My Process: Designing Your Dream Bathroom

When it comes to designing a bathroom, the process is not just about selecting tiles and fixtures. It's a journey of understanding your preferences, creating a space that resonates with your desires, and ultimately, delivering a result that leaves you delighted! As a seasoned designer, my approach involves a series of thoughtful steps that ensure we craft a bathroom that not only meets your functional needs but also reflects your unique style and personality. What exactly does my process look like? Let’s dive in!

Getting to Know You: The Initial Meeting

The first step in designing your dream bathroom is getting to know you. During our initial meeting, I ask questions about your preferences and desires. How do you want to feel in your bathroom? Do you have any inspiration photos of bathrooms you love? What colors resonate with you, and which ones do you want to avoid? These questions help me understand your vision and set the foundation for the design process.

I also explore specific features that can elevate your bathroom experience. Would you enjoy a luxurious soaker tub with jets? Are you interested in having a steam feature in the shower? Preferences on faucet finishes, heated floors, and heated towel bars are discussed to ensure every detail aligns with your vision.

Ideas & Reactions: A Collaborative Process

To bring your vision to life, I present a variety of ideas for your consideration. Your reactions, whether positive or negative, guide the direction of the design. I value your input and incorporate your feedback into the evolving concept. This collaborative process ensures that the final design is not just a reflection of my expertise but a manifestation of your personal taste and style.

Sketching preliminary layouts is a crucial part of the process. Sometimes, the ideal layout becomes immediately apparent, while other situations may call for exploring multiple options. The goal is to find the layout that best suits your needs and preferences.

Turning Ideas into Reality: The Implementation Stage

Once the optimal layout is agreed upon, I share my ideas with you, eagerly anticipating a positive and excited reaction. Some clients prefer to see materials and fixtures in person, while others trust my recommendations based on visuals and descriptions. I create a Pinterest board for each project, facilitating easy sharing of ideas and inspirations with both my team and clients.

The detailed list of plumbing fixtures, tiles, vanities, storage solutions, mirrors, lighting, and accessories is then handed over to the contractor for pricing. An essential step in this phase is to ensure that all components are ordered and on-site before the project commencement, eliminating delays and ensuring a smooth workflow.

Collaboration and Progress: On-Site Visits

As the construction begins, I make regular site visits to oversee the progress, address any concerns, and collaborate with the skilled tradespeople involved. This collaboration is a vital aspect of the process, as it ensures that any unforeseen challenges are addressed promptly, maintaining the project's momentum. This is a part of the process that I love very much - collaborating with the great trades I have worked with, sometimes for many years!

The Finishing Touches: Towels, Accessories, and a Happy Client

Finally, as the last tile is set and the fixtures are in place, I add the finishing touches that transform a functional space into a personalized sanctuary. I carefully select towels, accessories, and scents that complement the overall design. The ultimate goal is not just a completed project but a delighted and satisfied client.

And that, for me, marks a great day in the fulfilling journey of designing your dream bathroom!



Curious to see more behind-the-scenes of my work & get insights into my design process? Make sure you’re following along on Instagram!

Barb Ivey