If you’re planning to do a custom bathroom remodel, now is the time to research costs for everything from bathtub and shower replacements to lighting options. It’s also a good idea to visit a few design showrooms so you can handpick fixtures and materials to create a cohesive design theme for your new space. This will help ensure that the end result is a bathroom that’s beautiful, functional and fits seamlessly into your home’s existing design aesthetic.

It’s also important to consider who will be using the bathroom and what their needs may be. If you have children, for example, you might want to include a tub or extra storage to keep bath toys and supplies organized. If you plan to age in place, your bathroom might require accommodations such as a bidet or hand shower. You should also take into account any other needs such as handicap accessibility, especially if you plan to replace your current flooring with something like heated tile or a modern towel warmer.

Once you’ve narrowed down the functional requirements of your bathroom custom bathroom remodel chicago IL renovation, it’s time to start dreaming a little bit. Flush out your list of “must haves” from your “nice to haves” and value-engineer back, focusing on what’s most important to you. For example, you might have always wanted a spa-like space complete with multiple showerheads or a no-shower enclosure. Or perhaps you’ve lusted after the look of a freestanding tub or bench seating in your master bathroom.

The next step is to set a realistic budget for your bathroom remodeling project. It’s important to consider not only the cost of materials but also the price of any labor and additional services such as waste removal and demolition. You should also factor in the cost of any required permits. Depending on your location, these can be fairly expensive, but are necessary to ensure that your bathroom remodel is up to code.

One way to reduce the overall cost of your bathroom renovation is to choose more energy-efficient options, such as LED lighting and water-efficient fixtures. These simple changes can make a big difference in the amount of money you’ll spend on your energy bills each month.

You’ll also need to take into account the cost of any upgrades you might want to incorporate, such as a new window or skylight. These can not only add to the aesthetics of your bathroom, but can also improve ventilation and help prevent humidity that can lead to mold.

A custom bathroom remodel can be a major undertaking, but with the right planning it’s possible to minimize disruptions and save money. Be sure to discuss your renovation timeline with your contractor and set a schedule that works for both of you. It’s also a good idea for both of you to sign off on a written scope of work that clearly defines the project’s start and completion dates, as well as outlines any costs that could be unexpected.