DO:

*Let your imagination run. Start with your wish list and think about the practicalities later. Do you want a luxurious spa-like atmosphere or a sleek and modern design? Think about the fixtures and fittings you want in your bathroom and then talk to a bathroom designer or contractor about the best way to create your dream bathroom.

*Take inspiration from all the best bathrooms that you have ever visited. Whether it’s a posh hotel or a relative’s house, take note of the elements you like and how they might be included in your own design. For instance, do you want large marble-effect tiles on your bathroom walls and floors? A walk-in power shower or a roll top bath? Underfloor heating and heated towel rails? Collect pictures of bathrooms you like from magazines and online to show your designer or plumber.

*Visit local showrooms. By simply standing in mock bathrooms, you will get new ideas for different layouts  that you might not have come up with on your own. You can also check the quality of products that you’re interested in, look at all the different colour options and try things for size. Step into shower cubicles and see if there’s enough elbow room and test the length and width of a bath for comfort. Talk to the staff on hand who should gladly answer any questions on products on display. Take advantage of free bathroom design consultations.

* Before you start planning your bathroom renovation, it’s crucial to set a realistic budget. Decide how much you can afford to spend and stick to it as closely as possible. It’s important to keep in mind that some designs and features may not be feasible due to budget constraints or structural limitations. That said, there are plenty of ways to achieve a beautiful bathroom without spending a fortune.

* Prioritise your needs. When planning your bathroom, it’s important to consider the needs of everyone who will be using it in terms of design and layout. For example, if you have a large family, you might need more storage space. An elderly or disabled relative may require a walk-in shower, raised toilet or grab rails. Make a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves and prioritise them based on your budget and space limitations.

* Do hire professionals for plumbing and electrical work. This is the safest way to get the job done properly. Don’t skimp on this – leaking pipes and faulty connections can cause damage and be dangerous. A qualified plumber will be needed to remove the old bathroom elements connected to the pipework and install the new ones. You will also need an electrician who is certified with an approved scheme, such as the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC), to work with the lighting, electric shower and any other electrical features. Unless you are experienced in home renovation, you may also need a plasterer, tiler, joiner and decorator.

* Do think about how to make your bathroom upgrade more sustainable. While the bathroom is often the smallest room in the house, it is an energy hog. Look for bathroom fixtures with the latest technology that will help you reduce both your electricity and water consumption. From energy-efficient LED bulbs to water-saving showerheads and dual flush toilets, a bathroom makeover need not cost the Earth.

DON’T

*Don’t underestimate the costs. Remember buying the bathroom is just the start. Fitting it can cost the same again or more. Get several quotes from reputable contractors to compare and ensure you’re getting the best deal. The final price tag of your bathroom revamp will depend on multiple factors, including its size, the quality of finish you want, the spec of materials you choose, the amount of renovation needed and existing plumbing.

*Don’t attempt to tackle a bathroom renovation on your own. DIY errors can turn your luxe look into a nightmare that can’t be fixed. Get professional advice. For example, modern bathroom fittings are not always compatible with old plumbing which might need replacing.  Also, there are often hidden problems, such as rotten floorboards under lino which will need replacing. Precision is needed for installing cabinetry and countertops. Plus, in today’s bathrooms pipework is often hidden, so you will need to work out how to do this. Will you box it in or lift floors and chase out walls?

*Don’t rush into the renovation without a clear plan as it can lead to costly mistakes and delays. Take the time to carefully consider all the details. For instance, look at how the bathroom floor is constructed. If you want a large, freestanding Victorian bath, your floor may have to be reinforced. Think about how you will get a large bath into the room. Is the stairway wide and straight enough for it to be carried up?

*Don’t neglect ventilation. Proper ventilation will not only limit condensation but prevent the unsightly appearance of mould and mildew. Excess build-up of black mould can lead to respiratory problems, such as asthma and skin rashes. Make sure to include ventilation as part of your early planning. This may involve upgrading your existing ventilation, installing an exhaust fan or even adding a window.

*Don’t ignore building regulations. These minimum standards are in place to ensure your bathroom is safe, structurally sound, properly plumbed in and well-ventilated. Ignoring the building regs can result in safety hazards, fines and costly repairs. For example, waste plumbing needs to be connected to underground foul drainers and not into a nearby downpipe as this can cause flooding, pollution and potentially disease.

Don’t forget to obtain the necessary approvals. Check if the work needs to be inspected by Building Control so they can issue a completion certificate. Some items can be self-certified by specific installers with the correct accreditation and approval.

*Don’t get the wrong type of lighting. From spotlights and downlights for showers and wet rooms to mirror lights for make-up and shaving, there’s a plethora of products.  But great care needs to be taken when choosing suitable light. IP (Ingress Protection) ratings are used to define the degree of protection against moisture. Zone 0 is inside the bath or shower itself. Any fitting in this zone must be low voltage (max 12 v) and be rated at least 1P67 which is total immersion proof. Zone 1 is the area above the bath or shower and an IP65 is generally accepted. Zone 2 is furthest from the water and here an IP44 is required.