Bathroom Remodel Lansing MI Checklist: Design, Budgeting & Common Mistakes
Starting a bathroom remodel is exciting, but it can quickly get overwhelming if you don’t plan well. Whether you’re updating a few fixtures or doing a full makeover, this guide walks you through crucial steps, design choices, and budget tips so your new bath balances function and style. We’ve gathered expert guidance to help you sidestep costly mistakes and build a bathroom that improves daily life and adds value to your home.
What if your daily routine could be transformed by a space designed specifically for your lifestyle and needs?
With 53% of homeowners in Lansing planning renovations each year, upgrading functional rooms is now a smart move for modern living. At American Home, we’ve spent six decades helping families shape spaces that mix beauty with everyday practicality. From bathroom remodel Lansing MI to kitchen renovations, we bring your vision to life.
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 Lansing MI
- Customer-driven plan from concept to completion
- Effortless mix of style and day-to-day 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 Lansing project. Together, we’ll explore how smart design lifts your home’s value and enhances daily living.
10 Modern Bathroom Design Ideas
Trending Styles With 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
- Gives the space a roomy, open feel
- Improved accessibility for all ages
- Quicker to clean than traditional showers
- Highly customizable with multiple tile options
Limitations
- May call for added waterproofing
- Can feel colder without full enclosure
- Higher install 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.
Advantages
- Creates the illusion of more floor space
- Simpler floor cleaning
- Modern, sleek appearance
- Adjustable height for comfort
Downsides
- Provides less storage than floor models
- Requires strong wall support
- Costs more than standard vanities
- Weight limits 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.
Benefits
- Luxury-level comfort, especially in cold climates
- Even heat distribution
- Energy-saving supplemental heating
- Invisible system that doesn't affect design
Drawbacks
- Significant upfront installation cost
- Makes the overall project timeline longer
- 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.
Advantages
- Creates a striking focal point
- Available in various styles and materials
- Quicker to clean around than 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—requires 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
- Saves water and energy
- Customizable user experiences
- Modern, cutting-edge appeal
Drawbacks
- Higher initial investment
- May require professional installation
- Technology may become outdated
- Potential for technical issues
Large Format Tiles
Expansive porcelain slabs and 24×48 (600×1200 mm) tiles help a modern bathroom read larger, with fewer grout lines and less upkeep. They deliver clean, continuous surfaces from floors to walls, especially in walk-in showers. Verify a dead-flat base and manage lippage carefully. Pro tip: run a 1/3 offset, use leveling clips, and back-butter; seal grout and select slip-rated finishes.
Strengths
- Fewer grout lines for easier cleaning
- Provides a seamless, spacious look
- Contemporary, high-end look
- Works well with underfloor heating
Downsides
- More complex installation
- Higher waste factor during installation
- Might require subfloor reinforcement
- Fewer patterns than small tiles
Double Vanities
Choose a double-sink vanity to speed shared routines, with a basin and storage for each person and more counter space and symmetry. It presents an upscale vibe and anchors larger wall spans in modern bathrooms. Best suited to layouts 60 in (1524 mm) or wider with simple plumbing. Pro tip: favor base cabinets with lots of drawers and use offset traps to maintain full-depth, usable storage.
Upsides
- Cuts morning congestion
- Delivers personalized storage space
- Adds value to master bathrooms
- Establishes a balanced, symmetrical design
Restrictions
- Demands more space than single vanities
- Higher cost for fixtures and installation
- Added plumbing requirements
- More cleaning (two sinks)
Accent Walls
A feature wall adds instant focus and depth, letting you showcase texture, color, or pattern without overwhelming a modern bathroom. Use tile, stone veneer, microcement, or moisture-rated wood slats behind the vanity, freestanding tub, or in a shower (with proper ratings). Pro tip: run the finish full height and layer wall-washing or sconce lighting to amplify dimension.
Pros
- Instant focal point without a major remodel
- Add bold elements
- Easier than full-room updates
- Adds personality and character
Cons
- May feel dated as trends change
- Can feel crowded in small spaces if too busy
- Specialty materials may increase costs
- Might hurt resale when it’s too personalized
Curbless Showers
A curbless, zero-threshold shower creates a seamless transition, helping a modern bath feel larger and safer for all ages. Running the floor tile into the shower gives a clean, spa vibe and easy access—ideal for compact layouts or aging-in-place projects. Pro tip: recess the subfloor, place a wall-line linear drain, and keep a 1/4-in-per-foot slope with continuous waterproofing.
Benefits
- Accessible for all ages
- Achieves a seamless, contemporary look
- Makes the bathroom appear larger
- Easier cleaning with no curb to trap dirt
Limitations
- Waterproofing requirements are more complex
- 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.
Strengths
- Creates a calming, spa-like atmosphere
- Timeless appeal that transcends trends
- Adds warmth and texture to the room
- Connects indoor space with nature
Restrictions
- Special maintenance required
- Wood/stone moisture-prone
- Costlier than synthetics
- May darken or develop patina over time
Need help picking the right design elements?
With American Home, our experts help you pick the perfect set of features for your bathroom remodel Lansing—all matched to your taste, room size, 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
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 step covers taking out old fixtures, flooring, and, in some cases, walls. Demolition must be planned to avoid damage to plumbing, electrical systems, and structural parts. For smaller projects, targeted demolition may suffice.
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
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
Installing tile across floors, shower areas, and backsplashes takes longer, though the results are dramatic. The timeframe varies with pattern complexity and overall bathroom size. Include additional time to let everything cure.
Fixture and Cabinet Installation
When surfaces are prepped, the vanity, toilet, shower, bathtub, and storage cabinets go in. This step makes the bathroom feel real as the main features move into your updated design.
Finishing Touches
The final phase includes installing hardware, lighting fixtures, mirrors, shower doors, and accessories. Paint touch-ups and final cleaning prepare your new bathroom for use. This is when your vision truly comes together.
A full bathroom remodel Lansing 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 start transforming your bathroom?
At American Home, our design team in Lansing can help you navigate the remodeling process and create a bathroom that perfectly suits your needs and style preferences.
About American Home: Exceptional Kitchen & Bath Design
At American Home, personalized service meets top-tier technical knowledge to create spaces that inspire. Our team uses detailed planning and creative vision to transform ordinary 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 Lansing MI.
Customer-Focused Experience & Free Consultations
We start every bathroom remodel Lansing project by listening. Our free initial consultations help us understand your unique needs before suggesting solutions. This approach ensures your vision guides every decision, from layout concepts 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.
Six Decades of Trusted Design Expertise
Our designers in Lansing combine six decades of collective knowledge to solve spatial challenges creatively. This expertise lets us:
- – Maximize function in compact areas
- – Blend today’s trends with timeless 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
Understanding the potential costs involved in a bathroom remodel Lansing MI helps you plan effectively and avoid budget surprises. The following table provides a breakdown of typical expenses across different budget levels.
Thoughtful budgeting turns renovation ideas into reality. Our team supports homeowners with clear guidance on investments, balancing what you pay now with long-term value. From powder rooms to master suites, grasping the cost drivers keeps your project in step with your lifestyle 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 Project Costs and Investment Factors
Labor commonly accounts for close to half of renovation spending. Materials and fixture upgrades make up the balance. We supply line-item estimates that show exactly where funds go, from plumbing tweaks 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 Strategies 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.
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.
Cost-Saving Tips:
- – Keep the current layout to minimize plumbing changes
- – Refinish instead of replacing when possible (tubs, cabinets)
- – Mix premium and budget materials with a plan
- – Choose open shelving instead of custom cabinetry
- -Shop floor models and remnant materials for discounts
- -Phase your project if budget constraints are significant
Sustainability Spotlight: Green Bathroom Solutions
Designing a bathroom that’s environmentally responsible doesn’t mean you lose style or usability. Sustainable options help cut your footprint and still give you a beautiful, efficient space.
Water-Conserving Fixtures
- Low-Flow Showerheads: Modern fixtures deliver strong pressure while using only 1.5-2.0 GPM (compared to 5+ GPM in older models)
- Dual-Flush Toilets: Include dual flush options for liquid and solid waste, cutting water use by thousands of gallons yearly
- Touchless Faucets: Lower water waste by turning on only when needed, with built-in aerators delivering added savings
Recycled and Sustainable Materials
- Recycled Glass Tiles: Beautiful, long-lasting options made from post-consumer glass
- FSC-Certified Wood: Cabinetry and shelving 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 Solutions
- LED Lighting: Uses up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs with much longer lifespan
- Tankless Water Heaters: Provide hot water on demand, removing standby energy waste
- Proper Insulation: Reduces heat loss and prevents condensation issues
- Smart Controls: Programmable controls that optimize energy use for lighting, ventilation, and heating
Eco-Friendly Practices
- Material Repurposing: Refurbishing existing fixtures or donating salvageable items
- Local Sourcing: Minimizing transportation emissions by sourcing materials locally
- Low-VOC Products: Paints, sealants, and adhesives designed to lower harmful emissions
- Proper Disposal: Responsible recycling and disposal of construction waste
Guide to Eco-Friendly Certifications
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
Even with solid planning, a bathroom remodel Lansing can still go off track. Knowing these common pitfalls helps you avoid costly mistakes and keep the renovation on course.
1. Weak 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. Measurement Errors
If measurements are inaccurate, fixtures may not fit, doors may lack clearance, and spaces may feel cramped. Correcting these mistakes can be costly.
3. Inadequate Lighting Design
Poorly planned lighting in bathroom remodels often results in dim rooms, harsh glare, or lighting that doesn’t work well for grooming tasks.
Avoidance Tips:
- Install the right-sized exhaust fan (minimum 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
- Follow code-recommended clearances: 30" for toilet space, 30" for shower entry, 21" in front of sinks
- Consider door swing paths and ensure they don't interfere with fixtures
- Use painter’s tape to outline 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
- Pick the right bulb color temperatures (2700K–3000K warm, 3500K–4000K neutral)
4. Ignoring Storage Needs
Beautiful bathrooms can quickly become cluttered and dysfunctional when storage requirements aren't adequately addressed during the planning phase.
5. Poor Waterproofing
Water damage is the most costly and damaging issue in bathrooms. Skimping on waterproofing can result in structural harm, mold growth, and total renovation failure.
Avoidance Tips:
- Inventory your bathroom items before designing storage solutions
- Use a combination of open and closed storage
- Utilize vertical space with tall cabinets or shelving
- Opt for medicine cabinets that recess into walls
- Add 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
- Choose appropriate materials for wet areas (cement board instead of standard drywall)
- Apply quality grout sealer to all tile installations
- Consider hiring waterproofing specialists for critical areas
Prevent Costly Mistakes With Professional Guidance
With our expert bathroom remodel team in Lansing MI, you’ll avoid costly mistakes and ensure the 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.
Your Bathroom Remodel Lansing Journey Starts Here
Completing a bathroom remodel Lansing MI takes planning, design insight, and quality work. By understanding the steps, weighing design options, setting a realistic budget, and avoiding common errors, you’ll build a bathroom that enhances daily routines and adds long-term value to your home.
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 Lansing bathroom remodel today!
Ready to Begin Your Bathroom Transformation?
Take the first step toward your dream bathroom today. Our experienced design team in Lansing is ready to help you create a space that perfectly balances beauty, functionality, and value.
Bathroom Remodel FAQs
How does remodeling a tub-shower combo add to home value?
Refreshing a tub-shower combo enhances both function and buyer appeal, especially for those seeking spa-like touches. At American Home, we recommend durable options like porcelain tile and frameless glass doors, which increase aesthetics and boost ROI by improving resale value.
How long does it usually take to replace outdated fixtures?
In Lansing, fixture replacement projects typically last 2–4 weeks, influenced by layout changes and how quickly materials are available. With 3D design tools, we finalize selections early, minimizing possible delays in cabinetry or tile orders.
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?
What are the best flooring materials for resisting moisture in humid bathrooms?
How do lighting choices impact small-space designs?
Layered LED solutions create depth and functionality. We integrate recessed ceiling lights with vertical sconces to eliminate shadows near mirrors, making daily routines safer while visually expanding compact layouts.
