Peak Inflation Isn’t Enough to Slow Demand for Costly Bathroom Renovations

Inflation is chipping away at consumer spending on everything from housing to gas and groceries, but that doesn’t mean homeowners are pressing pause on home renovations. Instead, the national median spent for primary bathroom remodels rose nearly 13% to $9,000 over the past year, while higher-budget projects at the top 10% of spending leapt 17% to $35,000, Realtor.com reports.

Shower upgrades are growing in popularity among homeowners who are replacing unused bathtubs with more spacious showers. Homeowners are also swapping out traditional vanities for a more transitional style with clean and modern finishes.

“Transitional takes trad flavoring and style to a cleaner, fresher and modern look,” says Jen Dallas of the eponymous design firm. Transitional design was chosen by 25% of respondents, with modern and farmhouse in the rear, at 16% and 5%.

Dallas also notes that “transitional rooms are great for resale value, as most people can picture themselves living in it or creating the home they want with this starting point.

“Transitional aims to create a room that’s less sterile-looking, which in a bath means clean, modern design but with trad touches like a claw-foot tub, vintage artwork and a bit of color on the walls using paint or tile,” explains Tony Mariotti, a real estate broker and founder of RubyHome in Los Angeles.

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