Bathroom Remodel Gresham MI Checklist: Design, Budgeting & Common Errors
A bathroom remodel can be thrilling at first, yet it becomes daunting without careful planning. Whether you’re making small fixture updates or a total overhaul, this guide lays out the key steps, design ideas, and budgeting advice to achieve the right mix of function and style. We’ve sourced expert insights to help you avoid pricey mistakes and create a bathroom that upgrades your routine and raises your home’s value.
How would your day change if your space were built around your lifestyle and needs?
As 53% of homeowners in Gresham plan renovations annually, improving core spaces has become a strategic choice for today’s homes. At American Home, we’ve spent six decades guiding families toward designs that unite style and function. From bathroom remodel Gresham MI to kitchen renovations, we turn ideas into reality.
Our team in Greater Lansing works with you as collaborators on every job. We start by understanding your vision, then guide layout planning and material selection. That way, your new space fits your taste and performs the way you need.
What makes us different is our true end-to-end service. From the first sketch to the final install, we handle every detail carefully. Our ties with top manufacturers mean premium materials and solid warranties for long-term confidence.
Key Information
- Six decades of specialized design expertise in Gresham MI
- Client-centered process from concept to completion
- Seamless blending of aesthetics and everyday function
- Full-service one-stop renovation solutions
- Premium materials with manufacturer-backed guarantees
Whether replacing fixtures or redesigning layouts, we provide precise craftsmanship in every detail of your Bathroom Remodel Gresham project. Discover how intentional design can increase your home’s value and enrich your everyday life.
10 Modern Bathroom Design Ideas
Trending Styles With Pros & Cons
Use contemporary details to transform your bathroom into a stylish, practical haven. Consider these ten popular design ideas for your bathroom remodel Gresham MI, and review the pros as well as the possible 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.
Advantages
- Makes the room feel spacious and open
- Easier accessibility for all ages
- Easier to clean than traditional showers
- Highly customizable with various tile options
Downsides
- May call for added waterproofing
- Can feel colder without full enclosure
- Higher install cost than standard showers
- Water splashes 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.
Pros
- Makes the room feel like it has extra floor space
- Easier floor cleaning
- Modern, sleek appearance
- Adjustable height for comfort
Cons
- Offers less storage than floor models
- Needs solid wall support
- Higher cost than standard vanities
- Weight restrictions 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.
Benefits
- Plush comfort, especially in cold climates
- Even heat distribution
- Energy-efficient supplemental heating
- Invisible system that doesn't affect design
Restrictions
- Significant upfront installation cost
- Lengthens the overall project timeline
- May require professional maintenance
- Costly to repair 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.
Benefits
- Makes 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
Downsides
- Higher price point than standard tubs
- Might need special plumbing considerations
- Limited storage for bath products
- Heavy—calls for floor reinforcement

Smart Bathroom Technology
Modern connected fixtures—touchless faucets, smart mirrors with built-in defoggers, bidet seats, thermostatic shower systems, and leak sensors—deliver convenience, cleaner use, and efficiency. With presets, automation, and usage stats, you can curb water and energy waste. Best in baths with reliable Wi-Fi and solid ventilation. Pro tip: plan outlet locations and low-voltage runs up front; use IP-rated, Matter-compatible hardware that still offers manual overrides.
Pros
- Enhanced convenience and functionality
- Saves water and energy
- Customizable user experiences
- Modern, forward-looking appeal
Drawbacks
- Greater initial investment
- May require professional installation
- Technology can become outdated
- Potential for technical issues

Large Format Tiles
Go big with porcelain slabs or 24×48 (600×1200 mm) tiles to make a modern bathroom feel larger while reducing grout lines and maintenance. They give seamless continuity across floors and walls—great for 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 opt for slip-rated finishes.
Benefits
- Fewer grout lines for easier cleaning
- Creates a seamless, spacious appearance
- Contemporary, high-end look
- Works well with underfloor heating
Limitations
- More difficult installation
- Higher waste factor during installation
- May need subfloor reinforcement
- Fewer patterns than small tiles

Double Vanities
A two-sink vanity streamlines busy schedules, giving everyone a basin and storage while increasing counter space and visual balance. It carries an upscale look and anchors longer walls in modern baths. Ideal for layouts 60 in (1524 mm) or wider with straightforward plumbing. Pro tip: go with drawer-forward bases and offset traps so you keep full-depth, usable storage.
Strengths
- Cuts morning congestion
- Offers personalized storage space
- Adds value to master bathrooms
- Produces a balanced, symmetrical design
Restrictions
- Requires more space than single vanities
- Higher cost for fixtures and installation
- More plumbing requirements
- More cleaning (two sinks)

Accent Walls
A feature wall creates immediate focus and depth, allowing you to highlight texture, color, or pattern without overpowering a modern bathroom. Choose tile, stone veneer, microcement, or moisture-rated wood slats behind the vanity, freestanding tub, or in the shower (with proper ratings). Pro tip: take the finish to full height and layer wall-wash or sconce lighting to boost dimension.
Advantages
- Instant focal point, no full remodel
- Add bold elements
- Simpler than full-room updates
- Adds personality and character
Drawbacks
- May feel dated as trends change
- May overwhelm small spaces if too busy
- Specialty materials may increase costs
- Could hurt resale if overly personalized

Curbless Showers
A zero-threshold, curb-free shower creates a smooth transition, making a modern bath feel more open and safer for all. Carry floor tile into the shower for a crisp, spa look and simple entry—ideal in small layouts or aging-in-place plans. Pro tip: recess the subfloor, set a wall-line linear drain, and maintain 1/4-in-per-foot pitch with continuous waterproofing.
Strengths
- Accessible for all ages
- Achieves a seamless, contemporary look
- Makes the bathroom appear larger
- Easier cleaning because no threshold traps dirt
Limitations
- More advanced waterproofing requirements
- May need to lower the subfloor
- More expensive to install
- Requires precise slope for proper drainage

Natural Elements
Use wood tones, stone, and organic textures to soften hard surfaces and warm up a modern bathroom remodel. Think rift-sawn oak vanities, pebble or tumbled-stone floors, limewash walls, and plants for a calm feel. Balance the palette with moisture resistance and streamlined lines to keep it from reading too rustic. Pro tip: seal natural materials correctly and add ventilation; choose composite or porcelain lookalikes in wet spots.
Pros
- Creates a calm, spa-style atmosphere
- Timeless appeal that transcends trends
- Adds warmth and texture to the space
- Connects indoor space with nature
Restrictions
- Special upkeep required
- Wood/stone moisture-prone
- Costlier than synthetics
- Can darken or patina over time
Need guidance choosing the right design elements?
At American Home, our designers will help you choose the right mix of features for your bathroom remodel Gresham, tailored to your style, layout, and budget.
The 7-Step Bathroom Remodeling Process
Knowing the bathroom remodel process helps you plan well and set realistic expectations. Below is a breakdown of the usual steps to transform your bathroom, with estimated timeframes for each phase.

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
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
For bathroom remodels that include wall changes or room expansion, tackle structural work first. Follow with moisture-resistant drywall (greenboard) and cement board for all tiled surfaces. Always ensure proper waterproofing in wet zones.

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
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
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.
A full bathroom remodel Gresham 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 kick off your bathroom transformation?
At American Home, our design team in Gresham 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 pair personalized service with deep technical know-how to craft spaces that inspire. Through careful planning and creative vision, our team turns ordinary rooms into functional art.
For years, American Home was our dream. It became the perfect complement to American Flooring, giving our customers everything needed to bring their dream home to life in Gresham MI.
Customer-Focused Service & Free Consultations
We begin every bathroom remodel Gresham 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.
60+ Years of Proven Design Expertise
With six decades of combined knowledge, our designers in Gresham approach spatial challenges creatively. This expertise empowers us to:
- -Maximize functionality in compact areas
- – Balance current trends with a timeless look
- -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
Understanding the potential costs involved in a bathroom remodel Gresham MI helps you plan effectively and avoid budget surprises. The following table provides a breakdown of typical expenses across different budget levels.
Careful financial planning turns renovation plans into achievable outcomes. We help homeowners choose wisely, balancing upfront costs and lasting value. Whether updating a powder room or reshaping a master suite, understanding the finances makes sure your project matches both your lifestyle 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 Important Investment Factors
Labor often makes up nearly half of renovation budgets. The rest comes from material choices and fixture upgrades. We deliver detailed estimates showing where every dollar goes, from plumbing adjustments 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.
Smart Financing Options and 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.
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 the existing layout to minimize plumbing changes
- -Refinish rather than replace when possible (tubs, cabinets)
- – Blend high-end and budget materials wisely
- – Consider open shelving in place of custom cabinetry
- – Shop floor models and remnant materials to save
- – Split the project into phases if budget constraints are significant
Sustainability Spotlight: Eco-Friendly 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-Saving Bathroom Fixtures
- Low-Flow Showerheads: Modern options provide excellent pressure while using just 1.5-2.0 GPM (compared to 5+ GPM for older models)
- Dual-Flush Toilets: Include dual flush options for liquid and solid waste, cutting water use by thousands of gallons yearly
- Touchless Faucets: Reduce wasted water by activating only when needed; built-in aerators add even more savings

Recycled & Eco-Friendly Materials
- Recycled Glass Tiles: Attractive, durable choices crafted from post-consumer glass
- FSC-Certified Wood: Cabinetry and shelving sourced from responsibly managed forests
- Recycled Countertops: Surfaces made from recycled paper, glass, or plastic composites
- Natural Linoleum: Biodegradable floor material made from renewable resources

Energy-Efficient Upgrades
- LED Lighting: Consumes up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs while lasting far longer
- Tankless Water Heaters: Heat water only when needed, eliminating standby energy losses
- Proper Insulation: Lowers heat loss and helps prevent condensation issues
- Smart Controls: Programmable controls that optimize energy use for lighting, ventilation, and heating

Eco-Friendly Practices
- Material Repurposing: Refreshing current fixtures or donating still-usable pieces
- Local Sourcing: Lowering transportation emissions by selecting locally made materials
- Low-VOC Products: Paints, sealants, and adhesives that release minimal harmful emissions
- Proper Disposal: Responsible recycling and disposal of construction waste
Guide to Green Product Certifications
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 Bathroom Remodel Mistakes You Should Avoid
Careful planning doesn’t guarantee smooth sailing—a bathroom remodel Gresham can still go wrong. Stay aware of these common pitfalls to prevent costly mistakes and deliver a successful project.
1. Poor Ventilation Planning
Poor ventilation is among the most frequent and troublesome errors in bathroom design. Without proper airflow, moisture builds up, causing mold, mildew, peeling paint, and damaged fixtures.
2. Faulty Measurements
Taking incorrect measurements can result in poorly fitting fixtures, limited door clearance, and uncomfortable layouts. These errors often mean expensive fixes.
3. Subpar Lighting Design
Inadequate lighting design in many remodels leads to spaces that feel too dim, too bright, or impractical for daily grooming routines.
Tips to Prevent This:
- Install the right-sized exhaust fan (minimum 1 CFM per square foot of bathroom space)
- Always vent the fan 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
- 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 map out layouts on the floor before installation
Avoidance Tips:
- Incorporate layered lighting with ambient, task, and accent
- Install proper task lighting at the vanity (side-mounted fixtures reduce shadows)
- Add natural light sources in areas where privacy is maintained
- Use dimmers to adjust lighting levels for different needs
- Choose appropriate bulb color temperatures (2700K–3000K for warm, 3500K–4000K for neutral)
4. Neglecting Storage Needs
Beautiful bathrooms can quickly become cluttered and dysfunctional when storage requirements aren't adequately addressed during the planning phase.
5. Insufficient Waterproofing
Bathrooms face their worst problems from water damage, which is both expensive and destructive. Poor waterproofing can cause structural damage, mold, and renovation collapse.
Prevention 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
- Install medicine cabinets that recess into walls
- Install built-in niches in shower and tub areas
Prevention Guidelines:
- Use appropriate waterproofing membranes in shower and tub areas
- Ensure shower pan is installed correctly with proper 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
Our professional bathroom remodel team in Gresham MI helps you sidestep pitfalls and guarantees 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.
Embark on Your Bathroom Remodel Gresham Journey Here
A bathroom remodel Gresham 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 that professional guidance can make the difference between a stressful renovation and a smooth, rewarding experience. Whether you’re planning a simple update or a complete transformation, the right team can help you navigate challenges and bring your vision to life. Contact American Home and begin your Gresham bathroom remodel today!

Ready to Start Transforming Your Bathroom?
Begin today on your dream bathroom journey. Our experienced design team in Gresham is prepared to help create a space where beauty, function, and value all come together.
Common Bathroom Remodel FAQs
How can updating a tub-shower combo increase 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 much time does replacing outdated fixtures usually require?
In Gresham, 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.
Are you able to manage tight budgets while maintaining 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.
Can you handle permits for wet room conversions?
Which flooring materials best resist moisture in humid spaces?
How do lighting choices impact small-space designs?
Using layered LED setups provides depth and practicality. Recessed ceiling lights combined with vertical sconces cut shadows around mirrors, ensuring safer routines and visually enlarging smaller spaces.