My Process: Designing Your Dream Bathroom

Designing a bathroom isn’t just about picking tile and fixtures – there’s a process to it. It starts with understanding how you want to use the space, how you want it to feel, and then working through the details to make sure everything functions properly and looks the way it should.

Here’s how I approach it.

Getting to Know You

The first step is getting a sense of what you want. We’ll talk about how you use your bathroom now, what’s working, and what isn’t. I’ll ask how you want to feel in the space. Calm, bright, more like a spa. We’ll also look at inspiration photos if you have them.

We’ll go through colour, what you’re drawn to, and what you definitely don’t want.

Then we get into the features. Would you actually use a soaker tub with jets? Do you want a steam shower? Heated floors, heated towel bars, faucet finishes. These are the details that really shape how the space works day to day.

Ideas & Reactions

Once I have a direction, I start putting ideas together. I’ll show you options and walk you through them. Your reactions matter! What you like, what you don’t, what you’re unsure about. That feedback helps refine the design.

I usually start with layout. Sometimes the right layout is obvious right away. Other times we need to explore a few options. I’ll sketch things out so we can see how it all fits. The goal is always to land on something that makes sense for how you live, not just how it looks on paper.

Working Through the Details

Once the layout is set, we move into the details. This is where everything comes together! Plumbing fixtures, tile selections, vanities, storage, mirrors, lighting, accessories. There are a lot of decisions, and they all need to work together.

I usually create a Pinterest board for each project so we can keep everything organized and easy to reference. It also allows me to share ideas with clients and with the team, whether that’s a kitchen designer, contractor, or other collaborators.

Some clients want to see everything in person. Others are comfortable making decisions from visuals and samples. Either way works.

At this stage, I prepare a detailed list of all the selections and send it to the contractor for pricing. One of the most important parts of this phase is making sure everything is ordered and on site before construction starts. It avoids delays and keeps things moving.

On-Site

Once construction begins, I stay involved. I visit the site regularly to check progress, answer questions, and work through anything that comes up with the contractor, plumber, electrician, and trades.

There are always small adjustments during a renovation. That’s just part of the process. Being there to deal with them early keeps everything on track.

I’ve worked with many of the same trades for years, and that relationship makes a big difference. There’s a level of trust and communication that helps the project run smoothly. This part of the process is one I really enjoy. It’s where everything starts to take shape!

The Finishing Touches

Once everything is installed, I come back in to finish the space properly. That means towels, accessories, sometimes even scents. The small details that make the space feel complete, not just finished. It’s the difference between a bathroom that looks good and one that actually feels good to be in.

The End Result

At the end, everything works the way it should. The layout makes sense. The materials feel right. Nothing feels forced. And most importantly, you walk into the space and it feels like yours. That’s always the goal.

If you’re ready to rethink your bathroom, I’d love to help you figure out what’s possible. Reach out here!