Thinking About a Bathroom Remodel? Here's What to Know Before You Start
We published this comprehensive cost breakdown to provide valuable insights into the investment required for a bathroom renovation.
Why Are THEY SO Costly?
Bathrooms have a higher cost per square foot to renovate because they have many high-end finishes, such as cabinetry, countertops, tile, and plumbing fixtures, concentrated in a smaller space.
VIDEO: Why are bathroom remodels expensive, and your other burning questions answered
HOW WE CAN HELP
A bathroom remodel involves dozens of decisions, from tile patterns and fixture finishes to plumbing layouts and permit requirements. Without experienced guidance, it's easy to feel overwhelmed or end up with costly surprises. That's where AVCO Design steps in.
We manage the entire process from start to finish so you don't have to. During the design phase, we learn what matters most to you and develop a concept that reflects your style, your priorities, and your budget. We handle materials selection, sourcing, and advance ordering to keep your project on schedule and avoid supply chain delays. When it's time to build, we coordinate with trusted contractors we've worked with before, review every bid, and oversee construction quality so nothing falls through the cracks.
We also know where to invest and where to save. If you've fallen in love with a premium tile, we can find smart ways to feature it where it has the most impact while using cost-effective alternatives elsewhere. Every recommendation we make is tailored to get you the most value for your investment.
Our goal is simple: to give you a beautiful, functional bathroom without the stress of managing it yourself.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU
Renovating a bathroom is a significant investment, and understanding the real costs upfront helps you plan with confidence rather than anxiety. The detailed breakdown below reflects what a professionally-managed primary bathroom remodel costs in today's market.
Working with a designer doesn't just elevate the final result. It protects your budget. Because we create thorough construction documents, vet contractors carefully, and order materials well in advance, our projects experience minimal change orders and fewer delays. That translates into fewer unexpected expenses and a smoother experience from the first conversation to the final walkthrough.
Whether you're envisioning a spa-like retreat or a beautifully updated space that works better for your daily routine, you deserve to enjoy the process, not just the result. We're here to make that happen.
Cost Breakdown of a Custom Bathroom Remodel
The total cost for AVCO Design’s recently completed primary bathroom remodel in Santa Rosa amounted to $56,452*, with the following key expenditures:
Design: $6,000 – Concept development, materials selection, and detailed construction drawings.
Project Management: $5,040 – Oversight of contractor selection, cost reviews, and construction quality assurance.
Furnishings and Fixtures: $17,344 – Custom cabinetry, quartz countertops, premium tiles, and high-end fixtures.
Demolition: $1,838 – Safe removal of outdated materials and fixtures.
Framing: $693 – Structural enhancements for new layouts and accessories.
Plumbing Installation: $3,596 – Essential rough-in materials and system updates.
Electrical Installation: $4,148 – Lighting, outlets, and switches wiring.
Mechanical Installation: $827 – Exhaust fan, ducting, and ventilation work.
Drywall Installation: $2,310 – Wall and ceiling refinishing.
Painting: $1,582 – High-quality surface finishing.
Cabinetry Installation: $550 – Professional fitting of custom vanity & storage units.
Tile Installation: $8,343 – Waterproofing and precision tiling for floors and shower surrounds.
Accessories Installation: $547 – Placement of mirrors, towel bars, and finishing details.
Final Clean-Up: $893 – Ensuring a pristine, move-in-ready space.
Portable Toilet Rental: $446 – Facilitating smooth on-site contractor operations.
Change Order: $1,850 – Unforeseen electrical upgrades to existing conditions to meet code requirements.
Permits: $445 – Estimated permit fees for the plumbing, electrical, and mechanical, including new plumbing fixtures, electrical switches and receptacles, and exhaust fan.
Ready to get started? Schedule an introductory call, and let's talk about making your renovation effortless.
*All costs were from 2025 and have been updated to 2026 pricing.
**https://kb.nkba.org/2012/10/real-world-budgeting-bathroom-remodeling/
