5 Things to Know Before Starting a Bathroom Renovation : Elevate Monthly with Bonae Interiors

Bathroom renovations might seem simple because of the small footprint, but they can be some of the most complex projects in the home. Between plumbing, tile layouts, ventilation, and fixture choices, there’s a lot more going on behind the scenes than meets the eye.

At Bonae Interiors, we’re in the thick of several bathroom transformations right now — and we’re sharing 5 key things to keep in mind before your bathroom project begins.

1. Timelines Are Often Longer Than Expected A bathroom reno might only involve one or two rooms, but the number of trades involved (plumbers, electricians, tile setters, painters, etc.) means careful coordination is essential. Add in lead times for materials — especially custom or specialty items — and it’s easy for a 3-week project to turn into 6+.

Pro Tip: Start planning early and be realistic with your timeline. It’s always better to be pleasantly surprised than caught off guard.

2. Budget for the “Behind the Walls” Surprises Bathrooms are high-traffic, high-moisture spaces — which means underlying issues like water damage, outdated plumbing, or code violations aren’t uncommon. Once demo begins, we often uncover things that need to be addressed for safety and longevity.

Pro Tip: Always leave room in your budget (we recommend 10–15%) for unexpected repairs that can’t be seen until the walls come down.

3. Layout Matters More Than You Think It’s not just about where the toilet goes. Proper spacing, storage placement, and flow can make a bathroom feel larger, more comfortable, and more functional — even if the square footage doesn’t change.

Pro Tip: Work with a designer to explore layout options before locking in plans. Small tweaks can lead to big daily improvements.

4. Choose Materials That Work Hard and Look Good Your finishes need to stand up to heat, humidity, and frequent use. Not all pretty tiles or vanities are created equal when it comes to performance. Slip resistance, water resistance, and easy maintenance should guide your selections.

Pro Tip: Think long-term. Invest in quality materials that balance durability with style. You’ll thank yourself later.

5. A Designer Makes the Difference There are a lot of moving parts in any renovation, but especially in bathrooms where decisions are tightly connected. A designer helps you avoid common mistakes, streamline decision-making, and bring your vision to life, quite literally with 3D models, with less stress.

Pro Tip: Even if you’re months out from a project, start the conversation now. The sooner we’re involved, the smoother the journey will be.

Bathroom renovations can be exciting, transformative, and yes — even a little overwhelming. But with the right planning, team, and guidance, they’re one of the best investments you can make in your home.

If you’re thinking about upgrading your bathroom, we’d love to help you create something beautiful, functional, and built to last. Reach out to schedule a discovery call — we’re here when you’re ready!

Check out some more images of our work here!

Click Me o Learn More

The Bonae Interiors Team