Bathroom Remodel Five Points North 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.
How would your day change if your space were built around your lifestyle and needs?
With 53% of homeowners in Five Points North 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 Five Points North 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’re distinguished by our all-in-one service. From first ideas to final installation, we take care of every detail. Partnerships with top brands provide premium materials and warranties, giving you long-lasting peace of mind.
Essential Insights
- Over six decades of specialized design experience in Five Points North MI
- Client-focused approach from concept through completion
- Seamless integration of aesthetics and daily functionality
- End-to-end one-stop renovation services
- Premium materials with guarantees from the manufacturer
Whether updating fixtures or reconfiguring layouts, we bring technical mastery to every aspect of your Bathroom Remodel Five Points North project. Let’s explore how thoughtful design can elevate your home’s value and your quality of life.
10 Modern Bathroom Design Ideas
On-Trend Designs: Pros & Cons
Walk-In Showers
A curbless walk-in shower smooths circulation and helps a modern bathroom feel more spacious and accessible. It puts statement tile front and center and uses clear glass or partial walls to maximize light. Great for small footprints or aging-in-place remodels. Pro tip: slope the pan 1/4 inch per foot and add linear drains to keep lines clean.
Benefits
- Creates a spacious, open feel
- Easier accessibility for all ages
- Easier to clean than traditional showers
- Highly customizable with various tile options
Limitations
- May call for added waterproofing
- Might feel cooler without complete enclosure
- Higher installation cost than standard showers
- Water overspray onto floor
Floating Vanities
A wall-hung vanity saves floor area, creating airy lines and a modern aesthetic. It makes compact baths feel larger, simplifies floor cleaning, and looks great with under-cabinet LED that creates a floating effect. Ideal for contemporary bathroom remodels with straight plumbing runs. Pro tip: use a reinforced cleat and confirm stud positions before choosing width and basin material.
Strengths
- Gives the impression of more floor space
- Floor cleaning is easier
- Modern, sleek appearance
- Personalized height for better comfort
Limitations
- Offers less storage than floor models
- Requires solid backing in the wall
- Pricier than standard vanities
- Weight restrictions for heavy countertops
Heated Flooring
Radiant floor heating provides unseen, even warmth underfoot, ending cold-tile shock and boosting comfort in modern bathrooms. It’s perfect for bathroom remodels when you want spa vibes without bulky heaters. Works under tile, stone, or luxury vinyl. Pro tip: use a programmable thermostat on a dedicated GFCI circuit; electric mats fit small baths, while hydronic systems excel in larger areas.
Pros
- Luxury-level comfort, especially in cold climates
- Even heat distribution
- Energy efficient supplemental heating
- Invisible system that doesn't affect design
Restrictions
- Significant upfront installation cost
- Adds time to the overall project timeline
- May require professional maintenance
- Repairs are costly once tiled
Freestanding Tubs
Freestanding tubs center the room with sculptural shape, delivering a spa-style focal point. They improve sightlines and allow flexible placement, ideal for spacious baths or layouts with a feature window or accent wall. Verify the floor structure and plan a floor-mounted filler or wall stub-outs. Pro tip: allow 4–6 inches of clearance to make cleaning easier.
Advantages
- Creates a striking 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
Limitations
- Higher price point than standard tubs
- Might need special plumbing considerations
- Limited storage for bath products
- Heavy—must have 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.
Advantages
- Enhanced convenience and functionality
- Saves water and energy
- Customizable user experiences
- Modern, cutting-edge appeal
Cons
- Higher upfront investment
- May require professional installation
- Technology can go out of date
- Potential for technical issues
Large Format Tiles
Porcelain slabs or 24×48 (600×1200 mm) tiles can visually expand a modern bath while cutting grout joints and maintenance. They provide a smooth, continuous look on floors and walls, ideal for walk-in showers. Ensure a perfectly flat substrate and tight lippage control. Pro tip: install with a 1/3 offset, leveling clips, and back-buttering; seal grout and choose slip-rated textures.
Advantages
- Fewer grout lines for easier cleaning
- Provides a seamless, spacious look
- Contemporary, high-end look
- Compatible with underfloor heating
Drawbacks
- More difficult installation
- Higher waste factor during installation
- May require subfloor reinforcement
- Fewer patterns than small tiles
Double Vanities
A double-sink vanity simplifies hectic mornings, giving each person a basin and storage while boosting counter space and symmetry. It looks upscale and anchors wide walls in modern baths. Works best in layouts 60 in (1524 mm) or wider with straightforward plumbing. Pro tip: choose drawer-heavy bases and use offset traps to preserve full-depth, usable storage.
Strengths
- Cuts morning congestion
- Provides customized storage space
- Adds value to master bathrooms
- Establishes a balanced, symmetrical design
Restrictions
- Uses more floor space than single vanities
- Higher cost for fixtures and installation
- Added 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.
Upsides
- Instant focal point without a major remodel
- Add bold elements
- Easier than a full-room update
- Adds personality and character
Cons
- 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
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.
Pros
- Accessible for all ages
- Provides a seamless, contemporary look
- Makes the bathroom appear larger
- Easier cleaning because no threshold traps dirt
Limitations
- More complicated waterproofing requirements
- May need to lower the subfloor
- Greater installation costs
- Requires precise slope for proper drainage
Natural Elements
Bringing in wood tones, stone, and organic textures softens hard surfaces and adds warmth to a modern bathroom remodel. Think rift-sawn oak vanities, pebble or tumbled-stone floors, limewash, and plants for visual calm. Balance with moisture resistance and simple lines to avoid rustic heaviness. Pro tip: seal natural materials properly and add ventilation; use composite or porcelain lookalikes in wet zones.
Advantages
- Creates a soothing, spa-like atmosphere
- Timeless appeal that transcends trends
- Brings warmth and texture to the space
- Connects indoor space with nature
Drawbacks
- Special maintenance required
- Wood/stone moisture-prone
- Costlier than synthetics
- May darken or patina over time
Need help selecting the right design elements?
The design team at American Home can guide you to the ideal blend of features for your bathroom remodel Five Points North, aligning with your preferences, available space, and budget.
The 7-Step Bathroom Remodeling Process
Grasping the bathroom remodel process lets you plan ahead and keep expectations realistic. The outline below covers the standard steps to redo your bathroom, along with estimated timeframes for every stage.
Planning and Design
Start by pinpointing your needs, establishing a budget, and developing a design plan. Keep function, storage demands, and aesthetics in mind. Browse magazines, websites, and showrooms to refine and focus your vision.
Demolition
During this stage, existing fixtures, flooring, and occasionally walls are removed. Proper demolition demands careful planning to protect plumbing, electrical runs, and structural elements. For light updates, selective demolition may do the job.
Plumbing and Electrical Work
When demolition is finished, the plumbing and electrical rough-in gets underway. It involves relocating or installing water lines, drains, and electrical outlets based on the new plan. Professional expertise is required to stay code-compliant.
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
Laying tile on floors, shower walls, and backsplashes is a lengthy yet impactful phase. The timeline depends on how complex the pattern is and how large the bathroom is. Plan for added curing time.
Fixture and Cabinet Installation
With surfaces prepared, it’s time to install the vanity, toilet, shower, bathtub, and storage cabinets. This phase activates the space as the major elements are placed into your new plan.
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 complete bathroom remodel Five Points North MI typically takes 3-6 weeks from start to finish, depending on the scope of work and any unexpected challenges. Working with experienced professionals can help ensure your project stays on schedule.
Ready to begin your bathroom transformation?
At American Home, our design team in Five Points North 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 combine one-on-one service with unmatched technical expertise to build inspiring spaces. With meticulous planning and creative vision, our team turns everyday 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 Five Points North MI.
Customer-First Experience & Free Consultations
Every bathroom remodel Five Points North project starts with us listening. Our free consult lets us understand your goals before offering options. That ensures your vision leads every decision, from layout plans to material picks.
“For homeowners, American Home completes the puzzle,” note industry partners Ed and Yvonne Weaver. Through strong partnerships, we offer end-to-end design support that streamlines complex remodels.
Over 60 Years of Expert Design Experience
Our designers in Five Points North bring together six decades of shared know-how to solve spatial challenges with creativity. This expertise allows us to:
- – Make compact areas work harder
- – Balance current trends with a timeless look
- – Select premium materials that fit budget parameters
Complimentary estimates help remove financial hurdles to great design. From a bath refresh to reimagined living areas, our process centers your lifestyle needs and lifts property value.
Bathroom Remodel Budget Breakdown
Understanding the potential costs involved in a bathroom remodel Five Points North MI helps you plan effectively and avoid budget surprises. The following table provides a breakdown of typical expenses across different budget levels.
Smart financial planning transforms renovation dreams into achievable realities. Our team helps homeowners navigate investment decisions with clarity, balancing upfront costs with long-term value. Whether updating a powder room or reconfiguring a master suite, understanding financial variables ensures your project aligns with both lifestyle needs and market realities.
| 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 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 projects run about $25,000 on average nationwide, but the scope can change the final number. Older homes often benefit from a 10-20% contingency to cover unexpected structural fixes. Our designers set priorities and offer cost-effective alternatives for secondary selections.
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.
Thoughtful material reuse and refinishing of fixtures can cut costs by 15–25%. We direct spend toward high-impact items such as waterproofing and energy-efficient systems. These decisions improve daily comfort and help safeguard your property’s resale value.
Budget-Friendly Tips:
- – Keep your existing layout to reduce plumbing changes
- – Refinish instead of replacing when possible (tubs, cabinets)
- – Mix premium and budget materials with a plan
- -Consider open shelving instead of custom cabinetry
- – Buy floor models and remnant materials for savings
- – Break the project into phases if the budget is tight
Sustainability Spotlight: Eco-Friendly Bathroom Ideas
Building an environmentally responsible bathroom doesn’t require giving up style or function. These sustainable choices can shrink your footprint while delivering a beautiful, efficient space.
Water-Efficient 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: Cut water waste by operating only when needed, with built-in aerators for extra savings
Sustainable & Recycled Materials
- Recycled Glass Tiles: Stylish, durable options using post-consumer glass
- FSC-Certified Wood: Cabinetry and shelving using wood from responsibly managed forests
- Recycled Countertops: Surfaces built using recycled paper, glass, or plastic-composite materials
- Natural Linoleum: Biodegradable flooring made from renewable materials
Energy-Smart Solutions
- LED Lighting: Cuts energy use by up to 75% versus incandescent bulbs and offers a much longer life
- Tankless Water Heaters: Heat water only when needed, eliminating standby energy losses
- Proper Insulation: Reduces heat loss and prevents condensation issues
- Smart Controls: Programmable systems that optimize energy use for lighting, ventilation, and heating
Sustainable Bathroom Practices
- Material Repurposing: Refurbishing existing fixtures or donating salvageable items
- Local Sourcing: Cutting transport 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
Guide to Eco-Friendly Certifications
When you shop for bathroom products, look for these certifications:
- -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 Five Points North 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
In bathroom design, inadequate ventilation is a widespread and significant misstep. If airflow isn’t adequate, moisture accumulates, resulting in mold, mildew, peeling paint, and damaged fixtures.
2. Inaccurate 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. Inadequate 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.
Prevention Tips:
- Install a properly sized exhaust fan (at least 1 CFM per square foot of bathroom space)
- Ensure the fan vents to the 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
Prevention Tips:
- Add layered lighting with ambient, task, and accent
- Install proper task lighting at the vanity (side-mounted fixtures reduce shadows)
- Use natural light sources when privacy permits
- Use dimmers to adjust lighting levels for different needs
- Pick the right bulb color temperatures (2700K–3000K warm, 3500K–4000K neutral)
4. Ignoring Storage Needs
Bathrooms that look beautiful may quickly become cluttered and inefficient if storage needs are overlooked in the planning stage.
5. Poor Waterproofing
The most damaging and expensive issue in bathrooms is water damage. Failing to waterproof properly can lead to structural failure, mold, and ruined renovations.
Avoidance Tips:
- Inventory your bathroom items before designing storage solutions
- Include a mix of open and closed storage
- Utilize vertical space with tall cabinets or shelving
- Choose medicine cabinets that recess into walls
- Use built-in niches in shower and tub areas
How to Prevent This:
- Apply proper waterproofing membranes in shower and tub areas
- Make sure the shower pan is installed with the correct slope for drainage
- Use proper materials in wet areas (cement board in place of standard drywall)
- Apply quality grout sealer to all tile installations
- Consider hiring waterproofing specialists for critical areas
Avoid Expensive Mistakes With Professional Guidance
Our experienced bathroom remodel team in Five Points North MI can help you navigate potential pitfalls and ensure your project is completed correctly 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.
Embark on Your Bathroom Remodel Five Points North Journey Here
A bathroom remodel Five Points North MI succeeds with careful planning, smart design, and skilled execution. By learning the process, exploring design choices, setting a realistic budget, and steering clear of common mistakes, you’re on track to create a bathroom that improves daily life and raises your home’s 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 Five Points North bathroom remodel!
Are You Ready to Transform Your Bathroom?
Take the first step toward your dream bathroom today. Our experienced design team in Five Points North is ready to help you create a space that perfectly balances beauty, functionality, and value.
FAQs About Bathroom Remodeling
How does remodeling a tub-shower combo add to home value?
Updating this feature boosts functionality and attracts buyers who want spa-like spaces. At American Home, we use durable finishes like porcelain tile and frameless glass doors to improve style and deliver long-term ROI by raising market appeal.
What’s the normal timeline for swapping out outdated fixtures?
In Five Points North, most fixture replacement projects run 2–4 weeks, based on layout changes and material availability. Our 3D design tools help lock in choices early, reducing wait times for cabinetry or tile orders.
Are you able to manage tight budgets while maintaining quality?
Absolutely. At American Home, we highlight cost-effective upgrades like refinishing tubs or adding ceramic tile accents. We supply transparent pricing and financing choices, including home equity solutions, to align with your goals.
Do you manage permits for wet room conversions?
Which flooring materials best resist moisture in humid spaces?
How do lighting choices impact small-space designs?
Layered LED lighting adds both depth and function. By pairing recessed ceiling lights with vertical sconces, we remove shadows near mirrors, improving safety and making compact layouts feel larger.
