What to Expect When Renovating Your Bathroom

Changing Small Spaces: The Art of Bathroom Renovation

Small bathroom renovation is one of the most rewarding home improvement projects, offering significant impact despite limited square footage. For homeowners looking to update these compact spaces, here's what you need to know:

Average cost range: $1,500-$15,000 depending on scope
Timeline: Typically 1-7 weeks from demolition to completion
Most impactful changes: Layout optimisation, smart storage solutions, and lighting
Best materials: Large-format tiles, moisture-resistant finishes, and reflective surfaces
Space-saving essentials: Floating vanities, recessed cabinets, and vertical storage

When approaching a small bathroom renovation, limited space doesn't mean limited potential. In fact, designers often find that smaller bathrooms offer unique creative opportunities that larger spaces don't. As interior designer David Nicholls notes from his own experience, "It turns out that I do need a bath, around three or four times a year: with a glass of wine, when feeling poorly, and on cold winter days."

The key to a successful small bathroom renovation lies in thoughtful planning and prioritisation. Before tearing down walls or selecting fixtures, consider how you actually use the space. Do you need a bathtub, or would a walk-in shower better suit your lifestyle? Would a floating vanity create more visual floor space? Can recessed storage between wall studs maximise every inch?

With careful consideration of layout, materials, and fixtures—including premium hardware from trusted providers such as Furnware Dorset, Silestone, Blum, Titus Plus, Kethy, Hettich, and Häfele—even the tiniest bathroom can become a functional, stylish retreat that feels surprisingly spacious. The change often extends beyond aesthetics—a well-designed small bathroom improves your daily routine and can significantly boost your home's value.

Planning Your Small Bathroom Renovation

Let's face it – planning a small bathroom renovation feels a bit like solving a puzzle where every piece needs to fit perfectly. Unlike larger spaces where you can afford some wiggle room, compact bathrooms demand precision in every decision you make.

Start by setting a realistic budget that covers everything from fixtures to finishes. While most small bathroom makeovers fall somewhere in the middle range, costs can vary widely depending on whether you're after a simple refresh or a complete change. Quality joinery and cabinetry are worth investing in – these elements face daily use in a moisture-heavy environment and need to stand the test of time.

Next, grab your measuring tape and get detailed – and we mean really detailed. In small bathrooms, even a tiny miscalculation can throw your entire layout off balance.

"When planning a small bathroom, every centimetre counts," our design team often reminds clients. "Some of our most innovative solutions come from thinking vertically and using bespoke joinery to transform those awkward nooks that would otherwise go to waste."

Don't forget to check if your renovation needs council approval. While simple cosmetic updates rarely require permits, anything involving structural changes, plumbing relocations, or significant electrical work typically needs proper documentation. Requirements vary across different Sunshine Coast council areas, so it's worth a quick check before you start knocking down walls.

More info about planning & design

Common Challenges & Clever Fixes

Every small bathroom renovation comes with its unique set of challenges, but with a bit of creativity, these constraints often lead to the most ingenious solutions:

Tight footprints can feel limiting, but consider this: a wall-hung toilet with a concealed cistern can free up to 20cm of precious floor space compared to standard models. Similarly, a thoughtfully designed corner vanity can turn an awkward corner into a functional feature.

Awkward plumbing locations often make homeowners wince at potential costs. Rather than moving fixtures (and blowing your budget), we design custom cabinetry that works harmoniously with existing plumbing while keeping it beautifully concealed. A floating vanity not only hides unsightly pipes but creates the visual illusion of more floor space – a win-win solution.

Poor natural light can make even the freshest renovation feel dingy. If structural changes are possible, a skylight or solar tube works wonders. If not, strategic mirror placement combined with layered lighting (think ambient, task, and accent lighting working together) can transform the darkest bathroom into a bright, welcoming space.

Waterproofing issues often lurk beneath the surface, especially in older homes. This is definitely not the place to cut corners – proper waterproofing prevents costly damage down the track. We ensure all our joinery installations work in perfect harmony with waterproofing systems.

Timeline surprises are almost guaranteed once demolition begins. That mysterious bulge in the wall? Could be old water damage. Those perfectly straight walls in your 1970s home? Probably not as straight as you hoped. Building a 10-15% contingency into both your budget and timeline helps absorb these surprises without derailing your renovation.

Prioritising Budget & Scope for a Small Bathroom Renovation

When funds aren't unlimited (and when are they ever?), knowing where to spend and where to save becomes crucial in your small bathroom renovation:

Worth the investment are elements that affect daily function and longevity. Custom joinery and cabinetry define both how your bathroom works and how it looks. Quality hardware from trusted suppliers like Blum, Hettich, or Häfele ensures drawers and doors continue to function smoothly for years. Proper waterproofing prevents expensive water damage, while professional installation guarantees everything works as it should.

Areas to economise might include refreshing rather than replacing a structurally sound bathtub, or considering large-format porcelain tiles that convincingly mimic natural stone at a fraction of the cost. Keeping your existing layout, when practical, saves significantly on plumbing costs.

The DIY route tempts many homeowners with potential savings, but proceed with caution. While painting or simple demolition might be within reach for handy homeowners, leave waterproofing, plumbing, electrical work, and custom joinery installation to the professionals. The potential cost of mistakes in these areas can quickly eclipse any initial savings.

Always set aside a contingency fund of at least 10% for unexpected issues. In small bathroom renovations, surprises like water damage, uneven floors, or outdated wiring commonly appear once demolition begins. Having this buffer helps keep your renovation on track without compromise or stress.

Smart Joinery & Custom Storage Solutions

The magic ingredient in any successful small bathroom renovation isn't just good design—it's intelligent storage. Custom joinery transforms those tight spaces into highly functional areas without sacrificing style or accessibility.

At G&M Craftsman Cabinets, we've perfected the art of creating storage solutions that make every centimetre count. Our approach blends traditional craftsmanship with innovative thinking to deliver joinery that's as beautiful as it is practical.

Floating vanities are game-changers in compact bathrooms. By lifting storage off the floor, they create an illusion of spaciousness while still providing essential storage. We craft these with a thoughtful mix of drawers (perfect for smaller items) and cupboards (ideal for bulkier cleaning supplies). The visual breathing room this creates can make even the tiniest bathroom feel more open and inviting.

Recessed shaving cabinets are another clever space-saver. Instead of protruding into your already limited space, these cabinets nestle between wall studs, turning otherwise unused cavity space into valuable storage. We custom-build these to your exact wall dimensions, often incorporating adjustable shelving, integrated lighting, and anti-fog mirrors for added functionality.

When it comes to awkward corners or unused vertical space, bespoke shelving transforms these problem areas into storage assets. Whether it's a series of floating shelves above the toilet or a slimline full-height cabinet in that odd corner, custom shelving makes use of vertical space without making the room feel crowded.

Inside your cabinetry, custom drawers with purpose-designed organisers keep everything from toiletries to cosmetics neatly arranged and easily accessible. We partner with quality hardware suppliers like Blum, Hettich, and Häfele to ensure smooth operation and lasting durability.

Want to explore more storage ideas? Check out our guide to Custom Bathroom Storage for additional inspiration.

Integrating Handcrafted Cabinetry

What makes our approach different is our commitment to manufacturing everything in-house. This isn't just about quality control—it's about creating truly bespoke solutions that fit your space perfectly.

Our craftsmen select materials specifically engineered to withstand bathroom environments. This includes marine-grade plywood for cabinet structures, moisture-resistant MDF for painted finishes, and premium laminates and veneers sealed against humidity. For benchtops, we often recommend Silestone for its exceptional resistance to water damage and staining.

Every cabinet we create incorporates premium hardware systems from trusted providers like Furnware Dorset, Blum, Titus Plus, Kethy, Hettich, and Häfele. Soft-close drawers and doors eliminate slamming and ensure smooth, quiet operation year after year. Adjustable hinges allow for fine-tuning even after installation, ensuring your cabinetry maintains perfect alignment throughout its lifetime.

"The difference between standard cabinetry and custom joinery becomes most apparent in small spaces," our lead designer often explains. "When every millimetre counts, the ability to create storage that fits perfectly—rather than adapting to pre-made sizes—completely transforms how functional a small bathroom can be."

Organisation Hacks that Don't Crowd the Room

Beyond the cabinetry itself, clever organisation strategies can maximise functionality without adding visual clutter:

Recessed niches in shower walls provide the perfect home for shampoo and soap without the need for protruding shower caddies. We can tile these to match surrounding walls for a seamless look that doesn't interrupt the visual flow of the space.

Pull-out organisers inside vanity drawers keep smaller items sorted and accessible. Systems from Furnware Dorset or Titus Plus can be customised to your specific needs—whether that's makeup organisation or toiletry storage.

For those small metal items that always seem to get lost, magnetic strips concealed inside medicine cabinets can hold tweezers, nail clippers and other metal essentials, freeing up valuable drawer space for other items.

Hidden hampers integrated into your cabinetry keep dirty laundry out of sight while maximising floor space. These can be designed with ventilation that prevents moisture build-up—a thoughtful touch that extends the life of your joinery.

For items you use daily, open cubbies provide easy access without the visual weight of closed cabinetry. We finish these with waterproof materials to ensure they stand up to bathroom humidity for years to come.

By thoughtfully combining these strategies with our custom joinery solutions, we help transform even the most compact bathrooms into organised, functional spaces that feel surprisingly spacious and utterly personal.

Fixtures, Materials & Lighting Choices

When planning your small bathroom renovation, choosing the right fixtures, materials, and lighting isn't just about aesthetics—it's about creating a space that feels larger and works harder for you.

Think of fixtures as the workhorses of your bathroom. Water-efficient taps not only help the environment but often come in sleeker, more contemporary designs that take up less visual space. Look for the WELS rating to understand just how efficient they'll be in your daily use.

Frameless shower screens are a game-changer in compact bathrooms. Without bulky frames interrupting your line of sight, your bathroom instantly feels more spacious and open. Plus, they're a dream to keep clean—no more scrubbing those hard-to-reach corners where grime loves to hide.

"One of our favourite space-saving recommendations is a compact toilet with a concealed cistern," shares our design team. "They can project as little as 48cm from the wall—that's nearly 20cm less than standard models. In a small bathroom, those centimetres make all the difference."

Wall-mounted fixtures deserve special mention too. By lifting elements like taps, towel rails, and even toilets off the floor, you create more visual space and make cleaning a breeze. No more awkward mopping around toilet bases!

The materials you choose set both the mood and functionality of your space. Anti-slip tiles with a rating of R10 or higher provide essential safety without compromising on style. Large-format tiles work wonders in small bathrooms by reducing grout lines, creating a more seamless look that tricks the eye into seeing a larger space.

For our custom joinery, we use only moisture-resistant finishes that stand up to the humid bathroom environment. Our craftsmen apply multiple protective coats to ensure your cabinetry stays beautiful for years, even in these challenging conditions.

Lighting might be the most underestimated element in small bathroom renovation. Thoughtful lighting design can completely transform how your space feels:

Layered lighting combines ambient, task, and accent lights to create depth and eliminate shadows. LED strips tucked behind mirrors or under floating vanities add a magical floating effect that makes the room feel deeper. Well-placed mirror sconces at eye level provide perfect lighting for daily grooming while adding a decorative touch.

Don't forget dimmable options—they're brilliant for adjusting the mood from energising morning routines to relaxing evening soaks. It's like having multiple bathrooms in one!

Research from the EPA on WaterSense-certified toilets shows they use at least 20% less water than standard models without any performance compromise. That's a win for both your water bill and the environment.

Colour & Surface Tricks to Make a Small Space Feel Bigger

The colours and finishes you choose can dramatically alter how spacious your bathroom feels. Light palettes naturally reflect more light, creating an airy, open feeling. Don't feel restricted to clinical whites though—warm whites and soft neutrals can create an equally spacious feel with added warmth and character.

Vertical elements draw the eye upward, creating a sense of height that expands the room. This might be vertical tile patterns, wallpaper with subtle vertical stripes, or even the orientation of wall panelling. It's a simple visual trick that delivers impressive results.

High-gloss finishes are your friends in small spaces. From glossy cabinet doors to semi-gloss wall paint, these surfaces bounce light around the room, adding brightness and perceived depth. They're also practical choices for bathrooms, standing up well to moisture while being easy to wipe clean.

"We often recommend reflective hardware like polished chrome or brushed nickel for small bathrooms," notes our design team. "These finishes act like little mirrors throughout the space, catching and reflecting light in ways that make the room feel more expansive."

Creating visual continuity with continuous flooring—especially extending your main floor tile into a curbless shower—makes the room feel less chopped up and therefore larger. This seamless approach has become one of our most requested features in small bathroom renovation projects across the Sunshine Coast.

Should You Keep the Tub?

The great bathtub debate is perhaps the most personal decision in any bathroom renovation. There's no one-size-fits-all answer—it depends entirely on your lifestyle and how you actually use your bathroom.

If you have young children who need bathing, regularly enjoy a long soak after a stressful day, or your home might be sold to families in the future, keeping a tub makes perfect sense. This is especially true if yours is the only bathroom in the home.

On the flip side, if you're exclusively a shower person, your bathroom is particularly tiny (under 3 square metres), or you're planning for ageing in place with accessibility in mind, removing the tub could be the right choice. This is less of a concern if you have another bathroom in the home that includes a tub.

Space-conscious doesn't mean you must abandon the idea of a relaxing soak. Consider space-efficient options like deep soaking tubs, which have a smaller footprint but greater depth, or Japanese-style tubs that offer a more compact bathing experience. Corner tubs can also be brilliant for making use of awkward spaces that might otherwise go wasted.

For those who decide a walk-in shower is the way forward, consider a curbless design with a linear drain. This creates a seamless look that maximises visual space while improving accessibility—perfect for creating a bathroom that works for everyone, regardless of age or mobility.

What to Expect During the Build

The construction phase of a small bathroom renovation can feel particularly disruptive due to the essential nature of the space. Understanding what to expect helps manage the process more smoothly.

Demolition is typically the first and messiest stage. Expect noise, dust, and the removal of old fixtures, tiles, and possibly some wall materials. Our team takes special care to:

Protect adjacent areas with dust barriers
Establish clear pathways for debris removal
Identify and preserve any elements being retained
Check for hidden issues like water damage or mould

Dust control is a particular challenge in home renovations. We employ several strategies:

Sealing off the work area with plastic sheeting
Using air purifiers and negative pressure systems where appropriate
Regular cleaning throughout the project
Thorough final clean-up

Trade scheduling requires precise coordination, especially in small bathrooms where work areas are limited. Our project management team ensures:

Logical sequencing of trades (plumbers, electricians, tilers, cabinetmakers)
Clear communication about timeline and access requirements
Prompt problem-solving when unexpected issues arise
Quality control at each stage before the next trade begins

Our six-step process ensures quality craftsmanship throughout your renovation:

Budgeting & Consulting: We review plans to ensure what's designed is achievable and budget-friendly.
Planning & Design: Our trained consultants help plan your project and source the right hardware and finishes.
Manufacture: Everything is made in-house to the highest level of detail and quality by our team of craftsmen.
Project Management: We coordinate related trades and keep you informed of all project updates.
Installation: Our tradespeople are craftsmen who treat every project as their own, finishing to perfection.
Maintenance: We can help with repairs and maintenance solutions to keep your joinery like new for years.

More info about our process

Timeline & Milestones

A typical small bathroom renovation follows these key milestones:

Initial Consultation (Week 1): We discuss your needs, preferences, and budget constraints.
Design Development (Weeks 1-2): Our designers create detailed plans for your approval, including joinery specifications, material selections, and fixture placements.
Check Measure (Week 2-3): Once the bathroom is stripped back, we take precise measurements to ensure all joinery fits perfectly.
Joinery Manufacture (Weeks 3-5): Our craftsmen build your custom cabinetry in our workshop. This happens concurrent with other trades working on-site (plumbing rough-in, electrical rough-in, waterproofing, and tiling).
Fit-Off (Weeks 5-6): Installation of vanities, cabinets, mirrors, and other joinery elements, followed by plumbing and electrical fit-offs.
Final Touches (Week 7): Accessories installation, silicone sealing, and final adjustments.
Clean-Up and Handover: Thorough cleaning and a detailed walkthrough of your new bathroom, including care instructions.

This timeline can compress or expand depending on the scope of work and whether you're renovating during a busy season. We always build in buffer time for unexpected findies or delays.

Working with Craftsmen & Trusted Suppliers

The success of your bathroom renovation depends largely on the quality of workmanship and materials. At G&M Craftsman Cabinets, we pride ourselves on:

Clear communication: Regular updates keep you informed about progress and any decisions needed.
On-site etiquette: Our team respects your home, using drop sheets, wearing clean footwear, and maintaining a tidy workspace.
Detailed checklists: We use comprehensive quality control lists to ensure nothing is overlooked.
Defect walk-through: Before final handover, we conduct a thorough inspection with you to identify and address any issues.

We work exclusively with trusted suppliers for hardware and materials, including Furnware Dorset, Silestone, Blum, Titus Plus, Kethy, Hettich, and Häfele. These partnerships ensure that every component of your bathroom—from drawer runners to door hinges—meets our exacting standards for quality and durability.

Care, Maintenance & Future-Proofing

Your small bathroom renovation is an investment that deserves proper care to maintain its beauty and functionality for years to come. With the right maintenance approach, your new bathroom will continue to delight you long after the renovation dust has settled.

Proper ventilation stands as the cornerstone of bathroom longevity. Even the most exquisite joinery will struggle in constantly damp conditions. We always recommend using exhaust fans during and after showers, leaving doors or windows open when practical, and considering humidity-sensing fans that activate automatically when moisture levels rise.

Annual grout sealing might seem like a small task, but it makes an enormous difference in preventing water penetration and mould growth. This simple maintenance ritual adds years to your tiled surfaces and keeps them looking fresh.

Over time, you might notice doors or drawers slightly out of alignment – this is perfectly normal as hardware settles with regular use. The premium hardware we install from Blum and Hettich allows for straightforward adjustments without special tools, something our clients particularly appreciate.

"We think about the entire lifecycle of your bathroom when designing it," explains our lead craftsman. "It's not just about how it looks on handover day, but how it will serve you through different life stages."

When it comes to future-proofing, we encourage clients to think ahead:

For families with young children, soft-close drawers prevent pinched fingers, while rounded vanity corners reduce bumps and bruises during bath time trips.

If you're planning to age in place, we can incorporate thoughtful elements like wall reinforcements for future grab bars, curbless showers, and accessible storage solutions that don't compromise on style.

For the tech-savvy homeowner, we can plan for future smart home integration with appropriate electrical provisions for digital showers, smart mirrors, or integrated sound systems.

Care & Maintenance tips

Keeping Your New Joinery Looking New

The custom joinery in your bathroom represents the heart of your renovation investment. With proper care, these bespoke elements will remain stunning for decades rather than years.

Gentle cleaners are essential for preserving your cabinet finishes. We recommend simple solutions like mild soap and water for most cabinet exteriors, soft microfibre cloths instead of abrasive sponges, and specialised cleaners for natural stone benchtops. Harsh chemicals might seem more effective in the short term, but they can damage finishes and hardware, leading to premature wear.

Your cabinet doors may need occasional hinge tuning to maintain that perfect alignment that distinguishes quality joinery. The premium hardware systems we source from trusted providers like Blum and Hettich allow for simple three-dimensional adjustments that keep everything looking precisely installed.

Different materials require different surface resealing schedules. Timber veneers benefit from resealing every 1-2 years, natural stone surfaces every 6-12 months, and painted surfaces as needed based on wear patterns. We're always happy to provide guidance specific to your chosen finishes.

We maintain detailed records of all components used in your project, making spare parts readily available through our maintenance service. This attention to detail means you won't face the frustration of discontinued hardware or finishes when minor repairs are needed.

Water damage waits for no one, so we encourage prompt attention to any signs of swelling or water penetration. Early intervention often prevents more extensive problems and preserves the integrity of your joinery.

Bathrooms experience significant daily fluctuations in temperature and humidity, which naturally affects materials over time. A quick seasonal check for any issues helps identify small problems before they become significant concerns.

Our commitment to your bathroom doesn't end at installation—we're here to help maintain its beauty and functionality for years to come, ensuring your small bathroom renovation continues to bring joy and value to your home.

Frequently Asked Questions about Small Bathroom Renovation

How long does a small bathroom renovation usually take?

When planning your small bathroom renovation, timing is often one of the biggest concerns. Most homeowners are surprised to learn that even small spaces can take significant time to transform properly.

Typically, you can expect your renovation to take between 1-7 weeks from start to finish. A simple refresh with new paint, basic fixtures and a standard vanity might be completed in just 1-2 weeks. For mid-range renovations involving new tile, quality fixtures and our custom joinery, you're looking at about 3-5 weeks. If you're planning a complete change with layout changes and premium finishes, allow 5-7 weeks for the project.

Several factors might extend these timelines. Uncovering hidden issues like water damage or outdated wiring once walls are opened up is quite common in older Sunshine Coast homes. Custom elements with specific materials might have longer lead times, and apartment buildings often have restrictions on renovation hours that can stretch the schedule.

At G&M Craftsman Cabinets, we believe in transparency. We'll provide you with a detailed timeline during the planning phase and keep you updated as your beautiful new bathroom takes shape.

Can I renovate in stages to spread the cost?

Absolutely! Many of our clients choose to renovate their bathrooms in stages, and we're happy to help create a strategic approach that minimises disruption while spreading the investment over time.

A sensible sequence often starts with addressing any urgent issues first. This means tackling leaks, mould, or unsafe electrical elements, along with updating the shower or bath area with proper waterproofing and fresh tiling. This foundation work ensures your bathroom is safe and functional.

In the second phase, we typically focus on the storage elements, replacing standard vanities with our custom joinery solutions that maximise every centimetre of available space. This phase makes a dramatic difference in both functionality and aesthetics.

The final phase often involves updating lighting, accessories, and decorative elements to complete the change.

This approach works beautifully when keeping the fundamental layout consistent. Our design team can help create a phased plan that ensures each stage builds logically on the previous work, avoiding any costly rework down the track.

What's the best way to add storage without feeling cramped?

Storage is the secret hero of any successful small bathroom renovation. The right approach can double your functional space without making the room feel crowded.

Recessed storage is often our first recommendation. By utilising the cavity between wall studs for medicine cabinets or shower niches, we can create storage that doesn't project into the room at all. It's like finding extra space inside your walls!

Looking upward is another smart strategy. Vertical storage draws the eye up and utilises often-overlooked space above toilets or doors. This approach works particularly well with our custom-height cabinetry that can be designed to fit precisely within your available wall space.

Multi-functional elements save valuable real estate. A mirror cabinet with integrated LED lighting serves dual purposes without requiring additional wall space. Similarly, our floating vanities with quality Blum drawer systems can incorporate organised internal storage that eliminates bathroom clutter.

For frequently used items, thoughtfully designed open shelving can actually feel less imposing than closed cabinetry. The visual openness creates a sense of space while keeping essentials within easy reach.

Our craftsmen specialise in creating bespoke storage solutions custom to your specific bathroom dimensions and lifestyle needs. We've transformed countless small Sunshine Coast bathrooms into surprisingly spacious-feeling, highly functional spaces through clever joinery design.

Sunshine Coast's Trusted Cabinet Makers – Find the Difference

When undertaking a small bathroom renovation on the Sunshine Coast, the expertise and craftsmanship of your cabinetmaker can make all the difference between an ordinary update and a change that improves your daily life.

At G&M Craftsman Cabinets, we bring 100 years of combined experience to every project, large or small. Our team of craftsmen creates exceptional custom joinery that maximises functionality while adding timeless beauty to your bathroom.

Our Sunshine Coast clients appreciate our attention to detail and commitment to quality. From Maroochydore to Noosa, Buderim to Pelican Waters, we've transformed countless bathrooms with our bespoke joinery solutions.

"The bathroom may be the smallest room in your home, but it's where you begin and end each day," notes our design team. "Custom joinery that perfectly fits your space and lifestyle can transform this essential room into something truly special."

We invite you to explore our portfolio of completed projects, including our award-winning work at Aroona Avenue in Buddina, which showcases our commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and innovative design solutions.

Small Bathroom Renovations Sunshine Coast

Ready to transform your bathroom with custom joinery that maximises every centimetre? Contact us today to book a consultation and find how our craftsman approach can lift your small bathroom renovation from ordinary to extraordinary.

Quality Craftsmanship Throughout – Book a Consultation Today

Integrations AdaptifyJune 25, 2025