A Beautiful, New SpaceA Beautiful, New Space

Are you considering remodeling your tired, old bathroom into a grand master suite accessory? It can be a great way to transform not only the master bedroom but also the entire home, including increasing its resale value.

But, where do you start? Here's a five-step guide to getting the job done right. 

Make a Priority List. Planning for any bathroom remodel should generally start with a list of what's important to you and what's not. Do you want a sitting area? A full bathtub? A fancy shower system? Or are you willing to sacrifice space for a large closet? Writing your own list of priorities in black and white helps ensure that you and your partner are on the same page and that you have your eye on the ball.

Turn It Into a Plan. Once you know what you must have and what you can live without, start turning that list into a workable plan for the space you have available. In this context, a "plan" doesn't just mean a vague set of ideas imagined only in your head. It means drawing up a detailed, accurate layout of the future bathroom on paper and set to scale. During this part of the process, consult your list of priorities often to make sure you're getting what you want and are willing to lose what you can't fit.

Create a Budget. With your detailed drawing in hand, you're ready to work on a general budget. You may find that it works best to budget for different categories (such as materials, construction, or accessories) or different parts of the bathroom space (such as the closet, shower/bath, or structural). Breaking down the budget into categories helps you make adjustments for unexpected costs without ending up short on funds to finish the project.

Name a Manager. If your remodel is extensive, you're going to be working with several different professionals and vendors -- remodeling contractors, electricians, plumbers, HVAC workers, decorators, furnishing vendors, and permitting agencies, for example. It's best to designate a single individual to be the project manager and keep everything organized so you don't find yourself falling behind on time or money. You may choose to have your contractor do the job of overseeing things, or you can choose to have one family member do it.

Be Communicative. While you don't want to be intrusive when vendors are doing their jobs, don't be afraid to ask questions either. Understanding why things go where they're being placed or how they affect other parts of the project can help you ensure a great end result and avoid unnecessary spending. Strive to be available to your project manager or vendors as often as you can.

By following these steps when planning your master bathroom renovation, you'll be well on your way to a fantastic new space that'll make you happy for years to come. Talk to a contractor like Callier Thompson Kitchen & Bath for more tips to get started.