Bathroom Remodel Corunna MI Checklist: Design, Budgeting & Common Mistakes
Every bathroom remodel starts with excitement, yet it can turn stressful fast without a solid plan. Whether you’re swapping fixtures or redoing the whole room, this guide covers the key steps, design choices, and budgeting tips to help you build a space that balances function and style. We’ve pulled advice from industry pros so you can dodge costly errors and craft a bathroom that improves your daily routine and boosts your home’s value.
What if your daily routine could be transformed by a space designed specifically for your lifestyle and needs?
With 53% of homeowners in Corunna 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 Corunna MI to kitchen renovations, we make your dreams come true.
The Greater Lansing team takes a collaborative path on every project. We begin with your vision, then apply our know-how in spatial planning and picking materials. This ensures your space reflects your style while boosting function.
Our edge is delivering full-service support from beginning to end. From concept sketches to installation day, we manage details with precision. With trusted manufacturer partners, you get premium materials and warranty protection for peace of mind.
Important Facts
- Over 60 years of specialized design experience in Corunna MI
- Client-focused approach from concept through completion
- Seamless blending of aesthetics and everyday function
- All-in-one renovation services
- Premium materials backed by manufacturer guarantees
Whether upgrading fixtures or changing layouts, we bring proven expertise to each part of your Bathroom Remodel Corunna project. Together, we’ll explore how smart design lifts your home’s value and enhances daily living.
10 Modern Bathroom Design Ideas
On-Trend Designs: Pros & Cons
Walk-In Showers
A curbless, open-entry shower improves flow and helps a modern bathroom feel bigger and easier to use. It highlights bold tile and works with clear glass or short walls to keep light moving. Ideal for small footprints or aging-in-place bath remodels. Pro tip: slope the pan 1/4 inch per foot and use linear drains for crisp lines.
Pros
- Makes the room feel spacious and open
- Easier access for all ages
- Easier to clean than traditional showers
- Highly customizable with diverse tile options
Drawbacks
- May call for added waterproofing
- Can feel drafty without full enclosure
- Installation costs are higher than standard showers
- Water splashes onto floor
Floating Vanities
Mounting the vanity on the wall lifts cabinetry off the floor, delivering clearer sightlines and a minimal, modern feel. Small baths read as larger, floors are easier to clean, and under-cabinet LEDs add a floating glow. Suited to contemporary bathroom remodels with straight plumbing runs. Pro tip: anchor to a reinforced rail and map stud locations before deciding on width and sink material.
Advantages
- Creates the illusion of more floor space
- Easier floor cleaning
- Contemporary, sleek appearance
- Personalized height for better comfort
Drawbacks
- Less storage than floor models
- Needs sturdy wall support
- Higher cost than standard vanities
- Weight capacity concerns for heavy countertops
Heated Flooring
Radiant floors deliver smooth, hidden warmth underfoot, removing the cold-tile sting and raising comfort in a modern bathroom. Ideal for bathroom remodels seeking spa-like calm without showing heaters. Works under tile, stone, or luxury vinyl. Pro tip: pair a programmable thermostat with its own GFCI circuit; use electric mats in small baths, and hydronic systems for larger spaces.
Upsides
- Plush comfort, especially in cold climates
- Even heat distribution
- Supplemental heating that uses less energy
- Invisible system that doesn't affect design
Cons
- Significant upfront installation cost
- Increases overall project timeline
- May require professional maintenance
- Expensive to repair once tiled
Freestanding Tubs
A freestanding tub brings sculptural form to center stage, adding a spa-level focal point. It clears sightlines and offers flexible placement, ideal in larger bathrooms or designs with a feature window or accent wall. Check the floor structure and plan for a floor-mounted filler or wall stub-outs. Pro tip: maintain 4–6 inches of clearance to simplify cleaning.
Upsides
- Creates a stunning focal point
- Available in various styles and materials
- Simpler to clean around than built-in tubs
- Can fit in spaces where built-ins won't work
Limitations
- Higher price point than standard tubs
- Could require special plumbing considerations
- Limited storage for bath products
- Heavy—must have floor reinforcement
Smart Bathroom Technology
Add connected fixtures—touchless faucets, defogging smart mirrors, bidet seats, thermostatic shower controls, and leak sensors—to lift convenience, hygiene, and efficiency. You gain presets, automation, and usage metrics that trim water and energy waste. Works best with strong Wi-Fi and proper ventilation. Pro tip: lay out outlets and low-voltage early; choose IP-rated, Matter-friendly products with manual override capability.
Benefits
- Enhanced convenience and functionality
- Cuts water and energy use
- Customizable user experiences
- Fresh, cutting-edge appeal
Cons
- Larger initial investment
- May require professional installation
- Technology may become outdated
- 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.
Strengths
- Fewer grout lines for easier cleaning
- Achieves a seamless, roomy appearance
- Contemporary, high-end look
- Compatible with underfloor heating
Downsides
- 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.
Pros
- Cuts morning congestion
- Provides customized storage space
- Adds value to master bathrooms
- Creates a balanced, symmetrical design
Downsides
- Requires more space than single vanities
- Higher cost for fixtures and installation
- Additional plumbing requirements
- 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.
Advantages
- Instant focal point without a major remodel
- Add bold elements
- Easier than full-room updates
- Adds personality and character
Drawbacks
- May feel dated as trends change
- Can overwhelm smaller spaces if too busy
- Specialty materials may increase costs
- Could hurt resale if overly personalized
Curbless Showers
Choose a zero-threshold shower for a seamless flow that helps a modern bathroom read larger and safer at any age. Continue the floor tile into the shower to get a clean, spa finish and effortless access—smart for compact footprints or aging-in-place designs. Pro tip: recess the subfloor, install a wall-line linear drain, and hold a 1/4-in-per-foot slope with continuous waterproofing.
Benefits
- Accessible for all ages
- Delivers a seamless, contemporary look
- Makes the bathroom appear larger
- Easier cleaning with no threshold to trap dirt
Limitations
- More advanced waterproofing requirements
- May need to lower the subfloor
- Higher 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.
Strengths
- Creates a tranquil, spa-like atmosphere
- Timeless appeal that transcends trends
- Adds warmth and texture to the space
- Connects indoor space with nature
Limitations
- Needs special maintenance
- Wood/stone moisture-prone
- Costlier than synthetics
- Can darken or patina over time
Need help finding the right design elements?
With American Home, our experts help you pick the perfect set of features for your bathroom remodel Corunna—all matched to your taste, room size, and budget.
The 7-Step Bathroom Remodeling Process
When you understand the bathroom remodel process, you can plan more effectively and set fair expectations. Here’s a look at the common steps to transform your bathroom, plus estimated timelines for each stage.
Planning and Design
This crucial first step involves determining your needs, establishing a budget, and creating a design plan. Consider functionality, storage requirements, and aesthetic preferences. Collect inspiration from magazines, websites, and showrooms to refine 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 demo is done, crews begin the plumbing and electrical rough-in. They move or add water lines, drains, and outlets to fit your updated layout. This step calls for qualified pros to satisfy code.
Structural Changes and Drywall
If your bathroom remodel involves shifting walls or enlarging the room, the structural work occurs at this stage. Next comes moisture-resistant drywall (greenboard) and cement board in areas to be tiled. Proper waterproofing is critical in wet areas.
Tile Installation
Tile work for floors, shower surrounds, and backsplashes is slower but makes a big visual change. The exact duration comes from the pattern’s difficulty and your bathroom’s size. Leave extra time for proper curing.
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
The finishing phase adds hardware, lighting, mirrors, shower doors, and accessories. After paint touch-ups and a final cleaning, your bathroom is ready to use. This is when your vision comes together.
A full bathroom remodel Corunna MI usually takes 3–6 weeks from start to finish, depending on the scope and any unexpected issues. Working with experienced professionals can help keep your project on schedule.
Ready to launch your bathroom transformation?
At American Home, our design team in Corunna helps you navigate remodeling and craft a bathroom that suits your needs and preferred style.
About American Home: Exceptional Kitchen & Bath Design
At American Home, we blend tailored service and strong technical expertise to shape inspiring spaces. By planning carefully and thinking creatively, our team turns simple rooms into functional art.
American Home has been our shared dream for years. It perfectly complements American Flooring, giving customers everything they need to make their dream home a reality in Corunna MI.
Client-Focused Experience & Free Consultations
We always begin a bathroom remodel Corunna project by listening. Our free consult helps us grasp your needs before we suggest a plan. That approach keeps your vision in charge—from layout ideas to material selections.
“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.
More Than 60 Years of Expert Design Experience
Our Corunna designers leverage six decades of collective insight to solve spatial challenges with fresh ideas. This expertise helps us:
- -Maximize functionality in compact areas
- – Pair modern trends with lasting appeal
- -Source premium materials within budget parameters
We ease financial barriers to quality design with complimentary estimates. Whether it’s a bath update or a new take on key spaces, our process prioritizes your lifestyle and grows property value.
Bathroom Remodel Budget Breakdown
Knowing the potential costs involved in a bathroom remodel Corunna 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 Major 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.
Smart Financing Options & Cost-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-Saving Tips:
- – Keep the existing layout to cut down on plumbing changes
- – Refinish instead of replace when possible (tubs, cabinets)
- – Combine high-end and budget materials strategically
- – Consider open shelving in place of custom cabinetry
- – Buy floor models and remnant materials for savings
- – Phase your project when budget constraints are significant
Sustainability Spotlight: Eco-Friendly Bathroom Solutions
You can have an environmentally responsible bathroom without sacrificing style or functionality. Choose sustainable solutions to reduce your footprint and create a beautiful, efficient space.
Water-Smart Fixtures
- Low-Flow Showerheads: Current models provide strong pressure and still use just 1.5-2.0 GPM (where older models use 5+ GPM)
- Dual-Flush Toilets: Offer different flush volumes for liquid and solid waste, saving thousands of gallons annually
- Touchless Faucets: Lower water waste by turning on only when needed, with built-in aerators delivering added savings
Recycled & Sustainable Materials
- Recycled Glass Tiles: Beautiful, durable options made from post-consumer glass
- FSC-Certified Wood: Cabinets and shelves made from responsibly managed forest wood
- Recycled Countertops: Counter surfaces made with recycled paper, glass, or plastic composite materials
- Natural Linoleum: Biodegradable flooring made from renewable materials
Energy-Saving Solutions
- LED Lighting: Uses up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and lasts much longer
- Tankless Water Heaters: Heat water on demand, eliminating standby energy losses
- Proper Insulation: Lowers heat loss and helps prevent condensation issues
- Smart Controls: Programmable setups that fine-tune energy use across lighting, ventilation, and heating
Eco-Friendly Practices
- Material Repurposing: Refreshing current fixtures or donating still-usable pieces
- Local Sourcing: Reducing transportation emissions by choosing locally produced materials
- Low-VOC Products: Paints, sealants, and adhesives that release minimal harmful emissions
- Proper Disposal: Responsible sorting, recycling, and disposal of construction waste
Eco-Friendly Certification Guide
Check for these certifications as you choose 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 Remodeling Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a solid plan, a bathroom remodel Corunna can slip off schedule or budget. Understanding these common pitfalls can help you avoid pricey missteps and achieve a strong result.
1. Poor Bath Ventilation Planning
Insufficient ventilation ranks as a common and serious mistake in bathroom design. When airflow is lacking, moisture collects, leading to mold, mildew, peeling paint, and damaged fixtures.
2. Wrong Measurements
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. Subpar Lighting Design
Many bathroom remodels fall short in lighting design, resulting in spaces that are too dim, harshly lit, or impractical for daily grooming tasks.
How to Prevent This:
- Install a properly sized exhaust fan (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 you can, add a window for natural ventilation
Prevention Tips:
- Measure multiple times before ordering materials or fixtures
- Maintain clearances: 30" for toilet area, 30" for shower entry, 21" clearance in front of sinks
- Consider door swing paths and ensure they don't interfere with fixtures
- Use painter’s tape to map out layouts on the floor before installation
Prevention Tips:
- Use layered lighting: ambient, task, and accent
- Install proper task lighting at the vanity (side-mounted fixtures reduce shadows)
- Incorporate natural light sources when privacy conditions allow
- Use dimmers to adjust lighting levels for different needs
- Pick the right bulb color temperatures (2700K–3000K warm, 3500K–4000K neutral)
4. Overestimating Storage Space
A beautiful bathroom can easily turn cluttered and less functional if storage needs aren’t considered during planning.
5. Improper Waterproofing
Water damage is the top cause of costly bathroom problems. Inadequate waterproofing risks structural damage, mold infestations, and complete renovation breakdown.
Prevention 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
- Install medicine cabinets that recess into walls
- Incorporate built-in niches in shower and tub areas
Avoidance Tips:
- Apply proper waterproofing membranes in shower and tub areas
- Install the shower pan properly with the right slope for drainage
- Ensure wet areas use correct materials (cement board instead of regular drywall)
- Apply quality grout sealer to all tile installations
- Consider hiring waterproofing specialists for critical areas
Prevent Costly Mistakes With Professional Guidance
Our skilled bathroom remodel team in Corunna MI can guide you around common pitfalls and make sure your project is done right the first time.
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 Corunna Journey Today
A successful bathroom remodel Corunna MI requires careful planning, thoughtful design, and quality execution. By understanding the process, exploring design options, establishing a realistic budget, and avoiding common mistakes, you’re well on your way to creating a bathroom that enhances your daily routine and adds value to your home.
Keep in mind that professional support can turn a stressful remodel into a smooth, rewarding one. Whether you want a small update or a full transformation, the right team helps you handle challenges and realize your vision. Reach out to American Home and start your Corunna bathroom remodel today!
Ready to Start Transforming Your Bathroom?
Begin today on your dream bathroom journey. Our experienced design team in Corunna is prepared to help create a space where beauty, function, and value all come together.
FAQs
How can updating a tub-shower combo increase home value?
Modernizing this feature enhances functionality while appealing to buyers seeking spa-like experiences. At American Home, we focus on durable materials like porcelain tile and frameless glass doors that elevate aesthetics and provide long-term ROI through increased marketability.
What’s the typical timeline for replacing outdated fixtures?
In Corunna, replacing old fixtures generally takes 2–4 weeks, depending on layout updates and material readiness. We use 3D design tools to finalize selections early, helping to prevent cabinetry or tile delays.
Can you deliver projects on tight budgets without cutting quality?
Yes. At American Home, we center on impactful yet affordable upgrades such as tub refinishing or ceramic tile accents. We provide straightforward cost breakdowns and financing options, including home equity, so your project fits your budget.
Do you handle permits for wet room conversions?
Which types of flooring resist moisture best in humid spaces?
How do lighting choices impact small-space designs?
Layered LED designs deliver depth and usability. With recessed ceiling fixtures and vertical sconces, shadows near mirrors are reduced, daily tasks are safer, and compact layouts appear more open.
