Homeowners often ask us whether a bathroom remodel is "worth it." The short answer is almost always yes — but the details matter. The scope of your remodel, the quality of materials you choose, and how well the design serves both your daily life and future resale all influence the return on your investment.

The Numbers: What Studies Show

According to the National Association of Realtors' Remodeling Impact Report, a complete bathroom renovation recovers roughly 71% of its cost at resale, while a bathroom refresh (updating fixtures, paint, and accessories without a full gut) can recover even more. Beyond financial return, homeowners consistently rate bathroom remodels among their most satisfying home improvements, with a "Joy Score" of 9.6 out of 10.

Where to Spend: High-Impact Upgrades

Not every dollar in a bathroom remodel delivers equal value. Focus your budget on these high-impact areas:

Tile and shower surround. A modern, well-tiled shower is the centerpiece of any bathroom. Large-format tiles with minimal grout lines create a clean, contemporary look that appeals to a wide range of buyers. A frameless glass enclosure makes the bathroom feel larger and more luxurious.

Vanity and countertop. Replacing a dated vanity with a furniture-style piece topped with quartz or natural stone instantly elevates the room. Floating vanities are popular for their modern look and the way they make the floor space feel more open.

Lighting and mirrors. A well-lit bathroom feels larger and more inviting. LED sconces flanking the mirror, recessed lighting in the shower, and a statement mirror transform the space without a major investment.

Fixtures. Matte black, brushed gold, and polished nickel finishes give bathrooms a designer touch. Upgrading faucets, showerheads, and towel bars is one of the most cost-effective ways to refresh the room's style.

Where to Save

You don't need to upgrade everything to see results. If your tub is in good condition, consider refinishing rather than replacing it. Standard toilets from quality manufacturers function just as well as premium models. And luxury heated floors, while wonderful, are a personal comfort choice rather than a resale requirement.

Primary Bath vs. Guest Bath

If you can only remodel one bathroom, prioritize the primary. It has the biggest impact on your daily experience and carries the most weight with buyers. A stylish guest bath is a bonus, but the primary is where the return lives.

At Olive + Baxter, we're a full-service design + build firm, which means your bathroom remodel is handled by one team from concept to completion. Our interior designers create the vision while our licensed general contracting team brings it to life — no miscommunication between separate companies, no finger-pointing, and no surprises. We design bathroom remodels that balance your enjoyment today with smart investment thinking for tomorrow. Schedule a bathroom remodel consultation with our team.