Planning a bathroom update? Look at what you have, decide on what you want, dream big, and then get realistic. As with a kitchen remodel, talk to experts, look at pictures in magazines, and visit showrooms. Know that nearly everything can be scaled up or down to meet your budget.

1 Electronic faucets. Commonly found in public restrooms, electronic faucets are becoming a popular feature in the home. Easy to clean, easy to use, these water-saving devices meet “universal design,” standards. This latest industry buzzword means a product is useful for people of any age or ability.
2 Water vessel bowls and elegant fixtures. Hearken back to the era of a wooden dresser topped with a water pitcher and matching decorative bowl and you have the latest take on modern bathroom sinks. Vessels — basins — are made of stone, glass or metal; water comes from traditional, pump-like, or wall-mounted spigots.
3 Antique bureau as vanities. To get the look of fine furniture in the bath, retrofit an old bureau or buy new. Warm wood and intricate carvings are replacing industrial chrome. Make sure wood vanities have moisture-proof coating.
4 Soaking tubs soothe. Whirlpool spray is out, air jets are in. Gentle recycled air bubbles caress and soothe. Bathe with pretty colors in Kohler’s $7,000 SOK overflowing air bath, which adds a light show for your bathing pleasure. Next up: Japanese soaking tubs. Made of teak, shorter, deeper than Western-style tubs. These have a seat, no jets.
5 Showerheads sprout. Despite rising popularity of soaker tubs, statistics show Americans still prefer a shower. Today’s showerhead has transitioned from a pulsing pounding to a gentle downpour with water jets located on the ceiling and along the enclosure. Ceiling-mounted showerheads create the effect of bathing in the rain. “Sunflower” shower heads range 6” to 18”. Size matters: The bigger the showerhead, the less wriggling needed to get full body coverage.
6 Let there be light. Take out a wall and replace it with a giant window, plan for an attractive privacy-protecting window treatment. Or put in a skylight. Natural illumination enhances the spa-like setting.
7 Plan for storage. Shampoo and conditioner, packages of soap and razor blades, stacks of toilet tissue, and facial tissue have to go somewhere. Add shelves, cabinets, cubbyholes, or carts to your blueprint to make sure bathroom improvements include organizing the essentials.
8 Update an old look. Cabinets that have molding and glass fronts increase the appeal of the bathroom by giving it more character. If you can’t replace your cabinets, consider new paint, and then add decorative knobs and pulls.
9 Floor features. Ceramic tile is popular. Use a natural tone such as ivory and taupe to keep the bathroom looking light and clean. Linoleum and vinyl are also time-honored choices that are budget friendly and easily installed.
10 Build in bliss. If space allows, add a comfortable chair to the bathroom. Or, check out the Bath Settee, the latest innovation that converts a traditional toilet into a comfortable seat. Fill the room with scented candles, fresh flowers, plants and art. With the proper wiring and a nod to common sense, table lamps and other freestanding items such as stereos and TVs can be included in your sanctuary.

The Bottom Line
Cost of a bathroom update: $1,000

Cost of a full tear-down: $10,000 to $40,000, depending on room size, plumbing, electrical, tub, shower, and other amenities chosen.

Spend money on: Plumbing, including valves, faucets, and fixtures with moving parts that are tucked away in hard-to-reach places. Choose a high-quality toilet. If replacing the floor, consider the luxury of a heated floor. Prices start at $700 and go up, depending on system chosen and room size.

Skimp on: Sinks, light bars, medicine cabinets, and mirrors. These are all relatively inexpensive items that can be replaced later. Off-brand names generally have the same quality. Heated towel bars are also an inexpensive treat. Plug-in models start at $70. A fresh coat of paint and new accessories — towels, throw rugs, switch plates, shower bars are all quick DIY projects that make the bathroom sparkle.