Did you know many bathrooms in Toronto homes are 20+ years old and still using outdated designs like green tiles or bulky built-ins? I’m Robbie Fraikin from Raakss Reno, and in this article, I want to walk you through some of my favorite bathroom renovation ideas that prioritize proper prep work, thoughtful design, and practical upgrades. Whether your bathroom is falling apart due to humidity or you just want to modernize your space, there’s a lot you can do to make it brighter, more functional, and longer-lasting.
Let’s dive into the structure, style, and function behind successful bathroom renovations in Toronto & GTA—based on the real-world work we do with homeowners every day.
What Makes a Bathroom Renovation Successful?
Before you think about fixtures or tiles, the foundation matters. A bathroom renovation isn’t just about what you see—it’s about what you don’t. The prep work before tiling is what separates a lasting renovation from one that falls apart in five years.
We’re talking floor structure, subfloor thickness, proper support, and waterproofing. Are the tiles properly set? Has everything been sealed with care? Is silicone applied where it should be? These are the details that make or break a renovation. It’s not just about making a bathroom “look good”—it’s about making it work well and last long.
How to Plan the Layout: Big Vision in Small Spaces
One of the most common challenges I see in bathroom renovations in Toronto is how to maximize space without overcrowding it. The rule is simple: your bathroom shouldn’t become a storage room for the entire house. I’ve taken down built-in closets in many homes just to give the bathroom a better footprint. That alone often opens up the room for a better layout.
For small bathrooms, I recommend:
Wall-mounted vanities to create the illusion of more floor space
Built-in medicine cabinets recessed into the wall
Matching side units that blend with the vanity for towel or essentials storage
Avoiding tile on every wall, especially if it’s a small room. Over-tiling makes the space look cluttered and dated.
Thanks to modern finishes, you no longer need half-tiled walls to protect your paint. Many of today’s paints and surface materials are highly resistant to water, toothpaste splashes, and everything in between.
Adding a Touch of Luxury (Without Going Overboard)
If your space and budget allow, a few upgrades can really elevate your bathroom. Here’s what I often suggest to homeowners:
Curbless showers – They’re sleek, safer, easier to clean, and open up visual space.
Heated floors – These aren’t just for comfort; they help keep your bathroom dry and reduce humidity.
Upgraded vanities – If you’ve got room for a double vanity, it’s a great convenience upgrade, especially in shared bathrooms.
Frameless glass shower panels – These offer a cleaner look with less hardware and help maintain a minimalist aesthetic.
Every bathroom is different. In powder rooms, your focus might be on striking style. In a master ensuite, it could be about function and storage. But no matter the size, bathrooms should feel open, bright, and inviting.
Should You Follow Trends?
I always tell clients this—trends come and go, but your bathroom should reflect your taste. I’ve had clients choose green vertical subway tiles paired with brown vanities and brushed gold fixtures—something that was big in the ’70s but is making a stylish comeback.
There’s no one-size-fits-all. But if you want a timeless space, I suggest:
Keep walls bright and neutral (like soft white or off-white)
Use bold tile designs in the shower or floor to create visual interest
Treat each element (vanity, shower, mirror) like its own piece of furniture that adds to the canvas—not something that disappears into it
If you love charcoal or slate flooring, go for it. Just keep the walls bright so the space doesn’t feel smaller. Use contrast to create structure and identity for different zones within the bathroom.
Don’t Forget the Practical Details
It’s not all about looks—functionality matters too. In any renovation, I look closely at:
Old vanity drains that tend to leak or loosen over time
Sink hardware and seals that degrade with constant exposure to water
Replacements for all joints and fixtures that connect externally (in-wall plumbing is usually solid and not the issue)
This is your chance to address all the weak points in your old bathroom. A full renovation means you get fresh connections, new fixtures, and peace of mind.
Thinking About Accessibility?
Not every renovation needs accessibility features, but they’re worth considering—especially if you’re planning to age in place or accommodate family members.
Handrails in tubs and showers make entry and exit safer
Curbless showers are perfect for anyone with mobility challenges or using a walker or wheelchair
Raised toilets and non-slip tiles can also make daily use much easier without sacrificing style
If you’re not sure, just ask. As a bathroom contractor in Toronto, we’ve done plenty of projects focused on accessibility that still look great and feel modern.
Lighting and Atmosphere
Want your bathroom to feel bigger without changing the floor plan? Light it up—literally.
Use recessed ceiling lights for general lighting
Add LED-lit mirrors or sconces for accent and function
Keep your tiles and walls light and reflective
If you’re into warm tones, 3000K LED lighting is a great choice—it gives off a soft, halogen-style warmth that’s flattering and cozy without looking dated.
You can read more about this in my other article: How to Choose Bathroom Lighting Fixtures, where I break down brightness, dimmers, and waterproof ratings.
Final Tips for Your Renovation
Here’s my best advice, after doing hundreds of bathroom renovations in Toronto & GTA:
Prep work matters – Subfloors, waterproofing, and structure will make or break your reno.
Storage is good—but not too much – Your bathroom should feel open, not like a closet.
Pick what you love – Trends come and go, but your taste will always be right for you.
Keep walls bright – It gives your space a clean slate for standout pieces like your vanity or shower.
Invest in function – Heated floors, curbless showers, and solid hardware are worth every penny.
Don’t forget about lighting – It changes everything.
Let’s Talk About Your Bathroom
Whether you’re planning a full gut job or just want to refresh your space, I’d be happy to help. At Raakss Reno, we guide homeowners through every step of the process—from layout planning and product selection to full-service renovation. And we do it all in-house, which helps keep costs efficient and timelines tight.
Explore more bathroom renovation services in Toronto & GTA, or reach out directly and let’s bring your bathroom ideas to life.