Bathroom Remodel Aurelius MI Checklist: Design, Budgeting & Top Mistakes
A bathroom remodel often begins with excitement, but without a plan it can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re refreshing fixtures or transforming the entire room, this guide explains the essentials, design factors, and budgeting tips to deliver a space that blends usability with style. We’ve collected expert insights to help you avoid expensive missteps and create a bathroom that elevates your day-to-day and increases your home’s value.
How would your day change if your space were built around your lifestyle and needs?
With 53% of homeowners in Aurelius planning renovations every year, reimagining functional spaces has become one of the most strategic investments for modern living. At American Home, we’ve spent six decades helping families create environments that blend beauty with practicality. From bathroom remodel Aurelius MI to kitchen renovations, we make your dreams come true.
In Greater Lansing, our team handles each project collaboratively. We listen first to your goals, then bring expertise in layout planning and materials. The result is a space that matches your style and functions better every day.
We stand out thanks to complete, start-to-finish service. From early drawings through installation, we oversee each step with care. Our leading manufacturer partners offer high-quality materials and warranties for lasting assurance.
Vital Knowledge
- Over six decades of specialized design experience in Aurelius MI
- Customer-focused approach from concept to completion
- Harmonious balance of aesthetics and practical daily use
- Complete one-stop renovation services
- Premium materials with manufacturer-backed warranties
Whether upgrading fixtures or changing layouts, we bring proven expertise to each part of your Bathroom Remodel Aurelius project. Together, we’ll explore how smart design lifts your home’s value and enhances daily living.
10 Modern Bathroom Design Ideas
Trending Looks With Pros & Cons
Walk-In Showers
A curbless, open-entry shower streamlines circulation and makes a modern bathroom feel larger and more accessible. It showcases statement tile and allows seamless glass or partial walls to maximize light. Great for compact footprints or aging-in-place bathroom remodels. Pro tip: slope the pan 1/4 inch per foot and add linear drains for clean lines.
Upsides
- Makes the room feel spacious and open
- Easier access for all ages
- Less effort to clean than traditional showers
- Highly customizable with various tile options
Drawbacks
- May require more waterproofing
- May feel colder without a full enclosure
- Higher installation cost than standard showers
- Overspray on floor
Floating Vanities
A wall-mounted vanity frees floor space, creating lighter sightlines and a clean, modern bathroom aesthetic. It makes small baths feel larger, simplifies floor cleaning, and pairs beautifully with under-cabinet LED for a floating glow. Best for contemporary bathroom remodels with straight plumbing runs. Pro tip: use a reinforced mounting rail and check stud placement before choosing width and sink material.
Upsides
- Makes the floor area feel more spacious
- Floor cleaning is easier
- Sleek, modern appearance
- Height can be customized for comfort
Drawbacks
- Less storage than floor-standing models
- Needs solid wall support
- Higher cost than standard vanities
- Weight capacity concerns for heavy countertops
Heated Flooring
Underfloor radiant heat gives invisible, even warmth, stopping that cold-tile shock and making a modern bathroom more comfortable. It’s ideal for bathroom remodels wanting spa vibes without visible units. Works beneath tile, stone, or luxury vinyl. Pro tip: run a programmable thermostat on a dedicated GFCI; electric mats are best for small baths, while hydronic setups shine in bigger zones.
Upsides
- High-end comfort, especially in cold climates
- Even heat distribution
- Energy efficient supplemental heating
- Invisible system that doesn't affect design
Drawbacks
- Significant upfront installation cost
- Lengthens the overall project timeline
- May require professional maintenance
- Costly to fix after tiling
Freestanding Tubs
Freestanding tubs put sculptural form at the center, delivering a spa-like focal point. They open sightlines and allow flexible placement, ideal for larger baths or layouts with a feature window or accent wall. Confirm floor structure and plan a floor-mounted filler or wall stub-outs. Pro tip: keep 4–6 inches of clearance for easy cleaning.
Strengths
- Makes a stunning focal point
- Available in various styles and materials
- Cleaning around is easier than with built-in tubs
- Can fit in spaces where built-ins won't work
Cons
- Higher price point than standard tubs
- May need special plumbing considerations
- Limited storage for bath products
- Heavy—requires floor reinforcement
Smart Bathroom Technology
Connected bathroom tech—touchless faucets, smart mirrors with defog, bidet seats, thermostatic showers, and leak detectors—boost convenience, cleanliness, and efficiency. Presets, automation, and usage insights help reduce water and energy use. Best for rooms with dependable Wi-Fi and good ventilation. Pro tip: pre-plan outlets and low-voltage paths; select IP-rated, Matter-compatible gear that includes manual overrides.
Pros
- Enhanced convenience and functionality
- Reduces water and energy waste
- Customizable user experiences
- Modern, forward-looking appeal
Drawbacks
- Higher up-front cost
- May require professional installation
- Technology can go out of date
- Potential for technical issues
Large Format Tiles
Expansive porcelain slabs or 24×48 (600×1200 mm) tiles visually enlarge a modern bathroom, reducing grout lines and maintenance in a bathroom remodel. They deliver sleek continuity across floors and walls, especially in walk-in showers. Ensure a dead-flat substrate and proper lippage control. Pro tip: use a 1/3 offset, leveling clips, and back-butter; seal grout and choose slip-rated finishes.
Benefits
- Fewer grout lines for easier cleaning
- Achieves a seamless, roomy appearance
- Contemporary, high-end look
- Performs well with underfloor heating
Restrictions
- More challenging installation
- Higher waste factor during installation
- Might require subfloor reinforcement
- Fewer patterns than small tiles
Double Vanities
Adding a double-sink vanity smooths daily routines, providing each user a basin and storage and adding counter space plus symmetry. It feels high-end and grounds larger walls in modern bathrooms. Best for layouts 60 in (1524 mm) or wider with simple plumbing runs. Pro tip: pick drawer-dominant bases and install offset traps to keep full-depth storage usable.
Advantages
- Cuts morning congestion
- Delivers personalized storage space
- Adds value to master bathrooms
- Achieves a balanced, symmetrical design
Restrictions
- Uses more floor space than single vanities
- Higher cost for fixtures and installation
- Additional plumbing work required
- More cleaning (two sinks)
Accent Walls
Feature walls add instant emphasis and depth, making it easy to spotlight texture, color, or pattern without overpowering a modern bathroom. Try tile, stone veneer, microcement, or moisture-rated wood slats behind the vanity, beside a freestanding tub, or within a shower (with correct ratings). Pro tip: carry the finish full height and layer wall-washing or sconce light to amplify the effect.
Upsides
- Instant focal point without major remodel
- Add bold elements
- Easier than full room updates
- Adds personality and character
Drawbacks
- May feel dated as trends change
- Might overpower small spaces when too busy
- Specialty materials may increase costs
- Might hurt resale when it’s too personalized
Curbless Showers
Zero-threshold showers make movement continuous, so a modern bathroom feels bigger and safer for everyone. Extend the floor tile straight into the shower for a clean, spa look and step-free entry—great for tight plans or aging-in-place remodels. Pro tip: recess the subfloor, use a wall-line linear drain, and maintain a 1/4-in-per-foot slope with continuous waterproofing.
Pros
- Accessible for all ages
- Creates a smooth, contemporary look
- Makes the bathroom appear larger
- Easier cleaning with no curb to trap dirt
Downsides
- More complex waterproofing requirements
- May need to lower the subfloor
- Increased installation costs
- Requires precise slope for proper drainage
Natural Elements
Incorporating wood tones, stone, and organic textures softens hard surfaces and brings warmth to a modern bathroom remodel. Consider rift-sawn oak vanities, pebble or tumbled-stone floors, limewash finishes, and plants for visual calm. Balance the scheme with moisture resistance and clean lines so it won’t feel overly rustic. Pro tip: seal natural materials carefully and provide ventilation; use composite or porcelain lookalikes in wet areas.
Benefits
- Creates a calm, spa-style atmosphere
- Timeless appeal that transcends trends
- Adds warmth and texture to the room
- Connects indoor space with nature
Cons
- Special maintenance needed
- Wood/stone moisture-prone
- Costlier than synthetics
- May darken or patina with age
Need help finding the right design elements?
The design team at American Home can guide you to the ideal blend of features for your bathroom remodel Aurelius, aligning with your preferences, available space, and budget.
The 7-Step Bathroom Remodeling Process
Understanding how a bathroom remodel unfolds helps you plan smart and set realistic expectations. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the process, with estimated timelines for each phase.
Planning and Design
In this vital first step, identify what you need, build a budget, and map out a design plan. Weigh functionality, storage goals, and style preferences. Pull inspiration from magazines, sites, and showrooms to shape your vision.
Demolition
This phase involves removing existing fixtures, flooring, and sometimes walls. Proper demolition requires careful planning to avoid damaging plumbing, electrical systems, or structural elements. For smaller updates, selective demolition may be sufficient.
Plumbing and Electrical Work
Once demolition is complete, rough-in plumbing and electrical work begins. This includes relocating or installing new water lines, drains, and electrical outlets according to your new layout. This step requires professional expertise to ensure code compliance.
Structural Changes and Drywall
When a bathroom remodel requires moving walls or adding square footage, handle structural changes now. Then install moisture-resistant drywall (greenboard) and cement board wherever you’ll tile. In wet areas, correct waterproofing is a must.
Tile Installation
Installing tile on floors, shower surrounds, and backsplashes takes time, but it can transform the space. Your pattern’s complexity and the bathroom’s size will set the schedule. Build in extra time so the tile can cure properly.
Fixture and Cabinet Installation
Once surfaces are prepared, installation of the vanity, toilet, shower, bathtub, and storage cabinets begins. This phase brings your bathroom to life as the major components take their place in your new design.
Finishing Touches
During the last stage, we install hardware, lighting fixtures, mirrors, shower doors, and accessories. Paint touch-ups plus a final clean prepare the space for use. This is when your vision truly comes to life.
Plan on 3–6 weeks for a complete bathroom remodel Aurelius MI from start to finish, though the scope and unexpected hurdles can affect timing. Working with trusted pros helps the schedule stay on track.
Ready to start transforming your bathroom?
At American Home, our Aurelius design team can guide you through the remodel and create a bathroom that fits your needs and style.
About American Home: Exceptional Kitchen & Bath Design
At American Home, we blend personalized service with unmatched technical knowledge to create spaces that inspire. Our team transforms ordinary rooms into functional art through meticulous planning and creative vision.
For the past several years, American Home has been our dream. It was the ideal complement to American Flooring, offering our customers all they need to realize their dream home in Aurelius MI.
Customer-First Experience & Free Consultations
We begin every bathroom remodel Aurelius project by listening. A free first consultation helps us learn your needs before we suggest solutions. This way, your vision drives each choice—from layout ideas to materials.
“Homeowners find that American Home completes the puzzle,” say industry partners Ed and Yvonne Weaver. Working with our partners, we deliver comprehensive design help that eases complicated projects.
Six Decades of Trusted Design Expertise
In Aurelius, our designers draw on six decades of combined experience to tackle spatial challenges creatively. This expertise enables us to:
- – Make compact areas work harder
- – Pair modern trends with lasting appeal
- -Source premium materials within budget parameters
With complimentary estimates, we reduce financial barriers to great design. Whether updating a bath or reworking core living areas, our process focuses on your lifestyle needs and increases property value.
Bathroom Remodel Budget Breakdown
Knowing the potential costs involved in a bathroom remodel Aurelius MI helps you plan well and sidestep budget surprises. The table below breaks down typical expenses at different budget levels.
Smart budgeting turns renovation goals into real results. Our team guides homeowners through investment choices with clear advice, weighing upfront costs against long-term value. From a powder room refresh to a master suite rework, knowing the financial factors keeps your project aligned with lifestyle needs and the market.
| Expense Category | Budget Remodel (~$15,000–$25,000) |
Mid-Range Remodel (~$25,000–$55,000) |
Luxury Remodel (~$55,000+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Demolition & Disposal | $1,000–$2,000 | $2,000–$3,500 | $3,500–$5,000 |
| Plumbing | $2,000–$3,500 | $3,500–$7,000 | $7,000–$15,000 |
| Electrical | $1,000–$2,000 | $2,000–$4,000 | $4,000–$8,000 |
| Flooring | $1,500–$3,000 | $3,000–$6,000 | $6,000–$12,000 |
| Shower/Tub | $2,000–$4,000 | $4,000–$8,000 | $8,000–$20,000 |
| Vanity & Countertop | $1,200–$2,500 | $2,500–$5,000 | $5,000–$15,000 |
| Toilet | $200–$500 | $500–$1,000 | $1,000–$3,000 |
| Lighting & Ventilation | $500–$1,000 | $1,000–$2,500 | $2,500–$5,000 |
| Tile Work | $2,000–$3,500 | $3,500–$7,000 | $7,000–$15,000 |
| Fixtures & Hardware | $500–$1,500 | $1,500–$3,000 | $3,000–$8,000 |
| Permits | $300–$800 | $800–$1,500 | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Design Fees | $0–$1,500 | $1,500–$4,000 | $4,000–$10,000 |
Demolition & Disposal
Plumbing
Electrical
Flooring
Shower/Tub
Vanity & Countertop
Toilet
Lighting & Ventilation
Tile Work
Fixtures & Hardware
Permits
Design Fees
Understanding Costs and Key Investment Factors
Labor costs usually represent about half of a remodel budget. Materials and fixture upgrades cover the remaining share. We provide clear estimates that show how each dollar is allocated, from plumbing changes to tile installations.
Mid-range bathroom projects average $25,000 nationally, but scope can shift the final total. Older homes often need a 10-20% contingency for unexpected structural work. Our designers prioritize the must-haves and propose cost-effective options for secondary items.
Flexible Financing Options and Budget-Saving Tips
Home equity loans remain popular for their competitive rates and tax benefits. We also guide clients through HELOC options and personal loan structures. For cash purchases, phased installations help manage cash flow without compromising design integrity.
By reusing materials and refinishing fixtures, you can trim costs by 15–25%. We allocate budget to high-impact needs—waterproofing and energy-efficient systems. These selections raise daily comfort and preserve your property’s resale value.
Budget-Friendly Tips:
- – Keep your existing layout to reduce plumbing changes
- – Whenever possible, refinish rather than replace (tubs, cabinets)
- – Blend high-end and budget materials wisely
- – Use open shelving rather than custom cabinetry
- -Shop floor models and remnant materials for discounts
- -Phase your project if budget constraints are significant
Sustainability Spotlight: Green Bathroom Solutions
An eco-conscious bathroom can keep its style and function intact. With smart, sustainable choices, you can lower your footprint and enjoy a beautiful, efficient space.
Water-Smart Fixtures
- Low-Flow Showerheads: Modern options offer great pressure yet use just 1.5-2.0 GPM (vs. 5+ GPM for older models)
- Dual-Flush Toilets: Feature dual-flush settings for liquid versus solid waste, saving thousands of gallons per year
- Touchless Faucets: Reduce wasted water by activating only when needed; built-in aerators add even more savings
Recycled & Sustainable Materials
- Recycled Glass Tiles: Stylish, durable options using post-consumer glass
- FSC-Certified Wood: Cabinetry and shelving sourced from responsibly managed forests
- Recycled Countertops: Counter surfaces made with recycled paper, glass, or plastic composite materials
- Natural Linoleum: Biodegradable flooring produced from renewable materials
Energy-Efficient Upgrades
- LED Lighting: Up to 75% more efficient than incandescent bulbs with a significantly longer lifespan
- Tankless Water Heaters: Heat water on demand, eliminating standby energy losses
- Proper Insulation: Minimizes heat loss and helps stop condensation issues
- Smart Controls: Automation that adjusts lighting, ventilation, and heating to minimize energy use
Green Building Practices
- Material Repurposing: Refreshing current fixtures or donating still-usable pieces
- Local Sourcing: Minimizing transportation emissions by sourcing materials locally
- Low-VOC Products: Paints, sealants, and adhesives with low harmful emissions
- Proper Disposal: Responsible recycling and disposal of construction debris
Eco-Friendly Certification Guide
Look for these certifications when selecting bathroom products:
- -WaterSense: EPA program certifying water-efficient products
- -ENERGY STAR: Identifies energy-efficient appliances and fixtures
- -FSC (Forest Stewardship Council): Certifies responsibly sourced wood products
- -Greenguard: Ensures products have low chemical emissions
- -Cradle to Cradle: Recognizes products made with safe materials that can be recycled
5 Common Bathroom Remodel Mistakes to Avoid
Careful planning doesn’t guarantee smooth sailing—a bathroom remodel Aurelius can still go wrong. Stay aware of these common pitfalls to prevent costly mistakes and deliver a successful project.
1. Inadequate Ventilation Planning
Inadequate ventilation is one of the most common and problematic mistakes in bathroom design. Without proper airflow, moisture accumulates, leading to mold, mildew, peeling paint, and damaged fixtures.
2. Measurement Errors
Inaccurate measurements can lead to fixtures that don't fit, inadequate clearance for doors, and uncomfortable usage spaces. This mistake often requires costly corrections.
3. Inadequate Lighting Design
Many remodels suffer from weak lighting design, creating bathrooms that are dim, harsh, or not practical for everyday grooming.
Avoidance Tips:
- Choose a properly sized exhaust fan, ensuring at least 1 CFM per square foot of bathroom space
- Make sure the fan vents outside, not into an attic or wall cavity
- Consider humidity-sensing fans that run automatically when needed
- If space allows, include a window for natural airflow
Prevention Tips:
- Measure multiple times before ordering materials or fixtures
- Adhere to clearances: 30" toilet spacing, 30" shower entry, and 21" sink clearance
- Consider door swing paths and ensure they don't interfere with fixtures
- Use painter's tape to mark layouts on the floor before installation
Tips to Prevent This:
- Apply layered lighting: ambient, task, and accent
- Install proper task lighting at the vanity (side-mounted fixtures reduce shadows)
- Take advantage of natural light sources where privacy isn’t compromised
- Use dimmers to adjust lighting levels for different needs
- Use suitable bulb color temperatures: 2700K–3000K for warm and 3500K–4000K for neutral
4. Overestimating Storage Space
A bathroom may be visually appealing but will soon feel cluttered and unusable if storage requirements aren’t factored into the design.
5. Insufficient Waterproofing
Water damage is the top cause of costly bathroom problems. Inadequate waterproofing risks structural damage, mold infestations, and complete renovation breakdown.
Avoidance Tips:
- Inventory your bathroom items before designing storage solutions
- Incorporate a mix of open and closed storage
- Utilize vertical space with tall cabinets or shelving
- Consider medicine cabinets that recess into walls
- Incorporate built-in niches in shower and tub areas
Prevention Tips:
- Ensure appropriate waterproofing membranes are used in shower and tub areas
- Make sure the shower pan is installed with the correct slope for drainage
- Pick suitable materials for wet areas (cement board rather than standard drywall)
- Apply quality grout sealer to all tile installations
- Consider hiring waterproofing specialists for critical areas
Avoid Pricey Mistakes With Professional Guidance
Trust our experienced bathroom remodel team in Aurelius MI to help you avoid errors and deliver a project done right from the start.
Design Is in The Details
Our Process
The Consultation
We begin the process by meeting in our showroom to discuss your vision. Once we understand exactly what you are looking for we will meet at your home to measure and get to know how you and your family utilize your home to help us design a space that will meet you and your families needs and wants. This information is vital to the design process as our designers begin visualizing your space.
The Vision
Using the most advanced technology available in the industry, we begin the design process. Once the initial design has been completed, our team will create 3D color renderings to help you visualize your new space before you make your final decision.
The Finishes
We provide a wide variety of cabinets, countertops, decorative hardware, and other products to complete the look and feel you’re dreaming of . Whether your style is contemporary, traditional, rustic, or somewhere in between, we have the finishes to create any style.
Exceeding Expectations
Homeowners
The American Home Experience
We take pride in creating beautifully functional spaces that are tailored to fit our homeowner’s desired aesthetic and lifestyle. Our team designs in 3D and assist in coordinating all of the colors and textures to bring your space to life.
Creating Partnerships
Builders & Contractors
We’re Part of Your Team
It is our goal to provide our builders and contractors, or their clients, with the same level of service given to our homeowners. We specialize in design and products only, so we’ll never be your competition.
Start Your Bathroom Remodel Aurelius Journey Today
A well-done bathroom remodel Aurelius MI depends on solid planning, thoughtful design, and expert craftsmanship. With a clear process, design exploration, realistic budgeting, and mistake prevention, you’ll create a bathroom that enriches your everyday life and boosts property value.
Remember—professional guidance ensures a smoother, more enjoyable remodel. Whether your goal is a small refresh or a total bathroom transformation, the right experts can help you succeed. Contact American Home today and begin your Aurelius bathroom remodel!
Are You Ready to Transform Your Bathroom?
Take the first step now toward your dream bathroom. In Aurelius, our design experts are ready to build a space that unites beauty, practicality, and value.
Common Bathroom Remodel FAQs
How does updating a tub-shower combo improve home value?
Modernizing a tub-shower combo improves use and draws buyers looking for spa-inspired bathrooms. At American Home, we prioritize durable choices such as porcelain tile and frameless glass doors, which lift design appeal and strengthen ROI through better marketability.
How long does it usually take to replace outdated fixtures?
In Aurelius, replacing outdated fixtures usually takes 2–4 weeks, depending on layout adjustments and material supply. We simplify the process by using 3D design tools to confirm selections early, cutting down on cabinetry or tile order delays.
Can you deliver projects on tight budgets without cutting quality?
Definitely. At American Home, we emphasize smart upgrades like tub refinishing and ceramic tile accents. Our team delivers transparent estimates and financing options, including home equity plans, to fit your financial needs.
Do you take care of permits for wet room conversions?
Which flooring materials work best against moisture in humid spaces?
How do lighting choices impact small-space designs?
A layered LED approach creates both depth and function. We blend recessed ceiling lighting with vertical sconces to eliminate mirror shadows, making grooming safer and visually expanding smaller bathrooms.
