Bathroom Designers

So you're ready to remodel your bathroom or add a new bathroom, but where do you begin? You may have some ideas about features you'd like to add or change, or a possible color scheme, but beyond that you're a bit lost. Don't worry, this is normal.

Now is the time to call an interior designer - or even better, a specialized bathroom designer. A bathroom designer has experience laying out spaces for maximum efficiency and beauty, and knows the various options available for fixtures and faucets. A designer is familiar with the latest trends and the newest materials and finishes. Bathroom designers work closely with vendors and suppliers, so they know the best solutions for various situations, and can often get better prices. They may also have access to materials and products that aren't available to the general public, which can give your bathroom a unique, custom look.

Bathroom designers can oversee the entire project

A bathroom designer can be contracted to design your bathroom, or can oversee your entire project, including design, construction (including plumbing and electrical) and decorating. Designers often have a roster of contractors they work with, and can recommend reliable people. Sure, some bathroom contractors have a knack for design and can provide some good remodeling ideas, and if you've found one, that's great, but design isn't generally their specialty.

You may choose to hire a designer who's certified by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA). The NKBA is a not-for-profit trade association that has educated professionals in the kitchen and bath industry for over 40 years, and promotes professionalism and ethical business practices among its 25,000+ members. The NKBA grants Certified Bathroom Designer (CBD) and Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD) certifications based on written examinations and extensive industry experience.

A few hiring considerations

When choosing a designer for your bathroom, there are a few things to consider. Have a look at their portfolio. Do you like what you see? Designers often adopt a personal style - is that the style you're looking for? Look for a designer whose work really appeals to you. Check references to see if the designer is punctual and meets deadlines, and if they're easy to work with. View testimonials on this site from homeowners who have used their services. Are they certified by a recognized trade association or have they demonstrated sufficient skill and experience? Is the size of your budget and your job suitable for the designer's schedule and experience? Do they return your phone calls in a timely fashion? Will they guarantee your satisfaction with their work?

Do you “click”?

These are all important considerations, but perhaps the most important aspect to consider when choosing a bathroom designer is how you “connect” with them. You want to work with someone who really understands your ideas and who's willing to work with you. Someone you can trust, who's genuinely excited about your project, and who respects your opinions. Any designer can remodel a bathroom, but this is your home and your money, and you want the process to run smoothly, and the end result to be a bathroom you love.

Make a wish list

When you first meet with a designer, bring pictures or magazine clippings of bathrooms and fixtures that appeal to you. Also, discuss what you might like to change in your bathroom. Maybe you would like more storage space, a larger bathtub or two sinks. You may want to change the lighting or the height of the shower head. You may have a certain color scheme in mind. Make a wish list and discuss it with the designer. This will give the designer a better idea of what you're looking for, and gives you a chance to see how your ideas and personalities mesh. Your designer should have several ways to implement or improve upon your ideas. Their knowledge and creativity are what will set your bathroom apart.

And the cost…

If you hire the designer to coordinate the entire project as well as supply the artistic template, you can expect to pay them around 10 percent of the total cost for the project. With this arrangement, the designer will order all materials and hire and manage the subcontractors. This approach is often a good value, and you won't have the hassles of finding someone else to manage the project, or of ordering and overseeing everything yourself.

If you only want to buy the designer's ideas and plans for your bathroom, you will most often pay an hourly rate, what's called a pure design fee. The rate will depend on the designer's experience, education, certifications and general reputation, and can range from $65 to $200 or more per hour. Make sure the scope of the project, the designer's fee, and the budget for the project is spelled out in the contract before any work begins.