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How to plan a bathroom renovation for hotels and B&Bs
- Ecosafe
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
Bathroom renovations in hotels and B&Bs directly impact guest satisfaction, reviews, and revenue. From high-impact upgrades to cost-efficient strategies, here’s how to plan a successful bathroom renovation that balances design with commercial return.
Planning: Establish the basis
Before initiating any renovation, defining your objectives and constraints is crucial.
Key actions:
Audit the current setup: Identify improvement areas based on guest feedback and maintenance records.
Set goals: Determine if the aim is to enrich guest experience, reduce maintenance, or increase room rates.
Budget wisely: Allocate funds appropriately, considering essential upgrades and aesthetic improvements.
Time it right: Schedule renovations during off-peak seasons.
According to SiteMinder, December to February is ideal for hotel renovations. Additionally, TravelPerk notes that 50% of travellers plan to travel more from March to May, making early-year renovations strategically beneficial.
Design: Stylish and functional bathroom refurbishment
Effective design marries aesthetics with functionality.
What to avoid:
Open wet rooms without proper drainage can lead to maintenance issues and guest dissatisfaction.
Floor-to-ceiling glass without privacy considerations: This may not suit all guest preferences.
Open-plan bathrooms: While trendy, they may not be practical for all property types.
What works:
Enclosed shower screens with level access trays: Enhance safety and accessibility.
Neutral palettes and spa-inspired finishes: Appeal to a broad range of guests.
Ventilation upgrades: Improve air quality and reduce mould risk.
Bathroom fixtures & fittings: Upgrade strategically
Investing in the right fixtures can especially make better the guest experience.
High-end fixtures:
Dual sinks
Cost: £500-£1,200 including plumbing.
Benefit: Ideal for premium rooms; increases convenience and luxury perception.
Bookmatched wall panels
Cost: £80-£180/m².
Benefit: Adds a designer feel with easier maintenance.
Chrome or brass fixtures
The cost Is £40-£120 for chrome and £100-£250 for brass.
Benefit: Chrome offers a classic look; brass adds a boutique feel.
Statement pieces (e.g., freestanding bath, fluted basin, bold tile wall)
Benefit: Serve as design anchors, guiding the aesthetic of the entire bathroom.
Heating & lighting: Comfort and ambience
A well-lit, warm bathroom is a big yes for guest satisfaction.
Heating:
Electric underfloor heating
Cost: £40-£80/m² plus approximately £300 for installation.
Benefit: Provides comfort and is energy-efficient.
Dual-fuel towel rails
Cost: £150-£400 approximately.
Benefit: Ensures warm towels year-round, enhancing guest comfort.
BTU calculations
Benefit: Ensures appropriate heating levels, preventing guest discomfort.
Lighting:
Layered lighting
Cost: Approximately £300-£500 per room.
Benefit: Combines ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a spa-like atmosphere.
Guest experience: Finishing touches for commercial bathrooms
Small details can significantly influence guest perceptions and reviews.
What to prioritise:
Branded extras (embroidered towels, branded soap dispensers)
Cost: £15-£35 per item.
Benefit: Increases brand recall and adds a touch of luxury.
Towels and toiletries
Insight:
A study on hotel toiletries found that guests value packaging, texture, and scent. Both economy and luxury guests ranked “spa-like scents” and soft textures as top priorities. - (Source Research Gate.)
Replace blinds and shower curtains
Cost: Curtains: £10-£30; Blinds: £25-£60.
Benefit: Freshens the room’s appearance and improves first impressions.
Final touches: Maximise ensuite layout and storage
Efficient use of space enhances both functionality and aesthetics.
Design smarter, not bigger:
Mirrored cabinets: Combine storage with functionality.
Niche shelves & alcoves: Utilise awkward spaces effectively.
Light, neutral palettes: Make rooms feel more open and airy.
Pocket doors or sliding panels: Save space and modernise the feel.
Wall-hung toilets and sinks: Create a sense of space and ease of cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What’s the best time of year to renovate a hotel bathroom?
A: January to March is ideal, as it aligns with lower occupancy rates and prepares for increased travel from March to May.
Q: How much does a typical bathroom renovation cost for a B&B?
A: Costs vary based on scope, but strategic upgrades like dual sinks or updated fixtures can range from £500 to £1,200.
Q: Do guests notice small details like branded toiletries?
A: Yes, studies indicate that guests value high-quality, well-presented toiletries, which enhance their overall experience.
Q: Is underfloor heating a worthwhile investment?
A: Absolutely. It provides comfort, is energy-efficient, and is appreciated by guests, especially during colder months.
Q: How can I make a small bathroom feel more spacious?
A: Use wall-hung fixtures, light colour schemes, and mirrors to create an illusion of space.
Summary: Renovate with intent, not just style
A hotel or B&B bathroom renovation doesn’t have to be lavish. It just has to be smart. Even modest upgrades can deliver strong returns when designed with the guest experience and operational efficiency.
Focus on:
Durability over trends.
Comfort over complexity.
Details that guests notice.
These insights will help you prioritise wisely and build bathrooms that get noticed for all the right reasons, regardless if a complete refurbishment or affordable ways to boost your space.
Our bathroom renovation services for hotels & B&Bs
At Ecosafe Group, we’ve delivered bathroom upgrades for social housing, private rentals, and commercial clients, including hotels, guest houses, and B&Bs across Dorset and across the UK.
If you’re refurbishing a single ensuite or modernising your entire property, we offer:
Full strip-out and refit (plumbing, tiling, fixtures, electrics).
Waterproofing, wetroom, and walk-in shower installations.
Commercial-grade fittings and finishes built to last.
Custom solutions for tight spaces or awkward layouts.
Sustainable, energy-efficient upgrades to support your ESG goals.
Ready to transform your guest bathrooms? Contact Ecosafe Group for reliable, high-quality renovation services designed around your business needs.
Dial: 07444569017
Email: sales@ecosafegroup.co.uk