The difference between a $30K bathroom & a $30K mistake

A prospective client asked me a question last week that stopped me in my tracks:

"What value do you bring that I wouldn't get by just working directly with a contractor?"

It's a fair question. And honestly? It's one more homeowners should be asking.

Here's the reality:

When you work directly with a contractor, they'll ask you a million questions.

But here's what they won't ask:

"What kind of functionality do you actually need?"

Most homeowners say: "A toilet, a vanity, and a shower."

But functionality is so much more than that:

• Is the vanity height right for YOU, or just standard 32"?

• Do you need accessible design features now (or in 10 years)?

• Should we plan backing for safety bars before the tile goes up?

• One-handle faucet or separate temperature controls?

A contractor will build what you spec.

A designer asks the questions you don't even know to ask.

That's the difference between a bathroom that works and one that works for you.

You'll spend weeks researching tile, fixtures, and finishes - second-guessing every choice and hoping it all comes together.

Shower controls ledge - Luxurious & sleek

That's how a $30K bathroom becomes a $30K mistake.

When you work with a designer, here's what changes:

✔ No more decision paralysis → I guide you through choices that actually work for your space, budget, and lifestyle

✔ No more shopping overwhelm → I know exactly where to source what you need (and what to avoid)

✔ No more project chaos → I manage timelines, coordinate trades, and handle the inevitable surprises

The result? A bathroom that feels intentional, not improvised.

And you actually enjoy the process instead of dreading it.

Speaking of beautiful bathrooms...

I visited Roman Bath Centre recently and had a conversation with Store Director, Gillian, to talk about their stunning product lines. Here’s one of them.

The functionality is incredible. The design? Even better.

If you're planning a bathroom renovation (or know someone who is), this is worth a watch.

The bottom line:

A contractor builds what you tell them to build.

A designer makes sure what you're building is actually what you should be building.

Big difference.

Have you ever started a renovation and realized halfway through you were in over your head? Drop a comment - I'd love to hear your story.

Ready to make your next project stress-free? Book a free design strategy call →

#InteriorDesign #TorontoDesign #BathroomRenovation #HomeRenovation #InteriorDecorator