Natwerk Designs

How do I even start getting a bathroom renovated?

what kind of person is the starting point for a job like this? plumber? architect? interior designer? who???

Public Comments

1. realize that the renovation of a bathroom is THE most expensive that can be undertaken for the home an architect would be a great help - but maybe use the one at a remodeling contractor who probably does these 'small' jobs - as an architect makes 10% or so of the construction fees and the worst part of all - it's the one renovation that does NOT pay for itself in the long haul (e.g. - improves the value of your home) this renovation will be for you - *sigh* enjoy
2. My spouse and I are retired building contractors.... So the first place to go is to a building contractor, and the reason why is that the contractor should give you a free estimate. Be prepared with what you would like to do, or what your ideas are. The contractor will hire/sub-contract the others. This is normally cheaper than you hiring them individually, and all the planning/schedules will be coordinated by your contractor. Also, if something is not going the way you would like, you only have to talk to one person.
3. i would take it down to the sheetrock first so probly a contractor to take care of that -- architects are really expensive -- dont go there -- decide what tub , shower , fixtures etc. that you want so plumbers -- electricians -- so on can make adjustments , or add new things
4. Most high street 'bathroom' shops will offer an all in one service for you, i.e. design, supply, strip/fit and finish; but this won't be the cheapest way to do it. For a simple single room renovation an architect is overkill - unless you want a new wing in with the renovation.. Also an interior designer will be overkill unless you have a 'unified look' to the rest of the house - in which case, you probably would know what you want anyways... If you want to save money, the more you can 'nail down' the exact specification of what you want, i.e. look, layout, finishes, etc the better - buy some house design magazines, make a collection of what you like and what you don't like. Then make a simple scale drawing of the bathroom (1 to 100, i.e. 1cm to 1metre) with details of where the existing fittings are, then photocopy it and 'overlay' where you would like things to be. Then use your personal network to find builders / plumbers / suppliers etc who would be interested in the work. Also, if the current bathroom is rather 'dire' you should get back the majority of your money on resale (remembering one house I fixed up with a wall length mirror opposite the toilet..), as long as you don't go mad on the fittings.