Introduction

Your bathroom is a sanctuary where comfort and style converge, and a remodel can transform it into a space you love every day. At McDermott Remodeling Contractors, we specialize in crafting St. Louis bathrooms, from serene primary retreats to practical basement powder rooms. In 2025, thoughtful planning and inspired design are key to a successful remodel. This guide walks you through the process, from assessing your needs to selecting materials, ensuring your bathroom reflects your vision with McDermott’s trusted craftsmanship.

Step 1: Assess Your Layout

The first step in any bathroom remodel is evaluating whether your current layout works for you. Ask yourself:

• Is there an unused tub collecting laundry or dust, taking up space that could be better utilized?
• Does the layout meet your needs, or would rearranging fixtures improve flow and functionality?

For example, a tub with a window above it may raise privacy concerns, especially if converted to a shower. This could require exterior adjustments, such as altering brick or siding, which impacts planning. For basement bathrooms, we’ll assess plumbing proximity to ensure the layout is feasible. Understanding what works and what doesn’t sets the foundation for your remodel.

Step 2: Choose the Right Approach

Not every remodel requires a major overhaul, and your approach depends on the project’s complexity and your preferences:

• DIY or Small Contractor: If you’re handy, have time to manage permits, and aren’t moving fixtures, a simple refresh (e.g., new flooring or fixtures) might suit you. You can purchase products yourself and oversee the project.
• McDermott’s Design-Build Expertise: For complex projects—relocating plumbing, selecting materials, or ensuring code compliance—a full-service design-build firm like McDermott is ideal. We handle everything, from design to completion, saving you time and stress while ensuring quality and durability.

Our returning clients trust us to deliver seamless remodels, and we’re here to make your project just as smooth.

Step 3: Plan Your New Layout

Once you’ve decided whether to keep or change the layout, focus on the new design. If moving fixtures, consider elements like:

• Windows: A window above a tub may need to be altered for privacy in a new shower setup, requiring exterior work (e.g., brick or siding adjustments).
• Space Optimization: Ensure the layout maximizes practicality, removing unused features like tubs to create a more functional space.

For basement bathrooms, we’ll confirm plumbing access to support the new layout, whether it’s a full bath or a powder room. A well-planned layout sets the stage for material and fixture choices.

Step 4: Select Materials and Fixtures

Choosing the right products brings your bathroom to life, balancing beauty, cleanability, and durability. Here’s what to consider in 2025:

• Flooring and Shower Materials:
  • Onyx or cultured marble products offer durability and easy maintenance, ideal for showers.
  • A popular choice is an Onyx base with tiled walls, combining a cleanable surface with the aesthetic appeal of tile. More tile increases investment, so prioritize areas like shower walls over floors if budget is a concern.
• Countertops:
  • Onyx countertops are cost-effective but less resistant to heat from curling irons or hair tools.
  • Since countertops are easier to replace later than showers, consider investing more in permanent features like showers or tubs first.
• Plumbing Fixtures:
  • Assess your home’s water pressure to choose compatible fixtures.
  • Handheld showerheads are ideal for mobility needs or rinsing long hair, offering higher water pressure due to their smaller size. They pair well with rain showers, which provide a luxurious main shower experience.
  • Ensure fixtures align with your needs, such as accessibility or hair washing.
• Lighting:
  • Natural light from windows or skylights enhances the space, but additional lighting is often needed.
  • Can lights or recessed LEDs brighten the bathroom, creating an inviting atmosphere.
• Accents:
  • Add personality with elements like wallpaper, a stone accent wall, or unique cabinet pulls.
  • In smaller spaces like powder rooms, bold accents (e.g., fun wallpaper, distinctive light fixtures) make a big impact with less investment.
• Cleanability and Durability: Bathrooms see heavy use, so prioritize materials that are easy to clean and withstand wear, especially for primary baths where you spend more time.

Special Considerations for Basement Bathrooms

Basement bathrooms often serve different needs than primary baths, influencing design choices:

• Lower-Level Finishes: Many opt for cost-effective materials like Onyx or cultured marble, reserving higher-end finishes (e.g., extensive tile) for primary bathrooms where more time is spent.
• Powder Room vs. Full Bath: Decide if a powder room suffices or if a full bath with a shower is needed. Powder rooms allow for fun, low-investment accents like bold wallpaper, unique light fixtures, or a stone or tile accent wall, as the smaller space helps keep costs down.
• Plumbing: We’ll assess plumbing proximity to ensure the layout is practical, minimizing installation challenges.

The McDermott Design-Build Process

Our design-build approach ensures a seamless bathroom remodel:

• Listen & Dream: We explore your goals—layout changes, style preferences, and priorities.
• Assess the Space: An in-home visit evaluates the layout, plumbing, and any structural needs (e.g., window adjustments) to create a feasible plan.
• Design & Plan: Our designers craft a custom plan with a preliminary estimate, detailing materials, fixtures, lighting, and layout.
• Build with Care: We manage material delivery, dust control, and permits, working with your municipality to ensure code compliance.

From primary baths to basement powder rooms, we deliver craftsmanship you can trust.

Pro Tips for Your 2025 Bathroom Remodel

• Prioritize Big Elements: Invest in showers or tubs first, as they’re harder to replace than countertops, which can be upgraded later.
• Check Water Pressure: Ensure fixtures match your home’s water flow for optimal performance, especially for handhelds or rain showers.
• Think Cleanability: Choose durable, easy-to-maintain surfaces, particularly in high-use primary baths.
• Go Bold in Powder Rooms: Use fun accents like wallpaper or unique fixtures in smaller spaces for high impact at a lower cost.

Ready to Transform Your Bathroom?

A 2025 bathroom remodel with McDermott Remodeling Contractors can create a St. Louis home you love, blending style, function, and practicality. Contact us at (314) 948-5568 or visit our website to schedule a consultation and start planning your dream bathroom today.