So obviously if you live in your own home you can kinda do whatever you want.
If you want to move walls, add tubs or showers or saunas or completely remake your ensuite you can do that. You will definitely still need a contractor and likely you will need permits and a professional plan but nonetheless, you can do whatever you want.
When it comes to condo living, or townhouse living you will likely still be able to do whatever you want but your options are a little more limited because of the condo board, architectural controls and red tape. Now that doesn’t mean you can do things, it just means you have to get more approval than with a house.
Advice from the Pros
One of the most important steps in a condo renovation of any kind including the bathroom is to make sure you are following the rules, and getting advice or hiring an expert.
We talked last week with Jared from Jared Hebb Contracting in Vancouver and asked him about condo renovations specifically bathroom renovations in a condo. We asked him about bathroom renovations in a condo and what he sees as important.
When we do a full condo renovation we can sometimes move walls and change the footprint, but typically that means doing the whole space. Moving a wall for jus the bathroom is often impractical, not that it can’t be done but unusual. Most condo boards are happy for people to upgrade their space as it makes the whole building more desirable. You just need to make sure you go through the right process. That’s what we love helping people with, making sure they get it right.
One of the things that Houzz.com says is that you need to know if you are renovating for yourself or for resale. The most beneficial thing you can do for resale is to paint either the whole condo or add a feature wall, but you can also add some wow factor with new door hardware or bathroom fixtures. If you are renovating for yourself you can get a little more creative with the design and the colours.
Types of Bathroom Renovations
Bathroom renovations come in a variety of types depending on the scope, style, and functional upgrades you want. Here’s a list of common types of bathroom renovations.
Cosmetic Renovation
A cosmetic renovation focuses on updating the bathroom’s appearance without making major structural changes. This might involve repainting walls or cabinets, replacing faucets or light fixtures, and installing new tiles, countertops, or flooring to refresh the space.
Partial Renovation
A partial renovation addresses specific elements of the bathroom while keeping other parts intact. This could include replacing the vanity, toilet, or shower, upgrading outdated fixtures, or changing one feature, like the bathtub, without altering the overall layout.
Full Renovation (Gut Renovation)
A full renovation, also known as a gut renovation, is a complete overhaul where everything is removed and replaced, including the layout. This type of renovation might involve redesigning the space for improved functionality, adding custom features like a walk-in shower or heated floors, and installing new fixtures and materials.
Luxury or Spa Bathroom Renovation
For those seeking a luxurious space, a spa bathroom renovation focuses on creating a high-end experience. This could include adding features like a steam shower, whirlpool tub, heated floors, or high-end materials such as marble and quartz. Integrated technology, such as smart lighting and heated mirrors, may also be included.
Accessibility Renovation
An accessibility renovation aims to make the bathroom safer and more user-friendly for people with mobility issues. This could involve installing grab bars, non-slip flooring, walk-in showers with seating, lowering vanities, and widening doorways for wheelchair access.
Eco-Friendly or Sustainable Renovation
Eco-friendly or sustainable renovations prioritize reducing water and energy consumption while using environmentally conscious materials. These projects often involve installing low-flow toilets, energy-efficient lighting, recycled materials for countertops and tiles, and other sustainable features.
En-Suite Bathroom Addition
An en-suite bathroom addition involves building a new bathroom connected to a bedroom, typically part of a master suite. This renovation creates a private and functional space attached directly to the bedroom.
Powder Room or Half-Bath Renovation
Powder room or half-bath renovations focus on updating small bathrooms that typically don’t include a shower or bathtub. These projects might involve replacing the sink and toilet, updating fixtures, and adding small vanities or storage solutions.
Small Bathroom Renovation
In small bathroom renovations, the goal is to maximize space and improve functionality in a compact area. This might involve using space-saving features like wall-mounted sinks or floating cabinets, and incorporating mirrors or glass shower doors to create the illusion of more space.
Smart Bathroom Renovation
Smart bathroom renovations integrate modern technology to enhance convenience and efficiency. These projects could include smart showers and toilets with adjustable settings, voice-activated lighting and temperature controls, and touchless faucets.
Types that you can do if you live in a condo
Ok now that we got that out of the way, basically anything that is cosmetic you can do. So if you want to paint, or change your shower curtain, or even add new towel holders or toilet paper roll holders you can basically do that.
When it comes to changing fixtures, changing faucets, or any plumbing you will likely need permission from your condo board and potential permits.
In a condo, you can usually make cosmetic changes inside your unit without needing permission from the condo board, such as painting, replacing flooring, updating cabinets or countertops, switching appliances, changing light fixtures, and installing window treatments. You can also update small plumbing fixtures, customize closets or storage, and swap out hardware like door handles and cabinet knobs. As long as these changes don’t affect the building’s structure, plumbing, electrical systems, or common areas, you’re generally free to proceed without approval. However, it’s wise to check the condo rules for any specific restrictions.
The bigger the job the more you want to make sure.
What is the Best Bang for your Buck when it Comes to a Bathroom Renovation
The best bang for your buck in a condo bathroom renovation is to focus on updating fixtures, like faucets and showerheads, and upgrading lighting for a modern look. Replacing the vanity or countertops with more durable, stylish materials can add value without breaking the bank. Fresh paint and new tiles or flooring, especially in small spaces, also make a big visual impact.
Avoid moving plumbing or making structural changes, as these can quickly increase costs. Prioritize improvements that enhance both function and aesthetics to get the most return on investment.
In a condo it is likely that you won’t be able to move walls or change the physical footprint of the room itself so you need to keep that in mind when you are making your decisions.