Refresh Your Space with Expert Bathroom Renovation Waterloo
Bathroom renovation always begins with a vision. At American Home, we realize that vision with a 100% customer-focused approach and over 60 years of combined design skill. As the premier bathroom remodel specialists in the Greater Lansing Area, MI, we make sure your space is both gorgeous and functional—a private sanctuary that reflects your look and meets everyday needs.
We offer a one-stop shopping experience across Greater Lansing with showrooms in Lansing, Okemos, and DeWitt. Call us at (517) 349-4690 to enjoy a free initial consultation and free estimates.
As 53% of homeowners in Waterloo 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 renovation Waterloo to kitchen remodel, we turn ideas into reality.
Our proven three-step process—Consultation, Visualization, Implementation—streamlines the start. We provide trusted products with a manufacturer’s warranty, helping you feel secure in every selection.
From shower layouts to smart storage and coordinated kitchen selections, we design around your dream style and daily needs. Contact us today to start a collaborative plan that balances beauty, function, and lasting value.
Essential Insights
- American Home is a Kitchen & Bath design team centered on customers with 60+ years of expertise.
- Get a free consultation and estimates—call (517) 349-4690 to get started.
- One-stop shopping makes selection easier for both bathroom and kitchen projects.
- We use a clear three-step process: Consultation, Visualization, Implementation.
- Reliable products backed by manufacturer warranties for peace of mind.
- Visit our showrooms in Lansing, Okemos, or DeWitt for personalized design guidance.
Whether replacing fixtures or redesigning layouts, we provide precise craftsmanship in every detail of your Bathroom Renovation Waterloo project. Discover how intentional design can increase your home’s value and enrich your everyday life.
10 On-Trend Bathroom Design Ideas
Top Looks: Pros & Cons
Walk-In Showers
An open, curbless shower streamlines movement and makes a modern bath read as larger and more accessible. It shows off feature tile and pairs with seamless glass or half walls to boost daylight. Perfect for tight layouts or aging-in-place bathroom remodels. Pro tip: slope the pan 1/4 inch per foot and install linear drains for clean lines.
Pros
- Delivers a spacious, open feel
- More accessible for all ages
- Easier to clean than traditional showers
- Highly customizable with multiple tile options
Restrictions
- Could require more waterproofing
- May feel colder without a full enclosure
- More expensive to install than standard showers
- Overspray on floor
Wall-Mounted Vanities
A floating vanity frees floor area, keeps sightlines light, and adds a sleek modern vibe. It makes tight baths feel bigger, streamlines floor cleaning, and pairs with under-cabinet LED for a subtle floating effect. Best in contemporary bathroom renovations with straight plumbing runs. Pro tip: mount to a reinforced ledger and check stud layout before choosing cabinet width and bowl material.
Upsides
- Makes the floor area feel more spacious
- Floor cleaning is easier
- Clean, modern look
- Height can be customized for comfort
Downsides
- Less storage than floor models
- Requires solid backing in the wall
- Costs more than standard vanities
- Weight limitations 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.
Advantages
- 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
- 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
- Makes a stunning focal point
- Available in various styles and materials
- Cleaning around is easier than with built-in tubs
- Can fit in spaces where built-ins won't work
Limitations
- Higher price point than standard tubs
- May need special plumbing considerations
- Limited storage for bath products
- Heavy—needs floor reinforcement
High-Tech Bathroom Technology
Connected bathroom tech—touchless faucets, smart mirrors with defog, bidet seats, thermostatic showers, and leak detectors—boost convenience, cleanliness, and efficiency. Presets, automation, and usage insights help reduce water and energy use. Best for rooms with dependable Wi-Fi and good ventilation. Pro tip: pre-plan outlets and low-voltage paths; select IP-rated, Matter-compatible gear that includes manual overrides.
Pros
- Enhanced convenience and functionality
- Reduces water and energy waste
- Customizable user experiences
- Modern, cutting-edge appeal
Restrictions
- Greater initial investment
- May require professional installation
- Technology might become outdated
- Potential for technical issues
Large Format Tiles
Large-format porcelain slabs or 24×48 (600×1200 mm) tiles make a modern bathroom feel bigger by minimizing grout lines and upkeep. They create sleek continuity across floors and walls, especially in walk-in showers. Make sure the substrate is dead-flat and lippage is controlled. Pro tip: set a 1/3 offset, use leveling clips, and back-butter; seal grout and pick slip-rated finishes.
Pros
- Fewer grout lines for easier cleaning
- Provides a seamless, spacious look
- Contemporary, high-end look
- Works great with underfloor heating
Downsides
- Harder installation process
- Higher waste factor during installation
- Could require subfloor reinforcement
- Fewer patterns than small tiles
Two-Sink 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.
Upsides
- Cuts morning congestion
- Provides customized storage space
- Adds value to master bathrooms
- Creates a balanced, symmetrical design
Cons
- Uses more floor space than single vanities
- Higher cost for fixtures and installation
- Extra plumbing requirements
- More cleaning (two sinks)
Focal 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.
Upsides
- Instant focal point, no major remodel
- Add bold elements
- Easier than a full-room update
- Adds personality and character
Drawbacks
- May feel dated as trends change
- Can overpower smaller spaces if too busy
- Specialty materials may increase costs
- Can reduce resale value if 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.
Upsides
- Accessible for all ages
- Provides a seamless, contemporary look
- Makes the bathroom appear larger
- Easier cleaning with no threshold to trap dirt
Drawbacks
- Waterproofing requirements are more complex
- May need to lower the subfloor
- Higher cost 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 renovation. 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 relaxing, spa-like ambiance
- Timeless appeal that transcends trends
- Adds cozy warmth and texture to the space
- Connects indoor space with nature
Restrictions
- Special upkeep required
- Wood/stone moisture-prone
- Costlier than synthetics
- May darken or develop 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 renovation Waterloo—all matched to your taste, room size, and budget.
The 7-Step Bathroom Renovation Method
Grasping the bathroom renovation 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 + Design
This key first step means defining your needs, setting a budget, and drafting a design plan. Think about function, storage needs, and the look you want. Gather ideas from magazines, websites, and showrooms to sharpen 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 Upgrades
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 Modifications and Drywall
When a bathroom renoation 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 Work
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.
Cabinet and Fixture 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.
The Finishing Touches
In the final step, crews install hardware, lighting, mirrors, shower doors, and accessories. With paint touch-ups and a thorough final clean, your new bathroom is ready. This is when your vision comes to life.
A complete bathroom renovation Waterloo 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 kick off your bathroom transformation?
At American Home, our design team in Waterloo 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 personalized service with unmatched technical knowledge to create spaces that inspire. Our team transforms ordinary rooms into functional art through meticulous planning and creative vision.
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 Waterloo MI.
Customer-Centered Experience & Free Consultations
We always begin a bathroom renovation Waterloo 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.
“American Home completes the puzzle for homeowners,” say industry partners Ed and Yvonne Weaver. By collaborating with trusted pros, we provide full design services that make tough renovations simpler.
Six Decades of Trusted Design Expertise
With six decades of combined knowledge, our designers in Waterloo approach spatial challenges creatively. This expertise empowers us to:
- – Make compact areas work harder
- – Balance current trends with a timeless look
- – Find 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 Renovation Budget Breakdown
Understanding the potential costs involved in a bathroom renovation Waterloo 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 Investment Factors
Labor costs typically account for nearly half of renovation budgets. Material selections and fixture upgrades make up the remaining balance. We provide detailed estimates showing how each dollar gets allocated, 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 & 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
- – When possible, refinish rather than replace (tubs, cabinets)
- – Mix premium and budget materials with a plan
- – Go with open shelving rather than custom cabinetry
- – Shop floor models and remnant materials to save
- – Phase your project when budget constraints are significant
Sustainability Spotlight: Eco-Friendly Bathroom Ideas
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-Saving 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: Use separate flush options for liquids and solids to save thousands of gallons a year
- Touchless Faucets: Cut water waste by operating only when needed, with built-in aerators for extra savings
Recycled Materials & Sustainable Options
- Recycled Glass Tiles: Beautiful, durable materials made from post-consumer glass
- FSC-Certified Wood: Cabinetry and shelving from responsibly managed forests
- Recycled Countertops: Surfaces built using recycled paper, glass, or plastic-composite materials
- Natural Linoleum: Biodegradable flooring produced from renewable materials
Energy-Efficient Bath Solutions
- LED Lighting: Uses up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and lasts much longer
- Tankless Water Heaters: Produce hot water as needed, so there’s no standby energy loss
- Proper Insulation: Reduces heat loss while preventing condensation problems
- Smart Controls: Programmable setups that fine-tune energy use across lighting, ventilation, and heating
Sustainable Bathroom Practices
- Material Repurposing: Refreshing current fixtures or donating still-usable pieces
- Local Sourcing: Minimizing transportation emissions by sourcing materials locally
- Low-VOC Products: Paints, sealants, and adhesives with low harmful emissions
- Proper Disposal: Responsible recycling and compliant disposal of construction waste
Guide to Green Product 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
Avoid Pricey Mistakes With Professional Guidance
Trust our experienced bathroom renovation team in Waterloo MI to help you avoid errors and deliver a project done right from the start.
Design Is in The Details
Our Process
The Consultation
We begin the process by meeting in our showroom to discuss your vision. Once we understand exactly what you are looking for we will meet at your home to measure and get to know how you and your family utilize your home to help us design a space that will meet you and your families needs and wants. This information is vital to the design process as our designers begin visualizing your space.
The Vision
Using the most advanced technology available in the industry, we begin the design process. Once the initial design has been completed, our team will create 3D color renderings to help you visualize your new space before you make your final decision.
The Finishes
We provide a wide variety of cabinets, countertops, decorative hardware, and other products to complete the look and feel you’re dreaming of . Whether your style is contemporary, traditional, rustic, or somewhere in between, we have the finishes to create any style.
Exceeding Expectations
Homeowners
The American Home Experience
We take pride in creating beautifully functional spaces that are tailored to fit our homeowner’s desired aesthetic and lifestyle. Our team designs in 3D and assist in coordinating all of the colors and textures to bring your space to life.
Creating Partnerships
Builders & Contractors
We’re Part of Your Team
It is our goal to provide our builders and contractors, or their clients, with the same level of service given to our homeowners. We specialize in design and products only, so we’ll never be your competition.
Your Bathroom Renovation Waterloo Journey Begins Here
Ready to make your ideas real with lasting, high-quality results that suit daily life? Schedule a free initial consultation so we can align goals, scope, and investment from day one.
With a design-led approach, we convert your vision into a cohesive plan backed by vetted products and quality craftsmanship. We manage everything with clear updates and accountability to make sure the job is done right.
We balance looks and function to build a bathroom renovation Waterloo that fits your routine and lifts daily living. Call American Home at (517) 349-4690 to schedule a consultation or visit the Lansing, Okemos, or DeWitt showrooms.
Ready to Transform Your Bathroom?
Start working toward your dream bathroom today. Our expert design team in Waterloo will guide you in creating a space that balances beauty, functionality, and long-term value.
FAQs About Bathroom Renovation
How does updating a tub-shower combo improve 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 Waterloo, 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?
Absolutely. At American Home, we prioritize impactful upgrades like refinishing existing tubs or installing ceramic tile accents. Our team offers transparent cost breakdowns and financing options, including home equity solutions, to align with your financial 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 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.
