgrade that’s both simple and cost-effective, especially when paired with stylish frames or unique shapes.
Add Texture and Color
Bring personality into your bathroom with small, affordable accents. Textured towels, a bold bath mat, or an eye-catching rug can inject warmth and character into the space while being easy to swap out over time as trends or personal tastes evolve.
Repaint Walls
A fresh coat of paint is one of the most affordable ways to breathe new life into your bathroom. For a cohesive, bright look, consider painting both the walls and ceiling in the same light color. A few tried-and-true favorites are Benjamin Moore White Dove and Benjamin Moore Silver Satin—both of which create a soft, timeless backdrop.
Precision in Details: Larger-Scale Vancouver Bathroom Remodel Projects
For those willing to invest slightly more, focusing on thoughtful details can yield major impact. Precision in tile installation, clean grout lines, and well-planned storage niches contribute to a polished, sophisticated look.
Pro Tip: If shaving your legs in the shower is part of your routine, consider installing a tall linear niche with the bottom ledge placed 18″ off the ground. It creates the perfect spot for a leg rest while maintaining a sleek, functional design. For those with mobility concerns, this can easily be adjusted to fit your needs.
Balancing Functionality and Design When Planning Your Vancouver Bathroom Remodel
A well-designed bathroom isn’t just about looking beautiful—it should work seamlessly for your daily needs, too. Thoughtful planning combines aesthetics with practical elements to create a space that feels as good as it looks.
Think about how you’ll actually use the space. If two people share the bathroom, a double vanity can make mornings far less chaotic, but it does take up drawer and storage space. In a smaller bathroom, built-in medicine cabinets can add much-needed storage without taking up precious floor space. Functionality doesn’t mean sacrificing style—it means designing with purpose.
Layer in personal touches to make the space truly yours. A bold piece of artwork, a textured rug, or a touch of greenery can bring warmth and character. Even something as simple as matching dispensers for soaps or neatly rolled towels can add a curated, polished feel.
A bathroom that balances function and design feels effortless—every detail, from storage to style, works together to create a space you’ll love every day.
This article was written by Rebecca Foster, owner of Align Interior Design. If you would like to learn more about how to achieve a budget-friendly bathroom remodel, check out this post to learn more.
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