Some bathroom tips

Budget

Bathroom renovation costs can vary depending on size, materials, and complexity. As a general guide, you should budget between $15,000 and $30,000 for a full bathroom renovation.

Simple cosmetic updates may cost less, while high-end finishes and custom features will increase the price. We’ll help tailor the design to match your vision and budget. home becomes a reality.

Level of finish

🏷️ 1. Budget Finish

Cost Range (Bathroom): $10,000–$15,000
Materials: Laminate benchtops, acrylic or fiberglass shower bases, basic ceramic tiles, flat-pack vanities, standard tapware.
Design: Simple and functional; minimal custom work.
Best for: Rental properties, minor upgrades, or homeowners on a tight budget.

💎 2. Mid-Range Finish

Cost Range (Bathroom): $15,000–$35,000
Materials: Stone or engineered stone benchtops, semi-frameless shower screens, large-format tiles, floating vanities, quality tapware with some design flair.
Design: More choices in colors and textures, modest custom work, better durability and aesthetics.
Best for: Homeowners wanting a balance between style, durability, and cost.

✨ 3. High-End / Luxury Finish

Cost Range (Bathroom): $35,000–$40,000+
Materials: Natural stone, custom joinery, floor-to-ceiling tiles, frameless shower screens, premium fittings (e.g. brushed brass, matte black), underfloor heating.
Design: Fully customized, designer look, highest quality craftsmanship.
Best for: Forever homes or those wanting a true “wow” factor and long-lasting finishes.

Tiles

Ceramic tiles are budget-friendly and ideal for walls, starting around $30–$50/m². Installation costs for smaller tiles (like 200x200mm) would be cheaper while larger tiles (like 600x600mm or 600x1200mm) will cost more due to more intricate handling and cutting.
Porcelain tiles are denser and more water-resistant, great for floors and high-use areas ($50–$90/m²). Larger tiles (600x600mm or above) might see higher installation fees, ranging from $45–$70/m².
Natural stone tiles (like marble, granite, or travertine) offer a luxurious finish but require sealing and more upkeep. Expect prices from $120/m² and up, plus additional installation cost. For large-format stones, installation can be more expensive due to the weight and precision needed, often ranging from $70–$100/m².

When selecting bathroom tiles, start by defining the look you’re after—whether it’s a relaxing spa vibe, a bold modern style, or a warm, classic space. In Australia, porcelain tiles are the go-to for floors and wet areas thanks to their durability and low maintenance, while ceramic tiles offer a more affordable option for walls. For a high-end look, natural stone or terrazzo-looktiles are popular choices from suppliers like TileCloud, Beaumont Tiles, and KLAY.

Tile size and layout also affect the feel of your bathroom. Large-format tiles can make small spaces feel more open, while mosaics and Kit Kat tiles add texture and are ideal for shower floors or feature walls. Light colours make rooms feel brighter, while darker tones add drama.

Timber-look tilesare a trending choice for a warm, earthy aesthetic with the durability of porcelain.

For safety and style, go for matte tiles on floors (they're less slippery) and glossy or glazed tiles on walls for extra light reflection. Make sure floor tiles meet Australian slip resistance standards (R10 or higher). Grout choice matters too—matching grout gives a seamless look, while contrast grout highlights shapes and layout.

Bathroom Product Selection

Basins & Bathtubs:

Ceramic and vitreous china basins are affordable and easy to clean.
Stone or concrete basins provide a premium, custom feel.
Bathtubs range from acrylic (lightweight and cost-effective) to steel enamel (durable) and stone/composite (luxury look with excellent heat retention).

Toilets:

Toilets come in different grades: entry-level close-coupled units from around $300–$500, to in-wall concealed cistern designs which offer a cleaner look and more space (from $800–$1,500+).
Smart toilets with built-in bidets, seat warmers, and self-cleaning features are gaining popularity, especially in high-end renovations. These start around $2,000 - $3,0000 depending on features.

Shower Screens:

Frameless glass screens offer a sleek, modern feel and are easy to clean.
Semi-frameless screens provide a stylish look at a more accessible price.
Fully framed screens are budget-friendly but visually heavier.

Popular hardware finishes include chrome, matte black, brushed nickle and brushed gold, depending on the bathroom’s design palette.

Light it Right

Proper lighting can transform the feel of your bathroom and play a crucial role in functionality. Layered lighting ensures you have the right lighting for different tasks, enhancing both aesthetics and practicality.

Task Lighting:This is the lighting you'll need near mirrors or vanity areas where you perform daily grooming tasks like shaving, applying makeup, or brushing your teeth. Ensure the task light is bright but not harsh—think LED strip lights along the mirror or wall-mounted sconces to eliminate shadows. For the best effect, avoid positioning lights directly above or below your face, as this can create unflattering shadows.
Ambient Lighting: Ceiling lights or recessed downlights create an overall glow to illuminate the room evenly. These should provide soft, diffused light that doesn’t overwhelm the space. Choose dimmable options for flexibility, allowing you to control the light’s intensity depending on the time of day or mood.
Accent Lighting: If you have architectural features or design elements you want to highlight, accent lighting can be used. This could include LED strip lighting under cabinets or downlights that focus on a feature wall or artistic tiling. Accent lighting adds depth and interest to the room, creating a spa-like, luxurious feel.
Natural Light:Whenever possible, leverage natural light. If your bathroom has windows, allow the light to flow in, making the space feel more open and airy. Skylights and glass block windows can also help bring in natural light while maintaining privacy. Natural light is also good for your health, as it can boost mood and help balance circadian rhythms.

Think Ventilation

Ventilation is crucial in a bathroom, especially in Sydney’s humid climate. Without proper airflow, your bathroom can become a breeding ground for mould and mildew, which can damage surfaces, fixtures, and even the walls.

Exhaust Fans: A high-quality exhaust fan is essential to expel moist air, steam, and humidity after showers or baths. A fan that is the right size for your bathroom will efficiently remove moisture without running continuously. Consider choosing an exhaust fan with a built-in timer or a humidity sensor that automatically activates when the humidity level is high. Fans should be powerful enough to move the air out quickly (typically, a fan should move 1 CFM per square foot of bathroom space).
Windows & Natural Ventilation: If your bathroom has a window, ensure it opens easily to allow fresh air in. Open windows during and after showers to promote natural air circulation, helping moisture escape. If you don’t have a window, make sure the exhaust fan does the job effectively.
Ventilation in High-Moisture Areas: Pay extra attention to areas with more moisture exposure, such as the shower enclosure or around bathtubs. Ensure that ventilation is aimed at these zones, especially if your bathroom is small and lacks windows.The better the airflow, the less chance there is for excess moisture to build up, which helps protect your finishes and keeps your bathroom fresh.

Good ventilation prevents mould growth, keeps air quality fresh, and ensures the longevity of your bathroom surfaces and finishes.

Other cost factors