6 Smart Tips for a Successful Bathroom Renovation (From Experienced Wellington Builders)

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Thinking about renovating your bathroom? Whether you’re upgrading for comfort, style, or resale value, a well-executed bathroom renovation is one of the most rewarding types of Wellington home renovations you can undertake.

At Orkney Group, we’ve been helping homeowners across the region with high-quality Wellington renovations for over 20 years. As trusted Wellington builders, we know that a successful bathroom renovation isn’t just about picking pretty tiles—it’s about smart planning, skilled workmanship, and knowing what to expect behind the walls.

Here are 6 practical tips to help your next bathroom project run smoothly, based on our hands-on experience across Wellington.

1. Plan with Purpose

Every great renovation starts with a plan. Think about how you use the space daily: Do you need more storage? Better lighting? A shower and a bath? Your layout should reflect your lifestyle and your budget. In a bathroom renovation in Karori, our clients wanted a larger bathroom, so we pushed out the wall into the laundry room next door to allow for this. 

💡 Wellington homes often come with space constraints, so thoughtful planning is key to making the most of every square metre.

2. Expect the Unexpected Behind the Walls

When it comes to home renovations, especially in older homes, you never quite know what’s hiding until you open things up.

In an Orkney Group bathroom renovation in Brooklyn, we discovered rotten timber studs and gib. We replaced all this, including insulation and lining, to give the bathroom a much-needed refresh and structural improvement.

In another project in Island Bay, we removed the old shower lining and were surprised to find... a door!

At some point, a previous owner must have decided a shower was more important than a second doorway to the next room. It was a quirky find, but also a reminder that inspections and demo work are a vital part of any quality renovation. 

We’ve also encountered serious mould issues behind shower linings, especially in damp, unventilated bathrooms. These hidden problems are exactly why expert builders like Orkney Construction conduct thorough site assessments before the work begins.

3. Use the Right Materials for the Job

Choosing the right materials is essential for long-term durability. In the Karori project mentioned above, we retiled the floor and repainted the walls using water-resistant, easy-to-clean finishes, adding both style and function. Our team at Orkney Group always recommends high-quality, moisture-resistant materials that are designed to handle steam, splashes, and daily wear.

4. Work with Experienced Wellington Builders

Bathroom renovations aren’t DIY territory. Waterproofing, plumbing, and electrical work all require qualified, licensed professionals.

At Orkney Construction, we manage the entire project, so you don’t need to coordinate multiple trades or worry about compliance. With decades of experience delivering Wellington renovations, we ensure every detail is taken care of from start to finish.

5. Prioritise Ventilation and Waterproofing

One of the most common issues we see in Wellington home renovations is inadequate ventilation, especially in bathrooms. Poor airflow leads to mould, mildew, and costly water damage.

Every bathroom we renovate includes a properly vented extractor fan and high-quality waterproofing, especially in showers, floors, and walls, if necessary. These are critical investments that protect your home and keep it healthy.

6. Budget Smart (and Leave Room for Surprises)

Every renovation project comes with variables, so we recommend setting a clear budget and including a 15-20% buffer for unexpected issues. Whether it’s hidden water damage or outdated infrastructure, being prepared makes the process much less stressful.

The team at Orkney Group will provide a detailed quote and walk you through options to suit your budget and goals, whether you're after a simple refresh or a full luxury makeover.

Ready For a Successful Bathroom Renovation?

At Orkney Group, we specialise in Wellington home renovations that are built to last. From planning and design to building and finishing touches, our team of experienced Wellington builders takes care of it all.

We’ve proudly delivered high-quality Wellington renovations for families across the region for 20 years, earning a reputation for honesty, reliability, and exceptional workmanship.

Based in Wellington? Let’s chat about your bathroom renovation today.

0800 368 470 | info@orkney.co.nz