Whether your bathroom is outdated, lacking in functionality, or simply in need of a style refresh, a remodel can transform this essential space into a personal oasis. One of the first and most common questions we hear from homeowners is, "How much does a bathroom remodel cost?" The truth is, the price can vary significantly depending on factors like the size of your bathroom, the materials you choose, and the level of customization.
At Inspired Design, we specialize in guiding homeowners through this process, ensuring that every detail aligns with their vision and budget. This guide will break down the key factors that influence bathroom remodel costs, helping you better understand what to expect when planning your project.
What Influences the Cost of a Bathroom Remodel?
1. Remodel vs. Renovation
Before we go further, it’s important to clarify the difference between a "remodel" and a "renovation."
A renovation typically involves refreshing the materials and fixtures within an existing layout, such as replacing tiles, updating the vanity, or upgrading lighting.
A remodel often involves more significant changes, such as reconfiguring the layout, changing plumbing locations, or adding custom features.
Naturally, a full bathroom remodel costs more than a simple renovation. If you’re unsure which option best suits your needs, our team can help you make an informed decision. For the sake of this article, we'll be focusing on remodels.
2. The Size of Your Bathroom
The size of your bathroom plays a major role in the overall cost. Here's a general breakdown to consider:
Small Bathrooms (less than 50 sq. ft.): These tend to cost less to remodel due to fewer materials and labor required. However, small spaces often require creative solutions to maximize functionality, which may raise the cost slightly.
Medium-Sized Bathrooms (50–100 sq. ft.): A standard bathroom remodel in this range typically includes updated features like new vanities, tile work, and fixtures.
Large Bathrooms (100 sq. ft. or more): Larger spaces allow for more luxurious upgrades, such as custom double vanities, walk-in zero entry showers, soaking tubs, and high-end finishes, significantly adding to the price.
At Inspired Design, we often work on medium to large bathrooms, as these spaces provide the best opportunities for customization and creating a spa-like experience.
3. Materials and Finishes
The materials and finishes you choose have a significant impact on your budget. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Tile Options: While ceramic tiles are budget-friendly, high-end materials like natural stone will elevate the look—but at a higher cost.
Fixtures and Hardware: Standard fixtures are often affordable, but premium options like rain showers, freestanding tubs, and high-end fixtures can increase the overall price.
Countertops and Vanities: There are many budget friendly options for vanities now that include a quartz top and integrated sink, but custom-built vanities allow you to personalize each element independently and make it as luxurious as you wish.
Your choice of materials doesn’t just affect the cost—it also impacts the overall aesthetic and longevity of the remodel. Selecting durable, high-quality finishes will ensure your investment stands the test of time.
4. Custom Designs and Features
To make your bathroom remodel truly unique, custom-designed elements are a great investment. Examples include:
Cabinetry: Floating vanities, custom cabinetry, makeup vanities with hidden storage
Showers: Walk-in showers with frameless glass enclosures, even steam showers with multiple faucets and spray options
Tubs: Soaker tubs with water jets or air spas with air jets that envelop you in tiny relaxing bubbles
Lighting: Chandeliers, wall sconces for vanities, and back-lit mirrors are among the most commonly requested bathroom lighting fixtures.
Storage solutions: Built-in storage niches for easy access and concealment of clutter
Luxury touches: Radiant heat floors and warming towel racks for added comfort
While custom features may raise the overall cost, they enhance both the functionality and value of the space, making them worthwhile additions.
5. Professional Labor and Expertise
Hiring the right professionals can make all the difference in the success of your bathroom remodel. Costs will vary depending on the scope of work and the contractors involved, such as plumbers, electricians, or tiling specialists. At Inspired Design, we partner with highly skilled craftspeople to ensure every detail of your remodel is executed to perfection.
Unfortunately, many homeowners have experienced subpar workmanship from contractors who cut corners. One of the most common problems is substandard tile installation, which raises serious concerns about whether proper waterproofing was done beneath the surface. Water damage can be a nightmare, often requiring a complete redo of the tile work. That's why it’s so important to choose a design-build team that prioritizes quality and craftsmanship, even if it means investing more upfront.
6. Unexpected Costs and Contingency
No matter how carefully you plan, unexpected expenses can arise. Perhaps old plumbing needs replacing, or you find out the old tile floor is on a 4" bed on concrete (happens more than you think!) or you decide to upgrade certain finishes mid-project. To prepare for these situations, we recommend allocating 10–20% of your budget as a contingency fund. This ensures that your project can move forward smoothly, without financial stress.
What’s the Average Cost of a Kitchen Remodel?
When you search “average cost of a kitchen remodel 2025” on Google, the AI preview estimates anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000. However, many of these results aren’t based on actual remodels—they often lump renovations and remodels together because the terms are frequently used interchangeably. (See why that is point #1 on our list?)
It’s also important to note that these figures aren’t tailored to specific locations. For example, remodeling costs in New York City will differ greatly from those in a small Midwestern town.
Some of these figures likely include data from countless DIY enthusiasts. While there’s nothing wrong with rolling up your sleeves and investing some sweat equity, it’s important to note that DIY costs don’t align with the expenses of hiring a professional.
To provide a clearer picture, and understanding that every project is unique, here's a general breakdown of average kitchen remodel costs specific to the Kansas City area.
Budget-Friendly Renovations start around $5,000–$30,000, focusing on updates like replacing flooring, fixtures, and basic finishes.
Mid-Range Remodels cost between $30,000–$60,000, often incorporating semi-custom elements like new vanities, tiled showers, and enhanced materials.
High-End Remodels start at $60,000+ with most of our clients settling within the range of $80,000-$125,000, featuring bespoke design elements, premium finishes, expansive layout changes, and luxury plumbing features like digital thermostatic showers with multi-functions and luxurious soaking tubs. This tier provides premium customization and enduring value that our clients benefit from on a daily basis.
Why Invest in a Bathroom Remodel?
A bathroom remodel is more than just an aesthetic upgrade—it’s an investment in your home’s value and your daily comfort. Here are some key benefits:
Increased Space: A well-designed remodel can make a small bathroom feel larger and more functional.
Customization: With a bathroom remodel, you have the opportunity to customize every element of your space according to your personal style and needs.
Personal Sanctuary: Create a peaceful retreat where you can relax at the end of a long day.
Planning Your Dream Bathroom Remodel
At Inspired Design, we take a design-first approach to remodeling. Here’s how we simplify the process for our clients:
Discover: We listen to your goals and pain points to craft a personalized vision for your space.
Develop: With that vision in mind, we finalize the design and collaborate with our network of skilled tradespeople to bring it to life.
Delight: Sit back, relax, and enjoy your beautifully transformed bathroom.
If you’re in the Kansas City area and want to know what your bathroom remodel might cost, we’d love to help. Start by booking a free Design Discovery phone call with us—we’re here to guide you every step of the way!
Stay well and be inspired,
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