Ultimate Bathroom Remodeling Guide 2025

Transform your bathroom in 2025 with the ultimate expert remodeling guide.

If you are currently contemplating a remodel, you may have a thousand questions running through your mind. What are the layouts? What materials should I use? What style should I go for? Don't panic, you are not alone. Although the bathroom is the smallest room in the property, there are limitless challenges in terms of decisions that need to be made. Whether you want to update your space, increase the value of your home, or simply want a spa retreat, this guide will prepare you for 2025.

I commend you for putting thought into a renovation because changing the bathroom in the home for a modern look can drastically increase value. Not only are bathrooms one of the most used rooms for households, but buyers tend to focus on bathrooms as a deal maker/breaker For you long term owners that are not planning to sell anytime soon, having an updated bathroom can ease your daily routines, thus having a positive effect in terms of return on investment.

Long Islanders homes have all experienced the beautifying touch functional additions from Paul Walls and Floors offers. There is a reason Paul Wilson got so famous. Our team helps our clients from the very first design to the minute polishing details that come at the end of the remodel. We help our customers build a vision of their ideal bathrooms so they can step into their personal retreat day after day.

In the following sections, I will cover everything related to bathroom remodels. The how’s, the when’s, and the why’s will be discussed in detail involving various perspectives enabling you to think about the remodel with confidence.

Rethinking the Value in Bathroom Renovations

Analyzing what if any benefits you may gain prior to completing almost any renovation project is a critical step. The return on investment from a bathroom remodel is often cited as one of the highest when compared to other home improvements.

Estimated ROI on remodeling bathrooms for the year 2025

Among all home improvement projects, the highest value inducing ones remain bathroom remodeling. As much as 60 to 75 percent of the cost depending on the scope of the work is set to be recouped in the sale of the home, as most recent estimates show. Recovery is highest for minor remodels simply because the investment is lower and the changes made are typically designed to be the most impactful.

According to the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, a mid-range bathroom remodel costs around $25,251 which brings an average repayment of $18,613, resulting in a 73.7% ROI. Even though these figures are national averages, in regions with competitive real markets like Long Island, the value can be much greater.

For New Yorkers, especially those living around Great Neck, these bathroom renovations can greatly improve property appeal for selective buyers. If not selling the house right away, one stands to enjoy the benefits of an updated bathroom for years.

Why Bathrooms Are Appealing Selling Features Of A home

Bathrooms and kitchens are selling features of a house. These areas tend to capture a buyer’s attention because they are very personal and costly to remodel. An outdated bathroom will most likely guarantee full depreciation on interest, or even guarantees receiving lowball offers, thus, drastically diminishing buyer interest.

Today’s buyers are paying more attention to bathrooms that are both functional and exquisite. They are looking for spaces that can serve the purpose of a personal sanctuary. Not only for relaxation and recharging, but also for personal retreats. Things that were categorized as luxuries centuries back, such as dual vanities, walk in shower, and ample storage space, are now seen as fundamental in many sections of the market.

Remodeling a bathroom can greatly change the quality of life a person has to deal with, hence, Even if you are not in a rush to sell the house, doing some renovations will help greatly. A bathroom well-crafted can greatly improve efficiency and in turn, improve the value a homeowner places on their daily routines by providing an escape from the continual stresses of life.

Crucial Considerations When Planning For A Bathroom Remodel

As previous stated, the aforementioned is only possible after spending time planning the renovation. Planning is an essential tool for any successful renovation. Educating oneself on the bathroom requirements and setting the timeline helps the endeavors significantly, thus saving money and achieving tailored result.

Setting a Realistic Budget

The cost of remodeling a bathroom can differ significantly based on the scope of work, the materials chosen, and alterations to the layout. In 2025, the average bathroom remodel is projected to cost somewhere between $5,578 and $16,138. Small bathroom remodels start around $2,500, while primary baths range from $10,000 to $30,000.

In tandem with your cost estimates, use this list for accuracy:

  • Labor costs: Expect to be around 20% to 40% of your total budget
  • Materials and fixtures: Usually account for 60% to 70% of the total
  • Design services: Around 5 to 10% if you decide to hire a professional designer

Keep in mind to set aside money as a contingency fund of at least 10 to 15% to account for unexpected issues. Homes at Old Age tend to hide surprises behind walls and under floors that can affect your budget.

To get accurate pricing for your project, contact Paul Floors and Walls at (516) 425-4316 for detailed consultations and project estimates.

Determining the Scope of Your Project

Bathroom renovations can be placed into three different categories:

  • Cosmetic updates: Include painting, replacing fixtures, updating the hardware, and other superficial alterations without affecting the plumbing layout.
  • Mid range remodel: Focuses on changing important features like the toilet, sink, or tub/shower, and some minor tweaks to the layout.
  • Full remodel: Involves removing walls or partitions, expanding the area, and changing the entire layout of the floor.

In order to decide on your scope of work, ask yourself:

  • How long you will remain in the house.
  • What are the daily activities and pain areas related to the current bathroom.
  • What is the budget you plan to spend.
  • What is the condition of the underlying systems (plumbing, electrical, ventilation).

Set realistic expectations based on your budget and timeline. If precision is your priority, it may often be better to undertake complete renovation in stages, rather than having to settle for lower quality results.

Do It Yourself vs. Hiring a Specialist

The fame of the bathroom renovation television programs has motivated individuals to take bathroom remodels without the help of professionals. While DIY projects can cut costs, unexperienced renovators often overlook major setbacks.

DIY applies to projects such as:

  • Painting
  • Replacing hardware
  • Replacing shower head and faucets
  • Changing a toilet
  • Basic tiling work.

Projects that require a professional:

  • Repositioning plumbing
  • Doing electrical wiring
  • Fundamental structural changes
  • Advanced waterproofing
  • Extensive installations of tiles.

Keep in mind that any mistakes made in the bathroom are often very expensive due alterations to water damage, so it is best to hire an expert. When it comes to waterproofing and venting professional contractors like Paul Floors and Walls should be the ones trusted.

What can be learned from novice bathroom renovators?

Observing other people’s stages can save you a lot of trouble with first-time renovators. Here are some pieces of advice from homeowners who have already gone through the bathroom renovation process.

  • Install sufficient backing: Inexperienced bathroom remodelers should consider having the shower rod, shower enclosure, and towel racks, along with the numerous other hardware paraphernalia capture sufficient backing. As one renovator put it, “Don’t forget to add framing/backing in the walls for the shower rod or the shower enclosure or glass doors, all the towel racks, TP holder.” Without proper backing, these elements may pulled free from the wall, eventually falling off.
  • Plan all aspects of the remodel: Homeowners have offered a suggestion as well. “Plan out everything before you start,” including “where are you going to hang a hand towel, by the sink; oh and where are multiple bath towels so they can dry properly.”
  • Don’t underestimate the remodel duration: No matter how simple, a bathroom renovation will take more time than expected. Even the smallest bathrooms “take an amazing amount of work and time.” Make adjustments for other showers/bathrooms during the renovation period along with an additional ‘time set’ for ease.
  • Make it a point to place shutoff valves: Prior to the project, make certain shutoff valves are installed so that all plumbing in the rest of the house functions for the duration of the work.
  • Be ready for the Trip of a Lifetime: whether one is renovating a magic kingdom or an apartment, it can be stressful. Use aloof logic and understand that ‘no there will be no homicide or divorce threats. Simply divert yourself with patience’. One renovator coarsely suggests this strategy.

Best Bathroom Design Trends for 2025

It is imperative to stay up to date with design trends, so your new bathroom does not lose its luster immediately after its completion. In 2025, these will be the most popular trends in bathroom design.

Pieces of nature and Earth tones.

In 2025, the use of natural materials will continue to be injected into innovation. Designers are swapping out marble for wood, limestone, and slate, designing cohesive surfaces where the same finish is on the ceiling, walls and even vanities.

Color palette is dominated by Earth tones which are greens, mustard yellow, browns, aubergines, deep or bright shades along with ochre. Previously used stark whites and grays will no longer be embraced. Sherwin Williams or Benjamin Moore does range these hues in their 2025 color collections.

This integration of biophilic design with natural materials results in restrooms that feel warm and inviting. Implementing the following will enhance the biophilic design:

  • Stone vessel sinks
  • Wood vanities with natural finishes
  • Textured wall treatments like lime wash
  • Clay tiles in earthy hues
  • Plant life

Spa-Inspired Wellness Features

The bathroom is increasingly regarded as an on-site wellness center within the house. The 2025 Bath Trends report published by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) highlights that emotional and physical well-being are equally vital when considering the aesthetics and functionality of a bathroom.

Some popular wellness features are:

  • Chromotherapy lighting
  • Steam showers
  • Aromatherapy diffusers
  • Towel warmers
  • Heated flooring
  • Deep soaking tubs
  • Rainfall showerheads

Bathrooms are rapidly being transformed into wellness recovery centers, shifting the user experience from functional to restorative and relaxing; something that industry experts note emerged during the pandemic but has remained ever since.

Smart Technology Integration

Technology continues to redefine what a bathroom is. Smart features not only enhance interactions with the restroom, but also make its use more convenient, efficient, and environmentally friendly.

Technologies predicted for incorporation into smart bathrooms by 2025 include:

  • Digital showers with preset temperature controls
  • Motion-activated faucets and toilets
  • Smart mirrors with lights and information display
  • Voice-activated controls
  • Leak detection systems
  • Water usage monitoring
  • Programmable heated floors

With the integration of technology, it is important to use solutions that enhance functionality instead of gimmick features that will soon become obsolete.

Statement Lighting and Fixtures

Lighting has become an important factor in bathroom design. Backlit mirrors, shower and niche LED strip lighting, and pendant lights are some of the popular choices. Sconces have also been designed artistically.

Under-vanity lights provide nighttime illumination. Lighting designers have been reporting an increasing number of artistic toilet paper holders, which suggests that people are starting to see the decorative side of functional toilet accessories, such as faucets and hardware.

Essential Features of a Remodeling Project

A bathroom remodel goes beyond aesthetics. There are a few design features that require attention since they affect usability and maintenance.

Choosing Floor Materials

Bathroom floors should be pleasing to the eye, but the design must also consider moisture resistance, safe footing, and slip prevention.

Popular flooring options for the year 2025 include:

  • Porcelain tile: Durable, resistant to water, and available in an endless variety of designs, including those that mimic natural wood and stone.
  • Natural stone: Offers beauty but is painstakingly difficult with regards to maintenance since it needs to be freshly sealed regularly.
  • Luxury vinyl tile (LVT): More affordable choice, provides comfort underneath, and is water resistant.
  • Engineered wood: More water resistant than solid hardwood, but still requires careful installation in bathrooms.
  • Heated floors: Enhances comfort and can be installed under a wide range of flooring types.

While considering the flooring for the bathroom, one must think of the following:

  • Along with impact slips, falls in the shower area need to be taken into account.
  • Cleaning and upkeep should be simple and quick.
  • Enduring damage from water should be taken into account.
  • Cells should be taken into account as well.
  • Alignment with the overall theme and design should be made.

Wall Finishing and Waterproofing

Without a doubt, the most important thing when it comes to renovating a bathroom is the waterproofing. Getting this wrong can cause serious damage to your whole house, at a surprisingly high cost.

The following are components of waterproofing systems:

  • Schluter-KERDI and other similar membrane systems.
  • Backer boards including Wedi board and waterproof boards.
  • Liquid waterproof membranes.
  • Vapor barriers that are correctly installed.

For user-visible wall surfaces, 2025 includes trends like:

  • Plaster that brings the perfect balance of texture and warmth to any space.
  • Wide-format tiles that have minimal spaces between grout lines.
  • Bright accent tiles with artistic and textured surfaces.
  • Installation of tiles vertically for a heightened illusion.
  • Decorative paper for use in water-exposed powder rooms and dry regions.
  • Wedi boards anywhere likely to get wet and their cheaper substitutes because then you won't have to worry about it anymore.”

Plumbing and Fixtures Selection

Choosing plumbing for a bathroom will affect the appearance and functionality. While selecting fixtures, remember to:

  • Pick elements supporting the theme you have chosen.
  • Think to some degree about water use to save money on utilities.
  • Use materials for surface that can withstand wear and scrub.
  • Check if the fixtures are compatible with the plumbing system of the house.
  • The space dimensions should be considered with the chosen sizes.

Popular fixtures for 2025 are anticipated to be:

  • Smart toilets with bidet functions.
  • Thermostatic shower valves.
  • Wall-mounted faucets and toilets.
  • Faucets and toilets in matte black and gold, brushed gold finishes.
  • Rainfall and Handheld Shower Combinations
  • Freestanding Tubs as Focal Points

An important point that was provided by seasoned renovators is: “Ensure that you look at the precise openings on your vanities/sinks/toilets etc. and how their gaps correlate with the other drains and pipes. It might be important to change the plumbing to make it work properly.”

Storage Solutions and Vanities

Well designed closets for a bathroom are so elusive to find in real life, hence organizing them poses a serious challenge. Storage designs for bathrooms in 2025 include:

  • Floating vanities which improve the sense of space
  • Built-in niches in showers and tubs.
  • Medicine cabinets set recessed into walls.
  • Adjustable vanity sides
  • Protruding walls used for obi-wan
  • For other purposes
  • Shelving supplied to hold decorative china.
  • Cut for bolts and other use personal care devices.

One remark a renovator gave was, “Get a door closet with a ton of storage. So many towels, TP, as well as an extra set of meds and toiletries would be so much fun to put into a drawer”

Avoiding Common Bathroom Remodeling Blunders

Other experienced renovators do not fall under the usual road blocks. Knowing these possible blunders renders time and resources more effectively.

Planning for Proper Ventilation

Ventilation is critical during the renovation of a bathroom. If ignored, moisture can ruin the finishes while simultaneously increasing the chances of mold infestation.

Best practices include:

  • Placing the appropriate size exhaust fan within the bathroom (minimum 1 CFM per square foot of bathroom space)
  • Ensuring that the exhaust vents externally, not into the attic or wall cavity.
  • Considering fans that are sensitive to humidity and operate on an as-needed basis.
  • Setting a timer switch that guarantees the vent operates for a sufficient time after showers.

To quote one renovator, “Make sure the vent exhausts outside the house and not into the attic.”

Installing Adequate Blocking In Walls

This small detail can physically alter the way your fixtures are secured within your bathroom, potentially creating unsafe conditions.

Common locations needing blocking include but are not limited to:

  • Towel bar locations
  • Future or current grab bar locations
  • Removable shower curtain rods and shower doors
  • Wall mounted fixtures
  • Heavy mirrors and cabinets

Renovator advice: "I've added blocking for towel bar locations so they'll mount to blocking, not to drywall, where screws need to go into wood. I set it in with the larger side turned out to face wider target."

Ensuring Proper Electical Safety

Maintaining safety must be a primary concern when turning on the lights in a bathroom due to the presence of water.

GFCI Protected Outlets

To mitigate the risk of electric shocks, all outlets within bathroom areas must be protected by Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs). The modern code typically stipulates the following:

  • Outlets within six feet of water sources must be GFCI protected.
  • Dedicated 20-amp circuits for bathroom outlets.
  • Suitable spacing between water sources and electrical fixtures.

Consider the suggestion made by one of the renovators: “GFCIs with built-in LED night lights.” No need to activate primary illumination for a trip to the restroom at midnight.

In addition to the requirements outlined above, think about other task specific needs:

  • Properly placed general illumination to avoid shadows.
  • Vandal resistant shower area lighting.
  • Long term additions of electric appliances to the bathroom.
  • Separate controls for the fan and light.
  • Correct sizing for the ventilation fan.

Bathroom Renovations for All Budgets

No matter your budget, there is always something that can be done to increase your bathroom’s ease of use and make it more aesthetically appealing. Here's the plan to remodel your bathroom at various costs.

Maximum visual impact per unit of expenditure: Minor restorations needing little time, effort, or change to existing structures.

Changes that aren't too demanding on the wallet include:

  • Painting using colors that are currently in style
  • Updated fittings and accessories
  • Faucets and showerheads replacements
  • Addition of frames to mirrors
  • New light fixtures
  • Changing the grout in current tiles
  • Curtain-shower replacement glass doors
  • New toilet seats and covers

All of this can drastically improve the feel and look of your bathrooms without costing a fortune. Many of these projects can be done as DIY endeavors, further reducing the expenses involved.

Ideas for Moderate Renovations

When working with a moderate budget, a more significant difference can be made to your bathrooms' functionality and general appearance.

Moderately budgeted projects often include the following:

  • A new vanity along with a countertop
  • Toilets upgrades
  • New floors across the entire bathroom
  • Shower or tub replacement while plumbing remains in the same location
  • New paints, along with wall treatments
  • Updated lighting and ventilation
  • New storage solutions alongside accessories

According to the JLC 2024 cost report, the estimated ROI is 73.7% for a mid-range bathroom remodel. This highlights the mid-range renovations in particular as the most cost-effective.

Transforming Your Bathroom into a Luxurious Retreat

If you are willing to spend a larger amount, a custom bathroom comparable to luxurious resorts and spas can be constructed.

Luxury may include:

  • Complete reconstruction of the layout
  • Encroachment into neighboring spaces
  • Luxury natural stone finishings
  • Fashioned woodwork
  • Radiant heating in floors
  • Steam showers
  • Soaking bathtubs with no mountings
  • Integrating smart technologies
  • Lighting tools from specialists
  • Audio systems for those embedded in walls

Although luxury renovations are tangible in terms of lifestyle benefits and leverage appeal in affluent markets, they tend to have lower ROI, landing around 45.1 - 49.4%.

Why Choose Paul Floors and Walls for your Bathroom Remodel

At Paul Floors and Walls, we know fully well that your bathroom renovation project is not merely construction work. Rather, it is an investment in your home, and greatly adds value to your daily living standards. With every project our clients trust in us, we combine skillful execution with esthetic design and keen attention to all details, guaranteeing that they will get the best bathrooms.

What defines us:

  • From the region: Being a company from Long Island, we know well the particular tastes and requirements of the people who reside in Great Neck and nearby regions.
  • All in one service: We take care of everything related to your bathroom renovation starting from the first design consultation up to the final walkthrough.
  • Best materials: We only use materials of the best quality that are beautiful, durable and provide excellent value.
  • Craftsmen with experience: Our specialists have years of experience in all areas of bathroom renovation. This includes plumbing, electrical work, tiling, and fine finishing work.
  • Maintaining informed clients with updates and transparent pricing demonstrates clear communication practices.
  • Detail-oriented work lets clients achieve any modification to their bathrooms, ensuring a pleasurable experience at Paul Floors and Walls.

We invite you to call us at (516) 425-4316 for a consultation appointment so we may help polish up the design for your ideal bathroom.

Final thoughts

Keeping in mind that a bathroom remodel can pose some challenges, proper step-by-step planning makes these home improvement projects greatly rewarding when elegantly designed providing the owners a unique and captivating environment. Bathrooms nowadays are transitioning from just a utility space to a safe haven that nourishes one's mental and physical health.

These transformable and multifunctional aspects for natural raw materials, smart technologies, tailored designs, and personal wellness focus mark the 2025 transformational design trends reflecting how we interact with bathrooms over time. With custom strategies, a desired transformational atmosphere can be achieved beyond just practical requirements.