Home Design & Remodeling Tips | Thompson Communities Blog

How Much Does It Cost to Remodel a Bathroom in the Tri-State Area?

Written by Thompson Communities | Jul. 02, 2025

A bathroom remodel is a chance to update the style, solve daily frustrations, and create a space that truly works for you.

If you’re planning a bathroom remodel or updating a guest bath in Delaware, Chester, New Castle, or Cape May County, having the right plan (and the right team) makes all the difference.

Today, we're telling you all about bathroom remodeling costs, the latest design ideas, and how to set a budget for your bathroom transformation!

How Much Does It Cost to Renovate a Bathroom in the Tri-State Area?

Bathroom remodels in our area typically start at around $60,000, and what that includes is important: design, permit pulling, labor, and construction materials—no surprise line items later.

Of course, your final cost depends on the size of the space, what you're changing, and the finishes you pick. But no matter how simple or complex your project is, it’s all built around what works for your home and how you want the space to feel.

 

The Mid-Range Bathroom Remodel (Cost: $60,000–$75,000)

If your current bathroom just isn’t cutting it anymore, but you don’t need to go full luxury, this level hits the sweet spot. You’ll get better function, better style, and a layout that works more like it should.

It’s ideal for bathrooms that need a solid upgrade, not a full gut job.

Here’s what’s possible with a mid-range bathroom remodel:

  • Some layout changes to improve flow

  • New semi-custom cabinetry

  • Kohler plumbing and upgraded lighting fixtures

  • Luxury vinyl plank or hardwood flooring

  • Tile on the walls

  • Frameless shower doors

 

The Luxury Bathroom Remodel (Cost: $75,000 and up)

This is where things really open up.

If you’re ready to reimagine your bathroom and make it feel like a true retreat, a luxury remodel gives you the flexibility to do just that, with a custom layout, elevated finishes, and spa-level comfort. 

Here’s what's possible with a luxury bathroom remodel:

  • Custom cabinetry tailored to your space

  • Kohler plumbing and upgraded lighting fixtures

  • A full layout change to improve flow and function

  • Freestanding soaking tub

  • Full tile shower walls with custom patterns

  • Luxury vinyl plank, hardwood flooring, or tile

  • Quartz or granite countertops and backsplash

 

2025 Bathroom Remodel Design Ideas

Remodeling your bathroom is a chance to let your personal taste shine through! We've gathered a few of the most popular style trends designers and homeowners are absolutely in love with in 2025.

 

Full Bathroom Remodeling Trends

With the right materials and layout choices, this space can be just as polished and intentional as the rest of your home.

Here are a few of the most popular bathroom remodeling ideas we’re seeing homeowners choose for guest baths, kids’ bathrooms, and hall baths in the Tri-State area:

 

Floating Vanities with Quartz Countertops

Clean lines and open space underneath instantly elevate the look of any bathroom. Floating vanities feel light and modern, and when paired with quartz countertops, they’re also durable and easy to keep spotless.

Add slim-profile hardware and a custom wood or painted finish for a tailored look that suits your style.

 

Double Vanities to End the Morning Shuffle

If your full bathroom is used by more than one person, a double vanity is a game-changer—especially during busy school mornings or weekend routines.

Choose a vanity with built-in storage and enough counter space to keep everyone’s essentials organized (and off the floor).

It’s a smart upgrade that makes daily life easier while adding real value to your home.

 

Full-Height Wall Tile in Soft Neutrals or Subtle Texture

Instead of stopping tile at the halfway point, full-height walls in a soft, textural finish bring a high-end, cohesive look to the space.

You’ll get extra durability and an elevated style that works beautifully with both light and moody palettes. Go with oversized matte porcelain or vertically stacked handmade-look tiles for a clean, timeless effect.

 

Under-Vanity Lighting That Doubles as a Night Light

This small detail adds a surprising amount of function. Soft LED strips beneath the vanity offer a modern glow that helps guide nighttime trips to the bathroom, especially helpful in guest baths or kids’ spaces.

Plus, it looks sleek and ambient without needing to turn on bright overhead lights.

 

 

Paint Colors with Personality

If you’re looking to add a little character without overwhelming the space, midtone or deep blue and green shades are a solid go-to.

These colors pair effortlessly with classic materials like white subway tile, white oak, or warm quartz, and give the bathroom a grounded, timeless feel. Bonus: they work just as well with brushed nickel or matte black finishes.

 

Statement Walls with Wallpaper or Bold Tile

Yes, wallpaper is back—and bathrooms are the perfect place to use it. A fun pattern behind the vanity or in a powder room adds charm and personality.

Not into wallpaper? Try a statement tile in a rich tone like teal, sea green, or deep emerald to give the space dimension without overwhelming it.

 

Brushed Nickel or Matte Black Fixtures

Classic. Streamlined. Reliable.

Both finishes offer a fresh, elevated alternative to polished chrome and complement everything from warm-toned tile to modern whites and grays. Choose fixtures with minimal, sculptural shapes for a high-end look that never tries too hard.

 

Skip the "Big Box" Mirror

Instead of a plain frameless rectangle, look for mirrors that double as a design feature. Arched silhouettes, metal frames, or even wood accents can warm up the space and give your vanity wall some extra personality.

This simple upgrade changes the entire vibe of the room in the best way.

Trending Features for a Luxury Primary Bathroom

Your primary bathroom remodel should give you a space that feels authentic and personal.

It’s where your day starts and ends, so why not design it with intention, comfort, and a little wow factor? These ideas are all about creating a clean, high-end look while building in the kind of ease and luxury you’ll appreciate every day.

 

Curbless Showers with Full Slab Walls

No step, no visual clutter—just one seamless walk-in space with walls wrapped in quartz or natural stone.

Curbless showers are practical and gorgeous, especially with a linear drain and floor-to-ceiling glass. And using slab material instead of tile means fewer grout lines, easier cleaning, and a modern, spa-like feel that reads very high-end.

 

Freestanding Tub with a Floor-Mounted Filler

This is where function meets warmth. Today’s freestanding tubs take on a softer, vintage-inspired vibe with rounded edges and a welcoming silhouette.

Pair yours with a floor-mounted tub filler in brushed gold or polished nickel and place it near a window or within an alcove to make the most of the space.

 

A Statement Wall Behind the Tub

If your tub is the visual anchor of the room, lean into it.

Add a bold tile wall in rich emerald, charcoal, or deep blue, or go softer with vertical white oak slats. Finish it off with wall-mounted sconces and a sculptural pendant light overhead to create a true focal point. It’s dramatic in the best way.

Custom Closet Access Through the Bathroom

For primary suites, there’s no more convenient or cohesive layout than one that flows from bathroom to closet.

With a door that connects directly to a built-in wardrobe or custom dressing area, you get comfort, privacy, and a smarter morning routine—no extra steps (literally) required.

 

Custom Double Vanities in Natural Wood

For a serene, modern look with warmth and character, natural wood is a favorite.

A custom double vanity gives you ample storage, integrated outlets, and thoughtful details that reflect how you actually use the space. Add quartz or stone countertops and under-cabinet lighting to round out the look.

 

Hidden Water Closet with a Sliding Pocket Door

Privacy, but make it pretty. Tucked behind a minimalist pocket door or full-height paneled wall, the water closet becomes part of the design instead of just something to work around.

It also helps open up the rest of the space for a more expansive, uninterrupted layout.

 

A Personal Sauna for Wellness at Home

One of the fastest-growing luxury bathroom design trends? Wellness-focused spaces—especially saunas.

Add a small, built-in personal sauna off the main bath or tucked next to the shower. It’s not just a statement feature—it’s a daily upgrade for your health, routine, and sense of calm.

How Much Should I Budget for a Bathroom Renovation?

Planning your remodel starts with knowing what you really need—and what you’d love to have. Here’s how to approach your budget with confidence and clarity.

 

Start With Your Must-Haves and Nice-to-Haves

Before looking at materials or inspiration photos, take a look at your current bathroom and ask:

  • What’s not working?

  • What drives you crazy on a daily basis?

  • What would actually make life easier?

Then, split your list into two columns:

  • Must-haves: layout fixes, plumbing upgrades, more storage, better lighting, etc.

  • Nice-to-haves: soaking tub, heated floors, wallpaper feature wall, high-end hardware

This will help your team prioritize what needs to be addressed—and where you can flex a little if needed.

 

Use This Budgeting Rule of Thumb

A good baseline for your bathroom remodel budget is 10% to 15% of your home’s current value, with 12% being the national average.

  • Overspending above that 15% range might give you features you love, but a lower return on investment.

  • Spending too little might mean you’re skimping on the things that matter most, like layout fixes or replacing outdated systems, which also may not yield a great return on your investment.

Finding that middle ground gives you the best chance of creating a bathroom you love now and still love years from now.

 

Work With a Team That Can Balance Style and Budget

Once you’ve landed on a budget that feels right, your team will help you stick to it. That might mean mixing mid-range and luxury finishes or using high-impact design details in the places that matter most.

You don’t have to sacrifice quality—you just need a team that can help you balance the budget.

When Remodeling a Bathroom, Where Do You Start?

Jumping straight into materials and finishes might sound fun—but it’s better to take a step back first.

Getting clear on your needs, inspiration, and budget will make your bathroom remodel smoother and more successful from the start.

Here’s how to start strong:

 

Make Two Lists

  • What’s not working in your current bathroom?
    (Not enough storage? Awkward layout? Always feels cold?)

  • What would you love to see instead?
    (Double vanity? Soaking tub? Heated floors?)

Even if you don’t know what the design will be yet, knowing how you want the space to feel—spa-like, bright, cozy, sleek—gives your team a clear direction.

 

Gather Inspiration

  • Start saving images that speak to your style on Pinterest, Houzz, or Instagram

  • Focus on vanities, tile, mirrors, lighting, and layout ideas

  • Narrow down your favorites before sharing with your remodeling team

This helps your team understand your taste—and helps you avoid getting overwhelmed with choices later.

 

Set a Realistic Budget

  • Your vision matters, but so does your bottom line

  • Know what you can comfortably spend, then prioritize from there

  • A good remodeler will help you blend mid-range and luxury finishes to match your goals

Knowing your budget early means your team can guide you in all the right ways—from material selection to layout planning—without the stress of backtracking later.

Let's Team Up to Reimagine Your Bathroom!

A well-designed bathroom can add comfort, style, and long-term value to your home, but only when it’s done with care.

At Thompson Communities, we’ve helped homeowners throughout Chester, Delaware, Cape May, and New Castle County reimagine their spaces with thoughtful design and expert craftsmanship.

We work hand-in-hand with architects and designers to make sure every finish and fixture fits your style and your budget. With over 50 years of experience, we know how to balance the details and the big picture so nothing gets missed.

If you're ready to stop putting off that remodel and finally create a bathroom that feels like it was made for you—let’s talk.