As Australians increasingly look to maximise every square meter of their homes, small bathroom renovations have become a hot topic. With the right approach, these compact spaces can be transformed into stunning retreats that look fantastic and boost a home’s market value.
Beaumont Tiles product specialist Michelle Kearney explains that as home sizes shrink, bathroom spaces are also shrinking, making it essential for renovators to be strategic in their design choices.
“Renovating a small bathroom can be challenging, but with the right planning and insight, you can create a space that truly shines,” Michelle says.
“It’s not just about design, though. Homeowners are also focused on maximising their return on investment when it comes time to sell.”
Page&Co Real Estate director Karen Page agrees that a well-renovated bathroom can significantly enhance a property’s appeal: “Renovating a bathroom not only adds value in terms of price but also helps your home stand out in the market, making it more attractive to potential buyers,” Ms Page said.
“If you plan to sell, renovating before listing your property is a good idea. Buyers are often drawn to homes with updated features, and a beautifully renovated bathroom can be a major selling point. In competitive markets, a renovated bathroom can be the deciding factor for buyers choosing between similar properties.”
Here are 12 expert tips from Michelle Kearney and Karen Page on how to maximise style and value in a bathroom renovation:
Dos
- Map out your layout: “Layout is everything in small bathrooms,” Michelle says. “Visualise the space on paper or with masking tape and consider existing features like plumbing and windows before starting the work.”
- Think about your style: “Starting with your style can set the tone for the entire renovation. Beaumont’s ‘What’s My Style’ quiz is a great way to discover your aesthetic and create a tailored style guide for your project.”
- Maximise lighting: “Good lighting can make a small bathroom feel larger. Emphasise natural light and pair it with large-format white tiles, like Super Natural White 600×600 to create an airy and inviting atmosphere.”
- Consider a complete bathroom package: “Complete bathroom packages are ideal for those who prefer not to design from scratch. These packages, curated by interior designers like Shaynna Blaze, include everything you need for a cohesive look.”
- Choose timeless finishes: “Opt for timeless finishes and neutral colours,” Karen says. “This approach will prevent your bathroom from dating too quickly and maintain its appeal to future buyers.”
- Appeal to your area: “Choose features that resonate with your local market. For example, a small bath is ideal for family-oriented neighbourhoods, while walk-in showers may appeal to older buyers.”
Don’ts
- Don’t overlook storage: “Storage is crucial in a small bathroom,” Michelle adds. “Incorporate features like a shaving cabinet or an Invisicab to keep your essentials neatly organised.”
- Avoid dark tiles: “Dark tiles can make a small space feel even smaller. Stick to lighter colours to keep the bathroom feeling open and spacious.”
- Don’t clutter the space: “Be intentional with your bathroom features. If space is limited, consider solutions like a shower-tub combo or sliding barn doors to save room.”
- Don’t forget ventilation: “Proper ventilation is key to preventing mould and mildew. Consider installing a system like the Soma 4-in-1 Bathroom Heater 600 Series to keep the air fresh.”
- Don’t overcapitalise: “Be mindful of your market when planning your renovation,” Karen says. “In an average-priced home, avoid overspending on the bathroom as it may be difficult to recoup the costs.”
- Don’t skimp in high-end areas: “In pricier suburbs, cater to buyer expectations by investing in luxury items like smart toilets, LED mirrors, or wall-hung vanities. These features can make your home stand out in a competitive market.”
