What to Know Before Renovating an Old Chicago Bathroom

As time passes, your needs and tastes evolve. A bathroom that was once perfectly functional might now feel dated or cramped. If you’re living in one of Chicago’s beautiful, historic neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, Oak Park, Old Town, or Hyde Park, you understand the unique character and charm these older homes possess. We’re sure you also understand the unique challenges they present when it comes to renovation.

The desire to update is becoming more common. Across the United States, the housing stock is aging. Currently, the average age of a home is 46 years, and many homes reach their peak remodeling age around 20 years old. With more older homes than ever, homeowners are increasingly looking to blend modern comforts with timeless architecture.

A bathroom renovation in an older home is more than just a cosmetic upgrade; it’s an opportunity to enhance your daily living and significantly increase your property’s value. Our team is here to walk you through considerations for transforming your bathroom. We will help you achieve results that honor your home’s history while embracing modern innovation.

The Unique Challenges of Older Homes

Renovating a bathroom in an older property is different from working with a newer build. Homes in areas like Lakeview often come with their own set of quirks and hidden surprises. Being informed of these potential hurdles from the outset can save you time, money, and stress.

Outdated Plumbing and Electrical Systems

One of the most common issues in older homes is outdated infrastructure. The plumbing might consist of galvanized steel or cast-iron pipes, which are prone to corrosion and clogs over time. Similarly, the electrical wiring may not be up to modern safety codes, especially for the demands of today’s high-tech bathroom features like heated floors or smart showers.

• Plumbing: It’s wise to plan for a full plumbing replacement if your home still has original pipes. Upgrading to modern materials like copper or PEX ensures reliability and prevents future leaks.
• Electrical: An electrical system upgrade is often necessary to safely support new lighting, ventilation, and outlets. This includes installing Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets, which are required in damp locations like bathrooms.

Hidden Structural Surprises

When you open up the walls and floors of an older bathroom, you never know what you might find. Years of slow leaks can lead to water damage, rotted subfloors, or mold growth that wasn’t visible on the surface. Walls that appear straight might be anything but, and ceiling heights can be inconsistent.

Our Chicago design-build team anticipates these possibilities and has the expertise to address them effectively without derailing your project timeline.

Hazardous Materials

Homes built before the 1980s may contain hazardous materials like asbestos in flooring tiles, insulation, or plaster, and lead in old paint or plumbing fixtures. Safely identifying and abating these materials is a critical step that requires certified professionals to ensure the health and safety of your family.

Planning Your Modern Bathroom Transformation

A successful renovation is rooted in a clear vision and detailed planning. This is where your dreams for a sleek, stylish, and functional bathroom start to take shape.

Define Your Style and Functionality

First, think about how you want the space to feel and function. Are you dreaming of a spa-like retreat with a large soaking tub and rainfall shower? Or do you need a highly efficient space with smart storage solutions for a busy family?

Consider the overall aesthetic of your home. A modern, minimalist bathroom can create a beautiful contrast in a historic home, or you might prefer a design that incorporates classic elements to honor the original architecture. This is your chance to create a “tailored design for your style.”

Create a Realistic Budget

Project budgets for high-end bathroom renovations in Chicago can range from $50,000 to over $250,000, depending on the scope and materials. Your budget should account for everything from design and labor to fixtures, tiles, and a contingency fund.

We recommend setting aside 10-15% of your total budget for unexpected issues that may arise, especially in an older home. Working with our design-build firm provides the benefit of transparent budgeting.

Select High-Quality Materials and Fixtures

Investing in quality materials is crucial for a lasting and beautiful result. For an older home, consider fixtures and finishes that offer a timeless appeal.

• Tile: Natural stone like marble or slate offers a classic, luxurious feel. Porcelain tiles are a durable and versatile alternative, available in countless styles that can mimic natural stone or wood.
• Fixtures: Choose high-quality faucets, showerheads, and hardware. Brands known for their craftsmanship will not only look better but also stand up to daily use.
• Vanity and Storage: A custom vanity can be designed to fit the unique dimensions of your space and provide the exact storage you need, seamlessly integrating style and function.

Why Choose our Chicago Design-Build Firm?

For a project as complex as a bathroom renovation in an older Chicago home, partnering with a design-build firm offers significant advantages. Instead of juggling separate architects, designers, and contractors, you have a single, cohesive team managing every aspect of your project.

This seamless home transformation approach ensures clear communication, accountability, and a more efficient process.

Our team at Areté has extensive experience with the intricacies of renovating high-end properties in Lincoln Park, Gold Coast, and Lakeview. We provide the reliable expertise needed to navigate challenges and deliver exceptional craftsmanship on time and within budget.

Begin Your Bathroom Transformation with Areté

Renovating a bathroom in an older home is a journey of transforming the past to fit your present and future lifestyle. It’s about blending the character of what exists with the innovation of what’s possible. We’re here to help you create a space that not only meets your functional needs but also serves as a stylish retreat for years to come.

If you are ready to elevate your home with modern elements, we provide the innovative design solutions and reliable project management to turn your vision into a reality.

Give us a call at 773.683.3033 or contact Areté today to schedule a consultation and start your seamless home transformation.